Ace Rental Cars Blog

There’s no place like Western Australia’s Kimberley. This region of wide open plains and red dust landscapes hides plenty of lush rainforests, serene waterfalls and charming little towns. Get amongst the thrill of this natural playground with a road trip off the beaten path in your Ace rental car. If you’re flying into Australia through Darwin airport, you’ll be able to pick up your vehicle from Darwin city before you get on your way.

Natural Playgrounds in Kununurra

Not too far from the Northern Territory border, the town of Kununurra is a hotspot for road trippers and adventurers. You’ll find pockets of paradise all across the region, from water holes and serene springs to red-dusted cliffs and lush green parks. The more popular spots to visit include Zebedee Springs and El Questro Wilderness Park, however if you’re after an adventure off the beaten path then Amalia Gorge is the oasis for you. This underrated gorge is typically calm and quiet, with just the sound of the bush coming to life all around you. The park’s gorge is spring-fed, meaning that the waterfall does tend to dry up over the dry season. However, there are still water holes to stop and take a dip in, like the sensational Ochre Pool. Jump from the rock and paddle through the sparkling waters - it’s likely you’ll have the entire pool to yourself.

Australian Cultural History in Beagle Bay

Located on the north coast of Australia’s Kimberley region, the remote Dampier Peninsula is full to the brim with plenty of places to learn more about Australia’s cultural history. While the region is known for the Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm - a family-run pearl farm that has been operating for nearly 80 years that includes an adjoining cafe and sea safari adventure - head off the beaten path and you’ll discover a hidden gem in this region’s red-dusted crown of jewels. Beagle Bay is an Aboriginal community, one of the three on the Dampier Peninsula, and is home to the Nyul Nyul people who have lived on this land for thousands of years. In the heart of Beagle Bay, you’ll find the beautiful Beagle Bay Sacred Heart Church. This historical building is a must-see for visitors passing through the area, boasting a mother-of-pearl shell altar and a Germanic church interior featuring pastel-coloured walls. Built by hand by the local Aboriginal community and the Pallottine monks in the late 1800s, Sacred Heart Church is not only a stunning building to see for yourself, but holds over 100 years of fascinating history.

Make a Splash at Mary Pool

Situated on the Great Northern Highway in the southern heart of the Kimberley, Mary Pool is a fantastic free camping spot that is easily accessible and usually quiet. The large pool area is the perfect place to cool off from the Kimberley heat, surrounded by red dirt and the shade of thriving bush scenery. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to stop and stretch your legs (being less than two hours’ drive from the iconic Fitzroy Crossing) or somewhere to spend the night under the stars, Mary Pool is a perfect spot away from the crowds. You won’t need a 4WD to reach this corner of paradise, which makes it an easy one to get to while also meaning you won’t get as many travellers as other spots. Bring your bathers and a book to read, and have a well-deserved rest by the trickling water. But be careful! It’s always a good idea to check with local authorities before you get in the water here, as crocodiles and other native animals are known to call this area home.

From the red-dust plains of Kununurra to the cultural history of Beagle Bay, plus a stop by the calming waters of Mary Pool to top it all off, the Kimberley is bursting at the seams with road trips to explore in your Ace rental car for travellers after hidden gems off the beaten path.