Road Tripping Southern Western Australia: From Margaret River to Cape Le Grand
- maxwelltooby2b
- Dec 29, 2024
- 5 min read
Southern Western Australia boasts dramatic coastlines, ancient forests, and rugged outback landscapes, making it a perfect destination for a road trip. This guide highlights the must-see spots, insider tips, and experiences to help you make the most of your adventure through one of Australia’s most stunning regions.
Why A Western Australia Road Trip
With nine days off between shifts, we decided to explore Southern WA, a region renowned for its pristine white beaches and rugged natural beauty. Having family in Perth, I had previously visited Margaret River and Albany, but this was Bec’s first time. We were eager to venture further, with Cape Le Grand National Park topping our list of destinations.
April, the shoulder season, offered a mix of clear, warm days and cooler weather, perfect for exploring. The unpredictable conditions added an adventurous edge, but we were fortunate to enjoy mostly sunny skies throughout our journey.
This is what it's all about: pristine, empty beaches.
Planning
This trip was one of our least planned and most spontaneous adventures. Aside from booking a 4x4 vehicle, we arranged everything on the road. Armed with camping gear from the eastern states and the WikiCamps Australia app, we mapped out our stops as we went. The flexibility added an exciting sense of freedom, though it’s always wise to consult locals and remain adaptable.
Day 1: Perth - Sugarloaf Rock via Bunbury (Total Drive Time: 2 hours 40 minutes)
We kicked off our trip by picking up a 4x4 rental in Perth. While 4WDs are pricier than 2WD cars, their capability was essential for the beach drives we planned. Bringing our own camping gear, including bedding and a tent, helped save money and ensured we were well-prepared. That first night, we slept in the car, which proved surprisingly comfortable.
After stocking up in Bunbury, we drove to Sugarloaf Rock. The sunset over this iconic rock formation was a spectacular start to our trip. We camped at Boranup Campground, a basic but serene spot surrounded by bushland and the sounds of nature.
Day 2: Margaret River - Denmark via Hamelin Bay (Total Drive Time: 6 hours)
A 35-minute drive brought us to Hamelin Bay, where we waded alongside graceful stingrays gliding through the clear shallows. The chalk-white cliffs and vivid blue waters made for stunning scenery. On previous visits, I had even seen dolphins and sharks chasing schools of fish—a testament to the area’s vibrant marine life.
From Hamelin Bay, we continued 40 minutes to Margaret River, skipping wine tastings to focus on natural attractions. After picking up supplies, we embarked on a 4.5-hour drive to Denmark. Along the way, the scenery shifted from lush vineyards to towering karri forests. We even encountered a flock of emus crossing the road, adding a quintessentially Australian touch to the journey.
The iconic red dirt tracks of WA
Once in Denmark, we visited Singlefile Wines for a cheese-paired tasting, followed by a sunset picnic at Greens Pool, a tranquil beach framed by granite boulders. We camped overnight at Parry Beach Campsite, settling into the overflow car park due to high demand.
Day 3: Denmark - Bremer Bay (Total Drive Time: 3 hours)
Starting the day at Elephant Rocks, we enjoyed the beach to ourselves before heading to Monty’s Leap for a casual wine tasting and lunch. Despite being underdressed after a morning swim, the delicious food and sweeping views made it a standout moment.
Reaching Bremer Bay by mid-afternoon, we checked in at Bremer Bay Bed and Breakfast and headed to Little Boat Harbour Beach. Driving onto the sand via the boat ramp was a unique experience, and the golden hour lighting made for unforgettable photographs. We ended the day with dinner at the local brewery.
Day 4: Bremer Bay - Esperance via Cape Le Grand National Park (Total Drive Time: 4 hours)
This leg of the trip was particularly eventful, as we drove alongside a bushfire. Constantly checking the Emergency WA app, we ensured our route was safe. Experiences like this underscore the importance of carrying ample water and consulting locals about conditions. While Google Maps is helpful, it’s wise to avoid blindly following it, as it can lead to unsuitable tracks.
We stopped at Wylie Bay Beach near Esperance, a dream for drone enthusiasts with its pristine white sands and unique rock formations. The thrilling beach drive highlighted the importance of our 4x4 vehicle, and we safely navigated the tracks with deflated tires.
A little water crossing got the hairs raised.
That evening, we reached Cape Le Grand. Watching the sunset at Lucky Bay, where kangaroos hop along the sand, was magical. We camped overnight before an early start at Hellfire Bay, a pristine beach that felt untouched.
Day 5: Esperance - Wave Rock (Total Drive Time: 7 hours)
The drive inland toward Wave Rock was long but scenic. We broke up the journey by staying at a truck stop near Hyden. Early the next morning, we explored the iconic geological formation, shaped like a cresting wave. While the attraction was unique, the surrounding area offered little else, making it a brief but worthwhile stop.
Day 6: Wave Rock - Perth (Total Drive Time: 3 hours)
Our final stretch took us back to Perth, where the changing landscapes marked the end of our adventure. I dropped Bec at the airport for her earlier flight before returning the rental car and catching my own. Though fast-paced, the trip left us with unforgettable memories of WA’s beauty.
Photography Tips
Western Australia is a dream for photographers, especially drone enthusiasts. The empty beaches, white sands, and red rock formations provide stunning contrasts. Bring a tripod for long exposures and bracketed shots, especially during WA’s golden sunsets. Always check drone regulations and weather conditions for optimal shooting.
Travel Tips for Southern WA
Best Time to Visit: Spring (September-November) for wildflowers or summer (December-February) for beach weather, with fewer crowds in April.
Getting Around: A reliable 4x4 is essential for remote tracks and beach driving.
Essentials: Pack sunscreen, sturdy hiking boots, and plenty of water for long drives.
Beach Driving Tips: Always check tides, deflate your tires, and consult locals for safe conditions.
Southern Western Australia offers unforgettable experiences, from serene beach drives to iconic landmarks. This trip reaffirmed its place as one of the most remarkable destinations for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Awsome photos, gave me ideas of where to go this year, thanks