Albany Western Australia: Where History Meets Spectacular Coastlines

Albany, located on the southern coast of Western Australia, is a stunning historic town known for its rugged coastline, rich whaling history, and breathtaking natural beauty. As the first European settlement in WA, Albany has a fascinating colonial past, but today it’s best known for its whale-watching experiences, pristine beaches, and national parks.

From exploring the dramatic coastline of Torndirrup National Park to learning about Australia’s Anzac history at the National Anzac Centre, Albany is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions in Albany

1. The Gap & Natural Bridge – Torndirrup National Park 🌊🌉

• One of WA’s most iconic coastal attractions, featuring dramatic granite cliffs and ocean waves crashing into the rocks below.
• The Gap’s viewing platform extends over the 40m drop, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean.
• Natural Bridge is a stunning rock formation shaped by powerful waves over millions of years.

2. National Anzac Centre 🏛️🎖️

• One of Australia’s most important war memorials, dedicated to the ANZAC troops of World War I.
• Offers interactive exhibits, personal soldier stories, and panoramic views over King George Sound.
• Located within the Princess Royal Fortress, WA’s first defensive military post.

3. Albany Whale Watching (June–October) 🐋🔭

• Albany is one of the best places in Australia to see migrating humpback and southern right whales.
• Top whale-watching spots:
  • Albany Whale Watching Tours – Boat tours get you up close with these giants.
  • Middleton Beach Lookout – A great land-based spot for whale spotting.
  • Torndirrup National Park – Often offers stunning whale views from the cliffs.

4. Albany Wind Farm 🌿💨

• A scenic coastal wind farm offering panoramic ocean views.
• Walking trails along the cliffs provide spectacular sunset views.

5. Middleton Beach & Ellen Cove Boardwalk 🏖️🚶‍♂️

• Albany’s most popular beach, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and beach walks.
• The Ellen Cove Boardwalk is a scenic coastal walk offering wildlife spotting, including dolphins and whales.

6. Historic Whaling Station – Discovery Bay 🛳️🐳

• A fascinating museum located at the site of Australia’s last whaling station.
• Learn about Albany’s whaling history and see a fully intact blue whale skeleton.
• Features a wildlife park and botanic garden with native Australian animals.

7. Frenchman Bay & Vancouver Peninsula 🌊🏝️

• A stunning bay with crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches.
• Offers great spots for picnics, snorkeling, and fishing.

8. Little Beach – Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve 🏝️

• One of the most beautiful beaches in WA, with soft white sand and turquoise water.
• Calm waters make it perfect for swimming and photography.

9. Bald Head Walk Trail 🥾🌄

• A challenging but rewarding 12.5 km hike along the Flinders Peninsula.
• Offers some of the best coastal views in WA, with rugged cliffs, wildflowers, and ocean panoramas.

10. Albany Farmers Market (Saturdays) 🛍️🍎

• A vibrant market featuring fresh produce, artisan cheeses, local wines, and homemade treats.
• A great place to experience Albany’s farm-to-table food culture.

Outdoor Adventures & Day Trips from Albany 🚗🏕️

1. Denmark & Greens Pool 🏖️🌊 (40 min drive)

• Denmark is a scenic coastal town with incredible beaches and forests.
• Greens Pool in William Bay National Park is a paradise with calm, turquoise waters and massive granite boulders.

2. Stirling Range National Park & Bluff Knoll ⛰️🥾 (90 min drive)

• Home to Western Australia’s highest peak, Bluff Knoll (1,099m).
• Offers amazing hiking trails with wildflower displays in spring.

3. Porongurup National Park & Castle Rock Skywalk 🏔️🔭 (40 min drive)

• A spectacular granite range with panoramic views.
• The Granite Skywalk at Castle Rock is an incredible glass-floored platform suspended over the cliffs.

4. Bremer Bay (2-hour drive) 🦈🌊

• Famous for pristine beaches and killer whale (orca) watching tours in summer (January–April).
• Great for snorkeling, diving, and fishing.

Albany’s Food & Wine Scene 🍽️🍷

1. Must-Try Local Specialties

• Fresh seafood – Albany rock oysters, King George whiting, and Marron (freshwater crayfish).
• Cool-climate wines – Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Noir.
• Gourmet cheeses and farm-fresh produce.

2. Best Restaurants & Cafés ☕🍽️

• Gourmandise & Co. – A French-inspired café with artisan pastries and great coffee.
• Liberté – A French-Vietnamese bistro with fantastic cocktails.
• Due South – A waterfront restaurant with incredible seafood and steak.
• Orana Restaurant – Offers modern Australian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

3. Best Wineries & Breweries 🍷🍺

• Singlefile Wines (Denmark) – Award-winning cool-climate wines.
• The Lake House Winery – A beautiful lakeside cellar door with tastings.
• Wilson Brewing Company – Albany’s best craft brewery with locally brewed beers.

Where to Stay in Albany 🏨

Luxury & Boutique Stays ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• The Beach House at Bayside – A 5-star boutique stay near Middleton Beach.
• Cape Howe Cottages – Luxury eco-friendly cottages in a peaceful bush setting.

Mid-Range & Family-Friendly Stays ⭐⭐⭐

• BIG4 Middleton Beach Holiday Park – Cabins and camping right on the beach.
• Quality Apartments Banksia Gardens – A comfortable self-contained option for families.

Budget & Camping Options 💰🏕️

• Albany Backpackers Lodge – A budget-friendly hostel in town.
• Cosy Corner Campground – A scenic coastal camping site near Denmark.

Best Time to Visit Albany ☀️🐋

• Summer (December–February) – Best for beaches, outdoor dining, and hiking.
• Autumn (March–May) – Ideal for mild weather, wine tours, and fewer crowds.
• Winter (June–August) – Best for whale watching and cozying up in a seaside retreat.
• Spring (September–November) – Wildflower season, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.

How to Get to Albany ✈️🚗

• By Car 🚗
  • From Perth: 4.5-hour drive via Albany Highway.
• By Air ✈️
  • Albany Regional Airport (ALH) has direct flights from Perth (Rex Airlines).
• By Bus 🚌
  • Transwa operates buses from Perth to Albany daily.

Why Visit Albany?

Albany is Western Australia’s ultimate coastal escape, offering rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and incredible wildlife experiences. Whether you’re watching whales, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying fresh seafood and wine, Albany is a must-visit destination on WA’s south coast.

🌊🐋🍷 Plan your trip to Albany and experience the magic of the Southern Ocean