The Ultimate South Coast Road Trip
If you’re planning or dreaming of a road trip along Western Australia’s South Coast this summer you do not want to miss the opportunity to visit these places. With breathtaking beaches, cute country towns and slower days to enjoy.
Perth to Alexander Bay (8hrs 40mins, 789km)
(Multiple small towns and free camps to stop over on the way)
Located 100km east of Esperance, this campsite is as good as it gets. Find yourself a quiet spot behind the dunes, on the beach or within the designated campsites (fees apply). The picturesque white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, granite headland and views of small islands it is obvious why this is such a popular spot for fishing, surfing, swimming and 4wding.
From Alexander Bay we did a day trip into the breathtaking world famous Cape Le Grand National Park where there are endless stretches of extraordinary beaches that boast the brightest, whitest, squeaky sand and crystal clear turquoise waters. You cannot go past the world famous Lucky Bay (but be prepared, this place gets extremely busy with cars, people AND kangaroos). My (Megan) favourite beach in the park was Hellfire Bay. This bay is much more protected and far less crowded than Lucky Bay. The contrast of the rocks to blue crystal water and white sand is not like anywhere else.
Alexander Bay to Fitzgerald River National Park (3 hrs, 290km)
Fitzgerald River National Park is one of the most botanically significant areas in Australia. It has a variety of stunning landscapes as you drive through the park that is absolutely break taking. There are plenty of great camping options within the park which you are unable to book. Be sure to take cash to pay for your nights stay.
Fitzgerald River National Park to Waychinicup (3 hrs 30 mins, 300km)
This little campsite is an absolute hidden gem. I had no idea what to expect from this place but it blew my mind. If you are there early and able to get one of the tucked away campsites close to the water it would be hard to leave. So many rock pools to explore, waterfalls, walking trails and perfect for SUPing or canoeing on the clear inlet. I could have stayed here for weeks. It is a short drive to the beautiful little town Cheynes Beach, where you can also stay if Waychinicup is full.
Waychinicup to Cosy Corner via Two Peoples Bay and Albany (1 hr, 92km)
Little beach at Two People's Bay is definitely worth the visit. Quiet little coves with beautiful blue water, walking trails, picnic and toilets. Unfortunately there is nowhere to camp here so we continued into Albany to stock up on supplies before setting up camp at Cosy Corner.
Cosy Corner (east) is a short drive west of Albany nestled under Peppermint Trees? The beach is only a short walk from the campsite and blowholes through the granite headland. Shelly Beach is not too far away and also worth a visit. We spent hours here watching the spear fisherman.
Cosy Corner to Parry Beach (3 hrs 20 mins, 289km) via Denmark
Denmark is one of our favourite places along the South Coast. There is so much to see and do, we can never get enough. We called into Denmark on our way to Parry’s beach to get one of their famous pies (of course), visit the local wineries and purchase a few bottles and to climb Monkey Rock. Out of town we stopped for a swim at the famous Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks. It is so easy to spend weeks in this area.
** All the listed campsites are not able to be pre-booked, so be sure to arrive early during peak holiday time.
Back to Perth
Parry Beach to Katanning (2 hrs 14 mins, 203km)
The trip from the coast back inland to Katanning is one that is quite unique. Taking the back roads from Denmark to Albany highway, you get to witness some amazing scenery and rolling hills
around the back of Mt Barker and the stunning wine region they have there. Stop off at West Cape Howe Winery for a tasting. As you continue toward Katanning, you will go past the pink lake between Cranbrook and Tambellup (be sure to stop somewhere safe). Once you arrive in Katanning you will be greeted by the “All Ages Playground” and it is exactly that, a playground for absolutely everyone. There is heaps to do in Katanning, with a rich history and many points of interest. Visit the largest undercover sheep selling complex in the southern hemisphere and explore the refurbished Premier Mill Hotel.
Katanning to Perth (3 hrs 11 mins, 287km)
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