William Bay National Park

William Bay National Park, on the rugged south coast of Western Australia, is a wild and windswept stretch of granite outcrops, white-sand beaches, and turquoise coves that feels a world away from the daily grind. The park’s raw beauty and powerful Southern Ocean swell make it a magnet for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone craving a truly immersive coastal escape. With its iconic natural swimming pool and dramatic headlands, this is a place where you can feel the ancient pulse of the land.

Highlights & What to See

• Greens Pool – A sheltered, emerald-coloured natural lagoon ringed by smooth granite boulders. Perfect for a calm swim or a sun-drenched picnic; the water is so clear you can see the white sand rippling below.
• Elephant Rocks – A short walk leads to a beach dotted with enormous, rounded granite boulders that resemble a herd of elephants wading into the sea. Clamber among them for spectacular photo ops and a sense of the park’s geology.
• Waterfall Beach – A secluded cove where a small stream cascades over the sand directly into the ocean. It’s a lovely spot for a quiet dip or to watch the waves roll in.
• William Bay Lookout – Perched atop a granite outcrop, this lookout offers sweeping views of the coastline, from the headlands to the Southern Ocean. Come at sunrise or sunset for the best light.
• Coastal Walking Trails – Several short trails connect the beaches and viewpoints, winding through heathland and along cliff tops. Keep an eye out for wildflowers in spring and the occasional whale offshore during migration season.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that a half-day is enough to explore the park’s main highlights – swim at Greens Pool, marvel at Elephant Rocks, and take in the view from the lookout. If you’re a keen hiker or photographer, plan for a full day to linger on the trails and catch the changing light. The park is compact, so you can easily combine it with a morning or afternoon drive along the coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Denmark – A charming town 20 minutes north, with a thriving food and wine scene, artisan bakeries, and the Denmark River. Perfect for a post-park lunch or coffee.
• Walpole & Nornalup Inlets – Head west to explore the giant tingle trees in the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk and the serene inlets ideal for kayaking or fishing.
• Albany – About an hour east, Albany offers rich history (from the National Anzac Centre to the old whaling station), stunning beaches like Middleton Beach, and the Torndirrup National Park with its natural bridge and gap.
• Great Ocean Drive – The scenic coastal road between Denmark and Albany passes several other coves and lookouts, making for a spectacular self-drive loop.

Please check official sources for current details.