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François Peron National Park

National Park in Western Australia

National ParkUNESCO
Claire AshworthWritten by Claire Ashworth· Updated Apr 2026

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World Heritage Status

Status
UNESCO World Heritage Site

About François Peron National Park

François Peron National Park covers the tip of the Peron Peninsula within Shark Bay World Heritage Area, featuring a stark but beautiful landscape of red sand dunes, salt lakes, white shell beaches, and turquoise bays. The park protects critical habitat for malleefowl, bilbies, woma pythons, and other native fauna reintroduced as part of Project Eden — one of Australia's largest feral animal exclusion programs. The landscape transitions from red dunes to vivid blue water in spectacular fashion.

About

François Peron National Park covers the tip of the Peron Peninsula within Shark Bay World Heritage Area, featuring a stark but beautiful landscape of red sand dunes, salt lakes, white shell beaches, and turquoise bays. The park protects critical habitat for malleefowl, bilbies, woma pythons, and other native fauna reintroduced as part of Project Eden — one of Australia's largest feral animal exclusion programs. The landscape transitions from red dunes to vivid blue water in spectacular fashion.

History & Significance

François Peron National Park was established to protect the tip of the Peron Peninsula within Shark Bay World Heritage Area. The park is named after French explorer François Péron who visited the region in the early 1800s. It is significant as the site of Project Eden, one of Australia's largest feral animal exclusion programs, which has successfully reintroduced malleefowl, bilbies, and woma pythons to the peninsula since the mid-1990s.

Sources & References

Warnings

4WD Required With Tyre Deflation To 20 PsiNo Fuel In Park — Fill Up In DenhamCarry Excess WaterSandfly Season Can Be Intense

Getting There

Map of François Peron National Park

Enter 4 km east of Denham via Monkey Mia Road. 4WD mandatory beyond Peron Homestead.

Parking

Free parking at Peron Homestead and designated trailheads. Limited capacity at some remote beach access points. All-weather parking available at main facilities. Note: 4WD vehicles strongly recommended; standard vehicles may struggle on sandy tracks.

Visitor Tips

  • The artesian hot tub at Peron Homestead is a highlight — open to all visitors
  • Skipjack Point is excellent for dugong sightings
  • Yaringa camping area on the bay has spectacular sunsets
  • Check track conditions with Denham visitor centre before entering

Cultural Significance

François Peron National Park was established to protect the tip of the Peron Peninsula within Shark Bay World Heritage Area. The park is named after French explorer François Péron who visited the region in the early 1800s. It is significant as the site of Project Eden, one of Australia's largest feral animal exclusion programs, which has successfully reintroduced malleefowl, bilbies, and woma pythons to the peninsula since the mid-1990s.

Sources & References

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

UNESCO
World Heritage Site
Significance
World Heritage

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Paid
Duration
1–2 days
Best Time
April to October (dry season)

Location

Region
Coral Coast / Gascoyne
State
Western Australia

Good to Know

All ages, but best for ages 5+ due to 4WD track conditions and remote nature. Families with young children should plan shorter activities and ensure adequate water/shade.

Highlights

Peron Homestead Artesian Hot TubRed Dunes Meeting Blue SeaBilby And Mala Reintroduction (Project Eden)Remote Beaches (Herald Bight, Skipjack Point)Dugong Viewing At Skipjack Point

Activities

4WD TouringCampingWildlife SpottingFishingBeachcombingBirdwatchingKayaking

Family & Visitor Info

Ages
All ages, but best for ages 5+ due to 4WD track conditions and remote nature. Families with young children should plan shorter activities and ensure adequate water/shade.
Shade/Cover
No shade
Pram Friendly
No

Food & Drink

Picnic AreaBYO Food OK

No food vendors in park. BYO supplies essential. Picnic areas available at Peron Homestead and remote beaches. Fill up on supplies in Denham before entry.

Features

Not available:Wheelchair Accessible
Not available:Dog Friendly
Not available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

Peron Homestead Heritage PrecinctArtesian Hot TubToiletsCampgroundsInterpretive Centre

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