Western Australia

Western Australia is the country’s largest state, stretching from the north to the south of the west half of the continent. Needless to say this vast expanse varies greatly in landscape and climate, from the dry heat of the outback to the sparkle of the longest coastline in Australia.

This state is famous for its white beaches lapped by the clear waters of the Indian Ocean, making swimming, surfing, fishing and snorkeling popular activities for locals and visitors alike. Favourites include Broome’s Cable Beach, Surfer’s Point in the Margaret River region and Cottesloe Beach in Perth. Divers may encounter the majestic whale shark in the clear waters of the Ningaloo Reef on the mid north coast, as well as manta rays, sea lions, dolphins, sea turtles, as well as an array of tropical fish and coral.

The capital city of Perth has a relaxed, sun-worshipping culture balanced with the exciting cosmopolitan pulse of the inner city. The Swan River cuts through the centre of town and may be enjoyed from the bike paths, picnic spots and walk ways that line the shores. Hiring a sailboat is unique way for water enthusiasts to experience the river and the beautiful Perth skyline.

Perth’s food culture has the very best of world cuisine combined with incredibly fresh local seafood and fine wines. Night owls won’t be disappointed in the array of live music venues, sophisticated bars, pumping clubs and laid-back pubs to choose from. For those who seek a more artistic encounter, Perth has a thriving arts culture with museums, theatres and galleries, many of which specialize in exhibiting both traditional and contemporary indigenous art.   

The nearby town centre of Fremantle, just south of Perth, is an eclectic, colourful hub that attracts a mix of alternative personalities such as artists and designers. With a seven-day shopping week and a wide selection of cafes, markets and tourist attractions (such as the historic Fremantle Gaol), this is a worthy stopover. South again, the holiday-resort town of Rockingham is one of the earliest points of settlement in Western Australia, which today has become a historically-rich coastal retreat away from the urban bustle.

In the Southern corner of Western Australia is the Margaret River region, a holiday-makers haven which up until relatively recently was an obscure rural community. Wines may be tasted and purchased in the many quaint wineries dotted around the countryside, complimented by world-class restaurants and accommodation ranging from cosy bed and breakfasts to luxury chalets. A scenic drive through the Margaret River is a great way to absorb the Mediterranean ambiance of the area, particular during the wildflower season between August and October. For a memorable whale watching experience, majestic Southern Right and Humpback whales may be spotted off the coast in Flinders Bay during their migration season from June to September.

Western Australia is renowned for its stunning native flora, which is best experienced by hiking through one of the many national parks on a guided tour. Banksias, wattle flowers, orchids and kangaroo paws come into full bloom in early spring, spreading colour and vibrancy throughout the state’s forests. Kalbarri National Park, Stirling Range National Park, Walpole-Nornalup National Park and Yanchep National Park are just some parks in the Southern half of Western Australia that blaze with floral colour during the spring months. Slightly north of Perth is Nambung National Park in the Pinnacles Desert, whose landscape features not only wildflowers but also bizarre limestone rock formations.

The seaside township of Broome, located further north along the Western Australian coast, is a multicultural jewel that thrives on the back of the local pearling industry. Immigrants from all over Asia historically contributed to the growth of the town, which still harvests some of the most coveted pearl specimens in the world. The scenery in Broome varies from sparkling waters to ancient ochre cliffs, such as Gantheaume Point, a site famous for ancient dinosaur footprint fossils. Broome is also gateway to the Kimberly Region, an expanse of ancient gorges, rock formations and desert plains; some might recognize this scenery from Baz Luhrmann’s recent film ‘Australia’. Highlights include the majestic Mitchell Falls and the Purnululu National Park (the Bungle Bungles), best visited during the dry season between May and October.