The Top Things To Do Busselton, WA in 2024
Updated. June 20 2024
The town of Busselton, Western Australia, is full of surprises for your 2024/2025 getaway – from incredible wildlife excursions and its iconic jetty to a one-of-a-kind underwater observatory and vibrant coastal culture. As a family-friendly holiday destination, Busselton offers a mix of outdoor adventures, arts, and rich history, making it an ideal spot for travellers of all ages.
There are endless things to do in Busselton, whether you’re exploring the galleries and museums or simply soaking in the laid-back beach vibes. With a wide selection of Busselton holiday rentals, from beachfront cottages to cosy family homes, you’ll find the perfect base to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
Busselton also serves as the perfect gateway to the renowned Margaret River region, famous for its world-class wineries, craft breweries, and gourmet food scene. So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway for 2024 or a longer stay in 2025, you’ll find Busselton, Western Australia, brimming with activities, culture, and stunning natural beauty.
When to Visit Busselton, WA?
Busselton is a delight to visit year-round, offering unique experiences in every season. Summers (December to February) in Busselton, Western Australia, are perfect for soaking up the sun along the pristine beaches of Cape Naturaliste, Geographe Bay, and Eagle Bay. The warm weather brings lively crowds to the coastline, making it an ideal time for beach days, water sports, and coastal hikes. Expect long, sunny days with temperatures often ranging between 25°C to 35°C, creating the perfect setting for outdoor adventures.
Winter in Busselton (June to August) offers a different but equally memorable experience. The cooler weather, with temperatures ranging between 8°C and 16°C, provides the perfect backdrop for exploring the town’s art galleries, museums, and cosy cafes. It’s also the prime time for whale-watching excursions off the coast, as migrating humpback and southern right whales make their annual journey through Geographe Bay. During the winter, the region is quieter, making it ideal for visitors who prefer fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace.
Whether you’re after sun-soaked beach days or cultural and nature-filled winter getaways, Busselton offers the best of both worlds, making it an appealing destination throughout the year.
Top Things To Do in Busselton
Busselton is a vibrant coastal gem with no shortage of exciting activities and attractions. From exploring its iconic jetty and underwater observatory to relaxing on pristine beaches, there’s something for everyone. Adventure seekers can dive into water sports, while nature lovers can enjoy scenic trails and wildlife encounters. Here are the best things to do in Busselton for an unforgettable experience;
Whale Watching in Busselton
Whale watching is a must-do activity on your trip to Western Australia and the small town of Busselton is one of the best places to experience it. Every year between June and November, Southern right whales come to the waters off the coast of Busselton to mate and give birth. The waters off the coast of Busselton are also a resting area for the southern migration of the Humpback Whale.
There are several different ways to go whale watching in Busselton. You can take a whale-watching cruise, go on a charter boat, go out in a kayak or SUP, or simply watch for the splashing tails from the beach or jetty. Whichever way you choose to do it, whale watching is an unforgettable experience. Make sure to book your Busselton accommodation early and pack warm clothes!
Explore the Busselton Jetty
The town of Busselton is famous for its world-renowned wooden jetty that stretches 1.8km out into the Geographe Bay. This iconic Western Australia landmark is the longest wooden piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. The jetty has a historic past that dates back to the 1800s. It faces a green foreshore filled with an enormous playground, perfect to indulge the little ones as you take a stroll along the scenic stretch.
Dive the Busselton Jetty
Why limit your visit to the Busselton Jetty to the surface when you can experience the magnificent wonderland beneath the surface of its jet-blue waters? This breathtaking experience allows you to undersea walk, dive, or snorkel and is fun for everyone 12 and over, regardless of your swimming ability, fitness level, or diving experience!
If you are lucky, you might even come across the occasional swimming turtle, spotted rays, local octopi, and the resident school of brightly patterned fish.
Explore the Deep-Sea Pool
The Deep-Sea Pool in Busselton is an exciting addition to the iconic Busselton Jetty experience. This unique, floating sea pool is designed to provide visitors with a safe and controlled environment to enjoy the waters of Geographe Bay. The pool is built to allow ocean water to flow through, giving swimmers the feeling of being in the open sea while being protected from currents and marine life. The structure is ideal for families, offering different sections for both children and adults to swim and relax.
Opened as part of ongoing efforts to enhance tourism at the Busselton Jetty, the Deep-Sea Pool is becoming a popular attraction in 2024, inviting visitors to enjoy the pristine waters in a fun and secure setting. It’s perfect for a refreshing swim after a day of exploring the jetty or a relaxing escape from the warmer summer days in Busselton, Western Australia.
Go Squidding!
Going squidding in Busselton, WA, is a favourite pastime for locals and visitors alike. The Busselton Jetty is one of the best spots for catching squid, especially in the late afternoon or evening when the waters are calm and the squid are more active. Visitors can expect to reel in species like the southern calamari, and with the jetty’s impressive length, there’s plenty of space to find a good spot.
The experience offers a relaxing atmosphere, scenic views of Geographe Bay, and the chance to enjoy freshly caught squid, which many consider a true delicacy of the region. Don’t forget to bring a good-quality squid jig, a bucket, and some patience for the best results!
Visit the Underwater Observatory in Busselton
Did you know that Busselton is home to one of only six underwater observatories in the world? It’s just one of the many surprises this small town has in store!
The Busselton Underwater Observatory sits 10 metres below the ocean surface and offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the vibrant marine life teeming in Geographe Bay. From schools of colourful fish to unique corals and other fascinating sea creatures, the observatory allows you to experience the underwater world without even getting your feet wet.
This fully air-conditioned facility provides an immersive and comfortable experience, making it perfect for all ages. As of 2024, the observatory has introduced new interactive displays and upgraded viewing windows, enhancing the visitor experience.
You can book a fully guided Underwater Observatory Tour, which lasts around 1 hour and 45 minutes and includes a scenic return train ride along the famous Busselton Jetty—one of the longest wooden jetties in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s an unmissable experience for anyone visiting Busselton, Western Australia!
Ziplining at Busselton’s Forest Adventures
Ziplining at Busselton’s Forest Adventures is the kind of must-do activity that will have you soaring through the trees like a local magpie! Just a 15-minute drive from Busselton town, this exciting outdoor adventure park is located in the lush Ludlow State Forest. The park offers a variety of treetop courses, with zip lines stretching through towering trees, providing an exhilarating experience with stunning views of the forest canopy.
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned daredevil, the treetop courses are designed to cater to all, so everyone can channel their inner Tarzan. It’s the perfect way to spice up your Busselton itinerary and get a real taste of Western Australia’s wild side!
Visit the Busselton Museum
A visit to the Busselton Museum is a must for history buffs and curious travellers alike, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich past. Situated on a spacious one-hectare site in the Old Butter Factory, the museum is packed with fascinating display rooms featuring photographs, vintage equipment, and memorabilia that detail the family, social, civic, commercial, and maritime history of Busselton. As of 2024, the museum has introduced new interactive exhibits, enhancing the experience for visitors by bringing Busselton’s history to life with hands-on displays and digital storytelling.
The museum is open to the public from Wednesday to Monday and operates with seasonal hours—welcoming guests from 10 am to 2 pm in winter and extending until 4 pm in summer, allowing visitors to explore its captivating collections at their leisure. Conveniently located at the northern gateway to the Margaret River region and just 20 minutes from the town of Dunsborough, Busselton is an ideal destination to experience everything uniquely Western Australian.
Never a Dull Moment in Busselton
So, if you’re wondering what to do in Busselton on your 2024 holiday, look no further! With so many amazing things to do in Busselton, it’s no wonder this vibrant town is a must-visit destination. From exploring its iconic jetty and underwater observatory to relaxing on pristine beaches or venturing into the forest, your Busselton itinerary will be jam-packed!
Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a history buff, Busselton, Western Australia offers a diverse range of experiences for all types of travellers. Pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of Busselton WA—you won’t be disappointed!
Commonly Asked Questions About Things To Do in Busselton
1. How close is Busselton to Perth?
The town of Busselton is at a distance of about 222 kilometres or about 138 miles from Perth. You can drive from Perth to Busselton in about 2 hours and 28 minutes.
2. When is the best time to visit Busselton?
Busselton offers activities year-round, but for beach lovers, summer (December to February) is ideal for enjoying the warm weather and water sports. Winter (June to August) is perfect for quieter visits and whale-watching in Geographe Bay. Each season has its own unique appeal depending on the activities you want to experience.
3. Is Busselton a good destination for families?
Busselton is one of the best family-friendly destinations in Western Australia with its numerous family-friendly activities like whale watching, unique wildlife, Busselton Jetty and the Busselton Museum.
4. What are the must-see attractions in Busselton?
Busselton is home to some iconic attractions, including the Busselton Jetty—the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere—complete with an Underwater Observatory and a scenic train ride. The nearby Geographe Bay offers beautiful beaches and water activities, while the Busselton Museum showcases the town’s rich history. Don’t miss the chance to explore the local wineries, breweries, and galleries.
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