The Walpole Wilderness in Western Australia is a birdwatcher’s paradise. With its diverse ecosystems—ranging from dense karri and tingle forests to coastal wetlands and rivers—the region offers numerous habitats that attract a wide variety of bird species. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting, Walpole provides plenty of opportunities to spot both common and rare birds. Here's your guide to the top birdwatching spots in Walpole and the species you can expect to encounter.1. Walpole-Nornalup InletThe Walpole-Nornalup Inlet is a vast estuarine system that’s a haven for waterbirds and migratory species. Surrounded by forested hills and marshlands, this spot is ideal for spotting birds along the water’s edge or in the surrounding bushland. The mudflats, shallows, and sandbanks of the inlet provide feeding grounds for a variety of shorebirds and waders.Birds to Look For:Australian Pelican: Large, graceful birds often seen soaring over the inlet or resting on sandbanks.Eastern Osprey: Frequently spotted hunting for fish in the waters of the inlet.Pied Oystercatcher: Look for their distinctive black-and-white plumage and bright orange bills along the shorelines.Great Egret: Often seen wading in the shallows in search of fish.Tip: Visit the inlet at low tide for the best chance of spotting waders and shorebirds feeding on the exposed mudflats.Image © Tourism Western Australia2. Coalmine BeachLocated on the northern shores of Nornalup Inlet, Coalmine Beach offers stunning views and great bird watching opportunities. The tranquil waters of the inlet are a popular habitat for waterbirds, while the nearby coastal bushland attracts a variety of smaller bird species. The beach area is also home to several walking trails, allowing birdwatchers to explore different habitats.

Broome, with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant skies, is renowned for some of the most spectacular sunsets in the world. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of brilliant colours, offering the perfect opportunity to capture unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply looking to unwind with nature’s evening show, here are the best spots in Broome to witness and capture the perfect sunset.1. Cable Beach: The Iconic Sunset ExperienceWhen it comes to sunsets in Broome, Cable Beach is undoubtedly the most iconic spot. With its 22 kilometres of pristine white sand stretching along the Indian Ocean, Cable Beach offers an unparalleled view of the setting sun. The sight of camels silhouetted against the vibrant sky as they stroll along the shoreline is a quintessential Broome experience that draws visitors from around the world.For the best experience, arrive early to secure a good spot, and consider booking a camel ride to enjoy the sunset from a unique perspective. The combination of the golden beach, the rolling waves, and the spectacular colours of the sky creates a magical atmosphere that is truly unforgettable.Location: Cable Beach, Broome, WA 6726Image © Tourism Western Australia

Broome, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history, is not just a paradise for adults—it’s also a fantastic destination for families. Whether your family is full of adventurers, nature lovers, or history buffs, Broome offers a variety of activities that are sure to create lasting memories. From camel rides on the beach to exploring ancient dinosaur footprints, here are the top family-friendly activities in Broome that everyone will enjoy.1. Sunset Camel Rides on Cable BeachNo trip to Broome is complete without experiencing a sunset camel ride on the iconic Cable Beach. This is a quintessential Broome experience that the whole family can enjoy. As the sun sets, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, your family can relax atop a camel, taking in the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. The gentle sway of the camels and the peaceful atmosphere make this an unforgettable adventure for kids and adults alike.Several operators offer camel rides, with friendly guides who share fascinating stories about the camels and the history of Broome along the way. It’s not just a ride; it’s a journey into the heart of Broome’s natural beauty.Location: Cable Beach, Broome, WA 6726Image © Tourism Western Australia

Nestled in the heart of the Walpole Wilderness Area, the region surrounding Walpole offers a wide range of camping experiences, from serene bush campsites to well-equipped caravan parks. Known for its towering karri and tingle forests, rugged coastlines, and tranquil rivers, Walpole is a nature lover's paradise. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent in a remote spot surrounded by nature or enjoy the comforts of a campground with amenities, there’s a perfect camping spot for everyone.Here’s a guide to the best camping spots around Walpole that will immerse you in the stunning wilderness of Western Australia.1. Coalmine Beach Holiday ParkCoalmine Beach Holiday Park is a popular family-friendly campground located on the Nornalup Inlet, just a few kilometres from Walpole. Offering a mix of powered and unpowered sites, as well as cabins and glamping tents, this park caters to all types of campers. The tranquil inlet provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming, while the campground’s proximity to the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk makes it an ideal base for exploring the area.The park is set within a karri and peppermint forest, giving campers plenty of shade and a sense of being surrounded by nature. There are also well-maintained facilities, including a camp kitchen, clean bathrooms, and BBQ areas, making it a comfortable option for families and groups.Highlights:

Exmouth, known for its incredible proximity to the Ningaloo Reef, is a popular destination for those looking to snorkel with whale sharks, dive into the reef, or explore Western Australia’s natural beauty. While the area has become increasingly popular, there are still hidden gems that offer a unique, quieter experience. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, these underrated destinations for staying and exploring in Exmouth are worth checking out. Here are three incredible places to stay that provide a blend of rustic charm, modern amenities, and authentic outback experiences.1. Bullara StationLocated between Exmouth and Coral Bay, Bullara Station offers a true outback station experience. This working cattle station provides a range of accommodation options, from rustic cabins and safari tents to camping grounds, making it an ideal retreat for anyone wanting to connect with nature while enjoying the comforts of a farm stay. The station is known for its friendly atmosphere and communal gatherings, where you can chat around the campfire, enjoy homemade damper, or take part in the station’s famous scone mornings.Bullara Station is perfect for those looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. You can explore the station grounds, take a sunset walk, and meet the local farm animals. Additionally, the station is close enough to both Ningaloo Reef and Coral Bay, allowing for easy day trips to the region’s world-renowned marine attractions.Why It’s a Hidden Gem:Authentic outback experience with a working cattle station atmosphere.Rustic yet comfortable accommodation options, including safari tents and cabins.Daily station activities such as campfire gatherings and scone mornings.Tip: Enjoy a walk at sunrise or sunset to witness the beautiful colours of the outback and spot local wildlife like kangaroos and emus.

The Walpole Wilderness area, located on the southern coast of Western Australia, is a paradise for photographers, offering breathtaking landscapes, towering forests, serene rivers, and coastal wonders. Whether you’re an amateur with a smartphone or a seasoned photographer with a DSLR, Walpole provides endless opportunities to capture nature’s beauty. Here’s a guide to the best photography spots in Walpole and tips on how to make the most of your wilderness photography adventure.1. Valley of the Giants: Tree Top WalkThe iconic Valley of the Giants is a must-visit for photographers, with its towering tingle trees and elevated Tree Top Walk offering stunning views of the forest canopy. The walk provides unique angles for capturing the scale of these ancient trees and the play of light filtering through the leaves.What to Capture: Shots of the treetops from the elevated walkway, wide-angle images of the towering trees, and close-ups of the textured bark.Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft, creating a magical glow through the trees.Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the immense scale of the tingle trees. For a more artistic touch, focus on the patterns and textures of the bark.Image © Tourism Western Australia2. Conspicuous CliffFor dramatic coastal landscapes, Conspicuous Cliff is one of the best spots in the region. With rugged cliffs, wild surf, and a sandy beach below, this location offers endless possibilities for landscape photography. The ocean’s constant motion adds dynamism to your shots, making it an excellent spot for long-exposure photography.

The Walpole Wilderness in Western Australia is a hiker’s paradise, offering a range of trails that showcase the region’s diverse landscapes—from towering forests of karri and tingle trees to serene coastal vistas and peaceful riverbanks. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenging trek or a casual walker seeking a leisurely stroll, Walpole has a trail for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best hiking trails in Walpole, categorised by difficulty level.1. Giant Tingle Tree Walk (Easy)The Giant Tingle Tree Walk is one of the most accessible and popular trails in the Walpole area, offering an easy yet breathtaking walk through the ancient tingle forest. This short loop trail is just 0.8 kilometres long and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The highlight of the walk is the Giant Tingle Tree, the largest living girthed eucalypt known in the world. The tree’s massive, hollowed-out base is an awe-inspiring sight, offering a unique opportunity to stand inside the trunk of a living giant.The trail is well-maintained with a compacted gravel surface, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Interpretive signs along the way provide insights into the ecology of the tingle forest and the history of the area.Highlights:The Giant Tingle Tree: A towering tree with a massive girth, one of the largest of its kind.Easy, accessible trail suitable for all ages.Interpretive signs offering educational information about the forest.Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and the chance to see wildlife such as kangaroos and birds.

Nestled in the heart of Western Australia’s South West region, the Walpole Wilderness Area is a vast and diverse expanse of untouched natural beauty, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking solitude. Covering more than 363,000 hectares of rugged forests, ancient granite peaks, pristine rivers, and scenic coastlines, the Walpole Wilderness is home to an incredible range of biodiversity and ecosystems. From the towering karri and tingle trees to the breathtaking views from the mountain ranges, this wilderness offers countless opportunities for exploration and adventure.Here’s a comprehensive guide to exploring the Walpole Wilderness Area and discovering its hidden gems.The Heart of the Wilderness: Walpole-Nornalup National ParkThe Walpole-Nornalup National Park is one of the most iconic parts of the Walpole Wilderness and is a haven for nature enthusiasts. This park is home to the famous Valley of the Giants and its Tree Top Walk, but beyond that, it offers plenty of untouched wilderness and hidden trails for the adventurous.Valley of the Giants: Tree Top WalkThe Valley of the Giants is one of the most popular attractions in the region. The Tree Top Walk allows you to walk among the canopy of the giant tingle trees, some of which are more than 400 years old. The Ancient Empire Walk, located at the base of the trees, provides an immersive experience, letting you wander through the forest and witness the colossal size of the trees from ground level.Tip: Visit the Tree Top Walk early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience and the chance to spot native birdlife in the treetops.

The Valley of the Giants, located in Walpole-Nornalup National Park in Western Australia, is a magical destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Famous for its towering karri and tingle trees, this ancient forest offers a unique experience of walking among the treetops, along with plenty of opportunities to explore the lush, biodiverse environment beyond. Whether you’re here for the renowned Tree Top Walk, a leisurely forest stroll, or to learn about the local flora and fauna, the Valley of the Giants is a must-visit destination.Here’s a guide to exploring the Tree Top Walk and what lies beyond in this breathtaking natural wonder.The Tree Top Walk: A Journey Among GiantsThe Tree Top Walk is the star attraction of the Valley of the Giants, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the giant tingle trees that dominate the landscape. Suspended 40 metres above the forest floor, this 600-metre long elevated walkway takes you on a serene journey through the canopy of the ancient tingle and karri trees, offering stunning views of the forest from above.The walkway is designed to sway gently as you walk, giving you the sensation of floating among the trees. The walk is suitable for all ages and abilities, with a gradual incline making it accessible even for those with mobility issues. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and immerse yourself in the incredible beauty of the towering trees.Highlights of the Tree Top Walk:

Visiting the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park is a highlight for many travelers exploring Western Australia. Whether you’re seeking luxury, family-friendly options, or budget-friendly accommodations, there are a variety of places to stay near the Pinnacles that offer comfort and convenience. From beachfront cabins to serene campgrounds, here’s a guide to the best places to stay when visiting the Pinnacles.1. Pinnacles Edge Resort (Cervantes)Distance from the Pinnacles: 17 km / 15-minute driveFor travelers looking for modern comfort and proximity to the Pinnacles, Pinnacles Edge Resort in Cervantes is an excellent choice. The resort offers a range of accommodations, from hotel-style rooms to self-contained apartments, making it ideal for couples, families, and groups. Each unit is well-appointed with kitchen facilities, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable stay.The resort also features an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, where you can relax after a day of exploring the Pinnacles Desert. The short drive to the Pinnacles makes it easy to visit the desert during sunrise or sunset.Best for: Couples, families, and travelers seeking modern amenities and a convenient location.

The Pinnacles Desert is a stunning landscape that offers photographers the chance to capture striking images of ancient limestone formations set against vibrant desert sands. Sunrise and sunset are the prime times to photograph the Pinnacles, as the soft, golden light and long shadows create dramatic and surreal scenes. Whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned photographer, these tips will help you make the most of the lighting and landscape at the Pinnacles Desert.1. Arrive Early for Sunrise and Stay Late for SunsetTiming is everything when it comes to sunrise and sunset photography. Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunrise or sunset to set up your equipment and scout out the best compositions. The moments before and after the sun crosses the horizon (known as the blue hour) offer soft, diffused light that can add a dreamy quality to your images. Staying a little longer after sunset can also give you beautiful twilight colors.Tip: Use an app like PhotoPills or The Photographer’s Ephemeris to track the exact times of sunrise and sunset and plan your shots accordingly.Image © Tourism Western Australia2. Use the Golden Hour LightThe golden hour — the period just after sunrise and before sunset — offers soft, warm light that enhances the colors of the desert sand and limestone spires. This light is much more flattering than the harsh midday sun and brings out the textures and details of the Pinnacles.

Camping near the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience the region’s natural beauty both day and night. As one of the best stargazing destinations in Western Australia, the Pinnacles and its surrounding areas are free from light pollution, allowing campers to witness breathtaking views of the Milky Way, constellations, and shooting stars. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or looking for a peaceful retreat under the stars, here’s a guide to the best camping spots near the Pinnacles for an unforgettable stargazing experience.1. Pinnacles Caravan Park (Cervantes)Distance from the Pinnacles: 17 km / 15-minute driveLocated just minutes away from the Pinnacles Desert, Pinnacles Caravan Park in Cervantes is the closest option for those looking to camp near the iconic limestone formations. The park offers a range of accommodation options, including powered and unpowered camping sites, cabins, and caravan sites.While you’ll need to take a short drive to the Pinnacles Desert for stargazing, the convenience of this campsite makes it a popular choice. During the day, you can relax on nearby beaches or visit local attractions such as Lake Thetis and Thirsty Point Lookout. As night falls, head to the Pinnacles for an unparalleled view of the night sky.Facilities:

The Pinnacles Desert, located within Nambung National Park in Western Australia, is a spectacular natural wonder that can be visited year-round. However, depending on the type of experience you’re after — from cooler temperatures to the best lighting for photography — certain times of the year and day offer distinct advantages. Here’s what you need to know about the best times to visit the Pinnacles Desert to make the most of your trip.Seasonal Considerations: The Best Time of Year to VisitWhile the Pinnacles Desert is accessible year-round, the best time to visit is during the cooler months, from April to October. During this period, the temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor exploration, and the surrounding wildflower season adds an extra layer of beauty to the region.1. Winter and Spring (June to October): The Ideal TimeWeather: Winter and early spring bring milder temperatures, typically ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), making it the best time to visit for walking and exploring the Pinnacles Desert. The cool mornings and evenings are perfect for hiking, and the skies are often clear.Wildflower Season: From August to October, the surrounding areas of Nambung National Park come alive with colorful wildflowers, creating a striking contrast with the yellow sands and limestone formations. This makes it an ideal time for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture both the Pinnacles and blooming wildflowers in the same trip.Best for: Comfortable temperatures, extended walks, and seeing wildflowers in bloom.2. Summer (November to March): Avoid the HeatWeather: Summer in Western Australia can be hot, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). This can make it challenging to explore the Pinnacles during the middle of the day, especially if you’re walking on the exposed desert sands. However, early mornings and late afternoons are still pleasant times to visit during the summer.Sunrise and Sunset: Despite the heat, summer offers long daylight hours and beautiful sunrises and sunsets, making this a great time for photography enthusiasts. Just be sure to visit during cooler parts of the day to avoid the intense midday heat.Best for: Early morning or sunset photography, but avoid midday heat for comfort.Image © Greg Snell

Broome, a coastal gem in Western Australia, is not only known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture but also for its diverse and delectable food scene. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, authentic Asian cuisine, or modern Australian dishes with a local twist, Broome has something to tantalise every palate. This guide takes you through the best restaurants and local eats in Broome, where you can savour the flavours of this unique region.The Aarli: A Fusion of FlavorsLocated in the heart of Broome, The Aarli is a must-visit for any foodie. This trendy eatery is known for its innovative fusion dishes that blend Asian flavours with modern Australian cuisine. The menu is a celebration of local ingredients, offering everything from crispy pork belly with green papaya salad to char grilled king prawns with a tangy tamarind glaze.The Aarli’s outdoor dining area, shaded by frangipani trees, provides a relaxed and stylish setting to enjoy a meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely brunch, a light lunch, or a more substantial dinner, The Aarli delivers a culinary experience that is both satisfying and memorable.Location: 6 Hamersley St, Broome, WA 6725Matso’s Broome Brewery: Local Brews and BitesNo visit to Broome would be complete without a stop at Matso’s Broome Brewery, an iconic spot that perfectly captures the laid-back vibe of the town. Known for its handcrafted beers with a local twist, Matso’s offers a range of unique brews, including the famous Ginger Beer and Mango Beer, both of which are perfect for sipping on a warm Broome afternoon.