Pinnacles Sunset Dinner & Stargazing Small Group Tour

Summary

Wander wild dunes, sunset colors and outback stars in western australia

You’ll climb windswept dunes near Guilderton, wander wildflower trails or dip your toes at Hangover Bay, then watch sunset colors shift across the Pinnacles desert before sharing a picnic dinner under Western Australia’s night sky—with stargazing stories that linger long after you return to Perth.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to be out of breath so soon—those 83 steps up Guilderton Lookout are no joke if you’re carrying too much camera gear (guilty). But when I reached the top, wind in my face and sand swirling around my shoes, it was worth every uneven heartbeat. Our guide, Dave, pointed out where the dunes meet the Indian Ocean—the colors were weirdly sharp, almost like someone had turned up the contrast on real life. He joked that you could spot dolphins if you squinted just right. I tried. Didn’t see any, but I did notice how quiet it got up there, except for a kid somewhere below laughing at seagulls.

We shook off the sand and drove on to Nilgen Nature Reserve. It’s one of those places where you can smell eucalyptus before you even open the bus door. Wildflowers everywhere—banksias and these spiky grass trees that look like Dr. Seuss inventions. Dave showed us a kangaroo paw flower (I’d never heard of it), and Li from our group tried to pronounce its Noongar name. She got close; Dave grinned anyway. If the flowers aren’t out, they swap in Hangover Bay for a quick walk by the water—apparently sea lions sometimes pop up there, though we just got cold toes and salty air.

The Pinnacles desert itself… honestly feels like walking on another planet at sunset. The limestone pillars throw long shadows as the sun drops behind them; it’s all gold and grey and kind of eerie in a good way. We wandered between rocks while Dave explained how these things used to be shells millions of years ago—hard to wrap your head around that time scale while your boots crunch over ancient sand. Most tours leave by then but we stayed until dusk settled in and everyone went quiet for a bit.

Dinner was this picnic spread—local stuff, bread still soft from some bakery in Perth—and wine that tasted better than I expected after hours outside. Someone spilled their glass trying to point out Venus through Dave’s telescope (he just laughed and poured another). He shared Dreamtime stories about constellations; I remember feeling small but sort of lucky to be there under all those stars, which looked closer than usual somehow. The drive back was mostly sleepy silence except for someone humming softly near the front—maybe Li again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Pinnacles and coastal views

• Depart Perth for West Coast tour
• Stop at Guilderton Lookout
• Walk up 83 steps to viewpoint
• Visit Nilgen Nature Reserve wildflowers
• Or visit Hangover Bay for wildlife
• Explore Pinnacles desert at sunset
• Enjoy picnic dinner under stars
• Stargaze and hear Aboriginal stories
• Stop to view night sky on return

Top questions

How long is the Pinnacles sunset stargazing tour from Perth?

The tour is a full-day trip with pickup from Perth and returns late in the evening after stargazing at the Pinnacles.

Is dinner included on this Pinnacles day trip?

Yes, a locally sourced Australian picnic dinner with wine is included under the stars at the Pinnacles desert.

Are there toilets available during the tour?

Yes, there are toilets at Guilderton Lookout carpark and other stops along the route.

Will I see wildflowers on this tour?

If wildflowers are in season at Nilgen Nature Reserve, you'll see many varieties; otherwise Hangover Bay is visited instead.

Is hotel pickup included for this Pinnacles tour?

Pickup is available from selected inner-city locations in Perth before departure.

Can children join this small group Pinnacles tour?

Children over 5 years old can join if accompanied by an adult; not suitable for younger children.

What should I bring for this Pinnacles sunset experience?

Bring a 1.5L water bottle, dress appropriately for weather extremes, and let organizers know dietary needs ahead of time.

Is stargazing guaranteed on this tour?

Stargazing with a telescope is offered if weather conditions permit clear skies during your visit.

What’s included

Your day includes selected Perth city pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned midi-coach with big windows for views along the way; entry fees for all stops including Nambung Park; guided walks through dunes or wildflower reserves; a picnic dinner with local wine under desert stars; use of telescopes for stargazing (if weather allows); plus friendly commentary from your driver-guide throughout.