Best road trip around South Western Australia guide

As Australia’s largest state, there’s plenty to explore on a South WA road trip. Hit the road and head south from Perth to Hopetoun for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Not sure where to stop? We have your itinerary sorted, with nine must-see places you don’t want to miss along the way. So, roll down the windows and get ready for an unforgettable road trip with stunning sights throughout!

Best road trip around South WA: 9 places you can’t miss

Total distance: about 1,101kmkm | Recommended days: from 9 to 12 days | Best time to do the route: between November and April | See route in Google Maps

1. Perth

As the capital of Western Australia, there is so much for you to see and do in Perth. It’s well worthwhile spending a few nights here to really explore this amazing city.

Make sure beach hopping is on your list, as Perth is home to some gems. Get those swimmers on and head to Cottesloe for sun, sand and plenty of cafes. If you have the time to spare, then it’s worth jumping on a 25-minutes Ferry trip and heading over to check out Rottnest Island. With snorkelling, swimming, relaxing and more on offer, it’s a day well spent. Head back to Perth at night to make the most of their bustling nightlife. You’ll find cocktails, food and plenty more with a wander from Yagan Square to Northbridge.

Perth is also home to plenty of nature and wildlife. You can head to The Aquarium of Western Australia, Araluen Botanic Garden, Armadale Reptile and Wildlife Centre, Calamunnda Camel Farm, Caversham Wildlife Park and so much more. Each place has plenty of wildlife for you to get up close with, and even some great hands-on experiences for you to enjoy.

2. Fremantle

Just a short drive away and you will come to this incredible port city. You could simply stop off for the day and keep driving, but there’s enough to keep you busy if you have the time to spend a night. Dive straight into a little convict history by taking a tour of Fremantle Prison, which is UNESCO Heritage listed, with plenty of tales of the past to share with you.

Next, head on over to The Roundhouse, which is the oldest building in Western Australia. It was built to hold convicts in the 1830s, before being turned into a police lock-up and now open to visitors. At the waterfront, you will find the WA Maritime Museum, which takes you through the nautical history of WA.

Heard of the Cappuccino Strip? It’s a well-known stretch in Fremantle with cafes, restaurants and bars, where you can sit back, relax and people watch. Keep an eye and ear out for some of the talented street performers who like to frequent the area. Then head over to The Esplanade Park for the perfect place to pull out a picnic and enjoy more than 100 Norfolk Island Pines in this unique area.

If you happen to be in town on a Saturday, then be sure to pop Fremantle Markets on your to-do list. There are now more than 150 stalls for you to browse your way through, making it a great place to shop for some of the souvenirs. When you’re done, head to Little Creatures Brewery, where you can grab a pint while the kids play.

3. Bunbury

If you’ve got dolphins on your mind then this is the place to be - Bunbury is known for wild bottlenose dolphins that swim close to the beach at Koombana Bay. Start at the Dolphin Discovery Centre and learn a little about these amazing creatures and what you might be able to see during your stay, before heading outdoors with your camera at the ready. You can even book a tour to swim with the dolphins!

For a little more wildlife, head toBunbury Wildlife Park where you can feed birds, meet some kangaroos and enjoy a laid back picnic in the park surrounded by animals. If you enjoy nice views, then take a hike up the Marlston Hill Lookout, where you can see sweeping views all around.

While you’re here, take some time to head down Victoria Street, which is well known for its amazing shops, bars and restaurants. You can also check out the local art scene by venturing to the new sculpture, the Wardandia Boodja, which is a 5.5-metre steel bust that represents a Noongar face. It has been around since 2019.

4. Margaret River

Margaret River is well known for its wineries, making it the perfect place to stop off on your road trip. There’s so much for you to explore, you’re only limited by the time you have! Some of the most popular choices to pop on your to-do list include Vasse Felix, Cullen Wines, Leeuwin Estate, Brookwood Estate and plenty more.

In Spring, the Cape to Cape Track is a real drawcard for hikers. This 135km track is the perfect spot for you to venture in the hopes of spotting whales and dolphins while admiring all the amazing coastal wildflowers. You don’t have to do the whole walk, just pick a section and enjoy a stroll along.

Just a 30-minute drive away you can go and visit the largest tourist cave in Western Australia, Jewel Cave. It’s quite the sight for you to take in, with plenty of crystal ornaments hanging all the way throughout.

5. Walpole

Welcome to wilderness central. You could spend day after day just wandering through all the forests and greenery. There’s 363,000 hectares of national parks, reserves and forests just waiting to be explored.

Walpole is best known for the Valley of the Giants, which are the red tingle trees seen in this region. You can take the Tree Top Walk that allows you to walk 40 metres above the forest floor and really immerse yourself in the wildlife. You never know what animals you might also spot along the way!

You can also head over to the Walpole Wilderness Discovery Centre, which makes up three different sites in the area. The idea is to educate and inform tourists about the area and how they can interact with the wildlife. If you want to mix things up a bit, you can even jump on a houseboat for the night. It’s the perfect way to see the area from a whole new vantage point.

Break up your stay with a drive to Mandalay Beach, where you’ll find the site of the 1911 shipwreck of the Mandalay. You can take an easy walk along the boardwalk and read up on the shipwreck as you go. Finally, make some time for the circular pool, which is a gorgeous natural pool where you can even bring a picnic and relax back.

6. Denmark

This coastal town in Western Australia is a great place to enjoy good wine, great food, and plenty of natural wonders. There’s plenty of wineries for you to make your way around, including Harewood Estate, Moombaki, Rockcliffe and Silverstream.

You can then make the trip to Greens Pool, just out of the city centre, where you will find a fabulous beach that is completely sheltered from the waves. It’s a great spot to spend the day with the family, simply relaxing and soaking up the sunshine. While you’re here, take a walk to the nearby Elephant Cove - another fabulous sheltered beach.

Head back to the city centre to brush up on your history at the Denmark Historical Museum. It has an eclectic collection of different historical items for you to check out. Kids (and big kids) will also enjoy Denmark Dinosaur World, which is full of life-size replicas, and even a wildlife park. You can then head on to the Butter Factory Studios & Gallery, where you will find nine artists working on different projects, with plenty of fun activities for the family.

Finally, don’t miss an opportunity to explore Denmark Animal Farm & Petland Alpaca Stud. This amazing animal park is really hands-on for the kids, where you can pet, cuddle and feed a huge range of furry animal friends. Finish off at Denmark Adventure Park, which is home to the world’s longest globe riding track. A thrill for kids and adults!

7. Albany

With an incredible history and stunning beaches, you’ll find something for everyone in Albany. Start on one of the many hikes in the area. If you’re up for the challenge, head to Bald Head Walk Trail, where you will be rewarded with some amazing views of the Southern Ocean and King George Sound. Head over to Torndirrup National Park, which is home to the famous Gap, Natural Bridge and Blowholes.

The National Anzac Centre is an experience in itself that will really connect you with Australia’s history. As you enter, you get handed the card of someone who travelled from Albany more than 100 years ago, to truly give you a unique experience as you make your way through the interactive museum. You can even leave a personal message at the end.

Finish off your day with a tour of the Great Southern Distilling Company, which was the first distillery to make single malt whiskey (legally) in Western Australia. Don’t worry, you will get to have a taste at the end!

8. Bremer Bay

This delightful coastal town is a great stop on your south WA road trip. It’s not only surrounded by some of the most stunning beaches, but you will also find some amazing flora in the area as well.

Put together a to-do list of beaches to see in the area, including Blossoms Beach, Fishery Beach, John Cove and Little Boat Harbour. To really immerse yourself in the culture of the area, bring a fishing rod!

When you’re done, head to Bremer Canyon, where you might just be lucky enough to spot some killer whales. There are two peak whale watching seasons in this spot. From January to March you can spot Orca and Pilot WHales, then from July to October, the Southern Right Whales make an appearance.

With Fitzgerald River National Park right there, it’s well worth throwing on some good walking shoes and exploring the bush. Head to West Mount Barren, Point Ann Heritage Trail or Mamang Walk Trail and enjoy plenty of scenic views along the way. Don’t forget to look out for the incredible wildflowers in your treks.

9. Hopetoun

The last stop on your South WA road trip is the stunning Hopetoun (that said, if you have more time, you can keep the travels going and venture on to Esperance, Lake Hillier and beyond). From Hopetoun, it’s easy enough to drive straight back to Perth from here and end your road trip back where you started. But not before enjoying everything on offer first!

If you haven’t yet had your fix of Fitzgerald River National Park, then you have another chance to enjoy its wonder. Hamersley Drive takes you past amazing coastal headlands, mountains, valleys and wildflowers. You can even drive up to Beacon Hill lookout, which offers some incredible views of Hopetoun.

If you prefer stretching your legs, head to East Mount Barren walking trail, where you will find panoramic land and coastal views. Once night hits, set up a picnic and watch for the Southern Cross as it points its way across the Southern Ocean.

Organise your South WA road trip with Camplify

After you sort out campervan hire in Perth, it’s time to head off on your South WA road trip! With nine breathtaking destinations for you to check out along the way, you’ll have plenty to see and do during your trip. Once you hit Hopetoun, you can either head straight back to Perth on a six and a half-hour drive, stopping in Lake Grace and Brockton along the way.

If you have a little more time on your hands and are up for some exploration, keep the trip going! Keep following the WA coast on the ultimate Western Australia road trip.

Why Camplify?

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