South West Travel Guide

Discover the must-visit places, activities, hiking trails, food and drinks, accommodations, and local culture of South West, Western Australia. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to South West

South West is a region located in Western Australia, famous for its pristine beaches, scenic national parks, charming towns, and rich culture. It stretches from Augusta in the south to Busselton in the north, covering a diverse landscape of forests, caves, vineyards, and coastlines. South West is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, foodies, and families.

List of Places to Visit in South West

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are interested in history and culture, South West has plenty of options to explore. Here are some must-visit museums and historical places:

  1. Museum of the South West: Located in Bunbury, this museum exhibits the history, culture, and natural environment of the South West region.
  2. Busselton Jetty and Underwater Observatories: This 1.8-kilometer-long jetty is the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere and offers spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. You can also visit the observatories located at the end of the jetty to see what lies beneath.
  3. Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse is located at the southwestern tip of Australia and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and Southern Ocean.

Natural Attractions of South West: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

South West is blessed with some of the most breathtaking natural attractions in the world. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures and scenic views to explore:

  1. Margaret River Region: This region is famous for its vineyards, breweries, and beaches. Visit the famous Surfer’s Point, take a hike at the Cape to Cape Track, or explore the caves of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge.
  2. Pemberton: This town is surrounded by forests, national parks, and rivers. Take a scenic drive along the Karri Forest Explorer Drive, paddle down the Warren River, or hike up to the top of the Gloucester Tree.
  3. Dunsborough: This picturesque town is known for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and stunning views. Take a dip in Meelup Beach, snorkel in the Ngari Capes Marine Park, or go whale watching in Geographe Bay.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South West

South West has some of the best hiking and biking trails in Australia. Here are some of the top routes:

  1. Cape to Cape Track: This 135-kilometer-long route starts from Cape Naturaliste in the north and ends at Cape Leeuwin in the south. It offers spectacular coastal views, secluded beaches, and lush forests.
  2. Munda Biddi Trail: This 1,000-kilometer-long trail is a mountain biker’s paradise, stretching from Mundaring in Perth to Albany in the South West region. It passes through forests, national parks, and historic towns.
  3. Bibbulmun Track: This 1,000-kilometer-long trail is one of the world’s great long-distance hiking trails, stretching from Kalamunda in Perth to Albany in the South West region. It passes through towering forests, tranquil lakes, and stunning coastal scenery.

Best Things to Do in South West: Activities and Tours

South West offers a wide range of activities and tours to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best things to do and tours to take:

  1. Wine Tasting Tours: South West is home to some of Australia’s best wineries, offering a range of reds, whites, and blends. Take a wine tasting tour and sample the region’s famous Margaret River wines.
  2. Whale Watching Tours: South West is a popular spot for whale watching during their annual migration from May to December. Take a whale watching tour and witness the majestic creatures up close.
  3. Surfing: South West is one of the best places in Australia to surf. Head to Yallingup, Margaret River, or Prevelly to catch some waves.
  4. Wildlife Encounters: South West is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and quokkas. Take a wildlife tour and get a chance to see them in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for South West

If you have a week to spare, here’s a suggested itinerary for your South West adventure:

Day 1: Explore Bunbury and visit the Museum of the South West. Day 2: Hike the Cape to Cape Track and watch the sunset at Sugarloaf Rock. Day 3: Visit Margaret River and take a wine tasting tour. Day 4: Explore Pemberton, take a scenic drive along the Karri Forest Explorer Drive, and hike the Gloucester Tree. Day 5: Go whale watching in Dunsborough and snorkel in Ngari Capes Marine Park. Day 6: Mountain bike along the Munda Biddi Trail and explore Albany. Day 7: Visit the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and drive back to Perth.

Food and Drink Scene of South West

South West is a food lover’s paradise, with plenty of fresh produce, seafood, wine, and beer. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fish and Chips: South West is surrounded by the ocean and has some of the freshest seafood in the world. Try fish and chips at one of the many seaside restaurants or takeaways.
  2. Margaret River Wines: South West is famous for its Margaret River wines, known for their rich and fruity flavors. Try a red, white, or blend at one of the many wineries.
  3. Beef and Lamb: South West is home to some of the best cattle and sheep farms in Australia. Try a steak or roast at one of the many restaurants.

Local Beverages

  1. Craft Beer: South West has a thriving craft beer scene, with plenty of microbreweries and brewpubs. Try a pale ale, IPA, or lager at one of the many beer gardens.
  2. Cider: South West is also famous for its ciders, made from locally grown apples. Try a dry, sweet, or sparkling cider at one of the many cider houses.

Where to Stay in South West: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South West offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  1. Cape Lodge: This luxury boutique hotel is located in a secluded forest, overlooking a lake. It offers world-class dining, spa treatments, and outdoor activities.
  2. Beach House at Bayside: This boutique hotel is located in the center of Dunsborough, overlooking the stunning Geographe Bay. It offers stylish rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
  3. Margaret River Backpackers: This budget hostel is located in the heart of Margaret River, offering comfortable dorms and private rooms, a communal kitchen, and a social lounge.

What to Buy in South West: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

South West has plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home. Here are some of the best items to buy:

  1. Wine and Beer: Bring back a bottle of Margaret River wine or craft beer as a souvenir.
  2. Cheese: South West produces some of the best cheese in Australia. Try some at one of the many cheese factories.
  3. Art and Crafts: South West is home to many talented artists and artisans. Buy a piece of pottery, jewelry, or painting as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of South West

South West has a rich culture, influenced by the indigenous Noongar people and the European settlers. Here are some local customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  1. Respect the Indigenous Culture: South West is home to many Noongar sacred sites and cultural heritage. Respect them by not interfering or touching them.
  2. Drive Carefully: South West has many rural roads that are narrow and winding. Drive slowly and carefully, especially at night.
  3. Protect the Environment: South West is a fragile ecosystem, and many species are endangered. Protect them by not littering, not removing any flora or fauna, and not feeding any wildlife.

Best Time to Visit South West

The best time to visit South West is between September and May when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom. December to February is the peak season, and the beaches and towns can be crowded. June to August is the low season, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of South West

Do:

  1. Take Plenty of Water: South West can get hot and dry, especially in summer. Take plenty of water and avoid dehydration.
  2. Check for Fire Restrictions: South West is prone to bushfires during the summer. Check for fire restrictions before lighting a campfire or barbecue.
  3. Be Friendly and Respectful: South West is a friendly place, and the locals are hospitable. Be friendly and respectful, and you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

Don’t:

  1. Litter: South West has a fragile ecosystem, and litter can harm the environment and wildlife. Don’t litter, and dispose of rubbish properly.
  2. Feed Wildlife: South West has many unique wildlife species, but feeding them can cause dependency and harm their natural behavior. Don’t feed wildlife, and observe them from a distance.
  3. Trespass or Climb Fences: South West has many private properties and farmlands. Don’t trespass or climb fences, and respect the property owners’ privacy.

Safety and Health

Safety in South West

South West is generally a safe place, but like any tourist destination, it has some safety risks. Here are some safety tips:

  1. Take Care on the Roads: South West has many narrow and winding roads that can be challenging to drive, especially at night. Take care while driving, and obey the speed limits and road signs.
  2. Be Aware of Bushfire Risk: South West is prone to bushfires during the summer. Check for fire restrictions, and be aware of the risks when lighting a campfire or barbecue.
  3. Take Care in the Water: South West has some of the best beaches and watersports, but they can be hazardous. Follow the lifeguard’s instructions, and be aware of the conditions and tides.

Health in South West

South West has a good healthcare system, but it’s always wise to take precautions and be prepared. Here are some health tips:

  1. Bring a First Aid Kit: South West has many outdoor activities, and accidents can happen. Bring a first aid kit and some basic medications for headaches, allergies, or stomach upsets.
  2. Protect Yourself from the Sun: South West can get hot and sunny, especially during the summer. Protect yourself by wearing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF.
  3. Check for Tick Bites: South West has many forests and national parks, and tick bites can cause Lyme disease. Check for ticks, especially after hiking or camping.

Getting to South West: Transportation Options and Logistics

South West is a well-connected region, with multiple transportation options and logistics. Here are some of the best ways to get there:

Airports Near South West

  1. Perth Airport: Perth Airport is the nearest major airport to South West, located 2 hours’ drive away.
  2. Busselton Margaret River Airport: Busselton Margaret River Airport is a smaller airport, located near Busselton. It offers flights to and from Perth and other destinations in Western Australia.

Bus Stations Near South West

  1. Transwa: Transwa is the main bus company that connects South West with Perth and other regional destinations. It has several bus stations in Bunbury, Pemberton, Margaret River, and other towns.

Other Options

  1. Car Rental: Car rental is a popular option for exploring South West, offering flexibility and independence. Many car rental companies have branches in Perth and Busselton.
  2. Private Transfer: Private transfer is a convenient option, especially for larger groups or families. Many private transfer companies operate in Perth and South West.

How to Get Around in South West

South West has a well-connected road network, allowing visitors to explore the region by car, bus, or bike. Here are some of the best ways to get around:

  1. Car: Car rental is the most popular way to get around South West, offering flexibility and convenience. Many car rental companies have branches in Perth and Busselton, and rentals start from $30 per day.
  2. Bus: Transwa is the main bus company that connects South West with Perth and other regional destinations. It has several bus stations in Bunbury, Pemberton, Margaret River, and other towns, and tickets start from $12 per trip.
  3. Bike: South West has some of the best mountain biking trails in Australia, and many bike rental companies operate in Margaret River, Pemberton, and other towns. Rentals start from $40 per day.

Where to Go Next from South West: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

South West is a perfect base to explore Western Australia’s other regions and destinations. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  1. Perth: Perth is Western Australia’s capital city, located 2 hours’ drive north of South West. Explore the city’s rich culture, entertainment, and dining scene.
  2. Rottnest Island: Rottnest Island is a popular day trip destination, famous for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and quokkas. Take a ferry from Fremantle or Perth.
  3. Wave Rock: Wave Rock is a natural rock formation located 3 hours’ drive east of South West, resembling a breaking ocean wave. Explore the surrounding town of Hyden and its history and culture.

Conclusion

South West is a magical region that offers something for everyone. From stunning natural attractions to rich culture and history, from exciting outdoor adventures to delicious food and drinks, South West has it all. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide, and explore this hidden gem of Western Australia.



    Bunbury
    Dunsborough
    Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park
    Mandurah
    Rockingham
    Yallingup