Photo: Photograph by Greg O'Beirne / CC BY 2.5
Busselton, a coastal gem on Western Australia's Geographe Bay, lures travellers with its laid-back charm, stunning white-sand beaches, and the iconic Busselton Jetty—the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. This town is a gateway to the Margaret River wine region and offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, local history, and seaside relaxation.
Highlights & What to See
- Busselton Jetty & Underwater Observatory – Walk or take the little train along the 1.8 km jetty to the underwater observatory, where you can descend 8 metres to view vibrant coral and marine life through panoramic windows.
- Geographe Bay Beaches – Swim, snorkel, or simply sunbathe on pristine beaches like Meelup Beach and Castle Bay, known for calm, crystal-clear waters.
- Wise Wine & Other Cellar Doors – Sample award-winning wines at nearby vineyards; Wise Wine offers stunning bay views and a superb seafood platter.
- Busselton Foreshore – A revitalised precinct with playgrounds, picnic spots, a skate park, and seasonal events, perfect for a family day out.
- ArtGeo Cultural Complex – Housed in historic buildings, this complex showcases local art, a gallery, and a heritage museum delving into the town's past.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors find that a full day is ideal to experience the jetty, relax on the beach, and explore the town centre. For a more leisurely pace, consider an overnight stay to enjoy sunset strolls along the foreshore and a morning coffee at a local café. If you're using Busselton as a base for the Margaret River region, allow two to three days to combine wine touring, coastal walks, and the jetty.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Margaret River – Just 50 minutes south, this world-class wine region offers cellar doors, gourmet food, and stunning surf breaks.
- Dunsborough & Yallingup – Charming coastal towns with beautiful beaches, rock formations, and the Ngilgi Cave.
- Bunbury – A 30-minute drive north, Bunbury features dolphin encounters, a wildlife park, and the historic Mangrove Boardwalk.
- Fremantle – About 2.5 hours north, Fremantle's vibrant markets, maritime history, and café culture make it a great stopover en route to Perth.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Fremantle Markets — User:JarrahTree / CC BY 2.5 au
- Margaret River — Bahnfrend / CC BY-SA 4.0