Stargazing and Astrotourism

Why Waroona for stargazing

From the Indian Ocean to the Darling Scarp, Waroona’s coast-to-forest landscapes give you big, dark horizons with minimal light pollution—perfect for Milky Way views, astrophotography and simply slowing down to look up. Local attractions like Waroona Dam, Drakesbrook Weir, Preston Beach and Lake Clifton offer wide, open skies and easy access.

Best places to go

  • Waroona Dam / Lake Navarino – Broad, uninterrupted views across the water and jarrah forest; camping and cabins nearby at Lake Navarino Holiday Park make it ideal for a stars-and-stay escape.

  • Drakesbrook Weir – A serene day-spot that becomes a stargazing favourite after dark; easy picnic setup by the water’s edge.

  • Lake Clifton Thrombolites (Yalgorup National Park) – An iconic astrophotography foreground. Please use only red-light torches, keep to the boardwalk, and avoid shining lights onto the thrombolites or wildlife. (Access via Mt John Rd.

  • Preston Beach & Yalgorup NP – Coastal dunes and lakes with low light make for excellent naked-eye stargazing; check park notices before visiting.

What you’ll see (seasonal highlights)

  • Milky Way core: Best on clear, moonless nights from late summer through spring in WA (roughly March–October).

  • Southern Cross, Magellanic Clouds & Eta Carinae: Bright southern-sky staples visible most of the year.

  • Occasional Southern Lights (Aurora Australis): Rare at our latitude but possible during strong solar activity—Lake Clifton’s low horizons make for good chances when alerts spike. Visit Mandurah

When to go

  • Pick moonless nights (new moon ±3 days) and check cloud forecasts.

  • Allow 20–30 minutes for your eyes to dark-adapt; use a red-light torch.

  • Shoulder seasons (autumn/spring) often deliver crisp, clear nights with comfortable temps.

How to plan your night

  1. Choose a dark site - all areas (other than town center) in the Shire of Waroona have minimal light pollution.

  2. Check access & safety: Park alerts (DBCA/Explore Parks WA), fire restrictions, tides/waves at the coast, and nocturnal wildlife. Explore Parks WA

  3. Pack smart: warm layers, chairs/blanket, red-light headlamp, water/snacks, insect repellent, and a fully charged phone.

  4. Photography: wide-angle lens or a modern smartphone in night/astro mode; sturdy tripod; arrive at dusk to scout compositions.

Respect Country & nature

Please remember you’re on Bindjareb Country. Keep to paths/boardwalks at sensitive sites like the thrombolites, minimise lighting, take rubbish home, and leave no trace. (Lake Clifton has an elevated boardwalk specifically to protect these ancient lifeforms.) Explore Parks WA

Stay, eat & make a weekend of it

Base yourself at Lake Navarino Holiday Park or in town, then add a winery visit, trails, and a sunrise beach walk to your stargazing itinerary. See “Discover Waroona” for trip planning, See "Stay Waroona" for accommodation options.