Cape to Cape Track

Stretching 135 kilometres along the wild, windswept coast of Western Australia’s Margaret River region, the Cape to Cape Track is one of Australia’s premier long-distance walks. This multi-day trek connects Cape Naturaliste in the north with Cape Leeuwin in the south, tracing dramatic limestone cliffs, deserted white-sand beaches, and fragrant karri forests. It’s a journey through a landscape that feels both ancient and alive, where the Southern Ocean crashes against sea caves and the scent of peppermint trees hangs in the air. Whether you tackle the full trail over a week or pick off sections as day walks, this is a walk that rewards with solitude, raw beauty, and a deep sense of connection to the land.

Highlights & What to See

• Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse: Start (or finish) at this historic lighthouse perched on granite cliffs, with sweeping views of Geographe Bay and, on clear days, the distant silhouette of Rottnest Island.
• Surfing at Yallingup: The track passes the world-class breaks of Yallingup and Smiths Beach – even if you don’t surf, watching the swells roll in from the clifftop is mesmerising.
• Limestone Caves and Sea Arches: The coastline is riddled with caves and natural arches carved by millennia of wave action; the stretch around Canal Rocks and Injidup Springs is particularly dramatic.
• Margaret River Mouth: Near the town of Margaret River, the track crosses the river’s estuary, a rich wetland teeming with birdlife and a great spot for a picnic.
• Boranup Karri Forest: A magical detour inland through towering karri trees – the tallest hardwoods in the world – where filtered light creates a cathedral-like atmosphere.
• Hamelin Bay Stingrays: At Hamelin Bay, friendly stingrays glide in the shallows, often approaching waders for a gentle encounter.
• Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse: The southern terminus, where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet. The lighthouse is the tallest on mainland Australia and marks the end of your journey.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers allow 6 to 8 days to complete the full 135-kilometre track, walking 6–8 hours per day. The trail is well-marked but rugged, with sections of soft sand and rocky headlands that slow the pace. If you have less time, the best day walks are from Cape Naturaliste to Yallingup (8 km, 3 hours) or the Boranup Forest section (12 km, 4 hours). For a long weekend, base yourself in Margaret River town and tackle the central section between Redgate Beach and Hamelin Bay. Many walkers combine the track with visits to the region’s wineries and breweries – perfect for post-walk recovery.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Margaret River Town: The region’s culinary and cultural hub, with excellent restaurants, artisan bakeries, and a thriving craft-beer scene.
• Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park: The track runs through this park; explore its other trails, including the walk to the spectacular Canal Rocks.
• Augusta: A sleepy fishing village at the southern end of the track, perfect for whale watching (June to September) and exploring the Blackwood River.
• Busselton: Home to the famous Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, with an underwater observatory.
• Yallingup: A laid-back surf town with boutique galleries, caves, and the stunning Ngilgi Cave.
• Dunsborough: A family-friendly beach town with calm waters, great for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Please check official sources for current details.