Western Australia's South West region is home to some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Australia. Stretching from the bustling shores of Busselton through the Margaret River wine region and down to the dramatic coastlines of Denmark and Albany, this 400-kilometre stretch offers international students an incredible diversity of beach experiences, from calm turquoise swimming spots to world-class surf breaks and secluded natural wonders.
This guide covers beaches that showcase the best of what the South West has to offer, complete with practical information about activities, facilities, and what makes each beach unique.
Busselton Jetty & Foreshore, Busselton
The iconic Busselton jetty is far more than just a beach in Busselton, it's a historic landmark and one of Western Australia's most photographed attractions. Stretching an impressive 1.8 kilometres into the calm waters of Geographe Bay, it holds the title of the longest tourist jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. The surrounding foreshore offers a pristine sandy beach with calm, protected waters that make it one of the most family-friendly swimming spots in the South West.
Best for:
- Swimming and snorkelling in the calm, clear waters of Geographe Bay.
- Underwater Observatory experience: a truly unique activity.
- Fishing and jetty walking along the jetty. Popular spot for catching herring, squid, and various other species.
Facilities & Amenities:
- Free parking
- Public toilets, showers, and change rooms
- BBQ facilities and picnic areas, cafés and restaurants nearby
- Patrolled swimming areas (seasonal)
Getting there: Busselton is approximately 2.5 hours from Perth by car.
More information: City of Busselton | Busselton Jetty
Meelup Beach, Dunsborough
Just south of Dunsborough, Meelup Beach is a local favourite that perfectly balances accessibility with natural beauty. Set within the expansive Meelup Regional Park, this sheltered bay offers calm, shallow waters that shimmer in shades of turquoise and aquamarine. The beach is protected from strong ocean swells, making it one of the safest swimming beaches in the region.
Best for:
- Safe swimming for all abilities in calm, shallow waters.
- Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking.
- Coastal walking trails and picnics.
Facilities & Amenities:
- Large car park (can get busy on weekends)
- Public toilets and outdoor showers
- No shops, bring your own food and drinks
- Free BBQ facilities, shaded picnic areas and grassed areas
- Walking trails through Meelup Regional Park
Getting there: 15-minute drive from Busselton, 2.5 hours from Perth
More information: City of Busselton - Meelup Beach | Margaret River Region
Bunker Bay Beach, Cape Naturaliste
Located at the western tip of Geographe Bay near Cape Naturaliste, Bunker Bay is often described as one of Western Australia's most beautiful beaches, and for good reason. This stunning 2.3-kilometre crescent of white sand is framed by granite headlands and backed by coastal bushland. The crystal-clear waters transition from pale turquoise in the shallows to deep sapphire blue further out, creating a mesmerising gradient that's perfect for photography.
Best for:
- Swimming and snorkelling in pristine conditions.
- Coastal walks with whale watching opportunities.
- Surfing and bodyboarding.
Facilities & Amenities:
- Car park with accessible parking bays.
- Modern toilet and shower facilities.
- No BBQ facilities, bring a picnic.
Getting there: 30-minute drive from Busselton, 3 hours from Perth.
More information: Margaret River Region - Bunker Bay
The Aquarium (Yallingup)
Hidden away in the picturesque coastal village of Yallingup, The Aquarium is one of the South West's best-kept secrets. This natural rock pool and protected cove earned its name from the incredible diversity of marine life visible in its crystal-clear waters. The Aquarium is a small, sheltered inlet surrounded by limestone rock formations that create a natural barrier against ocean swells. The result is a calm, clear pool that functions like a natural aquarium.
Best for:
- Exceptional snorkelling and marine life viewing.
- Rock pool exploration and photography.
- Calm water swimming for beginners.
Facilities & Amenities:
- Limited roadside parking (arrive early in peak season)
- No toilets or showers at The Aquarium. Nearest facilities available in Yallingup village (5-minute drive)
- Rocky access and no shade, bring sun protection and wear appropriate footwear
Getting there: 45-minute drive from Busselton, 2.5 hours from Perth.
More information: Margaret River Region
Injidup Natural Spa, Yallingup
Perched dramatically along the rugged coastline between Yallingup and Gracetown, Injidup Beach offers a wilder, more untamed beach experience. This stunning stretch of coastline is characterised by its brilliant white sand, powerful surf, and striking limestone cliffs that frame the beach. The water here displays an incredible spectrum of blues, from pale aqua in the shallows to deep indigo where the ocean deepens.
Best for:
- Surfing and bodyboarding for experienced riders.
- Beach walking and coastal scenery.
- Experienced snorkelling and diving.
Facilities & Amenities:
- Car park with basic facilities
- Toilet block (basic)
- No showers or BBQ facilities
- No shops or cafés nearby - bring supplies
- Limited mobile phone reception
- No lifeguard patrol - swim at your own risk
Important safety note: This beach can have strong rips and currents. Only experienced ocean swimmers should enter the water and always check conditions before swimming.
Getting there: 50-minute drive from Busselton, 3 hours from Perth.
More information: Margaret River Region - Injidup Beach
Hamelin Bay, Augusta
Hamelin Bay is one of the South West's most unique beach destinations. This stunning bay combines pristine natural beauty with an extraordinary wildlife encounter that has made it famous across Australia: the opportunity to see wild stingrays in shallow water. The beach itself features brilliant white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and the fascinating remnants of an old jetty that create an atmospheric foreground for photography.
Best for:
- Wild stingray encounters (observing responsibly).
- Swimming and paddling in calm, clear waters.
- Snorkelling and exploring the old jetty ruins.
Facilities & Amenities:
- Large car park (can fill up on busy weekends)
- Toilet facilities
- Picnic and BBQ facilities, limited shade - bring sun protection
- No shops - nearest supplied in Augusta (10km)
- No lifeguard patrols
Important safety note: Look but don't touch the stingrays, maintain a distance of at least 2-3 metres, never attempt to feed them, and shuffle your feet when entering the water to avoid accidentally stepping on one. They have barbed tails and will defend themselves if they feel threatened.
Getting there: 10-minute drive from Augusta, 1.5 hours from Busselton, 3.5 hours from Perth.
More information: Margaret River Region - Hamelin Bay
Greens Pool, Denmark
Situated within William Bay National Park, Greens Pool is consistently rated as one of Australia's most beautiful beaches. This isn't your typical beach, it's a natural rock pool formed by massive granite boulders that create a protected swimming lagoon. The water here is extraordinarily clear, displaying vivid shades of turquoise and emerald green that seem almost tropical.
Best for:
- Peaceful swimming in stunning natural surroundings.
- Snorkelling in crystal-clear conditions.
- Photography and nature appreciation.
Facilities & Amenities:
- Car park (national park entry fees apply)
- Toilet facilities
- Picnic areas but no BBQ facilities
- Walking trails to Elephant Rocks and Waterfall Beach
- No shops, bring all supplies from Denmark
- Limited mobile reception
Getting there: 15-minute drive from Denmark, 55 minutes from Albany, 4.5 hours from Perth.
More information: Parks and Wildlife Service - Greens Pool | Denmark Visitor Centre
Little Beach, Albany
Located within Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, Little Beach lives up to its reputation as one of Western Australia's most pristine and picturesque beaches. This stunning crescent of brilliant white sand is framed by dramatic granite headlands and backed by coastal vegetation, creating a sense of seclusion despite its accessibility. The turquoise waters are remarkably clear, and the beach's orientation provides some protection from prevailing winds.
Best for:
- Swimming in clear, calm waters.
- Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking.
- Fishing, walking, and nature observation.
Facilities & Amenities:
- Car park (can fill on busy summer days - arrive early)
- Toilet facilities
- Picnic tables & BBQ Facilities
- No shops or cafés - nearest facilities in Albany (35km)
Getting there: 35-minute drive from Albany, 5 hours from Perth.
More information: Parks and Wildlife Service - Little Beach | Amazing Albany
Essential items to pack for the beach:
- High SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Snorkel gear
- Towels and beach blanket
- Waterproof phone case
- First aid kit
- Insect repellant
- Reef-safe sunscreen for snorkelling
- Water shoes for rocky beaches
Beach safety reminders:
- Always check beach conditions before swimming
- Swim at patrolled beaches where possible
- Never swim alone
- Be aware of rip currents and know how to respond
- Respect marine life, look but don't touch
- Stay hydrated and sun-safe
- Let someone know your plans
- Check weather forecasts and road conditions
Looking for more WA beach inspiration?
Explore our guide to our favourite beaches in Perth, or discover what to do in Perth during summer.
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