PERFECT Perth to Bremer Bay Road Trip: Multi Day Itinerary (FREE Map Included)

We’ve been to Bremer Bay over five times now.

Camping in rooftop tents, swags, and in our current 4wd bus. It’s one of those places we keep coming back to.

The beaches are next-level, the orca experience is unforgettable, and there’s so much wild coastline to explore, especially if you’ve got a 4WD.

You’ve also got Fitzgerald River National Park nearby with hiking trails and wildflowers galore.

It’s a 500km drive from Perth, so you could do the round trip in 5 days, spending 3 full days in Bremer. That’s the minimum time you should spend there to make the journey worthwhile.

Because this part of the southwest is full of gems. Denmark and Albany are right along the way and deserve a few days each. Think coastal hikes, fresh local food, and some of the best beaches in WA.

That’s why we think the perfect Perth to Bremer Bay road trip is 10 days long. To make room for these beautiful towns on your way to Bremer, while spending 4 full days there.

The full itinerary is below, including where to stop, where to stay, and where to eat each day.

For those tight on time, we included a 5-day alternative that lets you zip through the main sights.

And for those with time on their hands, we included a 14-day itinerary and add-ons (Esperance, we’re looking at you).

We recognise the traditional owners of the lands we’re exploring from Perth to Bremer Bay (Noongar country), the Noongar people.

Perfect 10-day itinerary for a Perth to Bremer Bay road trip

This 10-day itinerary is jam-packed with things to do and takes you to the must-see spots in the area, while being doable for most people:

Day 1: Perth to Denmark (420 km, 4h 40m)

Hit the road bright and early for Denmark! It’s a scenic drive down, with stretches of the highway flanked by lush green landscapes that WA’s southwest is famous for.

This inland route takes you through the Albany Highway/State Route 30. This major highway has some cool places to stop by, stretch your legs, and grab a bite:

• Williams, 1h 50 min from Perth – It has the popular Williams Woolshed, a top spot for local produce, coffee, and lunch. It’s a relaxed place to break up the drive.

• Kojonup, 3h from Perth – This place is known for the Kodja Place, a fantastic cultural centre offering insight into local Noongar culture and early settler history. The rose maze there is also a great spot for a short walk and some fresh air.

• Mount Barker, 4h 15m from Perth – This small town has some of WA’s best wineries, so if you fancy a tasting, there are options like Plantagenet Wines nearby.

When you roll into Denmark, you’ll see why people love it! The town has a great vibe, with lots of trees, the river, and the Wilson Inlet right next to it.

Grab a bite and check out the town. Head to Massimo’s Place if you want Italian or to Flame Trees for Mediterranean. Then go to bed early to recharge – tomorrow will be a big day!

Where to stay in Denmark?

The Koorabup Motel is a favourite. It’s a great budget option, as it’s a short walking distance from town and the rooms are top-notch (for up to 5 people).

If you feel like splurging a bit, head to Aiyana Retreat. It’s a short drive from town, perfect if you want a spa experience with a touch of wilderness.

Because we had the bus we stayed at the BIG4 Denmark Ocean Beach Holiday Park. Its al little out of town towards the beach but your guaranteed to share your campsite with a family of kangaroos.

Day 2: Denmark to Albany (55 km, 40m)

Today you’ll check out the main highlights of Denmark and head to Albany in the evening for dinner!

Wake up early and head straight to Greens Pool for some of the most gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear waters you’ll find.

The place is sheltered by rocky outcrops and it’s perfect for a snorkel or a swim (the water is very cold, but totally worth it!).

Then walk to the nearby Elephant Rocks, a cove with massive rocks that look like, well, elephants!

Ocean Beach is a great surfing spot if you’re keen and has a short but epic hike nearby at Monkey Rock. It’s 2km, 30-40 minutes, and you’ll see incredible views of the Southern Ocean and the green surrounding area.

The Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk is another epic attraction, where you walk high above the forest floor. But it’s near Walpole, a 40-minute drive opposite to Albany.

The detour is worth it though, especially if you’re visiting during wildflower season (September to November).

Here is our full list of things to do in Denmark if you want more ideas!

After you’re done exploring Denmark, do the short drive to Albany for dinner.

We recommend having dinner at Due South for a nice meal with spectacular views (it’s on the waterfront) or Venice if you’re craving Italian!

Where to stay in Albany

Albany is the fourth biggest city in Western Australia, so expect more options regarding stays… and more tourists, so book ahead!

Look into these stays, they’re some of the best options there:

• Best hotel: Pelicans Albany. It’s close to the town centre (in Middleton Beach) and has an excellent balance between price and comfort! Sleeps up to 7 people.

• Best budget-friendly stay: 1849 Backpackers Hotel. Right in the heart of town, this hostel is ideal for those who want to explore Albany and don’t mind shared dormitories. Mixed dorms and women-only options available.

• Best for families and groups: Albany Harbourside Apartments. Another option near the town centre, it has apartments and bungalows (some with harbour views!). Sleeps up to 8 people.

• Best caravan park: BIG4 Middleton Beach Holiday Park. This holiday park has options for everyone – houses, chalets, spa villas, campsites, and powered sites. Need to prebook! Sleeps up to 8.

• Best luxury option: The Beach House at Bayside. This cosy guest house is near Emu Point and has rooms for 2 or 3 people. Free breakfast included!

If you don’t like any of these options, don’t worry, there are sooo many more! Click here to find more stays in Albany.

Day 3: Albany

Today is all about exploring Albany’s gems.

Start with a trip to Torndirrup National Park (park entry fees apply) and go to The Gap and Natural Bridge.

These are two jaw-dropping attractions, and if it’s a windy day, the waves crashing into the cliffs are awe-inspiring. Although those afraid of heights should be warned here!

If you’re looking for some beach time, you can’t go wrong with one of the most famous beaches in Australia, Misery Beach. Middleton Beach is great for families and also Emu Point.

History buffs can’t miss the ANZAC Centre, a world-class museum dedicated to Australia and New Zealand’s involvement in WWI. It’s located where the first ANZAC troops departed in 1914.

The Albany Whaling Station is another interesting visit. It’s Australia’s last operating whaling station turned museum, where you can learn about the whaling industry that once thrived in WA.

And if you’re visiting between June and early October, do some whale-watching! We went on a whale watching tour last time we were down there. Highly recommended.

Humpback and southern right whales migrate through these waters during those months put on a show. The best viewpoint on land is Albany Wind Farm, which is an attraction in itself.

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

Day 4: Albany to Bremer Bay (180 km, 2 hours)

Grab brekkie at Dylans on the Terrace or Three Anchors and go to Middleton Beach or Emu Point if you didn’t yesterday.

And before setting off for Bremer Bay, make sure to stock up on supplies! Albany is the biggest city in the area, so you’ll find pretty much everything there.

Hit the road once you’re ready. It’s a straightforward 2-hour drive, although a bit boring as there aren’t any cool places to stop by, but it will be worth it once you reach Bremer Bay!

It’s a quaint town with pristine beaches, epic hikes, and lots of wildlife! You’ll have 3-4 days to explore it.

Where to stay in Bremer Bay

The Fitzgerald River National Park has two main campsites – Four Mile Campground (bookable online) and St Mary Inlet Campground (first come, first served), can’t go wrong with any of them.

If you prefer a more traditional stay, the Bremer Bay Resort is an excellent option, plus budget-friendly. It’s in the town centre, has an excellent restaurant, and has rooms for up to 5 people.

Days 5-9: Bremer Bay (Optional 5 day Itinerary)

Bremer Bay is very remote as you can see, and has HEAPS of things to do. So allow for 3-4 full days to make the trip worth it! Here’s what you’ll want to cover during your stay:

• Orca Watching (January to April): Every year, Bremer Bay Canyon becomes the hub of the largest congregation of orcas in the southern hemisphere! You can see them with an orca tour, we 100% recommend doing one if you can. Here’s our personal experience doing an orca tour, which tour operators we recommend, and things to know before booking one.

• Bremer Bay Beaches: Blossoms Beach and Back Beach are epic.

• Fitzgerald River National Park: A must-visit for nature lovers, with walking trails, stunning beaches, and a good chance of spotting kangaroos, emus, and wildflowers. Park fees apply.

• Fishing and Snorkelling: Bremer Bay has fantastic spots for both activities, especially around Fishery Beach and Point Henry.

Here’s our full guide of 19 things to do in Bremer Bay, where to eat, where to stay, and more! Check it out to help you plan your visit.

Day 10: Bremer Bay to Perth (500 km, 5h 30m)

The drive back from Bremer Bay to Perth is definitely a big one – over five hours on the road can feel like a marathon.

But with a couple of well-placed stops, you can break up the trip and keep it enjoyable. Here are some top spots to stretch your legs and grab a decent bite on the way back:

• Gnowangerup – A small town where you can grab a coffee and snack at one of the local cafés. Has a fuel station too. It’s not a major stop, but it’s a nice place for a quick breather if you need one early in the journey.

• Katanning – It’s halfway and the perfect place for a long break. If you’re up for something unique, the Premier Mill Hotel’s café is a quirky spot set in a converted mill, with solid food and a bit of history. There’s an art gallery too, interesting street art, and heritage buildings.

• Williams – The perfect last stop before the final stretch into Perth. If you stopped there on your way to Albany, you’ll want to head back to The Williams Woolshed again!

Alternative itineraries: 5 days and 14 days

If you have fewer days available (or more), here are some ways you can adapt the previous itinerary to your schedule:

5-day road trip alternative

This is the bare minimum we recommend for this road trip to make it worthwhile. If you don’t have this time available, do this instead.

This 5-day itinerary is a great option if you’re craving a nice road trip but are short on time. You’d spend 3 full days in Bremer Bay which is the minimum we recommend. The itinerary would be:

• Day 1: Perth to Bremer Bay

• Day 2-4: Bremer Bay

• Day 5: Back to Perth

Stop at the places mentioned in Day 10 on your way to Bremer Bay and back. Just make sure you can handle it, it’s a lot of driving and the fatigue can easily creep in.

Drive in shifts and do not hit the road at dusk or dawn, wildlife often wander onto the road. Safety should always be first!

14-day road trip alternative (via Margaret River)

If you have more days, extend the 10-day itinerary into a 14-day trip by visiting more places in the southwest! Take the coastal route instead, via the Margaret River region.

There’s SO much to do in the southwest! So the best thing to do is a road trip from Perth to Margaret River, then drive to Bremer Bay from there.

Here’s our recommended itinerary for that:

• Day 1: Perth to Busselton (220km, 2h 30m)

• Day 2: Busselton to Margaret River (50 km, 40m)

• Day 3: Enjoy Margaret River

• Day 4: Margaret River to Augusta (40 km, 30m)

• Day 5: Augusta to Pemberton (124km, 1h 20m)

• Day 6: Pemberton to Denmark via Walpole (186 km, 2h 10m)

• Day 7: Denmark to Albany, like Day 2 of the 10-day itinerary

• Day 8: Albany, like Day 3

• Day 9: Albany to Bremer Bay, like Day 4

• Day 10-13: Bremer Bay, like Days 5-9

• Day 14: Bremer Bay to Perth, like Day 10

You could mix and match the places you visit in the Margaret River region. For example, you could extend your stay in Busselton and explore Dunsborough and Yallingup, or visit Hamelin Bay.

Extend your road trip – continue to Esperance

While you’re in Bremer Bay, why not continue to the even more remote paradise that is Esperance?

This place is the definition of a gem – we stayed almost 2 weeks and couldn’t get enough!

It has some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches and hikes. It’s ideal if you have 6-7 days to spare.

The drive is straightforward – just continue through the South Coast Highway. This guide has a better itinerary for that road trip from Perth and some recommendations if you want to do it.

And there are so many epic things to do in Esperance! Like:

• Cape Le Grand National Park, hands-down one of WA’s best national parks. There’s Lucky Bay, the famous beach with the kangaroos! There’s also Twilight Beach (dolphins swam up to us there!), Wharton Beach (our favourite beach in the whole country), Hellfire Bay, etc.

• Frenchman Peak, an epic hike with unbeatable panoramic views over Cape Le Grand and the surrounding coastline.

• Great Ocean Drive, a scenic loop that takes you past some of the area’s most beautiful beaches and lookout points. Highlights include Twilight Beach and the Pink Lake (Lake Hillier). It’s an easy and memorable drive, with plenty of spots to stop for photos or a dip. Here’s the full route and all the stops.

Esperance is a fair way from Perth, so if you’re heading back after this leg, plan for at least a couple of days to make the return trip more comfortable. Check this itinerary of a road trip from Perth to Esperance to help you with that!

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Planning your road trip from Perth to Bremer Bay

This road trip is epic, but you have to plan it carefully. Here are some things to consider:

Best time to do a road trip from Perth to Bremer Bay

The best time to do this would be during the orca season, between January and April. Just make sure to book an orca tour in advance.

It can get hot and rainy though, so it might not be the best time for hiking.

The second best time would be between September and October, as you can see the whales’ migration and the wildflowers! Plus the weather is optimal for hiking.

How many days to stay in Bremer Bay?

Plan for at least 3-4 days in Bremer Bay. If you like watersports (surf, snorkel) you’ll probably want to stay a bit more.

If you want to go on an orca tour, try booking it on the first day or two of your stay. This will give you wiggle room to reschedule if the operator has to postpone the tour due to the weather.

And if you want to go for the wildflower season, be a bit flexible with your dates. The season usually goes from August to October, but could start earlier or later depending on the rainy season that year.

Don’t have 5 days available for the road trip? Do this

Fly instead of driving! That way you can spend 3-4 days in Bremer Bay without all the driving.

The nearest airport is in Albany. Rex Airlines offers daily flights to Albany and back to Perth – you’ll be there in 1h. Go here to find cheap flight deals.

Then rent a car at the airport and drive to Bremer Bay.

This is a better alternative if you don’t have at least 5 days available to do the whole road trip.

Renting a car

Whether you want to rent a car for the road trip from Perth to Bremer Bay or from Albany Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, read the fine print. Even though the road is mostly sealed, there are some dirt roads, especially in Cape Le Grand National Park. Some rental companies forbid from driving their vehicles on those roads, so double-check that.

Last, check the mileage. Some rental companies provide unlimited mileage, while others cap it. Estimate how many kilometres you’ll drive and in doubt, it’s best to book with unlimited mileage.

Our favourite rental companies are Rental Cars and Discover Cars, we usually compare the two and hire the one with the best offer.

Renting a caravan

This road trip is perfect for this, as there are lots of campsites (free and paid) along the way.

Plus, renting a caravan can be more budget-friendly in the long run, as you won’t have to rent a car and book accommodation separately.

But keep in mind that some caravan rentals forbid driving on dirt roads, double-check that before booking.

These are some excellent caravan rentals in Perth:

• Travellers Autobarn is the cheapest 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 the best for premium campervans. If you want to go on an adventure without sacrificing comfort, this is it. Check Star RV rentals here.

Access to National Parks

Some National Parks are free to enter, while others require an entry fee per vehicle per day. Check that when planning your trip and take that into account if you want to camp in one of them.

For example, William Bay National Park is free to enter. That’s where Elephant Rocks and Greens Pool are.

But Torndirrup National Park and Cape Le Grand National Park require a fee. You can pay for it on the website! Also look into the park pass, it might be worth purchasing depending on your trip.

Is there public transport from Perth to Bremer Bay?

No, there’s no direct public transport from Perth to Bremer Bay.

Your best option is to take a TransWA bus to Jerramungup, then catch a taxi or private transfer for the remaining 90km to Bremer Bay.

We don’t recommend doing this, though. You need a car to move around Bremer Bay anyway, so we don’t think it’s worth getting there this way.

Free downloadable map

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Top Tips

Be ready for patchy (or no) mobile service for big stretches, especially between smaller towns. Download your map ahead of time and let someone know your travel plans.

If you’re really venturing off the main routes, think about grabbing a cheap sat phone or at least a good old CB radio if you’re in convoy.

The south coast weather can be all over the place, especially in winter. Rain can come down hard, and some roads can get a bit dicey. Check the forecast before you go, and if it’s looking rough, give yourself extra time.

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Bremer Bay is small, and spots to stay fill up fast, especially in peak season or during school holidays. Book your accommodation well in advance unless you’re bringing the camper.

Even then, check if you need a campsite reservation – some of the good caravan parks fill up quick!

And if you’re not carrying heaps of food and supplies, consider making a stop in Albany before heading to Bremer. You’ll find bigger supermarkets and better variety than what’s in Bremer Bay.

Once you’re in Bremer, there’s limited shopping, and prices can be a bit higher – especially for fresh stuff.

Did you know?

The massive Fitzgerald River National Park, just northwest of Bremer Bay, is one of Australia’s most ecologically diverse areas, with over 1,800 plant species (20% of WA’s known flora), many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.

The park holds UNESCO recognition as part of the Southwest Australia Ecoregion, a global biodiversity hotspot. The Noongar people have inhabited this area for tens of thousands of years, and their knowledge of the land and plant life is integral to understanding the unique ecosystem here.

FAQs

The bottom line

And that’s it – your ultimate road trip from Perth to Bremer Bay! With epic coastal views, lush forests, and heaps of wildlife, this drive has a bit of everything that makes WA’s south coast so unforgettable.

You’ll be snorkelling in crystal waters one day and spotting orcas the next – talk about a trip worth the petrol!

Just remember to book ahead, stock up in Albany, and keep an eye on the forecast – the weather down there can be as wild as the scenery.

So, grab the map above and hit the road. Bremer Bay’s calling – you’re in for one epic adventure!