Esperance, located on the breathtaking southern coast of Western Australia, is a paradise of pristine beaches, rugged national parks, and diverse outdoor adventures. Whether you’re after relaxation or exploration, there’s something for everyone in this stunning region. Let’s dive into some must-see highlights when visiting Esperance!
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Things to Do in Esperance
1. Cape Le Grand National Park
[4.9* (824) Google reviews, 5* (1,067) TripAdvisor reviews as of Oct 2024]
Just a short drive from Esperance, this park offers dramatic landscapes, unspoiled beaches, and fantastic hiking trails.
- Lucky Bay: Don’t miss the chance to see friendly kangaroos lounging on the sand!
- Hellfire Bay: A perfect spot for a swim or a picnic with clear turquoise waters.
- Frenchman’s Peak: This challenging hike rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the coastline and the park’s rugged terrain.
2. Twilight Bay
[5* (468) TripAdvisor reviews as of Oct 2024]
Famed for its soft white sand and crystalline waters, Twilight Bay is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and even rock jumping. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins between September and May!
3. Great Ocean Drive
This scenic 40 km loop showcases Esperance’s coastline with various stops like:
- Rotary Lookout: Take in breathtaking views of the bay.
- Observatory Point: A prime location for spotting migrating whales during the season.
- Pink Lake: Although it’s no longer bright pink, it remains an iconic viewpoint.
4. Esperance Stonehenge
[4.3* (1093) Google reviews, 4* (552) TripAdvisor reviews as of Oct 2024]
This unique replica of the UK’s Stonehenge is built from local pink granite and aligns with the solstices, offering an interesting historical experience and photo opportunity.
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5. Eleven Mile Lagoon
[4.8* Google reviews as of Oct 2024]
A perfect family-friendly spot, Eleven Mile Lagoon is a tranquil beach ideal for swimming and snorkelling. It’s the place to unwind and soak up the sun.
6. Esperance Foreshore
[4.5* (62) TripAdvisor reviews as of Oct 2024]
Recently revitalised, the Esperance Foreshore features scenic walking paths, picnic areas, and art installations like the famous Whale Tail sculpture. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed stroll with views of the bay.
7. Whale Watching
From June to October, embark on whale-watching tours to see migrating humpback whales up close as they pass along Esperance’s shores.
8. Local Markets
Explore the vibrant weekend markets at Museum Park, held every second Saturday and Sunday. Sample local produce, browse handmade crafts, and enjoy the community atmosphere.
Perth to Esperance Sample Itinerary
Day 1-2: Perth to Margaret River
Start your journey by heading south from Perth to the Margaret River region. Spend 2 days exploring this area known for its world-class wineries, stunning beaches, and gourmet food scene
Key stops:
- Dunsborough – Beautiful coastal town with pristine beaches
- Margaret River – Visit wineries, breweries, and artisan food producers
- Busselton Jetty – Walk along the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere
Learn more: Margaret River Road Trip
Day 3-4: Margaret River to Denmark
Journey towards Denmark, visiting coastal gems like the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk and the picturesque Greens Pool.
Highlights:
- Walpole – Visit the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk
- Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks – Stunning coastal formations in William Bay National Park
- Denmark – Charming town known for its forests, wineries, and beaches
Day 5-6: Denmark to Albany
Continue east to Albany, taking in historical sites like the National Anzac Centre.
Must-see spots:
- Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve – Home to pristine beaches and rare wildlife
- Albany – Historic town with attractions like the National Anzac Centre
Learn more: Road Trip Albany & Denmark Guide
Day 7-8: Albany to Esperance
Drive east towards Esperance, stopping at Fitzgerald River National Park en route
Key experiences:
- Fitzgerald River National Park – One of Australia’s largest and most botanically significant national parks
- Cape Le Grand National Park – Famous for its stunning beaches and kangaroos at Lucky Bay
Day 9-11: Esperance
Spend 2-3 days exploring Esperance and its surroundings
Don’t miss:
- Cape Le Grand National Park – Hike Frenchman’s Peak for panoramic views
- Lucky Bay – Meet the friendly kangaroos on the beach
- Twilight Beach and other local beaches – Enjoy the crystal-clear waters
- Great Ocean Drive – Scenic coastal drive with stunning viewpoints
Day 12: Return to Perth
For the return journey, you can either:
- Take the inland route via Wave Rock in Hyden for a change of scenery
- Retrace your steps along the coast, stopping at any places you missed on the way down
This itinerary covers approximately 1,520 km and can be adjusted based on your preferences and available time. Remember to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons, and always check road conditions before setting out.
Tips for Driving from Perth to Esperance
- Ensure your vehicle is well-fueled as services can be sparse in remote areas.
- If you prefer not to drive straight through, consider overnighting at places like Wave Rock or Albany along the way, allowing you to explore more leisurely.
- Begin your journey early in the day to maximise daylight hours for driving and sightseeing. This is especially important if you plan to make several stops along the way.
- Bring plenty of snacks and water for the road, as there are long stretches without services. Having refreshments on hand can make the drive more comfortable.
- Mobile reception can be unreliable in remote areas, so download Google Maps or bring a physical map to navigate effectively.
- Be cautious of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are more active on roads. Keep an eye out for kangaroos and other wildlife crossing the road.
Esperance is an unmissable destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. With its spectacular beaches, scenic drives, and abundant wildlife, it offers a truly unique slice of Western Australia’s coastal beauty. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or as a family, Esperance promises an unforgettable experience, so pack your bags and get ready to explore this stunning coastal paradise!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Esperance most well-known for?
Esperance is famed for its white-sand beaches, such as Lucky Bay, where kangaroos often bask in the sun. It’s also home to the iconic Pink Lake and offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and surfing.
How can I get to Esperance?
There are several options available depending on your preferences:
- By Car (Self-Drive): The most popular choice, self-driving allows for flexibility and exploration along the way. The distance is approximately 700 km, and the drive typically takes about 7-9 hours depending on your route and stops. There are two main driving routes:
- Inland Route: This is the quickest route and includes stops like Wave Rock in Hyden.
- Scenic Coastal Route: This longer route takes you through beautiful regions like Margaret River and Denmark, ideal for those looking to enjoy various attractions along the way
- By Air: The quickest way to reach Esperance is by flying. Regional Express Airlines (REX) operates daily flights from Perth to Esperance, taking approximately 1.5 hours. Round-trip fares typically range from $300 to $600 AUD, depending on the season. Upon arrival at Esperance Airport, you will need to hire a vehicle to explore the area as public transportation options are limited
- By Bus: For a more budget-friendly option, you can take a bus operated by TransWA. The journey takes about 10-12 hours and costs between $200 and $300 AUD for a round trip. Buses depart from East Perth and arrive at Dempster Street in the center of Esperance. This option is ideal if you prefer not to drive but requires careful planning to ensure you catch the bus
Can I rent a car and drive all the way to Esperance?
Yep. At Aries, a $150 remote fee extends usage to Esperance and other destinations like Kalgoorlie, Kalbarri,, Monkey Mia, Carnarvon, Meekatharra and Exmouth.