For a stress-free start to your visit to this under the radar Aussie destination, you can’t go wrong by pre-booking your top car hire Karratha choice. Not only will this help your trip go smoothly, but it’ll also give you the freedom to explore the many wonders of Karratha from the open road.
Nestled amid several beautiful natural attractions, Karratha has undergone something of reinvention since its origins as a mining town. Located off the North West Coastal Highway and ideally placed for adventures to surrounding areas of interest such as Dampier, Hearson Cove and Murujuga National Park, nature lovers will find plenty to capture the senses here.
If you’d like to extend your journey along this section of Australia’s coastline with your rental car, you have several options as well - including picturesque Port Hedland, or the smaller coastal towns like Onslow and Carnarvon. You can also go to Exmouth with your car hire to explore the beauty of this city.
Top car hire Karratha tips
If you’re in need of easy car hiring Karratha options, it’s best to start by looking at all the different choices available. At Airport Rentals, we make it easy with our search engine to help you compare different vehicles from a wide variety of leading rental brands and companies, and our 24-hour, seven-day customer service allows us to answer any questions you may have at any time.
To start, we’d recommend deciding what would best suit your needs - whether it’s a smaller vehicle for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vehicle spacious enough for the whole crew (don’t forget to check out our tips for stress-free family road trips too!. You can also filter by payment type, availability, car type and more to make your search even easier.
Once you’ve settled on the right car for you, simply book it in on our secure site, and you’ll be all sorted.
A guide to Karratha
With its proximity to the beautiful natural attractions of nearby Dampier, Port Hedland, Hearson’s Cove Beach, Murujuga Park and more, Karratha is well worth a visit during your time in the Pilbara.
Originally founded to accommodate mining industry workers, Karratha has grown to become a thriving hub of the North West with all the advantages of a city centre and the beauty of Australia’s natural wonders.
If you’re driving from the city to Karratha Airport, here are a few things to know:
The airport is situated approximately 13 kilometres from the city.
Take the Dampier Highway and head west until you reach Bayley Ave in Gap Ridge.
Turn right onto Bayley Ave and proceed to the terminal.
Car hire Karratha driving tips
Karratha keeps to the same road rules as the rest of Australia, so drive on the left-hand side of the road and remember that all passengers must wear their seatbelts. Cell phone use while driving is illegal.
Do not attempt any U-turns at traffic lights unless there is a sign saying it is permissible.
Give way to public buses, and keep an eye out at railway crossings as trains may not be running exactly to schedule.
If you’re driving out to remote destinations, take note of the latest fire safety and weather warnings and make sure you’re stocked up with water, food, maps and communication equipment.
In the unlikely event that you do have a breakdown, here are some tips to help.
Planning an extensive road trip in the Pilbara region? Make sure you’ve read our guide to the 10 essentials you need to take with you for a more memorable adventure.
Car hire Karratha parking information
There are plenty of street parking spaces available throughout the city centre, with many of them free - just keep an eye on time limits.
Time limits can range from 15 minutes to two hours depending on the area.
A wide variety of accommodation is available, including these great options.
Ibis Styles Karratha - Stylish, centrally located and well appointed with all the amenities, including a pool, BBQ and on-site bistro.
Econo Lodge Karratha - A relaxing motel just a few minutes drive from the city centre.
Karratha International Hotel - This 4-star hotel off the Dampier Highway is a perennial favourite with travellers, and features a pool, on-site restaurant and a convenient location close to the Visitor Centre.
Events in Karratha
Make your stay memorable with local events. Here are a few of our favourites.
Sunset Movies (April) - Head to nearby Dampier for these sunset movie screenings, held by the Dampier Community Association.
Dampier Beachside Markets (April)- While you’re there, make sure to stop by the markets for food, fun, games and free music.
Roebourne Races (July) - Presented by the Nor West Jockey Club, get dressed up in your finest to attend the Roebourne Races.
Hearson’s Cove - A secluded beach perfect for camping, or a day trip from Karratha city, with great fishing spots to check out.
Cape Keraudren Coastal Reserve - Another unspoiled beach, with white sands and sweeping views.
Millstream - Chichester National Park - A natural gem in the crown of the Pilbara, this national park has rivers, rock pools, rolling hills, mountain climbs and more to satisfy the nature-loving soul.
So what are you waiting for? Endless adventures await you in Karratha - just pack up your rental car and go!
