5 Magnificent Natural Attractions in Western Australia You Have To Visit At Least Once
Taking up almost a third of the continent, Western Australia is the largest state in Australia, yet it’s often overlooked among tourists and local travelers alike. However, this unique area offers more than just vast deserts and a wild coastline; it is also home to some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches, distinct rock formations and a captivating wildlife that simply beckons exploration. From coral reefs and friendly dolphins to dramatic rugged red gorges, here are the most magnificent natural attractions in Western Australia you simply can’t miss:
Karijini National Park
One of the biggest and the most majestic national parks in Western Australia, Karijini National Park is filled with steep bright red gorges, distinguished by heavenly waterfalls and stunning rock pools surrounded by lush foliage. Whether you decide to walk through Yampire Gorge to some of the most scenic spots in the park, or drive through Wittenoom Gorge to relax in a shady picnic spot or take a dip in a natural swimming pool, Karijini National Park offers some of the most relaxing and absolutely astonishing landscapes that will leave any traveler speechless. Even though the park is the home to one of the highest peaks in Western Australia, Mount Bruce, the most captivating views can be experienced from Oxer Lookout, resting on four red-walled gorges.
Monkey Mia
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shark Bay offers some of the richest and largest sea grass beds in the world, but the most popular tourist attraction at the bay are the dolphins of Monkey Mia, located approximately 25km from Denham. As the dolphins here are not only accustomed to, but also quite friendly with humans, the rangers in Monkey Mia choose a couple of visitors every morning to hand-feed these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, making for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Apart from interacting with beautiful dolphins, you can also enjoy swimming, fishing and kayaking in the gorgeous bays, as well as going on informative Aboriginal cultural tours and exciting camel rides, presenting a unique and interesting day trip you simply can’t miss.
Ningaloo Reef Marine Park
Being the largest fringing reef in the world that’s easily accessible from shore, the Ningaloo Reef Marine Park extends for 260km and harbors an astonishing array of marine life, including whale sharks, humpback whales, manta rays, dugongs, turtles, and more than 300 species of coral and 500 species of fish. One of the most popular beaches for diving and snorkeling is the gorgeous Turquoise Bay, a majestic stretch of glistening white sands and crystal clear waters entwined with colorful coral. This spot is also one of the few places in the world where you can swim with whale sharks, a unique and otherworldly experience that’s undoubtedly on the bucket list of countless nature-loving travelers.
Augusta
Situated at the most south-westerly point in Australia, Augusta is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Western Australia that offers dramatic coastlines, luscious forests of Jarrah and Karri, as well as some of the most impressive native flora and fauna that is sure to leave every nature lover and seeker of serene beauty in awe. Whether you decide to go whale-watching at Flinders or Geographe Bay, or choose to climb the historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse for a stunning view of the point where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet, this area has no shortage of heavenly landscapes. Being the ideal scenery for an exciting and absolutely breathtaking road trip, the best idea might be to find dependable car hire at Perth airport and start your adventure as soon as you land in Western Australia.
Purnululu National Park
A stunning hidden gem of Western Australia, the awe-inspiring rock formations of Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park were only relatively recently discovered, but they still hold a significant place on both the National and UNESCO World Heritage lists. The Bungle Bungle hills were home to Aboriginal tribes for centuries, and they still hold significant remains of their culture, including rock paintings, ceremonial sites and a burial ground. But perhaps the most astonishing part of this gorgeous area are the intricately carved gorges and chasms, as well as the bee-hived shaped rock domes made of soft sandstone, which truly make for the most unique and absolutely breathtaking landscape in Western Australia.
From exciting urban centers to astonishing natural beauty, and some of the friendliest animals you’ll ever meet, Western Australia boasts endless hidden treasures and breathtaking natural attractions you simply have to experience at least once in your lifetime.
By Mike Johnston