South West Experience

What you can do

Travel the 2km long timber Busselton Jetty to the Underwater Observatory and descend 8m below the surface of the Indian Ocean to view tropical and sub tropical corals and fish.

The Porongurups are unusual granite rock formations with many bushwalking tracks; a mecca for birdwatchers and wildflower enthusiasts.

Visit scenic Albany, WA’s first European settlement set on Princess Royal Harbour has breathtaking views from Mt Clarence & Mt Melville, making a great base to explore the region.

Journey through the region's classic farming country to appreciate its rich rural heritage; visit historic homesteads and museums for a glimpse of colonial life.

Climb the 61 metre Gloucester Tree at Pemberton for views of the surrounding forest.

Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, between Yallingup and Augusta, is dotted with limestone formations and caves, some of which are open to the public.

Torndirrup National Park has colourful spring wildflowers growing along windswept coastal cliffs and stunning views of the Southern Ocean.

The Bibbulman Track, a 1000 kilometre long walk trail from Perth to Albany, is suitable for short and long walks and is well known to the state's bushwalkers.

Traverse through the picturesque farming and timber towns of the Blackwood River Valley to discover art and craft galleries, restaurants and secluded country retreats.

The Tree Top Walk between Walpole and Denmark is an elevated walkway through ancient tingle trees.

Throughout the south west there are pristine beaches great for swimming, diving, snorkeling, and beach fishing. You can also find world-class surfing beaches, with the Margaret River Pro attracting the sport's biggest names.

Fitzgerald River National Park is one of the most diverse botanical regions in the world.

Visit the Wardan Aboriginal Centre in Yallingup & the Kodja Place in Kojonup to discover the south west's aboriginal history.

The Stirling Ranges have five peaks over 1000m and are popular for rock climbing, birdwatching and bushwalking.

Enjoy cellar door tasting at wineries in the Margaret River, Pemberton and Great Southern regions or sample locally-made wines at numerous restaurants and cafes.

The south west is known for more than just its great wine with locally produced gourmet delights such as seafood, trout, marron, fudge, chocolate, cheese, honey, berries, olives, jams and preserves, boutique beers, even truffles on offer.

For some adventure try surfing, four-wheel driving, swimming, diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, caving, hang gliding,
fishing, hiking, mountain biking, bushwalking, rock climbing, horse riding, scenic flights and scenic drives.

Spot migrating whales from July to September either from vantage points along the coast or book a professional whale watching charter or sightseeing flight.

D’Entrecasteaux National Park stretches for 130 kilometres along the southern coastline and has dramatic coastal cliffs, mobile sand dunes and remote beaches.

Keep an eye out for locally produced artworks, pottery, timber craft, furniture, glass sculptures, jewellery & herbal products.

In spring wander along bushland tracks through karri, jarrah, marri and tuart forests to find a myriad of spectacular
wildflowers and orchids.

Charming towns throughout the region stage regular events such as open gardens, festivals and concerts.

More information

For the latest about the area including Bunbury, Busselton, Margaret River, Pemberton, Walpole, Denmark, Albany, Bridgetown & Manjimup look at the state's tourism website here.