On the road:
Holiday destinations, Western Australia
Looking for interesting places to visit in Western Australia? Our 10-day itinerary has got you covered. From dolphin-populated beaches to world-famous wine regions, Australia’s largest state is not only one of the most diverse but also one of the most captivating.
Starting in the sunny capital of Perth, this 10 day itinerary in Western Australia winds a path through the exotic, historic and just plain beautiful, taking in the glittering waterways of Bunbury, to the Margaret River region and beaches of Esperance.
One way to optimise your time is by hiring a car you can drop off at the end of your trip, before flying home. You can arrange this through one of the car hire services at Perth Airport. You can also adjust your stay in Perth or nearby Sorrento Beach to begin the trip at your own pace.
Perth
Stay: 1-2 days
Western Australia’s sunny capital is a doorway to the state’s wonders – and Perth’s thriving dining scene serves a warm welcome. Discover eclectic laneway bars such as Varnish on King, acclaimed restaurants such as Balthazar and family-friendly eateries lining the waterfronts.
For sweeping views, stroll through the bushland trails and gardens of Kings Park and Botanic Garden. Living history and culture will also captivate at the Art Gallery of Western Australia and heritage-listed Fremantle Prison – one of the historic landmarks of Western Australia open for tours.
Your Next Adventure: WA’s most loved wineries, distilleries, and breweries
Find accommodation in Perth: Explore accommodation options to suit every budget and need with the best of the city right on your doorstep.
Sorrento Beach
Distance from Perth: 21km / 20 mins from the Perth CBD
Stay: 1 – 2 days
Only 20 minutes from the centre of Perth, Sorrento Beach turns the dial to ‘chillax’. Wiggle the toes in soft warm sand or explore bustling cafes, restaurants and bars at Hillary’s Boat Harbour. Catch a fast ferry to Rottnest Island to meet the quokkas, only 45 minutes from here.
Kids can cut loose at popular family attraction The Great Escape, home to heated water slides, mini-golf and rock wall climbing. For an underwater adventure visit the Aquarium of Western Australia, home to exhibits, shark swimming tours and even a dining under the sea experience.
Find accommodation in Sorrento:
An option for a Perth stay is Quality Hotel Sorrento Beach, where you can enjoy ocean views and the best of the beach and marina – only a short walk away.
Bunbury
Distance from Perth: 170km / 1 hr 20 mins from Perth
Stay: 2 days
Known as the City of 3 Waters, Bunbury is famous for gorgeous waterways and the dolphins that frolic along the shore. Meet them at the Koombana Bay’s Dolphin Discovery Centre, where you can swim with these playful creatures, embark on dolphin tours and dine with spectacular views of the bay.
Bunbury Wildlife Park is also home to dingos, quokkas and avaries of colourful local birdlife. Replenish with a memorable dining experience at the acclaimed Market Eating House, where a wood-fired oven cooks outstanding local produce for a share-styled eating experience.
Busselton
Distance from Bunbury: 52km / 40 min from Bunbury
Stay: 2 days
Picturesque and lively, Busselton is a gateway to the Margaret River region. Discover a strong artistic community, thriving food scene and gorgeous beaches – as well as the famous Busselton Jetty. This historic 1.8km long jetty is home to a jetty train that travels to the end of the wharf, where you can visit an underwater observatory.
Ramp up the activity meter with a visit to Forest Adventures and have fun on high rope courses and flying foxes in the canopy of Ludlow Tuart Forest. Satisfy your appetite later at one of the thriving bars or restaurants on Prince Street. Shelter Brewing Co is also located opposite the jetty.
Albany
Distance from Busselton: 330km / 3 hours 40 min from Busselton
Stay: 2 days
Situated on a harbour encompassed by national park, Albany is perched in nature’s playground. Marvel at the rugged inspirations of Torndirrup National Park, home to the dramatic Gap and Natural Bridge formations. Nearby family-friendly Middleton Beach is also a great place to relax.
Sample some of nature’s cool-climate treats at Montgomery’s Hill Wine and Oranje Tractor Wines. This historic town is also full of stories – learn about how the first ANZACs to leave for WW1 embarked from here at the National Anzac Centre.
Find accommodation in Albany:
Quality Apartments Banksia Gardens is located near the town’s main attractions. Guests can also enjoy a river or boat cruise and see the local wildlife.
Esperance
Distance from Albany: 480km / 5 hours from Albany
Stay: 2 day stay
Enjoy the drive here and then cool your heels – idyllic Esperance is the perfect destination to wrap a tour of interesting places to visit in Western Australia. Take in turquoise views on the scenic Rotary Lookout Walk Trail and discover pristine white beaches from the family-friendly Taylor Street Jetty beach to renowned surf at West Beach and Blue Haven.
For a local treat browse out the Esperance Growers Markets, held every second Saturday of the month – this attraction is packed with local produce and gourmet delights. Kids and adults alike will also love the Esperance Bird and Animal Park, where you’ll find an aquarium as well as alpacas and reptiles.
If you have hired a car from Perth and are looking to return to Perth by plane, Regional Express (Rex) operates regular flights from Esperance airport. To view the current flight schedule, visit Regional Express.
Looking for accommodation in Esperance?:
Only a short drive away from Great Ocean Drive tourist loop and some of the most beautiful coastal scenery Australia has to offer, Comfort Inn Bay of Isles is a perfect choice.
In Western Australia, things to do are simply waiting to be checked off. Get the best value out of your trip by booking your stay at Choice Hotels. Book direct for the lowest price guarantee.
