Aerial view of the turquoise waves crashing at Greens Pool, a white sandy beach in Western Australia, a stunning coastal stop along a Perth to Albany road trip.
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The Perfect Perth To Albany Road Trip: 5-Day And 14-Day Itineraries

Albany has the perfect blend of beautiful landscapes and incredible history. And this itinerary will have you enjoying all of it!

From the clear waters of Misery Beach and the awe-inspiring The Gap and Natural Bridge, to the rich history of the ANZAC history museum or the whaling station… and everything in between!

Man walking barefoot along the rocky coastline towards The Gap lookout platform in Albany, a must-see highlight on the Perth to Albany road trip.
The Gap, Albany

Thankfully, driving from Perth to Albany is pretty straightforward. There’s a direct route via Albany Highway, which is about 420 km (around 5 hours).

This is what we call the “express” route. We recommend allowing 5 days for this – 1 to get there, 3 full days for Albany, and 1 day to return.

But if you have 2 weeks available, we 100% recommend taking the long route and going through the iconic Margaret River region!

The latter is the very definition of a perfect road trip, as you’ll enjoy everything the southwest has to offer – pristine beaches, lush forests, ancient caves, world-class wine, delicious food, and much more.

Both itineraries – the 5-day express route and the 14-day perfect trip – are carefully detailed below. You can mix and match them to fit your own schedule.

They’re based on our experience exploring the area. We’ve been travelling Western Australia since 2020 and have lots of insider tips to share! All of them further down.

We’ll tell you where to stop to stretch your legs, the best places to stay each day, things to do, and recommendations to help you plan this trip while saving money!

Let’s get started.

We recognise the traditional owners of these lands, the Whadjuk, Menang, Wiilman, Koreng, Wardandi, Bibulman, Bindjareb, Minang, Ngadju, and Nyungar.

Travel essentials for Perth to Albany

🎉 Activities: These are the BEST tours in Albany!

❤️‍🩹 Insurance: Protect yourself and your loved ones with the travel insurance we always use

🚗 Car Rentals: These two companies have HEAPS of car rental options in Perth. Compare them to grab the best deal for your travel dates: Rental Cars and Discover Cars

🏕️ Caravan Rentals: Caravans are SO convenient in road trips! If you’ll rent one in Perth, you can’t go wrong renting from Travellers Autobarn (budget), Jucy Campervans (mid-range), or Star RV (home on wheels).

✈️ Flights: Find epic ticket deals to Perth here

📞 eSIM: Not from Oz? Grab our favourite eSIM and stay connected at all times!

5-day road trip from Perth to Albany

If you don’t have 2 weeks to spare and want to spend as much time in Albany as possible, this is the itinerary for you. 1 day to drive there, 3 full days in Albany, and 1 day to drive back:

Day 1: Perth to Albany (5 hours)

The quickest way to drive from Perth to Albany is through the Albany Highway (State Route 30).

This direct route is around 420 km long and usually takes under 5 hours of driving, excluding stops to stretch your legs.

Google Maps satellite view showing a direct driving route from Perth to Albany via Williams and Kojonup, covering 419 km in approximately 4 hours and 39 minutes—an essential outline of the Perth to Albany Road Trip.

It’s an inland route, so it can be a bit boring. But there are a few awesome places to visit along the way:

  • Williams. It’s a 2-hour drive from Perth. It’s a small town with a lovely café, Williams Woodshed café. Stop there to grab a bite and stretch your legs.

  • Kojonup. It’s a 1-hour drive from Williams. Stop at The Kodja Place to learn about the area and have a coffee before the final drive!

The final stretch from Kojonup to Albany is under 2 hours.

Where to stay in Albany?

There are dozens of places you can stay at and there are options for all tastes! Luxurious hotels, low-cost hotels, campgrounds… You can take your pick.

Woman walking toward a campervan at dusk with a full moon rising over the bushland in Albany, capturing a peaceful evening scene from a Perth to Albany road trip.

Just make sure to book ahead, Albany can get very crowded depending on the season! Here are some recommendations:

  • Best budget-friendly stay: 1849 Backpackers is a laid-back heritage hostel with free brekkie and a big backyard for kicking back after a day of exploring. It’s a 3-minute walk from the town centre and the mixed rooms sleep up to 10.

  • Best for families and groups: BIG4 Middleton Beach Holiday Park has cabins right near the beach, plus a heated pool, playground, and BBQs—perfect for families or groups. It’s a 5-minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 8.

  • Best hotel: Pelicans Albany offers self-contained apartments just a block from Middleton Beach, with heaps of space and full kitchens. It’s a 5-minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 7.

  • Best luxury: Hilton Garden Inn is a modern hotel right on the waterfront, with views over the harbour and an on-site restaurant for easy dinners. It’s a short walk from the town centre and sleeps up to 3.

Day 2-4: Explore Albany and its surroundings

There are heaps of things to do in Albany, but if we had to organise them in 3 days, the itinerary would look something like this:

  • Day 2-3, Torndirrup National Park. It’s home to the iconic Gap and Natural Bridge, as well as the famous Misery Beach, Cable Beach, Salmon Holes, and the blowholes. Go snorkelling, surfing, or for a hike!

  • Day 4, explore the town and visit the museums if you’re keen. Albany has a rich history, which you can learn from at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station and the National Anzac Centre. You can also snorkel at King George Sound!

Aerial shot of Misery Beach near Albany, where a quiet white-sand beach meets rocky headlands and turquoise water, a hidden gem on a Perth to Albany road trip.
Misery Beach, Albany

The famous Castle Rock is a 30-minute drive, in Porongurup National Park. It’s a walkway with jaw-dropping views of the area! This tour can take you there from Albany (wine tasting and lunch included).

Albany is also a great place to go whale watching when in season (June to early October). There are several lookouts from where you can see them frolicking in the sea, just bring binoculars!

We wrote a full guide with things to do in Albany, check it out here to help you plan your itinerary!

A whale breaches out of the water near a boat, viewed from the South Ballina breakwall, showcasing whale watching as one of the exciting things to do in Ballina NSW.

Day 5: Albany to Perth

Make your way back to Perth the same way you came. Or, if you have 2-3 extra days, consider returning via the Margaret River Region!

This small extension allows you to explore other gems of the southwest. We recommend leaving Albany after breakfast and driving to Margaret River. It’s a 4-hour drive and you can break the journey in Manjimup.

Try spending 1-2 days in Margaret River. Go on a wine tour there, enjoy the beaches, visit any of the caves, or hike around the forest!

Here’s a guide with 32 epic things to do in Margaret River if you want some ideas.

14-day road trip from Perth to Albany

This is the BEST way to do a road trip from Perth to Albany, as you’ll visit the highlights of the southwest, too!

Day 1: Perth to Busselton (2.5 hours)

Start your day early, driving from Perth to Busselton (it’s a 2.5-hour drive).

You can stop in either Mandurah or Bunbury on your way to stretch your legs and grab a bite. Pick one to visit, as you will stop by the other on your way back at the end of the trip, on day 13.

Once in Busselton, there are a few things you can do this first day:

  • Check out the famous Busselton Jetty – the snorkelling there is superb, as there’s a whole ecosystem under it! There’s an underwater observatory at the end if you don’t want to get in the water.

  • Swim at the foreshore.

  • Kayak at Abbey Beach.

  • Explore the town centre, the cultural precinct, and the museum.

  • Go wine or beer tasting.

End the day with a sunset view at the jetty or the beach. It’s a perfect way to wind down and soak in the vibes of Busselton.

Keep reading: 28 Epic things to do in Busselton (beyond the Jetty!) + tips for planning your visit

Where to stay in Busselton?

  • Best caravan park: RAC Busselton Holiday Park is set on bushland with loads of space for caravans, two swimming pools, and easy beach access just down the road. It’s in Abbey, a short 10-minute drive from Busselton’s town centre. Cabins sleep up to 6.

  • Best hotel: Nightcap at the Ship is a pub-style stay with comfy rooms above a classic Aussie tavern—good for grabbing a meal or drink without going far. It’s a 5-minute drive from the Busselton jetty and sleep up to 3.

  • Best luxury: Busselton Villas and Glamping has cosy villas and safari tents, a pool to cool off in, and a chilled vibe perfect for a coastal getaway. It’s a 5-minute drive from the Busselton jetty and sleeps up to 6.

Day 2: Busselton and Dunsborough

You can spend this day exploring Busselton a bit more. Maybe go fishing or squidding early in the day, or visit the Ludlow Tuart Forest for some hikes and ziplining.

Close-up of a person holding a freshly caught squid on a fishing line while on a boat in Busselton, a popular activity on the Perth to Albany road trip.
Squidding at Busselton

Don’t miss the opportunity to check out Dunsborough, another coastal town a 20-minute drive west of Busselton. You can bike there from Busselton if you’re keen, the tracks are pretty flat and well-kept.

Dunsborough is a destination in itself. It’s the gateway to Cape Naturaliste, which has beautiful beaches (Meelup Beach and Eagle Bay Beach are our favourites), the historic Cape Naturaliste lighthouse, and epic hikes!

Then, return to Busselton at the end of the day to spend the night.

Day 3: Busselton to Margaret River (40 minutes)

Say goodbye to Busselton and drive the 40 minutes to Margaret River.

This gem of the south west is famous for its world-class wineries, so hit up a winery or two, do a tasting, and maybe even grab a bottle for later!

A smiling couple clinking wine glasses inside a cozy winery in Margaret River.

You can grab lunch at one of the wineries or head into town for lunch. There are plenty of cafés and restaurants, offering everything from gourmet meals to quick bites.

Then, spend the rest of the afternoon either exploring the local shops or hitting up a brewery for a different kind of tasting experience.

Head back to your accommodation and sleep tight, tomorrow will be jam-packed!

Note: If you want to do a Margaret River wine tour and want to save some bucks, know that some providers offer free pick-up and drop-off in Busselton.

Accommodation is generallly cheaper there than in Margaret River, so you could save money by extending your stay in Busselton and book the tour from there!

Check this guide to help you with that. It has the best Margaret River wine tours, most of them offering free pick-up and drop-off in Busselton!

Where to stay in Margaret River?

  • Best caravan park: Margaret River Tourist Park has a mix of cabins and sites tucked among the trees, with a playground, BBQs, and easy access to wineries nearby. It’s a 5-minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 5.

  • Best hotel: Grande Escape Resort is a quiet spot surrounded by bush, with an on-site bar, restaurant, and even a mini golf course. It’s a short drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 4.

  • Best luxury: Olio Bello Lakeside Glamping offers luxury safari tents right on an olive farm, with private decks, lake views, and a peaceful bush setting. It’s a 15-minute drive from town (near Cowaramup) and sleeps up to 4.

Day 4: Margaret River

Kick off the day with a visit to one of the nearby caves – Mammoth Cave or Lake Cave.

Mammoth Cave is famous for its megafauna fossils, while Lake Cave has spectacular sights with its permanent lake. You can’t go wrong with either one!

Man watching Margaret River's Underground Cave stalactites and stalagmites in Western Australia
Margaret River’s Spectacular Underground Caves

You can visit both of them as well, just keep in mind that there will be lots of stair-climbing. If you have to pick based on that alone, Lake Cave has the most stairs.

After the cave(s), check out Boranup Forest. The towering karri trees here are breathtaking, and the walking paths are perfect for a relaxed hike.

If you’re too tired from all the stairs at the cave, don’t worry – stay in the car and drive the scenic Boranup Drive, which winds through the forest.

Aerial view of the Eagle Bay coastline near Dunsborough, with clear turquoise water, white sand and coastal bushland—an ideal scenic stop on a Perth to Albany road trip.
Eagle Bay, Dunsborough

It’s incredibly stunning and it’s free! No 4WD needed, plus there are a few picnic spots on the way to stop and have lunch.

Then, finish your day at Surfers Point for some epic ocean views and see the professional surfers in action!

These are not the only things to do in Margaret River, though. This place has 3-5 days’ worth of activities!

Here’s our guide: with 32 epic things to do there if you want more ideas.

Day 5: Margaret River to Augusta via Hamelin Bay (30 minutes)

It’s time to keep driving south, towards the iconic Hamelin Bay. This place is famous for its friendly stingrays! Consider spending the morning here, it’s stunning.

Now, the stingrays are used to humans, but they’re wild animals in the end. Here are some tips and cautions to keep in mind when interacting with them:

Then, continue your journey to Augusta. On the way, consider stopping at Jewel Cave, the largest show cave in Western Australia. It’s hard to describe how massive it is, plus it’s packed with spectacular rock formations!

After leaving the cave, you’ll be in Augusta in less than 10 minutes, probably at the perfect time for lunch! Head to Colour Patch Cafe & Bar or Blue Ocean Fish & Chips for a nice meal.

Augusta itself has a laid-back vibe, perfect for relaxing. Settle into your accommodation and maybe take a stroll along the river.

Finish your day by heading to the Cape Leeuwin lighthouse for an epic sunset!

Where to stay in Augusta?

  • Best caravan park: Turner Holiday Park sits right next to the river in Augusta with powered sites, cabins, and easy access to fishing or paddling. It’s just a short walk to town and a solid base for exploring the Leeuwin region.

  • Best hotel: Augusta Hotel is a classic country pub stay with river views, a bistro downstairs, and relaxed rooms for a night or two. It’s walking distance from the town centre and sleeps up to 4.

  • Best luxury: Boogaloo Camp is a surf and yoga glamping camp with funky bell tents, hot showers, and a chill vibe perfect for unwinding after a day at the coast. It’s a short drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 4.

Sunlight filtering through towering karri trees in Boranup Forest, a lush green highlight along the Perth to Albany road trip through the Margaret River region.
The iconic Boranup Forest drive

Day 6: Augusta to Denmark (3-3.5 hours)

The drive today is a bit long but absolutely worth it – head towards Denmark via Pemberton and Walpole.

Pemberton will be your first stop, a 1.5-hour drive from Augusta. If you follow this itinerary, you’ll stay here on day 11 to explore more of it.

This town is home to the Gloucester Tree and the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree, two of the tallest karri trees in the area… and both are climbable! If you’re up for it, the view from the top is insane.

Next, drive another 1.5 hours to stop in Walpole!

After grabbing lunch there (the Philippine Magic Cafe is a solid option) check out the Giant Tingle Tree to fully stretch your legs and take in the beauty of the area.

If you can, definitely check out the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk – walking among the giant tingle trees is an experience you won’t forget.

From there, it’s a 45-minute drive to Denmark, where you’ll have dinner and spend the night. Sleep tight, tomorrow is going to be epic!

Where to stay in Denmark?

  • Best caravan park: Denmark Rivermouth Caravan Park is tucked right where the river meets the ocean, with cabins, powered sites, and easy access to swimming, kayaking, and fishing. It’s a short drive from the town centre and the cabins sleep up to 6.

  • Best hotel: 31 on the Terrace is a boutique-style guesthouse with themed-rooms, free Wi-Fi, and epic location. It’s in the town centre and sleeps up to 4.

  • Best luxury: Aiyana Retreat is a peaceful bush stay with warm timber villas, comfy beds, and a cosy, private feel—ideal if you’re keen on something a bit more special. It’s a 5-minute drive from town and sleeps up to 4.

Day 7: Denmark to Albany (40 minutes)

Denmark has incredible scenery, so it’s worth waking up early today to enjoy as much of it as you can.

Start your day with a visit to Elephant Rocks and Greens Pool in William Bay National Park. These two iconic spots are within walking distance from each other, which is extremely convenient.

The vintage-style Augusta Hotel sign in the town centre, with Norfolk pines lining the street—a classic stop on a Perth to Albany road trip itinerary.

Plus, their clear waters and unique rock formations are perfect for a morning swim.

Then, consider going for a surfing session at Ocean Beach, or trying out the world’s longest globe-riding track in Denmark Thrills Adventure Park!

There are other awesome things to do in Denmark, but you can do some of them on your way back.

Grab a late lunch at The Denmark Tavern or at Massimo’s Place if you’re craving pizza, before the 40-minute drive to Albany, along the South Coast Highway.

If you’re not too tired from the day, consider doing a small 20-minute detour to the Albany Wind Farm. The views from here are insane, there’s even a whale-watching platform! The walk through the turbines is pretty cool, too.

Then, arrive in Albany and check into your accommodation. Here are some recommendations on where to stay. Get a good night’s rest because you’ve got three days to explore this amazing place!

Day 8-10: Albany

We described the 3-day itinerary before, in this section. But to recap, you could spend 3 days in Albany by:

  • Exploring Torndirrup National Park, where The Gap and Natural Bridge are. Famous beaches like Misery Beach, Cable Beach, and Salmon Holes, are there, too.

  • Visit the museums, Albany is a historic town with an interesting past.

  • Head to the nearby Porongurup National Park and go to Castle Rock for the best views of your life.

  • Go whale-watching (June to early October).

Here’s our complete guide guide with 20 things to do in Albany if you want more ideas!

Day 11: Albany to Pemberton (2.5-3 hours)

Now it’s time to start making your way back to Perth, but the fun is not over! Do the 2.5-3-hour drive to Pemberton.

This is another opportunity to do things you couldn’t do on day 6, specifically the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, the Giant Tingle Tree, the Gloucester Tree, or the Dave Evans Bicentennial.

Woman standing inside the hollow trunk of a massive red tingle tree in Walpole, one of the iconic nature stops on a Perth to Albany road trip.
Giant Tingle tree, Walpole

When you get to Pemberton, you can go for a swim in the natural swimming pool, go mountain biking at the Pemberton Mountain Bike Park, or hop on the Pemberton Tramway for a tram ride around the forest.

There are other things to do in Pemberton if you’re into some forest fun!

Where to stay in Pemberton?

  • Best caravan park: RAC Karri Valley Resort is a peaceful spot on the edge of Lake Beedelup, with a mix of lakeside chalets and lodge rooms surrounded by towering karri forest. Great for fishing, canoeing, or just soaking in the quiet bush setting. It’s in Beedelup, a 20-minute drive from Pemberton and sleeps up to 8.

  • Best hotel: The Pemberton Hotel is a classic country pub stay with simple rooms, an on-site bistro, and an easy base for exploring the nearby forests and trails. It’s in the town centre and sleeps up to 4.

  • Best luxury: Forest Lodge Resort is a cosy, family-run spot on the edge of the forest, with comfy rooms and a peaceful lake outlook—ideal if you’re after a bit of quiet. It’s a 5-minute drive from town and sleeps up to 5.

Day 12: Pemberton to Yallingup (2 hours)

We recommend waking up early and driving straight to Yallingup, a gem of the south west with lots to do in the great outdoors!

However, if you didn’t stop in Hamelin Bay on day 5, this is your chance. It’s 100% worth the 20-minute detour.

Aerial view of a person standing in shallow water near a large stingray at Hamelin Bay, a magical wildlife moment during a Perth to Albany road trip.
Stingray at Hamelin Bay

Once in Yallingup, you can check out the ancient Ngilgi Cave, the stunning Canal Rocks, or hit Yallingup Beach for some surf or just to chill. If you love snorkelling, head straight to The Aquarium!

Here’s our ultimate guide to all the things to do in Yallingup if you’re looking for more ideas.

As for dinner, there aren’t many options in Yallingup, but Dunsborough is a 10-minute drive away and has a wide variety of restaurants and cafés to choose from.

Where to stay in Yallingup?

  • Best caravan park: Yallingup Beach Holiday Park is a laid-back spot with cabins and powered sites, perfect for surfers, families, or anyone keen to wake up to the sound of the ocean. It’s right across the beach and sleeps up to 6.

  • Best hotel: Caves House Hotel is a heritage-listed hotel with art deco charm, lush gardens, and a popular pub that’s great for a chilled evening after a day of exploring. It’s a 5-minute drive from town and sleeps up to 4.

  • Best luxury: Smiths Beach Resort is a modern, self-contained stay with spacious villas, ocean views, and direct beach access, great groups of all sizes (from couples to big families) wanting a bit more space and comfort. It’s a 10-minute drive from Yallingup town and sleeps up to 8.

Day 13: Yallingup to Bunbury/Mandurah (1-2 hours)

Try to wake up early and go straight to Injidup Natural Spa – you’ll likely have it for yourself! It’s a beautiful spot, perfect for a morning swim, but it can get crowded.

Then, hit the road to either Bunbury or Mandurah – pick the one you didn’t visit on day 1. You’ll spend the last night there!

Bunbury is a 1-hour drive from Yallingup and has the Dolphin Discovery Centre, where you can book dolphin tours and learn about these friendly creatures. It’s a fun way to spend the morning and learn about marine life.

Mandurah is a 2-hour drive from Yallingup and has the canals. You can rent a boat and go through them – there’s a chance that you’ll see dolphins, there, too!

We personally prefer Mandurah as there is more variety of things to do. It has the Giants of Mandurah too, for example.

But if you’re travelling with kids, Bunbury and the Dolphin Discovery Centre might be a better choice.

Both towns have great dining options, so you won’t go wrong either way. Wrap up the day with a relaxing stroll along the water, taking in the peaceful vibes before heading back to your accommodation.

If you’re staying in Bunbury, consider staying at the Caravan Park at Bunbury Foreshore or the Bunbury Hotel at Koombana bay.

And if you’re staying in Mandurah, consider the Mandurah Caravan Park or the Seashells Hotel.

Day 14: Bunbury/Mandurah to Perth (1-2 hours)

Wrap up your trip with the drive back to Perth. It’s a short trip, so no rush!

If you’re in Bunbury, maybe book a dolphin cruise at the discovery centre, or go for a walk along the coast. Enjoy the relaxed morning before hitting the road.

If you’re in Mandurah, consider going “giant-hopping” and exploring the town by going from one giant sculpture to another!

Regardless of your starting point, the drive back to Perth is easy and scenic!

Have more days? Add these spots

Bremer Bay

Bremer Bay is a true gem, a 2-hour drive east of Albany.

It’s a must-visit if you’re visiting anywhere between January and April, as it’s orca season! We booked a tour and it was the best experience ever, we 100% recommend doing a tour if you can.

This town is also the gateway to Fitzgerald River National Park, which has stunning beaches and epic hikes – it’s mindblowing in wildflower season!

Keep reading: 19 epic things to do in Bremer Bay

Esperance

Esperance is the ultimate destination if you’re looking for the most unspoiled and pristine landscapes possible.

It’s quite remote, though – it’s a 5-hour drive from Albany and a 7-hour drive from Perth. It’s worth the drive if you can spend at least 3 full days (preferably 5-6).

There are lots of things to do in Esperance, but you’ll probably spend most of your time at Cape Le Grand National Park.

This park is home to famous beaches like Lucky Bay (where kangaroos chill in the sand) or Hellfire Bay, as well as the stunning Frenchman’s Peak.

You can also do the scenic Great Ocean Drive, a 40 km loop that offers stunning views and stops like Twilight Beach and the Pink Lake.

As it’s so remote, you might want to consider doing another road trip, but from Perth to Esperance – here’s the full itinerary, a map, and more!

Free downloadable map

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Tips for planning your road trip

Here are some things to know to help you plan this epic road trip:

Renting a caravan – yes or no?

Albany and the overall Margaret River Region are ideal for camping. So if you’re into it, don’t think twice and rent a caravan!

There are dozens of camping grounds to choose from in the region. Some are for self-contained campers while others have facilities like showers, toilets, BBQs, etc – there’s something for every taste.

Kangaroo with joey at a grassy caravan park in Denmark, a classic campsite moment on a Perth to Albany road trip.
Some visitors on our campsite (Denmark)

Plus, booking a campsite is much cheaper than traditional accommodations like hotels or Airbnb’s!

This makes them very cost-effective. You won’t have to pay for accommodation and car rental separately, you can cook all your meals there, and you have way more freedom to explore.

If you don’t know where to rent a caravan, here are some recommendations:

  • Travellers Autobarn is a low-cost option that doesn’t sacrifice quality. Check Autobarn rentals here.

  • JUCY campervans is the middle ground. Their caravans are often bigger than Autobarn’s while still keeping good prices. Check JUCY rentals here.

  • Star RV is for premium campervans. If you want to go on an adventure with luxury and not sacrifice comfort, this is it. Check Star RV rentals here.

Best time to visit Albany

The best time to visit Albany is during the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May).

The weather is mild, and you’ll avoid the summer crowds. Springtime brings wildflowers in full bloom, making the landscapes even more stunning. Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for exploring.

Wooden stairs leading down to the ocean at sunset near Albany, Western Australia—an iconic view from the Perth to Albany road trip.

Plus, in both seasons the weather is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, beach visits, and exploring national parks. The temperatures are comfortable, and the natural beauty of the area is at its peak.

Avoid the peak summer months if you prefer a quieter experience, as Albany can get quite busy.

How many days to stay in Albany

3 full days in Albany is perfect as you’ll be able to hit the main attractions. But you can easily stretch your visit for up to a week!

Buy a park pass

Some national parks in Western Australia have an entry fee ($17 per day per car at the moment of writing), which can quickly add up if you’re going to visit them multiple times.

The Holiday Pass offers great value for visitors staying up to 4 weeks and covers entry to all WA parks.

You can purchase it online or at the park entry. It saves money and hassle, giving you more time to enjoy the stunning scenery.

Roughly, if you’re going to enter 5 or more times to a park with an entry fee, it’s cheaper to purchase a Holiday Pass.

Parks on this road trip that have entry fees include:

  • Torndirrup National Park

  • Porongurup National Park

  • Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve

  • D’Entrecasteaux National Park

  • Stirling Range National Park

  • Fitzgerald River National Park

  • Cape Le Grand National Park

Keep in mind that some parks are free. You can easily check if there’s a fee at the Explore Parks WA website.

Do you need a 4WD?

You don’t need a 4WD for most attractions in Albany (or for this road trip, for that matter) as the main roads are well-maintained.

However, if you want to drive on the beaches, a 4WD is essential. For standard trips, a regular vehicle will do just fine.

Close-up of a van parked on white sand at Wharton Beach, with vivid blue ocean and granite headlands, a relaxed stop on the Perth to Albany road trip.
Van life at Wharton Beach, Esperance

That said, a 4WD opens up more adventurous routes and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

If you’re into camping and remote beach access, having a 4WD can be a game-changer. It allows you to explore deeper into national parks and find those hidden gems away from the crowds.

But if you’re sticking to the main tourist spots and well-trodden paths, save the money and stick with a regular car.

Alternative ways to get to Albany from Perth

Albany has a small airport a 15-minute drive from town. Rex Airlines offers 2-4 daily flights from Perth, so you can be in Albany in 1 hour! Find great deals on plane tickets here.

There’s a city bus that can take you around the town centre (info and timetables here) but we honestly recommend hiring a car, otherwise, you won’t be able to go to Torndirrup National Park.

You can rent a car directly at the airport. Find great deals on car rentals here!

Top Tips

Kangaroos and other critters can jump out onto the road, especially at dawn and dusk. Drive carefully and stay alert.

Albany can get quite busy in peak season, so book everything as soon as possible – tours, accommodation, car rentals, flight tickets, etc:

Did you know?

The Menang Noongar people are the traditional custodians of Albany. Their rich culture and history are deeply connected to the land and sea of the area.

Albany was the first European settlement in Western Australia, established in 1826, even before Perth and Fremantle! It was originally a military outpost.

It was the departure point for the first ANZAC troops in World War I. The National Anzac Centre here pays tribute to those soldiers.

FAQs

Is Albany Western Australia worth visiting?

Absolutely, Albany is worth every second. There are stunning beaches, rich history, and epic natural spots like Torndirrup National Park. Plus, there’s whale watching, awesome hiking trails, and fresh seafood. It’s got something for everyone, from chill vibes to adventure.

How to get to Albany from Perth by public transport?

A Transwa coach can get you to Albany from Perth. There are daily buses and it’s about a 6-hour ride. It’s the cheapest way to get to Albany, but you might have to rent a car once you arrive to move around.

FREE GUIDE: 100+ Epic Things to Do in Western Australia (By Locals)

We’ve spent 10+ years exploring Western Australia. This free guide gives you the places we’d send our mates to.
✅ Sorted by region
✅ Hidden beaches, hikes + 4WD tracks
✅ How long to stay, best times to go
🎁 Bonus map to make planning stupid easy

Our Essential Travel Toolkit

🤩 Wise Card – Online bank to hold money in different currencies worldwide and lowest fees in the market! (FREE debit card here)

🤩 Trip.com – Consistently great accommodation and hotel deals.

🤩 Hostelworld – Looking for the cheapest accommodation? We especially love the “book now, pay later” feature.

🤩 Rentalcars.com – Best range, super easy to compare prices rental car and motorhome prices.

🤩 Viator.com – Easily book tours and experiences at the lowest rate. Great selection all over Australia.

🤩 Tripadvisor.com Other than our website…😉 the best place to find things to do

🤩 Airalo – eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving travelers access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards).

🤩 Caravan RV Camping – Traveling Australia in a van, caravan or bus? Use our discount code “saltandcharcoal” to get $30 off any orders over $300.

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