Western Australia, as the largest state in Australia, possesses several iconic attractions and destinations for travellers. While the outback encompasses a vast portion of this region, many flock to the coast for its stunning vistas, as well as the southwest corner to explore gorgeous landscapes in the Margaret River region, Albany, and the surrounding areas. From the incredible coastlines to tprofound Aboriginal experiences, Western Australia has something for every kind of traveller to enjoy.
With the region as vast as it is and with so many diverse destinations to choose from, it’s difficult to decide where to visit and for how long. When it comes to finding the most unique places to visit in Western Australia, the best attractions, and more, we’ve got you covered.
Read on to discover the most popular destinations in Western Australia so you can plan your next trip accordingly!
Perth is the coastal capital of Western Australia, complete with beautiful beaches, scenic wine regions and one of the world’s largest inner-city parks: Kings Park. As the most populous city in the state, there are plenty of must-see attractions, incredible bars, and fun activities for the whole family. Enjoy a day at the Botanic Garden on Mount Eliza, stroll through the Art Gallery of Western Australia or spend a day at one of the many Swan Valley wineries. No matter where you stay and what you choose to do, Perth has plenty to explore for the whole family!
No matter where you’re travelling from, the easiest way to get to Perth is to fly into Perth Airport. Perth Airport, located 13 kilometres from the city centre, offers quick access to the city by bus, car, or taxi. Direct flights into Perth can be booked from all major airports in Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Broome is sought-after for its gorgeous white sandy beaches and some of Australia's most amazing sunsets. Travellers have an array of things to do in Broome, including camel rides on the beach (at sunset, no less!) visiting the various pearl farms, booking a jet ski tour, and exploring the city’s historic Chinatown. You can even play a round of golf with a picturesque view of the coastline. With so many must-see attractions, you’ll have no shortage of options for your holiday.
The easiest way to travel to Broome is by booking a direct flight to Broome International Airport. Flights to Broome are available from major Australian airports, including Perth, Melbourne and Sydney. Once you arrive at the airport, it’s only one kilometre to the city.
The Margaret River Region, located three hours south of Perth along the coast, is known for its small-town charm, stunning wineries, beautiful beaches, and whale sightings during the winter. If you’re interested in exploring the natural landscape beyond the vineyards, you’ll want to book a Mammoth Caves Tour to see stunning limestone caves. For foodies and wine lovers, you’ll find several tours to explore the Margaret River Region’s famous local craft beers and wines, and the local produce. This truly is the perfect destination to relax, unwind, and recharge!
The easiest way to travel to the Margaret River region is to fly into Perth and then drive three hours down the coastline while enjoying the scenery. Travelling by car will give you the most flexibility, but there are public transportation options and shuttles that can be arranged to get to your accommodations.
Rottnest Island, a small island off the coast near Perth, is a protected nature reserve home to quokkas, white sandy beaches, and stunning shallow waters. If you’re looking for a beautiful escape from the city and an Australian island adventure that feels like you've left the country, Rottnest Island is only a 90-minute ferry ride away from Perth, complete with surfing, bicycle hires, and even the chance to skydive or parasail. Whether you’re a thrill seeker, looking for the perfect family holiday destination, or want to relax, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Rottnest Island’s proximity to Perth makes it incredibly easy to travel to. After flying into Perth, choose between a ferry ride from Perth (90 minutes), Fremantle (30 minutes), Hillarys Boat Harbour (45 minutes), or an air taxi.
Exmouth, located in the tip of North West Cape less than two hours away from Coral Bay, is your gateway to Ningaloo Marine Park and Cape Range National Park. Exmouth is one of the best places to visit in Western Australia for those who love the great outdoors. Turquoise Bay is a must-see snorkel spot for the region’s captivating coral reefs. For those who prefer solid ground, Cape Range National Park protects over 100 different species of birds and 80 species of reptiles. Whether you prefer the land or the sea, you’ll find plenty to explore in Exmouth!
To get to Exmouth, fly to Karratha Airport, located on the northern coast of Western Australia. Once you fly into Karratha , rent a car for the six-hour trip. For a more direct route, book a connecting flight from Perth to Learmonth Airport, which is a 30-minute drive from Exmouth.
Busselton is known as one of the most popular holiday destinations in Western Australia, not only because of its proximity to Margaret River but also because of its beautiful beaches. Located just under two-and-a-half hours south of Perth, Busselton is the home of the oldest stone church in Western Australia and the longest jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. From cultural landmarks to awe-inspiring beaches, Busselton offers the small-town charm visitors desire for their holiday.
To travel to this seaside resort town, book your flight to Perth Airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive the two-and-a-half hours, or you can schedule a shuttle or take public transport.
Those who are into camping and exploring the natural wonders of Australia will need to plan for a few days at Karijini National Park in the Pilbara region. As Western Australia’s second largest national park, you can explore freshwater falls and secluded swimming holes surrounded by lush landscapes, and ancient gorges that have existed for centuries. This stunning national park is a must-see spot during late autumn, winter, and early spring (late April to October), as the summer can be hot. Because of its gorgeous natural beauty, Karijini National Park is genuinely one of the top 10 things to do and places to visit in Western Australia.
If you’re travelling to Karijini National Park, the quickest route is to fly to Newman Airport and undertake the two hour drive. After arriving, rent a car or take advantage of the convenient shuttle and transport options available. You can also fly to Port Hedland International Airport and drive three-and-a-half hours south after hiring a car.
Ningaloo Reef is the best place to visit to view some of the most vibrant seascapes in all of Western Australia. From the captivating coral reefs to the calm shallow waters for snorkelling, you’ll find several activities to fill your days. This World Heritage-listed site is most famous for its rich marine life and whale shark sightings throughout the winter. Whether you dive deep into the sea or explore the reefs from the surface, Ningaloo Reef is a must-see spot with seriously stunning views.
Ningaloo Reef is an off-the-beaten path destination but accessible by flying into Karratha Airport. Rental cars are available for hire to make the five-and-a-half-hour trip from Karratha down the coast to Ningaloo Reef for your oceanside holiday. Alternatively, book a connecting flight from Perth to Learmonth Airport.
Located three-and-a-half hours east of Perth, Wave Rock is an impressive rock formation worth visiting – and certainly one of the most unique places to visit in Western Australia. The “wave” measures nearly 15 metres high and resembles a tall, breaking ocean wave. The rock is just about 110 metres long and attracts thousands of tourists, not just for a chance to get a photo of the rock but also for Hyden Wildlife Park, a 160-hectare nature reserve. This natural wonder in Western Australia is a treasured historic landmark and a must-visit!
The best way to get to Wave Rock is to travel to Perth Airport. From there, rent a car and make the three-and-a-half to four hour journey to Wave Rock.
If you love marine life and turquoise waters, then Monkey Mia and Shark Bay should be on your Western Australia itinerary. Monkey Mia, just 900 kilometres north of Perth, is known for its bottlenose dolphins that frequent the shoreline and is part of Shark Bay World Heritage Area. Nearby, Shark Bay is only an hour away from Monkey Mia, and is famous for its dugongs, dolphins, whales, and the largest known area of seagrass worldwide, covering over 6,438 square kilometres of the bay. Ocean lovers will want to plan time at both destinations to see the stunning marine life that Western Australia is known for. Whether you come for a day or stay for the weekend, Monkey Mia and Shark Bay are among the best places to visit in Western Australia.
If you’re headed to this oceanside paradise, the closest major airport to Monkey Mia and Shark Bay is Perth Airport. Fly into Perth Airport and then hire to car to drive nine hours north up the coast. Alternatively, book a connecting flight from Perth to Kalbarri Airport and hire a car for a scenic four-hour drive.
Purnululu National Park is one of the most popular destinations in the Kimberley region and one of the best places to visit in Western Australia for those who want to explore the outback. As a World Heritage Site, this national park is home to savannah grasslands and the famous Bungle Bungle range, the unique striped dome sandstone formations. With gorges and aerial flights available to book, there’s no shortage of amazing treks, hikes, and views. A popular activity to do in Kununurra, plan to visit in the dry season, between late April and October for the best experience at Purnululu National Park. June and July are typically the best weather months to visit – and the most crowded, so make sure to plan your visit well in advance!
To get to Purnululu National Park, book a flight to Kununurra Airport. Once you arrive in Kununurra, rent a 4WD for the four-hour trek to the park. It’s worth noting that only 4WD cars, high-clearance camper trailers and caravans can access the national park. Those only spending a short amount of time at the national park are best off booking a private air tour.
Denmark is a coastal town located on the southern coast of Western Australia, and is famous for its captivating seaside landscapes and its quiet, rural vibe. The small town is known for its wine growers, diverse flora and fauna, and the chance to see bottlenose dolphins and seals in the bay. If you’re into fishing, Denmark is one of the best spots to catch snapper, salmon, and abalone. And you can’t miss one of the top 10 things to do in Western Australia: William Bay National Park, where travellers enjoy picturesque sandy beaches, like Elephant Rocks and Greens Pool, and view the local wildlife.
For the closest major airport to Denmark, fly into Perth, then hire a car to drive five hours south. Alternatively, book a connecting flight at Perth Airport to Albany Airport, which is 45-minutes away from Denmark.
Coral Bay is a tourist destination along Australia's western coast known for its remarkable stunning clear water and vibrant marine life. With coral reefs lining the coast and warm waters all year round, people flock to the area for swimming, snorkelling, diving, and more! Visitors will love whale watching and swimming with manta rays in the surrounding bays. There are even glass-bottom boat tours, quad bike tours, and more, making Coral Bay an ideal retreat for adventurers and nature lovers.
To get to Coral Bay, travel to Karratha Airport. Then, hire a car for the five-and-a-half-hour drive southwest. Hiring a car is best for flexibility and ensuring you have plenty of time to dive deep into all Coral Bay offers. For a more convenient route, take a connecting flight from Perth Airport to Learmonth Airport and take the two-hour drive to Coral Bay.
Esperance, home to the only port on the southern coast of Western Australia, is a charming small town with access to renowned beaches and national parks. From surfing to hiking, there’s plenty to do on land and in the sea. The region is known for its rainbow lakes which are best viewed from a scenic flight. If you’re interested in exploring some national parks, take a short drive to Cape Le Grand National Park to enjoy the soft white sand and clear water of Hellfire Bay, or traverse granite terrains for sweeping views of the coastline.
To get to Esperance, book a flight to Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport, just over four hours away from town. Once you arrive, hire a car to make the drive or purchase bus tickets to relax and enjoy the scenery. For the quickest route – which may be a bit more costly – book a connecting flight from Perth Airport to Esperance Airport.
Horizontal Falls, or Horries as it's come to be known, is an unusual natural wonder on the northern coast of Western Australia. The natural gorges are shallow and short, causing falls to form whenever seawater runs through them, creating a stunning view. Whether you view the Horries from the shoreline or opt for a bird’s eye view, it truly is one of the world’s most remarkable natural wonders and one of the best places to visit in Western Australia.
Travelling to Horizontal Falls requires flying into Broome. This is not only the quickest route to the falls but to other surrounding tours and landmarks. Once you arrive at Broome International Airport, you will need to plan for transport via seaplane, cruise, or helicopter.
Nambung National Park, located just over two hours north of Perth, contains thousands of limestone formations and sandy beaches that draw visitors annually. With over 175 animal species in the park, Nambung is one of the best places to explore Western Australia’s biodiversity. From red kangaroos to sand goanna to humpback whales along the coast, visitors will find plenty of wildlife to discover. Whether you’re looking for a day trip away from Perth or a weekend in nature, Nambung National Park is an ideal destination for your next trip.
Nambung National Park is only two-and-a-half hours from Perth, making it perfect for a day trip or for a weekend adventure. Book your flight from any major Australian airport to Perth, then hire a car to travel north up the coast. Please note that there is no public transport available to this park – it's only accessible by car, coach, or 4WD.
Lake Argyle is one of the biggest man-made lakes in the entire southern hemisphere and is the largest in Western Australia. One of the most popular things to do in Kununurra, this gorgeous reservoir is more than twenty times the size of Sydney Harbour and offers plenty of recreational value. From the scenic flights to the picnic areas, there’s plenty to fill an entire day (or more!) here. There are even trails to hike for those who want to view the local wildlife up close. It truly is one of the best places to enjoy the natural beauty of Western Australia!
Lake Argyle is located just under an hour from Kununurra Airport, making it convenient for all travellers. Once you arrive, rent a car and travel down to Lake Argyle. Due to its peaceful, remote location, there is no public transport, but several tours offer transport for extra convenience.
Explore the rugged coastline of Western Australia at Cape Range National Park, located near Ningaloo Marine Park. With rich wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and other animals, there’s no shortage of natural wonders to uncover. If you’re keen on discovering this region, set aside time for beachcombing, snorkelling, hiking, and fishing. You can also camp overnight to enjoy pristine dark skies with dozens of visible stars. It’s truly a nature lover’s paradise!
Much like Ningaloo Marine Park, Cape Range National Park is off-the-beaten-path, requiring a bit of planning to travel to. Travel to Karratha Airport and hire a car and make the six-hour drive to the park. Alternatively, book a connecting flight from Perth Airport to Learmonth Airport, which is an hour away from Cape Range National Park.
If you’re looking for a stunning seaside escape, Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve is among one of the best places to visit in Western Australia. As a protected area, Two Peoples Bay is just 35 kilometres from the town of Albany and a secluded coastal park for you to explore. At Little Beach and Two Peoples Bay, swim, canoe, dive, and fish to your heart’s content. Arrive early to ensure enough time to explore Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve and see why it's one of Western Australia’s most famous attractions.
For those travelling to Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, fly to Perth. Those looking to take the scenic route can hire a car to make the five-hour journey to Two Peoples Bay, while those looking for a quicker option can book a connecting flight to Albany Airport, which is 45-minutes away from Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve.
Note: Cape Leveque is currently closed and only visible through a scenic flight.
Cape Leveque, the northernmost tip of the Dampier Peninsula, is a spectacular remote destination near Broome. The Cape Leveque Lighthouse is the centrepiece of this destination, standing 13.3 metres tall and guiding ships in the area as it has for over a century. Whether you explore the natural scenery or learn about this region's unique Aboriginal history, Cape Leveque offers something for every traveller in Western Australia.
Cape Leveque is close to Broome International Airport, providing easy transport for travellers. Once you arrive in Broome, you’ll need to hire a car to journey to Cape Leveque. It is two-and-a-half hours, but you’ll be in your little secluded paradise once you're there.
Hutt Lagoon is a salt lake with a vibrant pink hue due to its salinity, drawing visitors from across the globe. Here, you can view the world’s largest microalgae production plant and visit the small village of Port Gregory, known for its picturesque atmosphere. At sunset, Hutt Lagoon is at its peak as the colours transform right before your very eyes from bright pinks to lilacs to red, making this a must-see spot for those travelling to Western Australia.
The closest airport to Hutt Lagoon is Kalbarri, but you can also fly into Perth. For those travelling from Kalbarri Airport, it’s only one hour south to Hutt Lagoon. If you fly into Perth, hire a car to drive six hours to the lake. While the drive is long, you can enjoy the view from Indian Ocean Drive as you travel up the coast.
Nullarbor Plain is the largest single exposure of limestone bedrock globally. It is also home to Australia’s longest straight road—totalling more than 146 kilometres! Visit some of the most unique things to do in Western Australia, including Murrawinjinie Cave and the Bunda Cliffs. From natural wonders to campgrounds, Nullarbor Plain is a nature lover’s paradise and a great chance to explore more of the rugged outback.
Nullarbor Plain is easy to get to from Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport. Once you arrive, drive one hour south to arrive at Nullarbor Links—the perfect spot to start your tour of Western Australia’s Nullarbor Plain. Hire a 4WD car for flexibility to explore more of the plain, or for those looking for someone else to take care of the planning and driving, book into an organised tour.
If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Western Australia, why not visit the largest outdoor art gallery on the planet? Lake Ballard is a stunning natural landscape where artist Antony Gormley has displayed his collection of 51 black chromium steel sculptures for the world to see. Each sculpture represents the residents of Menzies, a local town, and the art gallery takes about two hours to walk through. Be sure to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
The closest airports to Lake Ballard are Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport and Leonora Airport, which are both two-to-three hours away from Lake Ballard.
Kalbarri National Park is a must-see for those looking to discover the beauty of Western Australia. From the bushwalking trails to the views of the gorge, there’s plenty for every kind of traveller to do. If you visit in the spring in September, you’ll get a chance to see the wildflowers as they bloom. Kalbarri is an exceptional destination for those who want to enjoy a weekend in a resort town with stunning views.
The easiest way to travel to Kalbarri is by flying straight to Kalbarri Regional Airport from Perth. If you’d prefer to drive across Western Australia’s beautiful terrain, hire a car on arrival in Perth and drive a little over six hours to Kalbarri. For those flying straight into Kalbarri, it’s less than five minutes to the national park.
Gibb River Road, located in the Kimberley region and two hours away from Kununurra Airport, is one of the outback’s most exceptional 4WD tracks. If you want to explore the outback, Gibb River Road’s unspoiled natural wilderness is yours to uncover. There are over 600 kilometres of trails to traverse and over a dozen road tours for you to choose from. From the Adcock Gorge to the Emma Gorge at El Questro, you’ll find stunning, secluded swimming spots to cool off and experience life in the outback.
Kununurra Airport is your gateway to Gibb River Road. Book a flight from any of Australia’s major airports to Kununurra, usually stopping over in Perth. From there, hire a car to make the two-hour journey. Alternatively, purchase tickets with a tour group to get picked up from the airport for your multi-day exploration of the outback.
Deciding what part of Western Australia is best to visit depends on your preferences. There are several unique things to do in Western Australia, from exploring the outback to diving deep into its colourful and diverse marine life and discovering Perth’s vibrant city life.
Western Australia is the largest state in Australia and home to some of the most famous attractions in the country. With incredible tourism, diverse landscapes, and abundant natural wonders, you’re sure to find things to do and sought-after destinations to fill your itinerary. No matter what you choose, visiting Western Australia holds so many adventures, providing you with memories to last a lifetime.
No matter what kind of escape you're planning for your trip to WA, Virgin Australia will help get you there, with services to multiple airports in the state., including: