Moore River

Moore River National Park is a protected area north of Perth, preserving the coastal plain environment where the Moore River meets the Indian Ocean. The park protects coastal heath, dune systems, and freshwater lagoon environments at the Moore River mouth — a stretch of coastline remarkable for its natural character. The park includes the Lancelin area and the coastal strip between Lancelin and Wedge Island. The area is known for sand dunes, strong winds, and the beginner kitesurfing and windsurfing opportunities these conditions create. The park protects coastal wildlife including migratory birds and marine mammals in an area under increasing development pressure.

The coastal environment of Moore River National Park supports diverse wildlife. The river mouth lagoon attracts waterbirds including pelicans, cormorants, and herons. Migratory shorebirds visit the intertidal flats. Western grey kangaroos and emus range through the coastal heath. The coast provides habitat for nesting terns and oystercatchers. Dolphins are commonly seen in the inshore waters. Humpback whales may be visible during migration. The tall sand dunes between Lancelin and the park provide habitat for sand lizards and other dune-adapted species.

Coastal heath dominated by banksias (particularly Banksia attenuata) and various Proteaceae species characterises the park's vegetation. Coastal dune systems support native spinifex and other dune stabilisers. Freshwater vegetation at the Moore River mouth includes sedges and reeds. The heath is exceptionally diverse in spring (August–October), with numerous wildflower species blooming. The plant communities represent the coastal kwongan heathland that once extended continuously along much of WA's Midwest coast.

The park sits on the Swan Coastal Plain, with Quaternary sediments — sands, limestones, and coastal dunes — forming the landscape. The large sand dunes north of Lancelin are active aeolian features driven by strong southerly winds that are characteristic of this coastline. The Moore River mouth is a dynamic sedimentary environment where the river meets the sea, with mouth position shifting seasonally.

Mediterranean climate — approximately 550 mm annual rainfall. Strong southerly winds are characteristic of this section of coast, making Lancelin famous for wind sports. Summers hot and dry; winters mild and wet. Spring wildflowers August–October. Wind conditions make this area particularly attractive for kitesurfers and windsurfers.

Within Yued Noongar country. The Moore River mouth provided fish, crayfish, and waterbirds. Lancelin developed as a fishing and later tourism town from the mid-20th century.

Moore River National Park was established to protect the coastal heath and river mouth environments. Management balances recreational use — particularly sand dune activities and wind sports — with conservation of native vegetation.

Sand dune experiences (sandboarding at Lancelin) are the primary tourism activity. Moore River mouth for fishing and birdwatching. Coastal walking through heath. Spring wildflowers.

130 km north of Perth on Indian Ocean Drive. Lancelin township provides services. Parks entry fees may apply. Open year-round.

Managing recreational impacts on sand dune vegetation, invasive coastal weeds, and maintaining the natural character of the Moore River mouth are primary challenges.