Skip to Content Skip to Navigation Show Trail Map Show About the Trail Show Important Trail Details Read Trail Reviews
Support Our Trails

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

  • 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
Earn 2 Points Paddle
Logo for Leave no Trace Initiative

Trails WA supports the seven principles recommended by Leave No Trace Australia for minimising your impacts when using the trails.

Learn more

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. 

Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery Centre

1300 367 072

National Parks

Other Links

  • Australia’s Coral Coast

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


Expand your trip and enjoy great businesses nearby

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.

Photo of Wula Gura Nyinda Aboriginal Eco Adventures

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.

Trail information updated
12th June 2025

Edge shaped like mountain horizon
topography pattern

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

Earn points and badges and become a "TrailsWA Expert" by completing trails and leaving reviews.

Earn 2 Points

Earn 2 points towards
your TrailsWA level

Paddle

Earn the Paddle badge when you complete this trail.

Edge shaped like mountain horizon
Alt text

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.

Profile photo for Marco Zecca
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!

Like this trail? Explore others nearby

More around Coral Coast

Supporters & Partners

Trails are free and offer countless benefits to our community, from fostering fun and fitness to encouraging social connection, exploration, and personal challenges. These exceptional trail experiences are made possible through the support and collaboration of these great organisations and initiatives:

topography pattern