Must-See Natural Attractions in Dunsborough: From Beaches to Caves
May 17, 2023
The South West region of Western Australia, is a popular holiday destination known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque landscapes, and a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll find quaint towns brimming with hospitality dotting the coast. Perhaps none more than those around Dunsborough.
As a region, Dunsborough has a fascinating natural beauty, and heaps of outdoor attractions for visitors of all ages to explore. As expected, many of the area’s attractions are directly related to both Dunsborough’s natural beauty and it’s natural history, like its pristine beaches, caves, hidden bays, natural wildlife parks and so much more.
Dunsborough has so much on offer, and your stay can be complimented with a luxurious vacation rental for guests from near or far. Combining this dreamy coastal town, the attractions you want to immerse yourself into, with a wonderful place to base yourself from, is a match made in holiday heaven.
Dunsborough’s Natural Attractions
Meelup Beach: No visit to Dunsborough would be complete without a trip to the beach. This beautiful, family-friendly sandy playground offers calm waters and is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and picnics. Protected by Geographe Bay, Meelup Beach and its serene, crystal clear waters attract visitors from around the world. The beach also has all the necessary facilities, like excellent public change rooms, toilets and showers.
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse: Although not a natural attraction per se, it certainly helps visitors enjoy one. When you reserve a guided tour of the lighthouse, you’ll take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and the span of Geographe Bay. When visiting the lighthouse, visitors can learn more about the fascinating maritime history of the Cape region, hear tales of ships wrecks off the formidable coastline, hear about the hardships of life as a lighthouse keeper and learn more about the functions of this amazing working lighthouse.
As well as being a fun educational experience, after an easy climb of 59 stairs you’ll be rewarded with incredible ocean views. Plus, the new observation platform at the base of the lighthouse tower enables universal access to sweeping ocean views and great photo opportunities – keep an eye out for humpback whales!
Photo Credit: “Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse” by Aegir Photography via CC BY-NC 2.0
Bunker Bay: A picturesque beach with clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. On a sunny day, why not take out a boat and cast a line, you might just catch a herring, whiting or skippy. The bay is also known for its whale watching opportunities during migration season. Bunker Bay beach has all the necessary facilities like public toilets, a car park and nearby restaurants and cafés.
Ngilgi Cave: Explore this fascinating limestone cave, home to beautiful stalactite and stalagmite formations. Guided tours are available where you can hear stories of early exploration, caving by candlelight and romantic escapades from your expert guide. After your guided tour you are free to wander this remarkable underworld, with lights and signage leading the way and telling you more about the variety of calcite crystal decorations.
Photo Credit: “Ngilgi Cave” by thinkrorbot via Public Domain
Eagle Bay: Another stunning beach with crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling and picnicking. Eagle Bay is known as the luxury escape of choice for Western Australia’s rich and famous. Here, in scenic seclusion, you can indulge in world-class wineries, restaurants, surfing and diving, not to mention sensational bushwalking.
Credit: Photo by Corey Serravite on Unsplash
Dunsborough Foreshore: Locals flock to Dunsborough Foreshore when the sun is out. This scenic area along the coastline is perfect for leisurely strolls, family picnics and BBQ’s, and enjoying the sunset. Families love using the large swimming enclosure and pontoon (seasonal).
This spot is also ideal for stand up paddle boarding because of the sheltered waters – plus equipment is available to purchase or hire during the warmer months. The majority of Dunsborough Foreshore is dog friendly but be sure to have doggy bags on hand to pick up after your pet.
Yallingup Beach: A popular surfing spot with consistent waves and stunning views, as well as a sheltered lagoon, perfect for young children swimming. Why not sign up for surf lessons and soon you could be riding the waves like a pro. Spend some time there and you might even spot world class surfers like Taj Burrows, who happens to hail from this pristine part of Western Australia.
Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park: Discover a diverse range of flora and fauna, hiking trails, and breathtaking coastal views within this expansive park. There is an endless list of activities and attractions to experience in this amazing park. Visit over 3 different caves, hike the scenic trails, visit historic homes, go canoeing and explore the vast wildlife. After a day of exploring the park, see for yourself why locals say ‘west is best’ and drive to the coast to catch the sun setting over the Indian Ocean.
Geographe Bay: This is a beautiful bay with breathtaking Indian Ocean views, soft white sand beaches and calm turquoise waters. This is the perfect spot for a fun-filled family day beside the sea, swimming, fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, kayaking or even sailing. The bay is also just minutes from Busselton center, a famous tourism town in Western Australia.
Credit: Photo by Corey Serravite on Unsplash
Castle Rock: An impressive granite outcrop offering panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. Castle Rock Beach is located just a short 5 minute drive from Dunsborough town center. You can even hike to the top for a memorable experience and great instagram pic! Once you’re finished hiking up the trailhead, head back down to the beach where there are gas barbecues for you to enjoy a picnic with friends.
You’ll Never Be Done Exploring Dunsborough
Dunsborough is a remarkable treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure, offering a diverse array of attractions for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the pristine beaches, explore the stunning caves, or appreciate the abundant marine life, this charming Western Australian town has something for everyone.
With its unique blend of natural wonders, outdoor activities, and local culture, Dunsborough is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the best that Australia has to offer. So pack your bags, book your luxury vacation rental, grab your sense of adventure, and embark on a journey to Dunsborough – where memories are just waiting to be made.
Commonly Asked Questions about Natural Attractions in Dunsborough
The best time to visit Dunsborough depends on your preferred activities. For beach activities, the warmer months from October to April are ideal. For whale watching, visit between September and December, when humpback and southern right whales can be spotted along the coast.
Yes, there are several guided tours available, including walking tours, cave exploration, and whale-watching tours. You can also find local companies that offer wine tasting, food tours, and surfing lessons.
While many of Dunsborough’s beaches and coastal areas are free to access, some attractions, like Ngilgi Cave and Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, require an entrance fee. National parks may also have entry fees or require purchasing a park pass.
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Bridgetown Busselton Eagle Bay events Family Holiday margaretriver Margaret River Pemberton Pet-Friendly romantic getaways southwest south west southwestregion Wilyabrup winter Yallingup beaches
