Jurien Bay is an easy on the eye seaside town, with everything you need for a day out. Beaches, jetty, cafes, bait and tackle shop and a pub – who could want more? Apparently Jurien Bay is as popular in WA as Byron Bay on the other side of the continent. Luckily we were skating through a few days before end of school year, it was quite calm and relaxing. It was handy to Sandy Cape and a good excuse for a latte when picking up supplies. The beach has been handily situated near a nice, airy cafe/restaurant where we celebrated a bit of good news with a seafood lunch.
So we had two days to kill and less than 100 klms to go. A mini road trip was the decision. We’ll just browse the coastline and see what happens. Heading south towards Cervantes, we came across the aftermath of the bushfire. It had burnt all the way to the beach in a three kilometre swathe, and the crews were out replacing power poles and lines. We stopped in briefly at Cervantes. Had a quick look around, but as they say, you’ve seen one seaside town……..
Anytime you see in the distance, pine trees in a line near the beach, there’s an excellent chance it’s probably worth a visit. And so, another right hand turn towards the ocean to investigate. If you thought shanty towns were a third world phenomena, you must visit Wedge. Built over time in the 1950’s and 60’s this is a weekend warrior’s slice of paradise. Ram shackled, improvised and rustically historic, this seaside shanty town is just as intimidating as it is interesting. I get a bit wary these days of 4WD’s sporting Australian flags the size of beach towels, along with the We Have Guns & We Vote stickers. Wedge starts at the end of the tar and it took a little time to find a spot that wasn’t blocking someone in or out. But the beach! A sandy point where two currents collided and a stones throw from an island. It was impressive and popular with aforesaid 4WD owners. Some had even set up tents for the day.
We had a cooling swim and then continued south. We were in essence freelance touring so we had no idea what to expect when we arrived at Lancelin. We arrived there just after lunch and free camped for the night in a quiet residential street next to the local footy ground. Lancelin is again another terrific beach town and VERY popular with boaties.
Although the Indian Ocean Road doesn’t officially end until Yanchep, Lancelin was our last overnight location. After we left Lancelin the next morning, the road drifted away from the coast as it made its way to the Yanchep turnoff to become just plain ol’ Wannaroo Road. We spent our last night before Perth at Yanchep National Park. We had to register and book on-line through Parks WA, an exquisite torture if you’re registering for the first time (who needs a SIXTEEN digit password?). Luckily the patient staff at the Visitor Information Centre nursed me through. There’s lots to see and do, from guided cave tours to walking trails plus old fashioned tea rooms and plenty of manicured lawns if, like us, you’re easing yourself back into civilization after a long stint on the road.
And so this brings or little trilogy to a close. It’s been quite a year and a special thanks to our band of merry subscribers, who I’m sure follow us with a mixture of envy and morbid curiosity (lol). Have a safe and relaxing Christmas guys. We will see you in the New Year. We loves youse all!
Hi John & Tamika sorry that I have not written for awhile . Jim and I have been really busy . But I have read your trips and they look fantastic you must be having a blast travelling like you are. Happy new year to you both. And keep up the good work in 2023. Also amazing photos and commentry whitty as usual and interesting. Paula & Jim