Published on Friday, 10 April 2026 at 11:57:00 AM
Cyclone Narelle has hit the Gascoyne hard, with devastating impacts across communities including Exmouth and our own towns of Carnarvon and Coral Bay, as well as many pastoral stations to our east.
We know this has disrupted what should have been dream holidays for many of you, and we’re feeling that disappointment too. Our community is now working through the environmental impacts left behind, with farmers in Carnarvon and pastoralists across the region among those most affected.
The good news is that Coral Bay and Carnarvon are once again open and welcoming north- and south-bound visitors. As of Friday, 10 April, the road to Coral Bay via Minilya–Exmouth Road (from the Coral Bay Road intersection through to North West Coastal Highway) has reopened, with caution advised.
We’ve pulled together a list of the most common questions we’re getting from visitors, to help you adjust your plans and still experience the Coral Coast where possible, with minimal impact.
Is Carnarvon open for Visitors?
As of Sunday the 5th of April the North West Coastal Highway has reopened from the south and North of Carnarvon.
Following Cyclone Narelle, our community has worked incredibly hard to clean up and get the town ready. While there are still impacts across our pastoral stations and parts of the horticultural district due to flooding, the Carnarvon town centre is cleaned up and very much open, ready to welcome visitors.
We’re looking forward to seeing travellers return and supporting our local businesses and community as we move forward.
To stay up to date on the latest road closures: https://travelmap.mainroads.wa.gov.au/Home/Map
Is Coral Bay open for Visitors?
As of Friday, 10th of April, Access to Coral Bay is open with caution via the normal route: Minilya Exmouth Rd from Coral Bay Rd intersection to North West Coastal Hwy
Although Coral bay was impacted by cyclone Narelle they are now ready and excited to welcome in travellers from the North and the south.
- Access is now OPEN (with caution)
- Minilya Exmouth Rd from Coral Bay Rd intersection to North West Coastal Hwy
- Coral Bay is welcoming travellers again, despite impacts from Cyclone Narelle, which is great news for tourism and locals.
What this means for travellers
- “Open with caution” usually means:
To stay up to date on the latest road closures: https://travelmap.mainroads.wa.gov.au/Home/Map
Can I get to Blowholes, Quobba, Red Bluff & Gnaraloo?
Exciting news! As of Tuesday, 31 March, the North West Coastal Highway (north) has reopened, which means access to Blowholes and Quobba/Gnaraloo Road is now reopened and welcoming visitors.
For the latest updates, please check:
Please check conditions before travelling as they may change.
What is the condition of the Quobba-Gnaraloo Road?
Exciting news! As of Tuesday, 31 March, the Quobba–Gnaraloo Road is open with caution.
4WD vehicles are recommended whenever travelling off-road within the region.
Before you head out, please check:
to make sure conditions are safe and roads remain open.
What do I do with my booking?
If your travel has been impacted, please contact your accommodation or tour provider directly.
Please note that many businesses are currently working to restore power and clean up following Cyclone Narelle, so response times may be delayed. We appreciate your patience - tourism is a priority, and operators will return your call or enquiry as soon as they are able.
We strongly encourage you to reschedule your booking rather than cancel, as this helps support local businesses and ensures your trip to the region can still go ahead at a later date.
Can I fish in the region with the impacts of the Gascoyne River?
Yes, you can.
With the current south west demersal closures in place, Carnarvon remains a great option for fishing. You can travel offshore and out to the islands, and these experiences will not be impacted by the Gascoyne River flow.
Can I snorkel in Carnarvon?
Yes, you can.
You can travel to Quobba Blowholes, which is approximately a 45-minute drive from Carnarvon. Quobba Blowholes Aquarium is a great spot for safe, family-friendly snorkelling, and if you travel to Gnaraloo, both 3 Mile Camp and Gnaraloo Bay offer amazing reef and snorkelling experiences. This is a great day trip option from Carnarvon.
Can you experience the Ningaloo Reef from Carnarvon?
Whilst experiences such as Whale Sharks and Manta Rays are not available from Carnarvon, there are still incredible opportunities to experience the Ningaloo Reef.
Carnarvon is the gateway to the Ningaloo Reef, with Red Bluff marking the southern tip. Here you can enjoy camping, fishing, snorkelling, surfing and many of the same coastal experiences found in the northern Ningaloo region.
Will the Fruit Loop Drive Trail be open?
Due to the impacts of flooding and Cyclone Narelle, the Fruit Loop Drive Trail and produce availability may be limited.
Businesses such as Bumbak’s, KenJens and other plantations are open, please refer to their facebook pages for their trading hours.. We encourage visitors to support local growers when they reopen. A Fruit Loop map is available from the Visitor Centre.
Is there fuel shortages in Carnarvon?
We have no reports of fuel shortages in Carnarvon.
With the North West Coastal Highway now reopening, regular supplies of fuel and essential goods, including groceries, are continuing to come into the region.
Are all Carnarvon businesses open?
Businesses are open again and ready to welcome visitors.
Eateries, caravan parks and essential services are back up and running.
What wilderness and coastal camping is available in Carnarvon?
Carnarvon is lucky to have some incredible spots to camp under the stars and along the coast.
From riverside stays at Wooramel Riverside Retreat, to coastal favourites like Gladstone, Point Quobba Blowholes Eco Reserve Campground, Quobba Station, Red Bluff, Gnaraloo and Warroora to the north, there are plenty of options to suit every style of camping experience.
Whether you’re after a relaxed riverside stay or an off-grid coastal adventure, Carnarvon has something for everyone.
Can I travel to Kennedy Range and Mt Augustus from Carnarvon?
Access to areas east of Carnarvon is currently limited, with several roads in the Shire of Upper Gascoyne affected by recent flooding.
The roads to Gascoyne Junction and Mount Augustus are open with caution, as damage may still be present.
Kennedy Range National Park remains closed while inspections are carried out to ensure it is safe to reopen.
Please check the Shire of Upper Gascoyne Road Report for the latest updates: https://www.uppergascoyne.wa.gov.au/roadreport/
Travel safely and follow all local advice when heading inland.
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