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Big Lagoon Paddle Trail, Francois Peron NP Big Lagoon Paddle Trail, Francois Peron NP

Paddle  in Coral Coast

  • Full day
  • 17 km

Big Lagoon in Francois Peron National Park is a string of birridas joined by the sea. Enjoy watching birds, fish, turtles and rays while paddling your water craft over the broad shallows and into the upper reaches of Big Lagoon.

Big Lagoon Campground Francois Peron Np Tourismwa
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Mangroves and seagrasses provide habitat and food for the diversity of marine animals flourishing in Big Lagoon. Plan to spend a few days camped at this southern-most camping area in Francois Peron National Park and paddling sections of the lagoon as wind and tide conditions permit. Drink in the contrast of red dunes against the changing blues and greens of the water. 

You may encounter turtles, dugongs or dolphins. Take your shoes off to explore beyond the sandy beaches and soak up spectacular views. Also bring your snorkelling gear for a look underwater, especially down towards Big Lagoon's mouth. 

Denham (Shark Bay) Parks and Wildlife Office

(08) 9948 2226

Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery Centre

1300 367 072

National Parks

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  • Australia’s Coral Coast

    Comprehensive information on the Coral Coast region including destinations, things to see and do, accommodation and tours.


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Wula Gura Nyinda Aboriginal Eco Adventures

Discover the secrets of a beautiful land and understand the deep spiritual connection between the Nhanda and Malgana people and country.

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Be trail ready for Big Lagoon Paddle Trail, Francois Peron NP

Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.

Time / Duration

Choose a distance that suits you and the conditions.

Length

34km return

Trail Start

Big Lagoon is 25km from Denham, on the western side of Peron Peninsula. Denham is 420km north of Geraldton and 800km from Perth.

Get directions

Trail End

What To Pack

Hazards & Warnings

Carry and drink sufficient water. Check tide movement and wind, especially the prevailing southerly wind. Paddle according to the conditions and your capabilities. Be aware of stonefish - wear suitable shoes when walking in water.

Facilities

  • BBQ Facilities
  • Camping
  • Picnic Area
  • Public Toilet
  • Sheltered Area
  • All accessible toilet facilities

Best time of year

April to September

Fees

National Park and camping fees apply.

Trail Access

Big Lagoon is 25km from Denham, on the western side of Peron Peninsula. Denham is 420km north of Geraldton and 800km from Perth. The Peron Heritage Precinct in Francois Peron is 2WD accessible but the remaining 12km to Big Lagoon is a soft sandy track.

Prohibited Items

No pets; No fires; Fishing is not permitted in the Big Lagoon Sanctuary Zone north of the day use area.
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Trail information updated
12th June 2025

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Complete Big Lagoon Paddle Trail, Francois Peron NP to earn badges and points!

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1 trail goers have rated Big Lagoon Paddle Trail, Francois Peron NP as 5 out of 5!

We love to hear from people who've been on our Western Australian trails, so it would be most appreciated it if you wanted to leave a review.

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Marco Zecca

Reviewed 25 Sep 2018, 1:02pm

Very scenic and abundant in wildlife! The paddle in the sanctuary zone requires a check for tide times since it can be very shallow and wind can be strong too. Highly recommended!

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