Were you lucky enough to receive a telescope for Christmas or are you ready to escape the bright city lights and look upon some of the most beautiful night skies in the world? We have listed some of the best and darkest country locations to explore here in WA, so you can have your own Cosmic Adventure!
Lake Grace
The open landscape is the perfect destination to find a vast and very dark night skies. There are lots of lovely locations to discover in Lake Grace, Newdegate, Lake King and Varley. Each town in has dedicated places where your welcome to set up your telescope and explore the heavens above!
Start Planning Here...
Turquoise Coast
Cervantes is a great coastal destination for stargazing and astrophotography. Nearby, Lake Thetis offers the chance to set up your telescope after discovering Stromatolites, the oldest living lifeforms on Earth!
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Sandstone
Experience spectacular sunsets and the glory of the night sky in Sandstone. The darkness of the outback sky and clear atmosphere make it a brilliant location to stargaze. There’s even an observatory to visit.
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Wildflower Country
There are plenty of “astro-friendly” towns in this haven for stargazers. Carnamah’s Macpherson Homestead and the Talc Mine Lookout near Three Springs welcome visitors to enjoy the magnificent views. Mingenew’s historic Yandanooka Hall is a great place to camp and relax with your telescope overnight. You might even hear a Aboriginal Astronomy “Yarn with Yvette” at Everlastings in Morowa!
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Wickepin
New to the Astrotourism Town network, Wickepin has added a dedicated stargazing site and astrophotography hot spot to its many attractions. You’re in Albert Facey country here. Explore the historic homestead of the famous “A Fortunate Life” novelist. Then take a step into the Universe when you spend a night under the stars.
Welcome Along...
Exmouth
Exmouth is known for its world-class fishing, snorkelling, and fabulous weather but what about being the best place in the world to see a Total Solar Eclipse! On 20th April 2023 eclipse chasers from around the world will descend on Exmouth to witness this astronomical phenomenon. This year is a good time to scout out your spot!
Plan Ahead Here...
Goldfields
Step back in time in this heritage goldrush region with its historic buildings and character pubs. The perfect road trip starts with the Golden Quest Discovery Trail that spans the region. There’s Kalgoorlie, Coolgardie and Menzies. Lake Ballard is a favourite destination for astrophotographers. Spectacular night skies make the Goldfields a totally unique astro getaway.
Find the Trail Here...
Karijini
It’s a jewel in the crown of the Pilbara. Karijini is stunning by day and by night. The Milky Way stretches right overhead ready for you and your telescope to explore the myriad of natural wonders above. You might bump into a stargazing tour at the same time.
Stargaze Here...
Darkan
It’s a dark sky paradise around this delightful town. There are so many dark sky locations for you to kick back and relax under the stars. There’s even a local app to help guide you form place to place.
Download the App Here...
Northam and York
Approximately 100kms from Perth, it’s an easy drive to find some star-spangled skies. York’s Mt Brown is within five minutes of the town and at 342m high, provides a great vantage point for some fun stargazing. Nearby Northam is an “astro friendly” town that offers great stargazing along Katrine Road at the historic St Saviour’s Anglican Church. When you’re in town, don’t miss learning some star knowledge at the stunning Bilya Koort Boodja Centre in Northam
Find the Knowledge Here...
Yes, we know….. we may have said there were 10 top locations in our list, but we managed to squeeze in a few more. There are never enough places for stargazing in WA!
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