Karratha's location on the Pilbara coast gives it access to a string of beaches and tidal inlets that are genuinely good for fishing, beach camping, and simple coastal enjoyment — particularly in winter, when the Pilbara's extreme summer heat gives way to mild days and cool nights. The water is warm year-round and clear where rocky headlands break the tidal flow.
Hearson's Cove on the Burrup Peninsula is the most accessible swimming beach — a protected bay with red rock outcrops and the characteristic burnt ochre colours of the Pilbara landscape. Point Samson, about 60 kilometres north, is a small coastal settlement with a boat ramp, a pub, and better beaches than Karratha proper. The offshore fishing — for coral trout, queenfish, barramundi in the estuaries — is the activity that draws most visitors from outside the mining community. Cyclone season (November to April) brings heavy weather and rough seas; winter (May to September) is the season.