Many tourists who visit Australia get inclined more towards the Eastern States and aren’t much aware of the breathtaking beauty that Western Australia holds. If you are planning to visit Australia soon, we highly recommend you spare some time to explore the hidden treasures of Western Australia that is worth a visit at least once in a lifetime.Cottesloe Beach, Perth.

The iconic Cottesloe Beach in Perth looks as breathtaking in real as it does in pictures. It is one of the most popular spots in Perth that is famous for not only swimming but also surfing and snorkeling. If you are not interested in any water-based activities, you can simply enjoy a glass of wine or dinner while watching the sun going down. The main highlight of Cottesloe Beach is Shady Norfolk Pines – lush, terraced lawns perfect for a family day out on a lazy afternoon. The beach is surrounded by many renowned restaurants, bars, and cafes where you can enjoy food with beautiful beach views.

Photo by: @ospreycreative

Rottnest Island

Home to the iconic quokka colonies, Rottnest Island, is accessible by ferry taken from Fremantle in Perth. These friendly and adorable creatures aren't shy to make their presence known and are always up for the perfect selfie! In addition to that, backpackers are going to find breathtaking beaches and numerous bays, walking trails, and bike tracks. From specific spots on the island, you can also witness humpback whales, dolphins, and even seals floating around. 

Photo by: @ospreycreative

Margaret River Region

Margaret River is a beautiful holiday resort and a surfers’ favorite, thanks to its ideal waves. This pretty little town is situated about 3.5 hour's drive from Perth. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of cities, then Margaret River Region is a place to go. Tourists especially love the picturesque landscape that this town offers, with clear white-sand beaches and timber forests surrounding it. Some of the noteworthy attractions here include its unique limestone caves such as Jewel Cave, Lake Cave, and Mammoth Cave. Another highlight of this region is Wine Tasting Tour, as it is home to some of the best wineries in WA.

Photo by: @mathiaswichmann

Hamelin Bay

Hamelin Bay is another hidden gem of Western Australia that not many people are aware of. The sandy bay is widely popular for stingrays which you can often find here. If you want to get up close and personal with the stingrays, you must snorkel around the bay and enjoy them moving in their natural habitat. For experienced snorkelers, there are many other interesting points, such as caves and several shipwrecks. Beach fishing is also a famous activity to enjoy at Hamelin Bay. If you have some extra time after exploring the Bay, head off to Augusta and visit the popular Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.

Photo by: @dylan_alcock

Elephant Rocks

Right on the South Coast of Western Australia, you’ll find Elephant Rocks. As the name suggests, the Elephant Rocks formations look exactly as if elephants are standing in the shallow waters. Once you get to the William Bay National Park, you can park your car there in Greens Pool Car Park. From there, it takes about a 10-minute walk to these stone animals. There is a staircase going between the rocks to Elephant Cove that is also worth visiting. The Elephant Cove beach is well protected with rocks that make it a secure place to swim. Remember to always take extra care near the ocean and travel with another person if possible.

Photo by: @daveywatsonphoto

Little Beach, Albany

You might have heard people saying that Little Beach in Albany, WA is one of the most beautiful beaches in not only Australia but the world, and there is no denying in that. The Little Beach is undoubtedly a small slice of paradise that you might not have seen anywhere before. The beach’s sand is pure white with crystal blue water running along. There is nothing here but the abundance of nature that is enough to make your mind relaxed and stress-free. From Collingwood Road, it takes about 30 to 40 minutes to reach the beach. The drive is long and can get tiring but believe us; it’s worth the struggle.

Photo by: @theroad_islife

Lucky Bay, Esperance

The Lucky Bay in Esperance is a picturesque beach that is situated right near the wilderness. In recent years, the beach’s facilities have been improved a lot, which has resulted in increased tourists and locals’ visits. The Lucky Bay is a 5km stretch of long beach that is a part of the Cape Le Grande National Park. You can visit both parks and the beach in one go. This small piece of heaven can be found after a 45-minute drive towards the southeast of the town of Esperance. A great way to get here is via 4WD which will take you to the beach as well. However, the drive can get tricky in some of the sections where roads are rough. Check with the ranger about the road’s condition and be careful while driving, especially when there are people walking around.

Photo by: @alyshap_ _

Wharton Beach, Esperance

The stunning Wharton Beach is best described as the hidden gem of Western Australia with white sand and sparkling blue water. Visitors consider themselves lucky to find this beach which is frequented by very few visitors. The best way to get here is via 4WD, which has access to the beach. Some of the activities that you can enjoy here include diving, swimming, surfing, and fishing. Wharton Beach deserves the number one spot in the list of best beaches in Western Australia, as stated by some visitors. Some of them even said they were “blown away” by its beauty. Some even mentioned it is “hands down the prettiest beach they have ever seen”. Visit yourself and find out why!

Photo by: @_markfitz

Kalbarri National Park

Kalbarri National Park is one of the most incredible parks in Western Australia. Its spread over 186,000 hectares of land and is located at the lower ends of the Murchison River. If you want to discover ancient traces dating back to millions of years ago, then this park is a must-visit place. Witness unique wildflowers that grow around the park in the winter season. All the roads in the park are suited for 2WD cars if you wish to drive on your own. Kalbarri can be reached via a 6-hour drive from Perth. It can be accessed from both east and west. Eastern access is through the Coastal Highway, while Western access is through Kalbarri Town.

Photo by: @migz_on_inzta

Dolphins in Monkey Mia Resort

The Monkey Mia Resort in Western Australia is located right within the Shark Bay – World Heritage Site. If you want to experience the best dolphin encounters, you should visit the resort where you cannot only stay but also witness sharks and dolphins in unspoiled surroundings. The resort is globally known for its dolphins visiting the bay almost every day. You can book a beachfront family villa or single bedroom if not visiting with family. There are also many caravan and camping sites at the resort. In addition to dolphin watching, you can enjoy kayaking or fishing or simply swim in the beautiful bays. The town is also famous for camel rides and Aboriginal cultural tours. Do ask the resort about it so they can guide you in advance.

Photo by: @australiascoralcoast

Big Lagoon, Shark Bay

Big Lagoon in the Shark Bay Marine Park, located in Denham, WA, is a series of small yet stunning lagoons sitting on the shore. Here, you can witness abundant marine life such as sharks, stingrays, and dolphins as they swim around in shallow waters. If you are into a more interactive experience, get to the lagoon through a canoe. For those who love fishing, there are plenty of fishes in the bay that will not disappoint. Some other activities you can enjoy here include camping, kayaking, swimming, and four-wheel driving. Like other sites of Western Australia, this park is also a part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Photo by: @high_ _tide_ _

Shell Beach, Western Australia

As the name says, Shell Beach is made up of billions of shells. Located at about 45 kilometers of Denham in Shark Bay, there is no sand on the beach, only shells. Yes, that’s absolutely true! The Shell Beach is listed among some selected places on the earth where sand is replaced by shells in such a breathtaking way. When days are still, you can find Shell Beach turning into the most beautiful palette of blues and greens. The water of the beach is very salty, making it a perfect spot for swimmers. Don’t forget to take pictures for your Instagram feed as the views of the beach are to die for!

Photo by: @marionkaelin

Point Peron National Park

Point Peron or Francois Peron National Park has an incredible history. The park is famous for its beautiful red cliffs, blue waters, and red sand beaches. Peron National Park offers wilderness like no other in Australia. It can be best explored on four-wheel drives. If you want to witness the ocean touching a desert, then Francois Peron National Park is a must-go. You can get here via Peron Homestead, but further, the park can be accessed through 4WD. If you want to double your enjoyment, go camping on red sand by the blue waters. There are many designated campsites located in the park, including Big Lagoon, Herald Bight, and Bottle Bay.

Photo by: @livelovelaughexplore_

Ningaloo Reef

Western Australia surprises the visitors with its unusual attractions, and Ningaloo Reef is no exception. Also, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ningaloo Reef, is said to be the largest fringing reef in the world. The Marine Park spans 260 kilometers and offers diverse and colorful marine life. And the best part is the park is easily accessible from the shore, unlike the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland. The reef is home to whale sharks, manta rays, humpback whales, dugongs, turtles, more than 300 coral species, and about 500 species of fish. If you want to snorkel, head off to Turquoise Bay, where you can also swim with whale sharks.

Photo by: @shotbylukewilliams

Turquoise Bay, Exmouth

Spend a day at Turquoise Bay in Exmouth where you can unwind all your worries, thanks to the beauty of the Bay and its surroundings. Apart from relaxing at the beach, you can also opt for snorkeling and swimming. The clear waters consist of abundant marine life. However, be extra careful of the dangerous currents that often occur at the bay. Usually, they put up signs when there are strong currents. If any such thing happens, please stay on the beach or nearby. Also, don’t forget to read the information at the entry points of the beach before going into the water.

Photo by: @kyliessv

Karijini National Park

Western Australia is full of beautiful parks, and one of them is Karijini National park, which is one of the largest in the state. The park is home to steep gorges that are made because of erosions created over millions of years. Along these gorges, there are numerous stunning waterfalls and rock pools. If you want to witness the most beautiful views of the park, get on the track that is running through the Yampire Gorge. If you are interested in diving, go to the Wittenoom Gorge, which is home to many picnic spots right beside natural swimming pools. You can also explore the famous Kalamina Gorge, where you’ll also find deep waterholes. Another highlight of the park is Mount Bruce, which is the second-highest peak of WA.

Photo by: @_dontwannagohome

Broome, Western Australia

Also known as a multicultural melting pot, Broome is truly a tropical delight, and with indigenous cultures, it has been attracting tourists for many years. Cable Beach is the most famous and relaxing attraction to visit in Broome. Lay down on a comfy lounger under an umbrella and enjoy your surroundings at one of the best beaches in Australia. Another must-do is visiting the Red Rocks – Ganethaum Point which is standing beside the aqua blue water of the ocean. Some other attractions in Broome include the Broome Historical Museum, Malcolm Douglas Wilderness Wildlife Park, or watching a movie at Sun Pictures.

Photo by: @alex.vp.photography

Purnululu, National Park

Purnululu National Park is considered one of the hidden gems of Western Australia. It is home to stunning rock formations that are unknown to many people even today. The park is a part of both UNESCO and National World Heritage Sites Lists. The Bungle Bungle Hills are the areas lined to it used to be home to Aborigines for thousands of years. Today, you can still witness their diverse culture in numerous rock paintings, burial ground, and ceremonial sites. There are also many walking trails, some of which include Piccaninny Gorge, Echidna Chasm, and Cathedral Gorge. If walking is not your thing, then you can opt for a sightseeing flight and witness these incredible structures. 

Photo by: @livelovelaughexplore_

Horizontal Falls

Also known as “Horries”, the Horizontal Falls are named after tidal currents coming through the narrow gorges of the beautiful McLarty Range in Talbot Bay. There is only one way to view the Horizontal Falls; via jet boat or seaplane. The scenic flight takes you over the breathtaking Buccaneer Peninsula, which is a wild stretch of red cliff washed by blue water. The Peninsula is surrounded by many small uninhabited islands. If you buy any tour, they usually offer water landing on Talbot Bay, where you are offered fresh seafood lunch followed by a jet boat ride and a shark swim (you have to ask for it in advance).

Photo by: @willowinwanderland

Lake Argyle, East Kimberly

Kimberly – the most visited town in Western Australia, and there is no wonder why. The region is three times larger than England – spreading over the entire north-western land of Australia. The landscape here is testimony to ancient times, which can still be felt on its hundreds of thousands of square kilometers of land. Here you’ll find a plethora of things to see and do, such as beautiful canyons, exotic wildlife, freshwater swimming spots, and much more. The town can be best explored on 4WD like other parts of Western Australia. In addition to its unique landscape, Kimberly is known for delicious local food, first-class accommodation, some of the best beach towns, and most importantly, its friendly locals who are always willing to show you around.

Photo by: @jade_elise_collins