Bunbury, a charming coastal city in Western Australia, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and serene wetlands, Bunbury offers a variety of coastal walks and trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll along the beach or a more challenging hike with panoramic ocean views, Bunbury has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best coastal walks and trails in Bunbury.Marlston Hill Lookout and Coastal WalkOne of the most popular spots for a coastal walk in Bunbury is the Marlston Hill Lookout. Located near the city center, this short but rewarding walk takes you up to the lookout tower, which offers 360-degree views of the city, Koombana Bay, and the Indian Ocean. The walk to the lookout is easy and accessible, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.From the lookout, you can continue your walk along the scenic path that runs along the coastline. This trail offers stunning views of the ocean and is a great place to spot dolphins playing in the surf. The path is well-maintained and perfect for a leisurely stroll or a morning jog. As you walk, you’ll pass by several cafés and restaurants, making it easy to stop for a coffee or a bite to eat along the way.Distance: 1-2 km (depending on the route)Difficulty: EasyHighlights: Panoramic views, dolphin spotting, nearby amenitiesImage © Tourism Western Australia

Exploring the Swan Valley by bike offers a unique way to experience the region's picturesque landscapes, wineries, and local attractions. With its flat terrain, scenic routes, and quiet country roads, the Swan Valley is perfect for both leisurely rides and more adventurous cyclists. Whether you’re a casual rider or a cycling enthusiast, you’ll find routes to suit all levels, offering plenty of opportunities to stop for a picnic, taste local wines, or visit some of the valley’s historic landmarks. Here’s your guide to the best cycling routes in Swan Valley and tips for making the most of your ride.Image © Tourism Western Australia1. The Swan Valley Heritage Cycle TrailThe Swan Valley Heritage Cycle Trail is the most popular cycling route in the valley, taking riders through the heart of the region’s wineries, artisan producers, and historic sites. This 32-kilometre trail is well signposted and divided into three loops, each offering different experiences and attractions. You can ride the entire trail or choose a shorter section depending on your preference.Route Highlights:Loop 1: Guildford to West Swan (12 km): This section starts in the historic town of Guildford, with its charming heritage buildings and shops, and follows the Swan River to West Swan Road, where you’ll find some of the valley’s top wineries and restaurants.Loop 2: West Swan to Henley Brook (10 km): This loop takes you through Henley Brook, where you can stop at wineries like Ugly Duckling Wines or visit the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm. It's a great route for families and casual riders.Loop 3: Henley Brook to Guildford (10 km): The final section passes through Caversham and Baskerville, with scenic views of vineyards and farmland, before returning to Guildford.Each loop is mostly flat, making it accessible for riders of all ages and fitness levels. The trail also features interpretive signs along the way, highlighting the region’s history and providing interesting facts about the Swan Valley.Tip: Stop at Edgecombe Brothers Winery for a relaxed lunch or snack while enjoying views of the vineyards.

Rockingham is a prime destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities in its crystal-clear waters and sheltered bays. Whether you’re an experienced windsurfer or a beginner looking to try stand-up paddleboarding, Rockingham’s calm conditions and stunning coastal scenery provide the perfect backdrop for aquatic adventures. Here's a guide to the best water sports in Rockingham, from windsurfing and kitesurfing to kayaking and paddleboarding.Image © Tourism Western Australia1. Windsurfing at Safety BayBest for: Thrill-seekers and wind sports enthusiastsSafety Bay, located just south of Rockingham, is famous for its windsurfing conditions, attracting both beginners and experienced windsurfers from around the world. With consistent winds and smooth, shallow waters, the bay is ideal for practicing and improving your skills. The flat water and wide-open space make it a favorite spot for freestyle windsurfers.Safety Bay offers several windsurfing schools where beginners can take lessons and rent equipment. The steady winds, particularly during the summer months, provide perfect conditions for those looking to enjoy the thrill of catching the breeze and skimming across the water.

Rockingham, located just south of Perth, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure on the water and along the coast. With its stunning beaches, protected marine parks, and abundant wildlife, Rockingham offers a variety of exciting outdoor activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and more. Whether you're looking to paddle alongside dolphins, explore vibrant coral reefs, or get your adrenaline pumping with kite surfing, Rockingham has something for every adventurer. Here's a guide to the best outdoor adventures in Rockingham.1. KayakingBest for: Exploring marine life, island hopping, and tranquil paddlingKayaking in Rockingham is an unforgettable way to explore the pristine coastline and the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds. You can rent a kayak or join a guided tour to paddle through the calm, clear waters and explore nearby islands.Image © Tourism Western AustraliaTop Kayaking Spots:Shoalwater Bay: Perfect for beginners and experienced kayakers, Shoalwater Bay’s calm waters allow you to paddle around the small islands in the marine park. Along the way, you may spot dolphins and sea lions playing in the water.Penguin Island: One of the most popular kayaking destinations in Rockingham, Penguin Island is just a short paddle from the mainland. Once on the island, you can explore the beaches, enjoy a picnic, or see the colony of little penguins that call the island home.Seal Island: Another great spot within Shoalwater Bay, Seal Island offers the chance to see Australian sea lions up close. You can paddle around the island or stop on the shore to observe the wildlife.What to Expect: Rentals and guided kayak tours are available at Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. Many tours include snorkeling stops and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Kalbarri, a gem on Western Australia’s Coral Coast, is a paradise for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its breathtaking cliffs, winding rivers, and vast national parks, the region offers a range of adventure sports that cater to all levels of fitness and bravery. Whether you’re abseiling down rugged rock faces, canoeing through serene gorges, or hiking the coastal cliffs, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities in Kalbarri. Here’s your guide to the best adventure sports in the area.1. Abseiling at Z Bend: A Thrilling DescentZ Bend Gorge, located in Kalbarri National Park, is a hotspot for abseiling enthusiasts. The sheer red cliffs of the Murchison River Gorge provide the perfect backdrop for an adrenaline-packed descent. With guided abseiling tours, both beginners and experienced adventurers can safely rappel down the gorge’s steep rock faces, with drops of up to 25 meters.Not only is abseiling at Z Bend an exhilarating experience, but it also offers unbeatable views of the gorge’s dramatic landscape. It’s the perfect adventure for those looking to combine the thrill of abseiling with the stunning natural beauty of Kalbarri’s outback.What we love: The heart-pounding excitement of abseiling down the cliffs, with spectacular views of the Murchison River Gorge below.Good to know: Guided abseiling tours provide all the necessary safety gear and instruction, so no prior experience is required.

Denmark, located along Western Australia’s Great Southern coast, is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. From kayaking on tranquil rivers and hiking through towering forests to exploring the rugged coastline, Denmark’s natural beauty invites you to step outside and discover its wild landscapes. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a peaceful day in nature, here’s your guide to the best outdoor activities in Denmark.1. Kayaking on the Denmark River and Wilson InletOne of the best ways to experience Denmark’s serene natural beauty is by kayaking along the Denmark River and into the Wilson Inlet. The calm, glassy waters provide the perfect setting for a relaxing paddle, surrounded by lush bushland and abundant birdlife. The inlet, where the river meets the Southern Ocean, offers expansive views and the chance to spot dolphins, pelicans, and black swans gliding across the water.For those seeking a bit more adventure, paddling further into the inlet will take you toward Ocean Beach, where the meeting of the river and ocean provides a dramatic change in scenery. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, Denmark’s waterways offer something for everyone.Tip: Kayak rentals are available in Denmark, and guided tours offer a chance to learn more about the region’s ecology and wildlife.Location: Denmark River and Wilson Inlet, Denmark, WA 6333

Denmark, nestled along Western Australia’s rugged South Coast, is known for its breathtaking coastal scenery. With rolling hills, pristine beaches, and lush forests meeting the turquoise waters of the Southern Ocean, this region is a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re seeking panoramic ocean views, secluded beaches, or wildlife encounters, Denmark’s coastal walks offer an unforgettable experience. Here’s a guide to the top coastal walks in Denmark, where you can soak in the beauty of the South Coast and reconnect with nature.1. The Bibbulmun Track: Ocean Views and Diverse LandscapesOne of the most iconic long-distance hiking trails in Western Australia, the Bibbulmun Track stretches over 1,000 kilometers from Kalamunda in the Perth Hills to Albany. A significant portion of this track passes through Denmark’s stunning coastal region, offering hikers a chance to experience diverse landscapes, from towering karri forests to windswept cliffs and secluded beaches.For a day hike or shorter section, the stretch from Lights Beach to Greens Pool is a popular option. This portion of the Bibbulmun Track offers breathtaking ocean views, wildflower-filled headlands, and the chance to dip your toes in the turquoise waters of Greens Pool, one of Denmark’s most famous beaches. Keep an eye out for native wildlife along the way, including kangaroos, bandicoots, and a variety of bird species.Tip: Start your hike early in the morning for cooler temperatures and the best lighting for photos. If you’re planning a multi-day hike, you’ll find well-maintained campsites along the track.Location: Start at Lights Beach, Denmark, WA 6333

Located in Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region, the town of Derby is known for more than its picturesque landscapes and rugged outback charm—it’s also home to one of the world’s largest tidal ranges. Every day, Derby’s tides rise and fall dramatically, with the water levels shifting by up to 11.8 meters (nearly 39 feet), creating a spectacle that attracts visitors from around the globe. But what causes these massive tides, and how can you experience them? Here’s everything you need to know about Derby’s tides and why they’re one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena.What Causes Derby’s Massive Tides?Tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun on Earth’s oceans. As the Earth rotates, different areas of the planet are closer to the moon or the sun at any given time, causing the water to bulge out in those regions and creating high and low tides. While tides are a common phenomenon around the world, the size of tidal ranges can vary dramatically based on location and local geography.Derby experiences what are known as spring tides, which occur when the gravitational forces of the moon and sun align to create a more extreme difference between high and low tides. The vast tidal range in Derby is primarily due to the unique shape and shallow nature of King Sound, the body of water into which Derby’s coastline opens. King Sound acts like a funnel, amplifying the tidal movements as water is pushed into the narrowing bay. The result is an incredibly fast and dramatic rise and fall of the water levels—some of the largest in the world.Image © Tourism Western AustraliaHow Big Are Derby’s Tides?Derby’s tides are not just big; they’re among the largest on the planet. The tidal range here can reach up to 11.8 meters (nearly 39 feet) during peak spring tides, making it the largest tidal variation in Australia and one of the largest anywhere in the world.

Carnarvon, with its dramatic landscapes, pristine coastline, and vibrant sunsets, is a paradise for photographers looking to capture Western Australia’s raw beauty. From rugged outback scenery to lush riverbanks and historical landmarks, the region offers countless opportunities for stunning photography. Whether you’re an amateur with a smartphone or a seasoned photographer with a professional camera, Carnarvon’s diverse landscapes and ever-changing light provide the perfect backdrop for every shot. Here’s a guide to the best places and tips for capturing unforgettable photos in Carnarvon.1. Carnarvon Blowholes: Dramatic Coastal PhotographyThe Carnarvon Blowholes are one of the region’s most iconic natural wonders, and they provide a stunning subject for coastal photography. Located about 75 kilometres north of Carnarvon, these blowholes shoot jets of water high into the air as ocean waves crash against the rocky shoreline. Capturing the moment when the water explodes from the blowholes is a thrilling challenge for any photographer, and the rugged landscape around it offers endless possibilities for dynamic shots.Try shooting during different times of the day to capture the changing light—early morning or late afternoon can produce dramatic lighting, while the midday sun might highlight the colours of the rocks and the spray from the blowholes. For a more creative approach, consider using a long exposure to capture the motion of the water as it rises and falls.Tip: Be mindful of the tides and weather conditions. High tide and a strong ocean swell will create the most spectacular water plumes.Location: Blowholes Rd, Quobba, WA 6701

Carnarvon, a coastal gem in Western Australia, is a perfect destination for families looking for fun-filled activities that cater to all ages. Whether you have young children eager for outdoor exploration or teenagers who want exciting adventures, Carnarvon offers a variety of experiences to keep everyone entertained. From wildlife encounters to beach days and educational trips, here’s your guide to the best family-friendly activities in Carnarvon.Discover the Fascinating Carnarvon Space and Technology MuseumFor families with curious minds, a visit to the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum is a must. This interactive museum provides an exciting insight into Carnarvon’s unique role in NASA’s space missions during the Apollo era. Kids will be captivated by the hands-on exhibits, including the Apollo Command Module simulator, where they can experience what it’s like to be an astronaut navigating space. The museum also features a replica of the Lunar Rover and offers educational displays that are both fun and informative.Parents and children alike will enjoy learning about Australia’s involvement in space exploration, and the museum’s outdoor displays of satellite dishes and communication equipment make it an exciting adventure into the world of science and discovery. With plenty of interactive exhibits to keep kids engaged, this is an educational experience that blends fun and learning perfectly.Location: 409 Annear Pl, Carnarvon, WA 6701Explore Nature at the Carnarvon BlowholesFor a thrilling natural wonder, head to the Carnarvon Blowholes, located about 75 kilometers north of town. These impressive blowholes shoot jets of seawater high into the air as waves crash into the coastal rock formations. Kids will be amazed by the sheer power and spectacle of the water plumes, while parents can enjoy the stunning ocean views and rugged beauty of the coastline.