Bunbury Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Bunbury with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Bunbury

Located in the South West region of Western Australia, Bunbury is a charming seaside city brimming with natural beauty and fascinating history. The city’s stunning coastline creates an ideal backdrop for aquatic adventures and outdoor excursions. Bunbury is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Bunbury

Here are some of the must-visit places in Bunbury:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bunbury Regional Art Gallery: showcases contemporary artwork by local and national artists. The gallery also hosts various exhibitions and workshops.
  • Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre: where visitors can discover the history of the city through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
  • Marlston Hill Lookout Tower: offering an excellent panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.
  • St. Mark’s Church: an iconic landmark with a rich history dating back to the 1800s.

Natural Attractions of Bunbury: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Koombana Bay: turquoise waters and white sand beaches make this a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
  • Dolphin Discovery Centre: visitors can get up close and personal with friendly bottlenose dolphins and learn about their habitat and behavior.
  • Leschenault Inlet: a peaceful water body for kayaking, fishing, and bird watching.
  • Big Swamp Wildlife Park: showcasing local fauna and flora for visitors of all ages.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bunbury

  • Geographe Bay Road Trail: a scenic coastal trail stretching from Bunbury to Busselton.
  • Mangrove Walk Trail: a short and easy walk through a beautiful mangrove forest.
  • Koombana Bay Loop Trail: a cycling and walking path offering stunning views of the bay.

Best Things to Do in Bunbury: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Farmers Market: held every Sunday, the market is a heaven for foodies looking for fresh produce and gourmet snacks.
  • Catch a movie at Grand Cinemas Bunbury: a six-screen cinema that offers the newest movies and events.
  • Take a river cruise: various cruises are offered on the Leschenault Inlet, which takes visitors through the canals, bays, and estuaries.
  • Explore Bunbury Street Art Trail: a self-guided walk through the city’s walls and laneways, showcasing vibrant murals and artwork.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bunbury

Here’s an itinerary for a week-long stay in Bunbury:

Day Activity
1 Visit Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre, take a relaxing walk in King Cottage Gardens, and go shopping on Victoria Street.
2 Visit Dolphin Discovery Centre and stroll along Koombana Bay.
3 Take a river cruise on Leschenault Inlet and explore Big Swamp Wildlife Park.
4 Hike the Geographe Bay Road Trail and visit the Busselton Jetty.
5 Relax on Bunbury’s beautiful beaches, go swimming, and enjoy water sports.
6 Take a day trip to nearby attractions such as Ferguson Valley and Wellington Dam.
7 Go on a street art walk, explore Bunbury Regional Art Gallery, and catch a movie at Grand Cinemas Bunbury.

Food and Drink Scene of Bunbury

Bunbury’s food and drink scene offer something for everyone. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and Chips: a classic and traditional dish served in most of Bunbury’s restaurants and cafes.
  • Marron: a large freshwater crayfish, which is famous in the area and served in various dishes.
  • Beef and Guinness Pie: a warm and comforting dish served in most of the local pubs.

Local Beverages

  • Margaret River Wines: famous wines produced in the nearby Margaret River wine region.
  • South West Breweries: local brewers offer a range of brews, including pale ales, ales, lagers, and stouts.
  • Fresh Juices: Bunbury has various juice bars that serve fresh and healthy fruit and vegetable juices.

Where to Stay in Bunbury: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bunbury has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and tastes. Here are some of the top-rated hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Mantra Bunbury Hotel: a luxurious hotel overlooking Koombana Bay, offering spacious rooms and world-class amenities.
  • Bunbury Backpackers: budget-friendly hostel located in the city center, offering shared and private rooms.
  • The Clifton Motel and Grittleton Lodge: a guesthouse and motel offering comfortable accommodations for families and couples.

What to Buy in Bunbury: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Marron Products: including Marron pate, Marron and cheese, and Marron-flavored chips.
  • Margaret River Wines: including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay.
  • Handicrafts: various craft markets are held across the city, where visitors can buy local handmade products such as jewelry, pottery, and artwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Bunbury

Bunbury’s locals are welcoming and laid back, with a great appreciation for the beauty of nature. The city celebrates its arts and culture through various events and festivals. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and maintain a sustainable and eco-friendly approach during their stay.

Best Time to Visit Bunbury

The best time to visit Bunbury is during the spring months of September and October when the weather is mild, and the wildflowers are in bloom. Bunbury’s summer months will be perfect for those who prefer sunny days, warm weather, and outdoor activities. Winter months will be best for those seeking quieter surroundings, and during this period, the accommodation prices are generally lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bunbury

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to follow during your stay in Bunbury:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take care of the environment and wildlife.
  • Explore hidden gems in the city.

Don’t:

  • Litter the beaches, parks, and streets.
  • Harm or feed wildlife.
  • Be disrespectful to the residents or their property.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bunbury

Bunbury is generally a safe city, but visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings and exercise caution when walking alone at night. It is always a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings and lock your doors and windows when staying in accommodation.

Health in Bunbury

Visitors should ensure they take the necessary precautions before and during their visit to Bunbury. These precautions include protecting yourself from the sun and heat and having repellant for mosquitoes. It is also important to stay hydrated during outdoor activities to prevent heat stroke or dehydration.

Getting to Bunbury: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bunbury is easily accessible by air, road, or rail.

Airports Near Bunbury

Perth Airport is the nearest international airport to Bunbury, with regular domestic flights to Bunbury Airport.

Bus Stations Near Bunbury

Southwest Coachlines offers daily buses from Perth to Bunbury, taking around two and a half hours.

Other Options

Visitors can hire a car or take a taxi to get to Bunbury. Trains also operate from Perth and Kalgoorlie and stop at Bunbury train station.

How to Get Around in Bunbury

Bunbury is relatively easy to navigate by car or taxi. Buses are also available and are frequent over weekdays. Visitors can also walk or cycle around the city.

Where to Go Next from Bunbury: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many neighboring destinations that visitors can explore from Bunbury, including:

  • Margaret River: famous for its wineries, beaches, and outdoor activities.
  • Dunsborough: another charming seaside town with a great beachside lifestyle and local culture.
  • Pemberton: a beautiful town surrounded by national parks and forests that offer adventure activities such as hiking and mountain biking.

Conclusion

Bunbury is a beautiful and peaceful getaway destination with incredible natural beauty, rich history, vibrant culture, and fantastic food scene. With so much to see and do in the area, it is a must-visit for any traveler looking for an authentic Australian experience.