Esperance, known for its pristine beaches and jaw-dropping coastal landscapes, is a destination that beckons road trippers from all over the world. The Great Ocean Drive, a 40-kilometer loop that hugs Esperance’s stunning coastline, is the perfect way to explore the region’s breathtaking scenery, picturesque beaches, and natural wonders. Whether you’re looking to swim, surf, take photos, or simply enjoy the views, this self-drive tour offers an unforgettable day of adventure and relaxation. Here’s your guide to the best stops along Esperance’s Great Ocean Drive.

1. Blue Haven Beach: A Turquoise Gem

Continue along the Great Ocean Drive to Blue Haven Beach, a secluded and sheltered cove known for its vivid turquoise waters and soft white sand. This beach is a local favorite for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in a tranquil setting. The stairs leading down to the beach offer an incredible view of the bay, and once you’re on the sand, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered your own private paradise.

The calm waters make Blue Haven Beach ideal for families and those looking for a peaceful swim or snorkel. Its picturesque surroundings make it one of the most photogenic spots on the drive.

What we love: The crystal-clear waters and sheltered cove, making it perfect for a relaxing swim.

Good to know: Access to the beach is via a set of stairs, so be prepared for a short climb.

Location: Twilight Beach Rd, Esperance, WA 6450

Image © Tourism Western Australia

2. Start at the Esperance Foreshore

Kick off your scenic road trip at the Esperance Foreshore, a beautiful waterfront area that offers great views of the town’s beaches and the Southern Ocean. The foreshore is home to parks, walking paths, and picnic spots, making it a perfect place to grab a coffee or breakfast before hitting the road. You’ll also find public art installations and the historic Esperance Jetty, providing some great photo opportunities.

If you’re traveling with family or kids, the Adventureland Park along the foreshore is a fun stop with playgrounds, mini-golf, and paddleboats.

What we love: The relaxing start to your drive, with ocean views, cafes, and picnic spots to enjoy before heading out.

Good to know: The foreshore has plenty of parking, public restrooms, and easy access to the town center for any last-minute supplies.

Location: The Esplanade, Esperance, WA 6450

Image © Tourism Western Australia

3. West Beach: Stunning Cliffs and Ocean Views

Just a short drive from the foreshore, West Beach is one of the first stops on the Great Ocean Drive and is known for its dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. This beach is a favorite for photographers, offering striking views of the rugged coastline and deep blue waters. The lookout point above the beach provides a stunning vantage point, perfect for panoramic shots of the coastline.

While swimming here is not recommended due to strong currents, West Beach is an excellent spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and soaking in the views.

What we love: The rugged beauty and dramatic cliffs that make this beach a perfect photography stop.

Good to know: While it’s not ideal for swimming, the beach offers great views and a peaceful atmosphere for a quick stop.

Location: West Beach Rd, Esperance, WA 6450

4. Twilight Beach: Perfect for Families

Voted as one of Australia’s best beaches, Twilight Beach is a must-stop on the Great Ocean Drive. With its shallow, calm waters and striking granite boulders, Twilight Beach is ideal for families looking for a safe and fun spot to swim. The iconic round boulder that sits just offshore adds to the charm, providing a unique focal point for photos.

Twilight Beach’s wide expanse of soft white sand makes it great for beach games, sunbathing, or simply relaxing with a picnic. Whether you’re taking a dip in the clear waters or exploring the nearby rock formations, Twilight Beach is a highlight of the drive.

What we love: The calm, shallow waters make this beach perfect for family fun and swimming.

Good to know: Public restrooms and picnic facilities are available, making it convenient for a longer stop.

Location: Twilight Beach Rd, Esperance, WA 6450

Image © Tourism Western Australia

5. Eleven Mile Beach: A Surfer’s Dream

For those looking to catch some waves or enjoy a more rugged beach experience, Eleven Mile Beach is the perfect stop. Known for its strong surf and windswept dunes, this beach is popular with surfers and anglers. Even if you’re not hitting the waves, the expansive shoreline and dramatic landscape make it a great spot for a walk along the beach or simply taking in the natural beauty.

Eleven Mile Beach is more remote than some of the other stops on the Great Ocean Drive, providing a peaceful, less crowded experience for those seeking solitude.

What we love: The untamed, natural beauty and wide-open spaces, perfect for a peaceful beach walk.

Good to know: This beach is better suited for experienced swimmers and surfers due to strong currents and waves.

Location: Eleven Mile Beach Rd, Esperance, WA 6450

Image © Tourism Western Australia

6. Observatory Point: Panoramic Views of the Southern Ocean

Continue your journey to Observatory Point, a spectacular lookout offering panoramic views of the Southern Ocean. From the top of the point, you’ll have sweeping views of the rugged coastline, rocky islands, and deep blue waters stretching to the horizon. This is an excellent spot for photographers and nature lovers, as the views are nothing short of breathtaking.

On a clear day, you can even spot Cape Le Grand National Park in the distance, giving you a preview of what lies further along the coast.

What we love: The panoramic views that offer a great vantage point for capturing the raw beauty of the Southern Ocean.

Good to know: There are parking areas and walking trails near the lookout, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace.

Location: Observatory Point, along Twilight Beach Rd, Esperance, WA 6450

7. Esperance Wind Farm: Renewable Energy and Scenic Views

As you continue along the Great Ocean Drive, you’ll come across the Esperance Wind Farm, which is both a fascinating eco-friendly site and a scenic stop. The wind farm consists of a series of wind turbines that harness the power of the coastal winds to generate electricity for the town. The turbines are set against the backdrop of the ocean and surrounding hills, making for a unique photo opportunity.

A walking trail leads around the wind farm, offering a chance to stretch your legs while learning about renewable energy and enjoying views of the coastline.

What we love: The combination of renewable energy education and scenic coastal views makes this an interesting stop for all ages.

Good to know: There are information boards along the walking trail that provide insights into how the wind farm works.

Location: Off the Great Ocean Drive, Esperance, WA 6450

Image © Tourism Western Australia

8. Pink Lake: Esperance’s Famous, Faded Wonder

While Pink Lake may no longer display its famous pink hue due to environmental changes, it’s still worth a stop to learn about its history and take in the surrounding landscape. Once a bright pink due to a unique combination of algae and salt, the lake has since lost its color, but efforts are ongoing to potentially restore it.

Informational signs explain the science behind the lake’s color change, making it an educational stop for curious travelers. The lake’s location near the end of the Great Ocean Drive loop makes it a convenient final stop before heading back to town.

What we love: The history and uniqueness of the once-pink lake, and the opportunity to learn more about the natural environment.

Good to know: While the lake is no longer pink, its proximity to other attractions makes it a quick and worthwhile stop.

Location: Pink Lake Rd, Esperance, WA 6450

Final Thoughts

The Great Ocean Drive is one of the most scenic coastal routes in Western Australia, offering visitors a chance to explore Esperance’s incredible beaches, rugged landscapes, and hidden gems. Whether you’re swimming at Twilight Beach, capturing panoramic views at Observatory Point, or simply enjoying a leisurely drive along the coast, this route showcases the best of Esperance’s natural beauty.

So pack your camera, sunscreen, and sense of adventure, and get ready to experience one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal drives.