Albany

Albany is full of history and charm, wild rugged ocean and much more

Distance from Perth: 417km (4 hours 37 minutes)

Known for: History. Beaches. The Gap.

Albany was Western Australia’s first established European settlement – yes, even before Perth!

In modern Albany you’ll find farmers markets, fresh oysters, and some of the most pristine beaches this side of the equator. Explore Albany Farmers Market, trying fresh oysters and marron galore, before adventuring to some of the most pristine beaches this side of the equator. Go paragliding at Shelley Beach, or wreck diving in King George Sound. Visit the striking coast at The Gap and Natural Bridge and historical attractions at Discovery Bay. Ready to take a safari, South West style? Spend an extra day between January and April to join the Bremer Bay orca tour, chasing the largest-known pod of orca in the Southern Hemisphere.

National Anzac Centre

The Gap and Natural Bridge

Whooosh… BANG! What was that? As you ease nearer the edge of The Gap, in Torndirrup National Park, the booming oceanic rumblings will intensify until – CRASH! – suddenly the spectacle reveals itself. Watch as it sucks in giant pockets of air with each receding wave, then brace as the water returns with a head-first slam into the walls.The viewing platform overhead – high enough to make you dizzy – is the ultimate spot to watch the show; the scale of the cliffs and the force of the ocean put things in humbling perspective.Admire the surrounding coastline, aflame with native wildflowers, and check out The Gap’s equally beautiful counterpart, the rock formation known as Natural Bridge.

Misery Beach

Named the Best Beach in Australia by Tourism Australia for 2022, Misery Beach in Torndirrup National Park is a hidden gem on The South West Edge.

Bald Head Walk Trail

Albany's Bald Head Walk Trail is an iconic 12km hike on the Flinders Peninsular in Torndirrup National Park.

HMAS Perth Shipwreck

The decommissioned HMAS Perth II was scuttled in the pristine waters of King George Sound, Albany, in November 2001.

The Perth is a 133-metre guided missile destroyer with a distinguished service record. She encountered enemy fire during the Vietnam War and her scars from this battle can be seen.

Albany Farmers Market

Fill your picnic basket with fruit and vegetables picked from nearby farms and local producers sell organic meats, ostrich, venison, yoghurt cheeses, olive oils and flowers. At the water’s edge in Albany, experience freshly shucked oysters just after they’ve been plucked from the clear waters of the Southern Ocean.