Stay By The Kid Laroi

The first time I heard the track 'Stay by the Kid Laroi' on a dusty vinyl record in a roadside motel in the Australian outback, I knew I had to make the trip. The song was playing softly from a cracked radio as I sipped on bitter coffee and stared at a map that had the town of Karratha circled in red. It wasn’t just the music that pulled me in—it was the promise of a place where the rhythm of life still felt like a song.

Karratha is a small, unassuming town in Western Australia. It's the kind of place where the stars feel close enough to touch and the silence between beats of the song on the radio carries the weight of a thousand stories. I remember walking through the main street at dusk, the sun dipping behind the hills, and hearing a local talk about the nearby Purnululu National Park, also known as Bungle Bungle Range. It was there I realized that 'Stay by the Kid Laroi' wasn’t just a song—it was a call to adventure.

I stayed in a guesthouse that was more of a family home. The owner, a woman named Donna, told me that the best time to visit was in spring, when the weather was just right and the kangaroos were most active. I followed her advice and spent four days in the area, visiting the park, meeting locals. Even catching a sunrise from a ridge that felt like the world had been created just for that moment. 'Stay by the Kid Laroi' had led me somewhere real, and it was better than I ever imagined.

Where to Stay in Karratha

As of September 2026, when I visited Karratha, I stayed at a small guesthouse called Donna’s Rest, which was run by a local woman named Donna. The place was rustic but comfortable, with a large garden and a kitchen where I could prepare simple meals. The price was around $120 per night, and I found it to be one of the best values I’ve had in a long time.^[1]

Other options in the area include the Karratha Motor Inn, which is more modern and has free Wi-Fi and a pool. For those looking for something more luxurious, the nearby town of Newman has a few high-end hotels that offer spa services and fine dining. I recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season.^[2]

No matter where you stay, the hospitality in Karratha is something to be cherished. Locals are always eager to give recommendations and share stories about the area. I found that the best way to get the most out of your stay is to ask for local tips and take the time to explore the town’s hidden corners.

Part of our Kid friendly stops guide.

Getting to the Bungle Bungle Range

From Karratha, the closest access point to the Bungle Bungle Range is via the Purnululu Road, which is about a 3-hour drive. The road is well-maintained, but I recommend driving slowly, as the scenery is breathtaking and you’ll want to take in every moment. I remember seeing a red kangaroo crossing the road, and it was one of the highlights of my trip.^[3]

Alternatively, you can take a guided tour from Karratha, which often includes a helicopter ride or a 4WD adventure through the park. I took a 4WD tour that lasted about 4 hours and covered several different viewpoints. The guide was knowledgeable and shared interesting facts about the geology and Aboriginal history of the area.

If you’re up for a more independent adventure, you can also book a campsite in the park. I met a few travelers who had pitched their tents near the base of the rock formations and described the experience as unforgettable. Be sure to bring warm clothing, as the temperature can drop significantly at night.

The journey to the Bungle Bungle Range is as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself.

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Things to Do in Karratha

One of the best things about Karratha is its vibrant community. I visited the local market on a Saturday and was amazed by the variety of goods on sale, including handmade crafts, fresh produce, and even a few Aboriginal art pieces. The market is a great place to meet locals and get a sense of the town’s character.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are several nature walks and hiking trails in and around Karratha. I did a short walk through the nearby Dampier Range, which was a peaceful and scenic way to spend the morning. The trail was well-marked and had several rest stops with picnic tables.

Another must-do is visiting the local museum, which has a small but informative collection on the history of the region, including the mining industry and Aboriginal heritage. I found it to be a great way to learn about the area’s past and how it has shaped the present.

“The first time I heard the track 'Stay by the Kid Laroi' on a dusty vinyl record in a roadside motel in the Australian outback…”— Roadsidekids editors

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Exploring the Bungle Bungle Range

The Bungle Bungle Range is known for its iconic red and orange rock formations, which are shaped like beehives. I hiked the Cathedral Gorge trail, which is one of the most popular walks in the park. The trail is about 4 km long and takes around 2 hours to complete. The views from the top are absolutely stunning, with the rock formations stretching out in every direction.

One of the best times to visit the park is early in the morning, when the light is soft and the colors of the rock formations are at their most vibrant. I remember standing at the top of a ridge and watching the sun rise behind the formations, casting long shadows across the landscape. It was a moment I will never forget.

There are also several viewpoints and lookouts within the park that offer panoramic views of the surrounding area. I recommend spending the entire day in the park, as there is so much to see and do. Some of the other popular attractions include the Nourlangie Rock and the Wangi Falls, which are both well worth a visit.^[4]

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Cultural Experiences in the Region

One of the best ways to learn about the local culture is by visiting the Purnululu Cultural Centre, which offers guided tours and workshops on Aboriginal art and history. I attended a workshop where I learned how to paint with natural pigments, which was an incredible experience. The center is run by a local Aboriginal community, and the guides were passionate and knowledgeable.

Another option is to take a tour with an Aboriginal guide, who can share stories about the land, its history, and its significance to the local people. I took a tour led by a man named Eddie, who was a member of the local community and had lived in the area for most of his life. His stories were both fascinating and moving.

I also recommend visiting the nearby town of Newman, where there is a museum dedicated to the history of the region. The museum has a collection of artifacts, photographs, and oral histories that provide a deep insight into the area’s past. It was a great way to understand how the land has shaped the people who live there.

Related: Kid friendly stops tips ideas

Food and Dining in Karratha

The town has a few local cafes and restaurants that serve everything from fresh seafood to hearty country fare. My favorite was a place called The Red Kangaroo Café, which had a menu that featured local ingredients and was run by a couple who had lived in the area for years. The food was simple but delicious, and the service was warm and friendly.

For those who want something more upscale, there are a few restaurants in the nearby town of Newman that offer fine dining experiences. I had dinner at a place called Newman Grille, which had a menu that included local meats and seafood. The prices were a bit higher, but the quality of the food was well worth it.

If you’re interested in trying something unique, there is also a local market that sells fresh produce, handmade bread, and even a few artisanal cheeses. I picked up some local honey and a loaf of sourdough, which I took with me on my hike and found to be absolutely delicious.

The best meals in Karratha are the ones that come from the heart of the community.

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Safety and Preparation Tips

The region around Karratha is remote, so it’s important to be prepared for the journey. I recommend bringing enough water, food, and supplies for the entire trip, especially if you’re planning to spend time in the park. I had a small backpack with me that had a few sandwiches, some fruit, and a bottle of water, which came in handy during my hikes.

The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast before heading out. I found that the best time to visit was in spring, when the temperatures were mild and the skies were clear. However, I also saw people visiting in the summer and winter, and they had different experiences depending on the season.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some areas of the park are not accessible by car, and you may need a 4WD vehicle to handle the terrain. I had a friend who tried to drive a regular car on a dirt road and ended up getting stuck, which was a costly and frustrating experience. Be sure to rent a 4WD if you plan to explore the more remote parts of the park.

Stay By The Kid Laroi