8 must-visit beaches in WA's South West

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.

At a Glance

Exploring Perth first? Discover Perth's favourite beaches

Quick picks by activity:

• Swimming: Busselton Jetty & Foreshore, Meelup Beach

• Snorkelling: The Aquarium, Bunker Bay, Greens Pool

• Surfing: Injidup Beach (experienced riders), Bunker Bay

• Wildlife & photography: Hamelin Bay, Greens Pool, Little Beach

Best Beaches in South West WA

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 1.84 kilometres into the calm waters of Geographe Bay, it is the longest timber-piled 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. 

Why choose Busselton Jetty & Foreshore?

Choose Busselton if your group wants the easiest all-round beach day: calm water, a lively foreshore, cafés nearby and a major attraction in the same location. It is the strongest choice for first-time South West visitors who want swimming, sightseeing and food without needing to travel between multiple places.

Best for:

• Underwater Observatory experience: a guided tour about 8 metres below the surface, with some of the 300 marine species that live beneath the jetty (Busselton Jetty).
• 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

Student tip: the foreshore is a gentle first swim of the trip, with cafés close by for a post-swim meal.

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.

Why choose Meelup Beach?

Choose Meelup for its sheltered, postcard-blue water and slower pace. Unlike the busier Busselton foreshore, it feels more like a nature escape while remaining accessible from Dunsborough. It is ideal when the priority is a long swim, paddleboard session or picnic rather than attractions and cafés.

Best for: 

• Calm-water swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking.
• A scenic picnic or beach day with friends.

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

Student tip: go on a weekday if you can, as the car park fills quickly on weekends.

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 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.

Why choose Bunker Bay?

Choose Bunker Bay for big coastal scenery. Its wide arc of sand, headlands and open views make it feel more dramatic than the protected bays closer to Dunsborough. It suits visitors who want a beautiful beach walk and are happy to choose their water activity based on the day's conditions.

Best for: 

• Coastal walks, landscape photography and whale watching in season. 
• Confident beachgoers checking conditions before swimming, snorkelling or surfing.

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.

Why choose The Aquarium?

Choose The Aquarium when snorkelling is the main reason for your visit. This small natural pool is not a broad, all-day beach destination: it is a compact and memorable stop for people prepared to navigate a rocky entry and bring their own gear.

Best for:

• Snorkellers who want clear water and close-up marine life.
• Rock pool exploration and photography.

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

Student tip: pack water shoes and a snorkel here, as the rocky entry and lack of shade make preparation important.

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.

Why choose Injidup Beach?

Choose Injidup for raw coastal drama rather than an easy swim. With powerful surf, limestone cliffs and sweeping ocean views, it is best experienced as a scenic stop or by confident surfers who understand local conditions. It offers a very different experience from the calm bays elsewhere in this guide.

Best for: 

• Surfing and bodyboarding for experienced riders.
• Visitors who prefer a wild coastline over a sheltered swimming beach.

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.

Why choose Hamelin Bay?

Choose Hamelin Bay for a respectful wildlife encounter paired with an easy-going beach stop. The possibility of seeing wild stingrays in shallow water, along with the old jetty ruins, makes it one of the most memorable and photogenic stops on the southern Margaret River coast. Stingray sightings are never guaranteed, and the animals should always be given space.

Best for: 

• Wild stingray encounters (observing responsibly). 
• 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 (about 25km)
• 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: about a 15 to 20-minute drive from Augusta (around 25km), 1.5 hours from Busselton, 3.5 hours from Perth (Margaret River Region).

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.

Why choose Greens Pool?

Choose Greens Pool for one of the South West's most visually distinctive swimming experiences. Granite boulders form a striking natural lagoon, creating a setting that feels completely different from the open beaches around Busselton and Margaret River. It is the standout choice for a Denmark day trip or Great Southern itinerary.

Best for: 

• Swimming and snorkelling in a granite-framed natural pool.
• Combined with Elephant Rocks and other William Bay National Park walks.

Facilities & Amenities: 

• Car park (limited parking in school and public holidays: no park entry fee (Parks and Wildlife Service)
• 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: about 15km (15 to 20 minutes) from Denmark, 55 minutes from Albany, 4.5 hours from Perth. Currents may be present at Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks, so check conditions first.

More information: Parks and Wildlife Service - Greens Pool | Denmark Visitor Centre

Little Beach, Albany

Located within Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, about 35 kilometres east of Albany, Little Beach is a stunning crescent of brilliant white sand 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.

Why choose Little Beach?

Choose Little Beach if you are extending your trip to Albany and want a secluded-looking beach without a difficult hike or boat trip. Its bright white sand, turquoise water and granite headlands create one of the most striking beach landscapes in the Great Southern.

Best for: 

• A scenic Albany day trip with swimming, paddling or kayaking.
• Fishing, walking, and nature observation.

Facilities & Amenities: 

• Car park (can fill on busy summer days, so arrive early)
• Toilet facilities
• Picnic tables & BBQ Facilities
• No shops or cafés: nearest facilities in Albany (35km)
• Park entry fees apply, and no drinking water in the reserve

Getting there: 35-minute drive from Albany, 5 hours from Perth.

More information: Parks and Wildlife Service - Little Beach | Amazing Albany

More of the Best Beaches in Western Australia

The South West is only one part of the state's coastline. If you are exploring more Western Australia beaches, add these four to your list:

• Cottesloe Beach, Perth: a long-standing favourite with locals and visitors, and home to Sculpture by the Sea. 
• Rottnest Island: a ferry-ride island day trip from Perth, known for its sheltered bays such as The Basin.
• Lucky Bay, Esperance: white sand and turquoise water where kangaroos sunbake on the beach.
• Cable Beach, Broome: about 22km of soft white sand, famous for camel rides at sunset.

Essential items to pack for the beach:

• High SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Hat and sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle
• Snorkel gear (if you own it)
• Towels and beach blanket
• Waterproof phone case
• First aid kit
• Insect repellent
• 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
• Western Australia beaches can change quickly with swell, tide and weather, so check conditions again on the day

Students planning a longer nature-focused itinerary can also explore Among the Giants: Western Australia's Southern Forests.

Planning a South West beach trip as a student

The South West is easy to explore with friends, but the beaches in this guide are spread across a large region. Busselton and Dunsborough are the most achievable options for a shorter trip from Perth, while Hamelin Bay, Denmark and Albany are better enjoyed over several days.

Getting there from Perth

Driving gives you the most flexibility, particularly for beaches such as Meelup, Bunker Bay, The Aquarium, Injidup and Greens Pool, where public transport is limited. If no one in your group drives, consider booking a coach to Busselton, Margaret River, Denmark or Albany, then arranging a local tour, taxi or rideshare for beach access where available. Check current routes and timetables before booking, as regional services and connections can be limited.

Travelling with friends

Sharing a hire car, fuel, accommodation and food can make a South West trip more affordable. Before you go, agree on who is driving, where you will stay, how costs will be split and which beaches are realistic to visit each day. Avoid planning too many long drives in one day, particularly if you are unfamiliar with regional roads.

Budgeting for your beach escape

Your total cost will depend on the season, group size and travel style. Plan for transport, fuel or car hire, accommodation, groceries or meals, park entry fees where applicable, and activities such as the Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory. Booking accommodation and transport early is especially important for weekends, university breaks and summer.

Where to stay

Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River, Augusta, Denmark and Albany offer a mix of hostels, backpacker accommodation, holiday parks, campsites and short-stay accommodation. For a first South West trip, choose one or two bases rather than changing accommodation every night. Busselton or Dunsborough works well for the northern beaches: Margaret River or Augusta suits Hamelin Bay: Denmark or Albany is best for Greens Pool and Little Beach.

Useful StudyPerth reading:

Before leaving Perth, read StudyPerth’s guide to getting around in Perth and student road-trip guide.

Looking for more WA beach inspiration?

Discover what to do in Perth during summer or Explore Perth outdoor lifestyle.