Port Hedland, Australia Cruise Port

If you're cruising to a port town referred to as "place of good water" by its indigenous people, you're probably heading for the Port Hedland, Australia. The second largest town in Western Australia's Pilbara region (known for its ancient landscapes, red earth, and biodiversity of underground animals), Port Hedland is also the largest iron ore loading ports in the world. Local mythology claims that a giant blind water snake actually formed the turning basin where ships enter the port. Snake or otherwise, the late 19th century found Europeans exploring the harbor in hopes of developing it for trade. Once iron ore mining developed nearby, this led to a huge boost in shipping. Today, tourists come to enjoy the large salt hills as well as the tropical savanna climate, where they can combine outdoor activities with culture. Here are some of our favorite experiences for the cruise port of Port Hedland, Australia:

While not much of a beach town, one of the most popular spots is Pretty Pool. A popular swimming, fishing, and picnicking spot, it's around four miles from the town center just past Cooke Point. Don't mistake it for East Pretty Pool, though; that beach is clothing optional.
Port Hedland’s cultural hub, the cheerful Courthouse Gallery includes local contemporary and indigenous exhibitions. As the name suggests, the gallery is housed within an old courthouse which also hosts the West End Markets where you can purchase crafts by talented artisans.
Animal lovers will want to explore the coastal Cape Keraudren Nature Reserve. Located at the start of the gorgeous Eighty Mile Beach, it's a paradise for watching migratory birds and nesting turtles.
If you're in Port Hedland between May and October, one of the most amazing sights is in Cooke Point Holiday Park. While the park itself provides a place to relax and gaze at the Indian Ocean, check out the viewing platform for the Staircase to the Moon. During a full moon, the illusion is created that stairs are actually climbing up through the sky to the moon.

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