Stunning Beaches and Coastal Highlights

Western Australia's coastline stretches over 12,500 kilometers and features white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and unique wildlife encounters. The state's southern and southwestern coasts contain protected bays, dramatic rock formations, and some of the clearest waters in Australia.

 

Esperance and Lucky Bay

Esperance sits on Western Australia's south coast, about 8 hours from Perth. The town serves as a base for exploring some of the whitest sand beaches in Australia.

 

Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park stands out as the region's most visited beach. You can see wild kangaroos hopping along the white sand at almost any time of day. These animals have grown comfortable around visitors, which makes getting photos easy.

 

The beach offers a campground right on the sand. You need to book months ahead during summer because it fills up quickly. Duke of Orleans Bay provides a quieter alternative about an hour from Lucky Bay. The extra drive time means fewer crowds, even though the beach quality matches Lucky Bay.

 

Albany and Torndirrup National Park

Albany anchors the Great Southern region and provides access to beaches in Torndirrup National Park. Misery Beach earned the title of Australia's Best Beach in 2022 from Tourism Australia, despite its unfortunate name.

 

The beach sits in a cove protected by large granite rocks. The clear waters work well for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and fishing. You won't find the beach crowded, even after its recent recognition.

 

Little Beach in Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve sits 40 minutes east of Albany. The secluded strip of white sand offers calm waters for families, though you should watch for strong rips during storms. The beach has basic facilities with drop toilets only. At low tide, you can access Waterfall Beach, a smaller cove that requires some rock scrambling.

 

William Bay National Park and Greens Pool

William Bay National Park contains Greens Pool, one of Denmark's (the Western Australian town, not the country) most popular swimming spots. The beach sits just under an hour from Albany and makes an easy day trip.

 

Large granite boulders protect the pool from Southern Ocean waves. This creates calm, crystal-clear water perfect for swimming year-round. The white sand and sheltered conditions attract families during summer, but the beach shows its best qualities in winter when crowds thin out.

 

You can walk from Greens Pool to nearby Elephant Rocks and Elephant Cove. The granite formations create natural pools between the boulders. Road signs to the park are minimal, so check directions before you go. Denmark town offers accommodation options if you want to spend extra time exploring the area.

 

Bremer Bay and Penguin Island

Bremer Bay sits east of Albany along the south coast. The town's beaches feature white sand and blue water similar to Esperance, but with fewer tourists. The area attracts visitors between January and April for killer whale watching tours.

 

Penguin Island lies off the coast near Rockingham, south of Perth. You can reach the island by a short ferry ride or walk across the sandbar at low tide. The island hosts a colony of little penguins, and you can watch daily feeding sessions at the Discovery Centre. The surrounding waters offer good snorkeling spots where you see sea lions and dolphins.