Albany

Perched on the rugged south coast of Western Australia, Albany is a historic port city where wild oceans meet ancient granite headlands. The region's dramatic coastline, with its towering cliffs and pristine beaches, offers a raw, windswept beauty that feels a world away from Perth. Rich in convict and whaling history, and fringed by world-class national parks, Albany is an essential stop on any southwest road trip.

Highlights & What to See

• Torndirrup National Park – Home to the iconic Gap and Natural Bridge, where the Southern Ocean has carved dramatic granite formations. The new skywalk offers vertiginous views over the churning sea.
• Albany's Historic Whaling Station – A fascinating and sobering museum housed in the former Cheynes Beach Whaling Station, the last operating whaling station in Australia. Interactive exhibits bring this industry to life.
• Brig Amity – A full-scale replica of the ship that brought the first European settlers to Albany in 1826, moored at the waterfront and open for exploration.
• Mount Clarence & Mount Melville – Climb these twin hills for panoramic views over the city and King George Sound. The Desert Corps Memorial on Mount Clarence commemorates the Light Horse.
• Middleton Beach – The town's main beach, perfect for a swim or a stroll along the foreshore. The nearby Esplanade has excellent cafes and a restored bandstand.
• The Gap and Natural Bridge – Within Torndirrup National Park, these natural wonders are a must-see. The viewing platforms let you feel the full force of the Southern Ocean swell.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for a full two days to do justice to Albany and its surroundings. Spend the first day exploring the town's historic sites, the whaling station, and the coastal lookouts. Dedicate the second day to Torndirrup National Park and perhaps a drive out to the Stirling Range or Porongurup National Parks. If you have a third day, consider a whale-watching cruise (seasonal) or a trip to the nearby wine region of Denmark.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Stirling Range National Park – A dramatic mountain range with walking trails and stunning wildflower displays in spring, about an hour's drive north.
• Porongurup National Park – Ancient granite peaks with beautiful granite outcrops and the famous Granite Skywalk, just 40 minutes north-east.
• Denmark – A charming coastal town with excellent wineries, craft breweries, and the scenic Wilson Inlet, 45 minutes west.
• Walpole & the Valley of the Giants – Home to the Tree Top Walk among towering tingle trees, about 1.5 hours west along the coast.

Please check official sources for current details.