Gnaraloo's Tombstones AKA ''Tombie'' is a World-Class wave riding location for advanced & expert riders ONLY located approximately 2 hours (150km) North of Carnarvon. Launching and landing can be tricky with a very narrow beach full of rocks, shells and wind shadows in South to South-South-West winds. Regardless of your skill level, assisted launching and landing are preferred with the kite over the ocean side for cleaner wind. Be careful with the shallow reef and rocks at the bottom especially at low tide. Beginner and intermediate riders must avoid kitesurfing at this location.
This area is also popular for windsurfing and surfing. Please consider getting advice from other experienced & regular riders of the area before going out for the first time.
The best times of the year for wind and swell at Gnaraloo are usually at the beginning of summer (September to November) and towards the end of summer (March to May).
Camping facilities are available in the area, bookings are essential.
Please note: this location guide is a guide for kitesurfing spots in Perth and other parts of Western Australia. This is NOT a list of where our school operates from. KiteBud conducts lessons ONLY from Pinnaroo Point in Hillarys.
🧭 Wind Compass
SSW, SW : These sea breeze wind directions are ideal for kitesurfing at this location. Sea breezes will blow predominantly in the afternoons from September through April.
S : This common wind direction can work at this location but will be side off-shore and very gusty at launch due to the wind passing over the land.
WSW, W, WNW, NW, NNW, N, NNE: these wind directions are unusual but could work for this location
SSE, SE, ESE, E, ENE, NE: These wind directions will be off-shore at this location and must be avoided by all kitesurfers.
⚠️ Dangers and Restrictions
- Wind shadows and possible side-off shore winds (S & SSW winds)
- Kitesurfing is NOT permitted in the Lagoon adjacent to the 3-Mile Camp
- Advanced & experts riding spot: observe the wave-riding right of way rules
- Shallow reef and rocks both on the beach and in the water
- Must be avoided by beginner kitesurfers
- Remote location
- Difficult to self-rescue if anything goes wrong
- Far from the nearest hospital. Play safe!
🅿️ Access and Parking
From 3-Mile camp, drive South-West for 800 meters. The kitesurfing car park will be the first one on your right.
From Carnarvon, Gnaraloo is a 150km (2H) drive with 123km of dirt road starting from the Blowholes Road. From the end of the Blowholes Road at the ‘King Waves’ sign, turn right and drive for 75km.
It's best to check road conditions before you set off with Main Roads (08 9941 0777) as the road conditions can vary.
It is possible to get to Gnaraloo with a 2WD, however it's preferable to use a 4x4 vehicle.
Make sure to fill up with Petrol/Diesel and water before leaving from Carnarvon.
Gnaraloo is at the end of the road. There is no road access to Cape Farquhar, Warroora Station or Coral Bay through Gnaraloo.
👍 Pros
- Excellent wave riding location
- Good snorkeling spots
👎 Cons
- Wind shadows on the beach and close to shore
- Shallow reef and rocks
- Remote location with limited amenities
- Not for beginners
- A long way from the nearest hospital
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