Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Busselton, WA

If you ask locals where they go when they want to properly unwind, Busselton comes up most of the time. There’s something about this coastal gem that draws families, couples, and adventure seekers back time and again.

The town wraps around the protected waters of Geographe Bay, which means calm swimming beaches, epic sunsets, and water so clear you can see your toes from the jetty. You’re close enough to Margaret River’s wineries for a day trip, but far enough away to enjoy your own slice of paradise.

Ready to plan your perfect South West escape? Let’s get into it.

What Makes Busselton Worth Visiting?

Busselton has direct flights from Melbourne via Jetstar to the Busselton-Margaret River Airport, making it easier than ever to visit. Once you arrive, you’ll discover a town that perfectly balances laid-back beach vibes with enough activities to fill a week.

The star attraction is undoubtedly the Busselton Jetty. Built in 1865 and stretching 1.8 kilometres into Geographe Bay, it’s the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Walking its length feels like a mini adventure, with the Indian Ocean spreading out on both sides.

But Busselton offers way more than its famous jetty. The town sits at the gateway to the Margaret River wine region, surrounded by ancient forests, wetlands teeming with birdlife, and beaches that stay warm enough for swimming most of the year. You’re also ideally placed to explore neighbouring Dunsborough and Yallingup without constantly packing and unpacking.

What sets Busselton apart:

• Protected bay waters are perfect for families
• Year-round mild climate (even winter is pleasant)
• Rich Aboriginal heritage through Wadandi culture
• Craft beer scene that rivals anywhere in WA
• Easy access to both forest and ocean adventures

What Can You Do at the Busselton Jetty?

The Busselton Jetty isn’t just a jetty. It’s an entire ecosystem, a historical landmark, and one of the most Instagrammed spots in Western Australia all rolled into one spectacular structure. Here are some fun activities you can do in and around the jetty:

Walk or Ride the Jetty Train

You can walk the full 1.8 kilometres out and back, or catch the charming jetty train that takes you nearly 2 kilometres out to sea. The walk takes about 45 minutes to return if you’re moving at a decent pace, but most people stop frequently to take photos or simply gaze at the water.

The train is brilliant if you’re travelling with your kids or older family members. It has limited seats, so during peak times it’s wise to book tickets in advance. Try timing your ride for sunset. The light bouncing off Geographe Bay is absolutely magical.

Explore the Underwater Observatory

At the end of the jetty sits the Underwater Observatory, 8 metres beneath the surface. It offers a unique peek into oceanic life without getting wet. The pillars of the jetty have created Australia’s most fascinating artificial reef over the past 150+ years.

You’ll see hundreds of marine species through the observatory windows, including stunning arrays of sponges and both tropical and sub-tropical corals. Schools of colourful fish dart between the pylons, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a wobbegong shark resting on the sandy bottom.

Snorkel or Dive the Jetty

The calm, protected waters around the jetty structure create a diver’s dream environment, complete with an underwater sculpture park featuring 13 sculptures. The snorkelling here is some of the best in WA, especially for beginners.

You’ll need to purchase a Dive/Snorkel Day Pass from the Interpretive Centre. Many people bring their own gear, but rental shops nearby can kit you out. Also, wheeled carts are available at the Centre to transport gear to the end of the jetty, which saves you a long walk with heavy equipment. 

Try the Jetty Undersea Walk

The Busselton Jetty Underwater Walk allows you to explore the depths while wearing a dive helmet, which enables you to breathe normally throughout the tour. No diving experience needed, and apparently, it doesn’t even mess up your makeup or hair. You simply walk upright on the seabed among the marine life. It’s completely different from scuba diving and accessible to almost everyone.

Here are some practical jetty tips:

• The jetty is open 24/7 with a $4 Day Pass for full access to walk, snorkel, dive, fish, or swim. 
• Best times: Early morning for calm water, late afternoon for sunset photos
• Bring sun protection (there’s limited shade on the jetty)
• Check the tide times if you’re planning to snorkel

Where Are the Best Beaches in Busselton?

The Busselton beach and gorgeous Geographe Bay serve as major attractions, with white sand and turquoise waters perfect for lazing and floating. Now, let’s explore the best beaches in Busselton:

Busselton Foreshore

The foreshore area stretches along the beautiful coastline with a swimming enclosure designed as a safe space for kids to swim and splash. There’s a cracking vibe here in the evenings. Families spread out on picnic rugs under the pines, couples share bottles of wine watching the sunset, and kids race between the playgrounds.

Modern facilities include playgrounds, free BBQs, a skate park, and public art installations. Several cafes and restaurants line the foreshore, so you can grab breakfast with sand between your toes or enjoy fish and chips as the sun goes down.

Meelup Beach

Drive 15 minutes toward Dunsborough and you’ll hit Meelup Beach. The calm, turquoise water here is ridiculously beautiful. Meelup Beach features calm waters, shaded lawns, free BBQs, and excellent facilities, making it ideal for beach-loving families. 

Local tip: Visit at low tide when the rock pools appear. Kids can spend hours discovering tiny fish, crabs, and sea stars. It’s like having your own private marine biology lesson.

Abbey Beach

Abbey Beach is situated approximately 10 minutes from Busselton’s town centre and offers a serene, less crowded alternative with clear, shallow water ideal for swimming or paddling. BBQ facilities are also available, making it perfect for a relaxed beach day away from the busier spots.

What Adventure Activities Can You Try in Busselton?

Busselton keeps adrenaline junkies well fed. From forest adventures to ocean activities, there’s plenty to get your heart racing.

Zipline Through the Ludlow Tuart Forest

Forest Adventures Busselton offers high ropes courses in the forest with six courses of different heights and difficulty levels, suitable for all ages and abilities. The staff strikes the perfect balance between being safety-conscious and encouraging you to push your limits.

You’ll spend about two hours swinging between ancient tuart trees, crossing wobbly bridges, and zipping through the canopy. The whole activity takes 2 hours and leaves you properly exhausted. Book ahead, especially during school holidays.

Explore the Last Tuart Forest on Earth

The Ludlow Tuart Forest is one of the last remaining natural tall tuart forests in the world, with trees estimated to be over 300 years old and recognised as one of the rarest ecosystems on Earth. It’s worth a stop, even if you’re just passing through.

Several walking trails wind through the forest. The well-marked trails allow you to walk among towering tuart trees, some of which are over 300 years old. The birdlife is incredible, and if you’re quiet, you might spot kangaroos grazing in the clearings.

Go Whale Watching

Western Australia’s coast is home to Humpback and Southern Right whales during their migration, with whale watching opportunities available from Busselton between September and November. Naturaliste Charters offers whale-watching experiences departing from the Busselton Jetty, starting at $50 per person. 

Seeing a 40-tonne whale breach right in front of you never gets old. You should dress in layers because it gets chilly on the water. Sometimes the whales make you wait, but when they show up, it’s absolutely worth it.

Spot Nocturnal Wildlife

A 1.5-kilometre possum spotlighting trail in the Ludlow area lets you spot nocturnal wildlife at night with a torch, including owls, bandicoots, possums, and the endangered Western ringtail possum. It’s free to enter, and you can visit during daylight to see birds and kangaroos.

Nocturnal wildlife tours guided by knowledgeable naturalists showcase everything from marsupials to indigenous night birds, with a highlight being the chance to spot the woylie, a petite marsupial standing merely 35 centimetres tall. The breeding season from March to September is ideal for woylie-watching.

Dive the HMAS Swan Wreck

The HMAS Swan is a decommissioned naval destroyer intentionally sunk in 1997. It creates an artificial reef at depths ranging from 6 to 32 metres and is accessible for both novice and experienced divers. Over the years, it’s become a haven for marine life and one of WA’s most unique dive sites.

It’s best to go with a local operator who knows the site well. They’ll guide you to the most interesting parts and point out marine life you’d miss on your own.

What Food and Drink Experiences Await in Busselton?

The food scene in Busselton has seriously stepped up in recent years. You’re getting Margaret River quality without the Margaret River prices, which makes every meal feel like a win.

Craft Breweries

Busselton breweries include Rocky Ridge Brewing Co (completely self-sustained, growing their own hops and using rainwater) and Shelter Brewing Co (located on the foreshore with stunning jetty views). And both serve excellent food alongside their beers.

The Fire Station deserves a mention too. It was originally a functioning fire station built in the 1930s, but it’s now a microbrewery retaining original charm, including the fireman’s pole and brickwork. The atmosphere here is brilliant, especially on sunny afternoons.

Wine Tasting Near Busselton

The climate around Busselton is ideal for growing high-quality grapes, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, with local wineries producing award-winning wines. You’re technically in Margaret River wine region territory here.

Flametree Wines, famous for Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, sits halfway between Busselton and Dunsborough, making it an excellent stop with gorgeous grounds and well-acclaimed wines. The cellar door experience here is top-notch.

If you’re keen to hit multiple wineries, book a tour. Wine tours handle transport and provide expert guides who enhance the experience with their knowledge, visiting multiple wineries so you can taste various styles without driving. 

Best Restaurants in Busselton

While Busselton doesn’t have the gourmet reputation of nearby Margaret River, there are some really great restaurants worth checking out. The Equinox and The Good Egg get raved about by locals and visitors alike.

Other favourites include The Deck Busselton for seafood with water views, and The Goose for massive breakfast portions and great coffee. The Vasse Tavern serves craft beer and Italian-inspired dishes in a family-friendly setting with exceptional pizzas. 

What Cultural Attractions Should You Visit?

Busselton’s history runs deep, from its Aboriginal heritage to its colonial past and timber industry heyday. We’ll give you a front row seat to Busselton’s history.

Learn About Wadandi Culture

“Undalup” is the Wadandi word for Busselton, named after a great Wadandi Warrior called Undal, with the Wadandi people being traditional owners of South West Western Australia. Koomal Dreaming offers Cape Cultural Tours where you can learn about Wadandi Boodja (country) through the eyes of traditional owners, exploring Noongar seasons and stories about rivers, seas, animals, fish, and plants. 

The fishing tour in Meelup Regional Park is particularly special. You’re guided by a Wadandi Cultural Custodian who shares knowledge passed down through generations. It’s about so much more than just catching fish.

Explore the ArtGeo Cultural Complex

The Busselton Cultural Precinct, located in the town centre, features the ArtGeo Gallery, the Old Courthouse, and a former jail, showcasing local talent through exhibitions and performances. The Old Courthouse, Police Station, and Cells provide an eye-opening glimpse into the harsh colonial rule of that era.

The Busselton Art Society Gallery, located nearby, features work from many local artists. You can pop in for half an hour, and you’ll leave with a better understanding of the region’s creative spirit.

Visit Wonnerup House

Wonnerup House is a historical homestead from 1859 with original buildings, including a blacksmith’s shed, stables, a kitchen from 1850, and a teacher’s house, offering a glimpse into early settler life. It is managed by the National Trust and provides an authentic representation of the Layman family’s 19th-century rural life. 

It’s run by volunteers and not always open, so check ahead. The stories of struggle and tragedy from early European settlement are confronting but important to understand.

Birdwatch at Vasse-Wonnerup Wetlands

The Vasse-Wonnerup Wetlands are recognised as one of Western Australia’s most important waterbird habitats, with over 30,000 waterbirds, including the state’s largest regular breeding colony of Black Swans. In 1990, the wetlands were declared a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.

Spring brings beautiful wildflowers alongside the birds. This area holds much importance to the Wadandi (Saltwater) people as it provides a rich source of food. The walking trails here are peaceful and perfect for a morning stroll.

What Family-Friendly Activities Are There?

Busselton absolutely nails it for families. The beaches are safe, the activities are engaging, and you won’t hear “I’m bored” once.

Animal Encounters

Sunflowers Animal Farm lets kids feed and pet animals like kangaroos, llamas, and rabbits, with up-close experiences including holding baby animals, collecting eggs, and bottle-feeding. It’s about 10 minutes from the town centre. You should check feeding times on their website before you go.

Additionally, Discover Deadly is a reptile and wildlife education centre where families can watch live feeding sessions, handle friendly reptiles, and learn about creatures from venomous snakes to crocodiles. The staff are passionate and make everything accessible for kids.

Educational Experiences

The Busselton Museum, housed in the old Butter Factory, offers extensive displays covering Aboriginal history, early European settlement, and the development of the Busselton district. It’s engaging enough to hold kids’ attention without being overwhelming.

For older kids, the underwater observatory and snorkelling experiences are brilliant learning opportunities. Frankly, seeing marine life up close beats any documentary.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Busselton?

Peak season from December to February offers warm weather perfect for beach activities and water sports, though there will be many people requiring advance bookings for tours and accommodations. These months get hot (perfect beach weather) with long, balmy evenings.

Also, March and April are excellent months with cooler days and pleasant swimming, though Easter in April brings spectacular crowds to the Margaret River region.

Spring (September to November) is magic. Spring offers quieter visits with fewer crowds and decent weather, with water possibly cold for snorkelling, but it’s whale season. Springtime brings warmer weather, and the region’s wildflowers begin to bloom.

Winter (June to August) can be characterised by storms and rain, but between the fronts, you get crisp, clear days. Sipping wine by a log fire is a major plus if you’re lucky to find one during winter visits. Pack appropriate layers and you’ll be fine.

Busselton honestly works year-round. Each season has its own charm, and the mild climate means you’re rarely stuck inside.

Where Should You Stay in Busselton?

When you’re planning your Busselton escape, choosing the right accommodation is super important. Holiday homes beat hotels every time when you’re after space, privacy, and that home-away-from-home feeling.

At Exclusive Escapes, we’ve handpicked luxury properties that put you right where the action is. Think beachfront villas, vineyard escapes, and modern coastal retreats with all the amenities that make a holiday actually feel like a holiday.

Our Busselton properties give you:

• Proximity to everything: Walk to the jetty, beaches, and restaurants
• Gourmet kitchens: Cook your own meals with local produce from Busselton markets
• Outdoor spaces: Private pools, BBQ areas, and entertainment zones
• Pet-friendly options: Because your fur babies deserve a holiday too
• Local expertise: We’re South West locals who know Busselton inside out

Whether you need a romantic couples’ retreat, a spacious family home, or a group getaway pad, browse our Busselton accommodations and find your perfect match.

Your Busselton Adventure Awaits

Busselton delivers that rare combination of adventure and relaxation that makes South West WA so special. 

Whether you’re walking the longest jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, snorkelling crystal-clear waters, exploring ancient forests, or simply watching the sunset with a glass of Margaret River wine, you’re creating those golden memories that bring people back year after year.

Book your Busselton accommodation with Exclusive Escapes and let us help you plan the perfect South West escape. Your Busselton adventure is waiting. All you need to do is pack your swimmers, grab your sunnies, and head south. We’ll take care of the rest.

Frequently Asked Questions About Busselton