Western Australia unveils an extraordinary array of holiday experiences for the 2025-26 season, catering to every traveller's dream. From world-renowned wine regions and historic port cities to remote outback adventures and pristine coastal hideaways, the state is a treasure trove of diverse destinations. Whether you're planning a family-friendly resort stay, an epic road trip, or a luxurious gourmet getaway, this guide highlights the must-visit towns across this vast and beautiful region.
Coastal Gems & Historic Havens
Fremantle bursts with energy, its narrow streets echoing with history and buzzing with modern craft breweries. The famous Cappuccino Strip on South Terrace is the heart of al fresco dining and people-watching. As the birthplace of WA's craft beer scene, breweries like Little Creatures and Running with Thieves are essential visits. The historic Fremantle Markets, operating since 1897, offer a sensory feast every weekend, while the Fishing Boat Harbour serves up the freshest seafood.
Just south, Mandurah is a water-lover's paradise less than an hour from Perth. Seek out the whimsical Giants of Mandurah sculptures, spot resident dolphins on a cruise, or explore the vast Peel-Harvey Estuary by kayak. During the festive season, the canal house Christmas light displays are a spectacular sight.
Further south, Busselton and the Margaret River region deliver an unparalleled mix of natural beauty and gourmet indulgence. Walk the 1.8km Busselton Jetty, the longest of its kind in the southern hemisphere, or tackle the high ropes at Forest Adventures. The region's premium wineries, including founding estate Vasse Felix and the artistic Leeuwin Estate, are world-class. Explore underground crystal caves, watch surfers at Prevelly, and follow the gourmet trail from dairy to chocolate.
On the southern coast, Albany combines profound history with stunning scenery. The globally acclaimed National Anzac Centre provides a moving, interactive museum experience. Witness the raw power of the ocean at The Gap and Natural Bridge in Torndirrup National Park, and discover the town's whaling history at the historic station. For beach perfection, Little Beach at Two Peoples Bay is frequently hailed as one of Australia's best.
Outback Adventures & Coral Coast Wonders
For those drawn to the rugged interior, Karijini National Park in the Pilbara is a non-negotiable destination. Located about 1400km north of Perth, this ancient landscape features dramatic red gorges, crystal-clear swimming holes, and cascading waterfalls. Explore Dales Gorge with its permanent Fortescue Falls, take on the adventurous 'spider walk' in Hancock Gorge to reach Kermit's Pool, or find serenity at the Spa Pool in Hamersley Gorge. The challenging hike up Mt Bruce (Punurrunha) rewards with breathtaking Pilbara vistas.
Where the Murchison River meets the sea, Kalbarri offers dramatic coastal cliffs and stunning inland gorges. The Skywalk's cantilevered platforms project 25m over the river gorge, offering dizzying views. Hike the Loop Trail, photograph the iconic Nature's Window, or for the adventurous, abseil down the 25m walls from Z Bend Lookout. Don't miss the vibrant pink waters of Hutt Lagoon or the snorkelling haven of Blue Holes.
The Coral Coast is synonymous with marine marvels. Exmouth and Shark Bay are the gateways to the incredible Ningaloo Reef. From March to August, you can swim with majestic whale sharks. At Monkey Mia, witness the famous daily dolphin interactions. See the ancient stromatolites at Hamelinn Pool, walk on the unique Shell Beach, and explore the red dunes meeting turquoise waters in Francois Peron National Park. Turquoise Bay offers one of Australia's best 'drift snorkels' right from the shore.
Remote Treasures & Iconic Escapes
On the state's southern edge, Esperance is famed for Lucky Bay within Cape Le Grand National Park, where kangaroos lounge on what is often called Australia's whitest sand. Take the 40km Great Ocean Drive, see the vibrant pink Lake Hillier from a scenic flight, hike Frenchman Peak for panoramic views, and visit the unique full-scale pink granite Stonehenge replica. For an eco-escape, Woody Island offshore offers snorkelling and safari huts.
In the tropical north, Broome – the Pearl of the Kimberley – blends relaxation with rich history. Ride a camel at sunset along the 22km stretch of Cable Beach. From March to October, witness the magical Staircase to the Moon phenomenon over Roebuck Bay. Discover 130-million-year-old dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point and delve into the pearling legacy at Willie Creek. For a truly awe-inspiring day trip, take a scenic flight to witness the powerful Horizontal Falls in the Buccaneer Archipelago.
Western Australia's diversity is its greatest strength for travellers. Each destination promises a unique set of memories, whether you're sipping a craft beer in a historic port, swimming beneath a waterfall in an ancient gorge, or watching the moon rise over a tidal flat. The 2025-26 season is the perfect time to explore these extraordinary corners of the state.
