Canal Rocks is a prominent geological formation and coastal landmark located in Yallingup, within the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park in Western Australia. This guide covers opening hours, ticket prices, transport and parking, accessibility, and practical tips for visitors planning a trip to this natural site.
This highlight of the Margaret River region in South-West WA can be visited as part of a day tour that also takes in a winery and the Busselton Jetty.
Quick facts for planning your visit
| Category | Details |
| Opening hours | Daily: 24 hours |
| Ticket prices | Free |
| Address | Canal Rocks Road, Yallingup, WA 6282, Australia |
| Nearest transport | Private vehicle (no public transport) |
| Typical time needed | 30 to 60 minutes |
Canal Rocks opening hours
The opening hours at Canal Rocks are 24 hours a day, seven days a week. As a natural site within a national park, there are no gates or entry restrictions based on time, though visitation is seriously recommended during daylight hours for safety.
The site is accessible throughout the year, including public holidays.
Canal Rocks ticket prices
There are no Canal Rocks ticket prices as entry to this specific area of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park is free. Unlike some other sections of Western Australian national parks, there is no vehicle entry fee required to access the Canal Rocks car park or boardwalk.
Visitors do not need to book tickets or obtain permits in advance for standard sightseeing. Opening hours and ticket prices were checked on the official website and last updated in February 2026.
Why book the Margaret River, Busselton Jetty & Wine day tour?
- 🚂 Busselton Jetty Train Ride: Experience the Southern Hemisphere’s longest timber-piled jetty via an iconic solar-powered train ride over the Indian Ocean.
- 🍷 Margaret River Wine & Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch and world-class wine tastings at a premium winery in one of Australia’s most famous viticultural regions.
- 🌊 Spectacular Canal Rocks: Witness the power of the ocean as it rushes through the dramatic granite formations and timber bridges of the Canal Rocks.
- 🚐 Relaxing Perth Return: Avoid the stress of the 6-hour round-trip drive; sit back in a comfortable coach and enjoy the scenery while your expert guide handles the navigation.
- 🌿 Diverse Natural Scenery: From the massive Karri forests to the pristine white sands of Meelup Beach, see the very best of Western Australia’s South West in a single day.
How to get to Canal Rocks
The only practical way to reach Canal Rocks is by private vehicle or organised tour, as there is no public transport servicing the immediate area. The site is located approximately 5 kilometres south of Yallingup and 25 kilometres west of Dunsborough.
From Yallingup, visitors should travel south on Caves Road and turn right onto Canal Rocks Road, following it to the end. The drive from the Perth CBD takes approximately three hours via the Forrest Highway and Bussell Highway.
Parking at Canal Rocks
There is a dedicated parking area at Canal Rocks located at the terminus of Canal Rocks Road. The car park is paved and free of charge, though it is relatively small and can reach capacity during peak periods such as summer holidays and weekends.
Alternative parking is not available on the narrow access road. Visitors with long vehicles or caravans may find maneuvering difficult when the car park is busy.
5 great Margaret River region experiences worth booking
- 🍷 Hop between world class wineries on a classic Margaret River wine tour.
- 🍺 Go beyond the wine-tasting with a wineries, breweries and distilleries tour.
- 🚙 Take a 4WD tour to the region’s natural highlights, uncovering the local secrets.
- 🏄 Learn how to catch a wave with a beginner’s surfing lesson.
- 🛶 Enjoy a canoe tour through the forest along the Margaret River.
How long to spend at Canal Rocks
Most visitors spend between 30 and 60 minutes at the site. This allows sufficient time to walk the length of the boardwalk, cross the bridge over the canals, and take photographs of the coastline. Visitors intending to fish or hike sections of the nearby Cape to Cape Track will require additional time.
Accessibility at Canal Rocks
Accessibility at Canal Rocks is limited to the initial viewing areas and the timber boardwalk. The boardwalk is flat and wide enough for wheelchairs and strollers, providing a view of the rushing water between the rocks without requiring any climbing.
However, the natural rock surfaces beyond the boardwalk are uneven, jagged, and frequently slippery. These areas are not suitable for those with limited mobility. Accessible toilet facilities are located near the car park area.
What to see at Canal Rocks
The primary feature of the site is the series of granite rock canals carved into the coastline. These channels have been formed over thousands of years by the erosive power of the Indian Ocean, creating narrow gaps where waves surge through the rock.
A timber boardwalk and bridge allows visitors to walk safely over the churning water. The bridge connects the main headland to a large rock outcrop, providing a vantage point to observe the force of the waves and the geological structure of the granite.
The site is an intersection point for the Cape to Cape Track, a long-distance walking trail. Visitors can follow the marked paths for short distances north or south to see different perspectives of the limestone and granite cliffs that define the Yallingup coastline.
Marine life is often visible from the rocks. Depending on the season, visitors may observe migrating whales in the distance (June to December) or local bird species such as ospreys and terns hunting along the shoreline.
The coastal vegetation around the car park and trails consists of salt-tolerant heath and scrub. This environment is typical of the Mediterranean climate of the South West region and changes in appearance throughout the seasons.
Practical visitor tips
| Aspect | Tip |
| Timing | Visit during the “golden hour” before sunset for the most consistent lighting for photography. |
| Safety | Stay on the boardwalk during heavy swells; “king waves” can occasionally wash over the rocks. |
| Layout | The main boardwalk is located to the right of the car park when facing the ocean. |
| Entry Process | No formal entry process exists; visitors can walk directly from their vehicles to the boardwalk. |
| Logistics | There is no drinking water available at the site; visitors should bring their own supplies. |
Frequently asked questions about Canal Rocks
| Question | Answer |
| Is Canal Rocks suitable for children? | Yes, the boardwalk is safe for children, but constant supervision is required near the water. |
| Do you need to book tickets in advance for Canal Rocks? | No, the site is free and open to the public without prior booking. |
| Is Canal Rocks open on Sundays? | Yes, the site is open 24 hours a day, including Sundays. |
| Is swimming allowed at Canal Rocks? | Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents, unpredictable swells, and sharp rocks. |
Things to do near Canal Rocks
- Ngilgi Cave: A semi-decorated limestone cave located in Yallingup offering guided and self-guided tours.
- Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse providing maritime history and views of Geographe Bay.
- Injidup Natural Spa: A natural rock pool located a short drive south, known for its wave-driven foam.
- Yallingup Beach: A popular destination for surfing and swimming with a sheltered lagoon area.
More South-West WA travel
Other South-West WA travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Tips for visiting Jewel Cave and Mammoth Cave near Margaret River.
- Meet the kangaroos at Yalgardup Falls in Margaret River.
- Wildlife and adventure in Margaret River.
- Stare out over the Indian Ocean from the Wilyabrup Cliffs.
- How to climb the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse near Augusta.
