WA has no dearth of gorgeous beaches. But if you’re not willing to drive to Esperance or think Rottnest Island is overdone, consider something a little closer to Perth. About three hours from the city, a coastal town offers vibrant blue waters and opportunities for whale-watching. As spring fast approaches, take a trip down to Dunsborough for a beach experience that will have you in awe.
Things to do in Dunsborough
Favourably positioned in the Margaret River region of the South West, this town has something for everyone. If you’re a water baby, this is definitely the place for you. From Meelup Beach‘s white sandy beaches to Castle Rock Bay‘s pebbly seashore, one can spend hours exploring the coastline. Eagle Bay and Bunker Bay are other beaches worth visiting, especially since they are often overlooked in favour of Meelup and Castle Rock.
Done with Castle Rock (on Cape Naturaliste’s eastern side)? Proceed to Sugarloaf Rock via the Cape to Cape walking trail. Beyond a hiker’s paradise, the unique formation is a great vantage point for watching humpback and southern right whales swishing around.
Then, of course, you can always take one of the many whale-watching tours in and around Dunsborough. With a marine biologist in tow, a boat takes visitors into the sea non-invasively to spot these sea mammals in their migratory habitat during spring. Truly a sight to behold!
Although it’s unlikely, if you get sick of the sea, there are many other activities in town. Trendy cafes and bakeries abound in downtown Dunsborough, as do wineries and wine-related tours in nearby Margaret River. Wise Wines (facing Eagle Bay) and Cape Naturaliste Vineyard are close to town, each offering delicious wine selections and unbeatable views.
Conversely, you could also drive 13 km out to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. Club it with your Cape to Cape jaunt, and you could make a day out of it. History, hiking, and our favourite people? Sounds like the perfect day.
Getting there
Located about 250 km from Perth, Dunsborough is best reached by road. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road closures. First, take Barrack Street/State Route 53 and State Route 5 to State Route 2. Continue on State Route 2 and National Route 1 till you reach Bunbury Outer Ring Road. Further, follow Wilman Wadandi Highway in Brunswick, then State Route 10. Finally, take Caves Road to Dunsborough.
Alternatively, you could take the Mandurah Line train from Rockingham. Get off at Mandurah and hop onto the Pemberton bus line. Ride 12 stops to Geographe Bay Road, Transwa Quindalup. This will take about 4 hours.
For more information and routes, check out TransWA.
