Top 5 Places to Visit in Western Australia
Whether you want to experience stunning sunsets, clear turquoise waters or playful marine wildlife, those sun-seekers looking for an ocean holiday, will find it all on Australia’s West coast. If you are planning such a trip, the best time to visit Western Australia is between June and October because the weather in temperate and the skies are blue. Here are some of the best coastal experiences to be had in WA.
1. Perth
Known as the ‘world’s most isolated city’, Perth is the best place to begin your journey up WA’s coast. Well known for its relaxed lifestyle and vibrant culture, the city has some of the best cosmopolitan city beaches in the world. Soak in the sun’s rays beneath the great Norfolk pines at Cottesloe Beach or experience some young beach culture at Scarborough Beach. In addition, the Basin at Rottnest Island is great place for snorkelers where you can spot a huge variety of reef fish in a natural lagoon.
Not into water sports? Then try sand boarding at nearby Lancelin, or the real deal at Trigg, which has some of the gnarliest waves in the city. After sampling the coastal delights of Perth, it’s time to see what other treasures are in store all WA’s coastline. To make the best out of you trip, consider hiring a campervan from a hire company. Campervaning allows you to have the total seaside experience of setting up shop by the beach where you can relax to the sounds of the crashing waves.
2. Ningaloo Reef
This heritage listed area is one of the world’s largest fringing reefs and home to 250 types of coral. One of the biggest highlights here takes place between March and July, when enormous Whale Sharks come to visit. Up to 16 metres in length, Whale Sharks are harmless to humans and for around AUS$380 you can join a tour and swim with them. Ningaloo is also famous for its turtles, manta rays and dugongs—you may even spot humpback whales passing by. For those who surf, the reef breaks here are among the best on the West Coast.
3. Horizontal Waterfalls
There are only two places on earth where you can see horizontal waterfalls and they are both located at Talbot Bay. This stunning phenomenon is caused by tidal movements so large and fast that a waterfall is created as water surges through two narrow cliff passages. Wide varieties of tours are available and include both laid back and high adrenaline options. Prices start at around AUS$500 and most tours run from March to September.
4. Monkey Mia
Located in the Shark Bay World Heritage area, Monkey Mia is famous for its interactions between dolphins and people. Every day between 8am and 1pm dozens of dolphins come into shore at the Monkey Mia Reserve and trained handlers select a few lucky people to hand feed these highly intelligent creatures. Monkey Mia is located 865km from Perth. The cost to enter the Reserve is AUS$8.50 per adult. This beautiful area is also home to stromatolites, which are the world’s oldest living organisms. Those itching for some waves will find decent swells at nearby Dirk Hartog Island.
Western Australia Discoverer
- Australia
- 1 week - 2 weeks / From: £ 1000
Queensland Adventure & Sailing
- Australia
- 1 week - 2 weeks / From: £ 1500
Weekend Surf Camp, Sydney
- Australia
- < 1 week - 1 week / From: £ 100
5. Broome
Broome is a beach resort town in western Australia’s Kimberley region. Along its Indian Ocean coastline, the white sands of 22km-long Cable Beach offer a dramatic backdrop for sunset camel rides. At Gantheaume Point nearby, dinosaur tracks are revealed in the beach’s red rocks during low tide. Broome’s historic Chinatown overlooks Roebuck Bay, a jumping off point for cruises to local pearl farms.
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