Best things to do in Geraldton

Discover a fascinating aspect of Australia's role in World War II at the HMAS Sydney II Memorial. This memorial commemorates the hundreds of sailors who perished off the coast of Western Australia in a battle against a Nazi raider in November 1941. View the silver dome of 645 seagulls representing each of the deceased sailors and the photographs of the HMAS Sydney II ship on the wall of remembrance. A bronze statue depicts a woman expectantly looking toward the sea for the return of the sailors, and a stone slab represents the bow of the HMAS Sydney II. Finally, walk around the Closing of the Circle pool, with 644 seagulls around its perimeter and a 2 m (6.5 ft) tall seagull looming above the water. The giant seagull's wing points to the longitude and latitude coordinate where the HMAS Sydney II sank.

Discover the rich heritage of native Western Australians at Museum of Geraldton, which overlooks the Indian Ocean. Enjoy guided tours of the indigenous Yamaji people’s history and culture, and explore Western Australia’s natural landscapes and varied marine environments. The museum features educational exhibits about European explorations and settlements, which helped develop the region’s agriculture, fishing, mining, and science industries. Be sure to stop by the museum’s popular shipwreck gallery, at the center of which is a reconstructed portico from the wreck of the infamous Batavia, a Dutch vessel sunk by the nearby Abrolhos Islands in the 17th century. A fun history lesson for visitors of all ages, the shipwreck gallery also features reconstructions of three other major wrecks located in the region.

Shifting color between red, bubblegum pink and purple, Hutt Lagoon is an eye-catching sight that has to be seen to be believed. This salty body of water owes its pink hues to the algae, a great source of beta-carotene. The lookout on the Gregory Road provides best views of the lake, and the bright morning sun casting its rays at an angle enhances its color.

Visit Rainbow Jungle, perhaps Australia's most beautiful parrot habitat. You will find one of Australia’s largest free-flight areas, with the biggest flock of purple-crowned lorikeets in the world, along with other brightly colored Australian parrots. Wander through the center along paved brick pathways, through landscaped tropical gardens, past waterfalls, fountains, stained-glass windows, gargoyles, and lily ponds. Enjoy close encounters with the local black, red, and yellow white-tailed cockatoos, and don't be surprised if you hear them say "hello" as you pass by. Around every corner, there are parrots in all colors of the rainbow, such as the eclectus parrot and the colorful and mischievous blue and gold South American macaws. Relax in the covered picnic area and have some tea, coffee, cool drinks, or ice cream.