Take a walk on the wild side. Albany’s top outdoor and wildlife adventures and natural attractions.
Feed rare white kangaroos, stroll through wildflower gardens and explore rugged coastal formations. Situated on Western Australia’s beautiful southern coast, Albany is home to some of Australia’s most breathtaking natural attractions and wildlife. Take some time out to discover this part of the world and you’ll come away rejuvenated and energised by the natural beauty and wild wonders that adorn this part of the country.
Discovery Bay
For a fascinating glimpse into Albany’s colourful past, spend a day at the Discovery Bay tourist park. The site of Albany’s historic whaling station, the heritage precinct is also home to the Australian Wildlife Park and Regional Wildflower Garden. Explore the museum and botanic garden, and meet over 100 friendly, native animals such as hairy-nosed wombats, bandicoots and possums as well as rare white kangaroos, flying foxes and the resident Stimson’s pythons.
Torndirrup National Park
With spectacular views over the wild Southern Ocean, the magnificent Torndirrup National Park is a must-see. Explore salt-sprayed coastal heathland and impressive granite rock formations where Australia and Antarctica were once joined as part of the supercontinent Gondwana. Witness the power of the ocean as it surges through The Gap and Natural Bridge, incredible rock formations carved out by the sea itself. Keep an eye out for whales during their winter migration.
Bald Head Walk Trail
A popular day hike, the Bald Head Walk Trail within the Torndirrup National Park, is a rugged 12.4km trail for confident walkers, along the beautiful limestone ridges of the Flinders Peninsula. With stunning views of the Southern Ocean on one side and King George Sound on the other, the trail is named after the domed granite headland at the end known as Bald Head. Dotted with wildflowers, orchids and peppermint trees, there are vantage points for spotting migrating whales or even a dolphin or two.
Ellen Cove Boardwalk
Discover Albany’s beautiful coastline along the Ellen Cove Boardwalk as it weaves past historic sites and memorials, with scenic views over picturesque Frenchman Bay, Shoal Bay and Princess Royal Harbour. A combination of boardwalk and limestone paths, the shared trail stretches for 6kms, with a whale watching lookout perfect for spotting migrating humpback and southern right whales from May to November.
Granite Skywalk Castle Rock
In the heart of Porongurup National Park, the Granite Skywalk is a suspended walkway high up on Castle Rock, a spectacular granite outcrop over 1,100 million years old. An uphill 4km return walk, the trail to Castle Rock takes you through beautiful Karri forest, past mossy granite boulders and flowering plants, including rare orchids. Enjoy panoramic views from the lookout towards the Stirling Range and farmland below.
Middleton Beach
Albany is well known for its gorgeous soft sand beaches, and Middleton Beach is a popular choice for family outings and picnics. This five-kilometre stretch of pristine beachscape is also a great place for gentle swimming, and there are BBQ facilities located nearby. Refresh yourself in the gorgeous waters that encompass Michalemas and Breaksea Islands on the horizon. You can also enjoy a scenic route along Marine Drive to get here.
How do I get to Albany?
Albany is a five hours’ drive from Perth. You can also catch a bus from Perth, which takes about six hours. There are daily flights between Perth and Albany with Regional Express Airlines (Rex).
Where to stay in Albany
For a great stay, Quality Apartments Banksia Gardens is less than 10 minutes from Middleton Beach and close to the galleries, restaurants and shops found in the town. This friendly venue has a number of guests services designed to make your stay comfortable, and can also organise outdoor trips and adventures.
