A drone shot of a winding coastal road near Esperance, Western Australia, with turquoise waters on one side and bushland on the other, ideal for scenic road trips in Australia.
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The PERFECT South West Australia Road Trip Itinerary (14, 7, and 5 days) + FREE Map

The South West of Australia is packed with everything we love about road trips โ€“ epic beaches, lush forests, and small towns with lots of character.

We spent a full month exploring the area and were still craving more!

But we’d say that 14 days is the sweet spot for most people. It’s enough time to cover all the highlights without feeling rushed.

A woman in a wide-brim hat walking on a wooden boardwalk above a rocky canal at Canal Rocks, with greenery-covered hills in the background.
Taking in the rugged beauty of Canal Rocks from the boardwalk.

Which is why this is a 14-day road trip itinerary! We designed it to take you through the most iconic spots of the southwest.

From the Busselton Jetty, to Margaret River’s caves and wines, to Hamelin Bay’s stingrays, to Pembertonโ€™s towering karri forests and Albanyโ€™s rugged coastline…

Itโ€™s designed for maximum adventure with plenty of time to enjoy the sights.

BUT if you only have a week or less, no worries. There are 5 and 7-day itineraries with all the essentials so you can still experience the magic of the South West.

For those with extra time, weโ€™ve included add-ons for Bremer Bay and Esperance. These remote destinations add even more stunning beaches, unique wildlife, and rugged landscapes to your trip!

Plus, we included a FREE downloadable map below so planning your road trip is a breeze. It has all the stops, places to eat, and attractions so you have everything you need.

Let’s get started!

We recognise the traditional owners of the lands weโ€™re exploring in the South West, the Nyungar people.

But first… travel essentials for a South West road trip

๐ŸŽ‰ Activities: These are some of the best tours of the Southwest

๐Ÿš— Car Rentals: Rent a car in Perth! These companies have the most variety, compare the two to grab the best deal for your travel dates: Rental Cars and Discover Cars

๐Ÿ•๏ธ 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).

โค๏ธโ€๐ŸฉนInsurance: Protect yourself and your loved ones with the travel insurance we always use

๐Ÿ›๏ธAccomodation: Book your stays here  

โœˆ๏ธ Flights: Great deals on flight tickets here

๐Ÿ“ž eSIM: Not from Oz? Grab our favourite eSIM and stay connected at all times!

14-day itinerary for a road trip around the South West of Australia

This itinerary is for those who want to check out every must-see attraction of the southwest, while being manageable for most!

We were lucky enough to spend 1 month just in this area and it was AWESOME! But if we only had 14 days, this is what we would do:

Day 1: Perth to Bunbury (170km, 1h 50m)

Hit the road early for a straight drive to Bunbury, a coastal town known for its friendly wild dolphins and creative vibe!

If it’s your first time in the area, consider breaking up the drive in Mandurah for a coffee and a walk along the waterfront. Or rent a small boat to go through the Mandurah canals, dolphins swim there too!

Once in Bunbury, go to the Koombana Bay Foreshore – the Dolphin Discovery Centre is there, and dolphins often swim close to the shore.

They also offer dolphin eco-cruises, so you can see them up close, see feeding exhibitions, and more! Kids usually love these.

You can also go to the nearby Jetty Baths for a nice snorkelling session. The waters are calm there and have heaps of marine life! There’s also Back Beach further south, great for surfing.

Finish your day with an easy walk to the Bunbury Lighthouse and watch the sunset at the nearby Marlston Hill Lookout!

NOTE: If you’re not that into dolphins, consider skipping to day 2 and spending more time in Busselton!

Where to stay in Bunbury

If you’re in a campervan, you can stay for free at the Back Beach car park!

If not, there are heaps of places to stay in Bunbury – it’s one of the most populated towns in Western Australia, so there will be no shortage of options!

The Clifton Motel & Grittleton Lodge is a favourite because of its location and prices, plus has family rooms.

The Bunbury Hotel is another great option, with an excellent location and it’s at the beachfront!

Click here to find more accommodation options in Bunbury.

Snorkeller exploring marine life among Busselton Jetty's encrusted pylons, surrounded by fish in clear water.

Day 2: Bunbury to Busselton (54km, 45min)

Today’s drive is a short one, as you’ll go to the iconic Busselton! It’s home to the famous Busselton Jetty, the longest timber jetty in the southern hemisphere (1.8 km long).

You’ll spend the next two nights there, so after checking into your accommodation, go straight to the jetty if the weather is good for a snorkelling session!

There’s a whole ecosystem around the pylons. We’ve snorkelled there a few times and we never get tired of it! Here’s a guide on snorkelling the Busselton Jetty if you’re keen.

The jetty also has an underwater observatory if you don’t want to get wet. Plus, there’s a jetty train (pricey but kids love it) that takes you from the shore all the way to the observatory.

After that, spend the afternoon at the Busselton Foreshore. Itโ€™s got everything from shaded picnic spots to paddleboard rentals if youโ€™re feeling adventurous!

There are so many things to do in Busselton – go squidding, dive the HMAS wreck, visit the Ludlow Tuart forest… there’s even a zipline park!

Here are all the things to do in Busselton if you want more ideas + tips to help you plan your visit.

Where to stay in Busselton

Busselton also has a wide variety of accommodation options.

The best caravan park there is the RAC Busselton Holiday Park. It has powered and unpowered sites, plus pet-friendly options. There are also cabins that can accommodate couples and families! Check it here.

If you prefer a hotel, the Restawile Motel is a solid budget-friendly option, while the Nightcap at the Ship Inn is best if you’re looking for a more lively atmosphere.

Click here to find more accommodation options in Busselton!

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

Day 3: Dunsborough and Cape Naturaliste (sleep in Busselton)

Today is all about exploring Dunsborough, just a short 20-minute drive from Busselton.

You can actually bike there from Busselton! It’s a 1.5-hour ride one way through well-kept cycle lanes along the shore. It’s beautiful and 100% recommended if you have the stamina.

But honestly the best part of Dunsborough (in our opinion) is that it’s the gateway to Cape Naturaliste. It’s a gorgeous cape with beaches, hiking trails, and a lighthouse!

So, we recommend starting your day at Meelup Beach, a beautiful, calm beach with turquoise water. The water is ideal for a swim, and if youโ€™re into paddleboarding or kayaking, this is the place to do it!

Next, head to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. Take a guided tour inside the lighthouse or explore the surrounding trails for panoramic views of the coastline!

And if you visit between September and December, don’t miss the chance to do some whale-watching right there! You’ll see the humpback whales migrating along the shore.

Wrap up your visit with a quick detour to Sugarloaf Rock, a dramatic rock formation that’s perfect for photos.

From there, you can either head to Dunsborough for dinner or go back to Busselton.

More ideas on things to do in Dunsborough here!

Aerial view of waves crashing through rock crevices into the turquoise waters of Injidup Natural Spa near Yallingup, a must-see coastal spot on road trips in Australia.
Injidup Natural Spa from above

Day 4: Busselton to Yallingup (37km, 30min)

You can use this day to enjoy a bit more of Busselton before heading to Yallingup, which is a short drive away.

It has some of the most stunning beaches in the southwest and unparalleled natural beauty. It’s a bit more rugged than the previous towns, perfect if you’re more the adventurous type like us!

Once you get there, we recommend heading to Yallingup Beach. It’s a great place to spend the day, either surfing or swimming at the beach.

Then, head to Canal Rocks. It’s a group of massive granite outcrops where the sea has created a canal. There are wooden bridges that connect the rocks, so you can walk over the crashing waves.

It’s one of those places where you can feel the raw power of nature, one of the most impressive natural wonders in the region.

If you have time, don’t skip visiting the Ngilgi Cave, a fascinating limestone cave with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

There’s an entry ticket which you can grab here, it includes a self-guided tour to learn about the caveโ€™s history and geology.

Then, stroll around town, have dinner, and go to bed early – tomorrow will be a big day!

Where to stay in Yallingup

The accommodation options here are a bit more limited than Busselton’s, but there are still plenty to choose from.

For example, there are two caravan parks. Our favourite is this one, which is right in front of the beach!

There’s also Smiths Beach Resort, an aparthotel that’s perfect if you’re after a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.

Click here to find more accommodation options in Yallingup!

Day 5: Yallingup

Get your trunks and your snorkelling equipment because today you’ll spend a lot of time in the water!

Your first stop should be Injidup Natural Spa, a rock pool where waves create a bubbling, spa-like effect. Itโ€™s a great place for a dip or just to sit back and enjoy the view.

It can get crowded, though, so try getting there early to avoid crowds. We had it to ourselves, here are some recommendations from our visit!

The nearby Injidup Beach is great too, perfect for surfing or if you want to do some fishing.

Then, head to The Aquarium! It’s a gem tucked away on the Yallingup coastline. The water is so clear, you can understand why it’s called so.

We spent half day there and it was so worth it. There’s a short bushwalk to get there though, this guide has everything you need to know before going to The Aquarium.

If you still have time and energy left, check out Smith’s Beach – it’s on the way back to Yallingup town. It’s a secluded but beautiful beach for swimming, snorkelling, and surfing.

NOTE: If you don’t want to spend so much time in the water, you could also hike a section of the Cape to Cape track! There are also a few wineries nearby. More ideas on what to do in Yallingup here!

Day 6: Yallingup to Margaret River (42km, 35 min)

Today, youโ€™ll leave Yallingup and drive to Margaret River, a region famous for its world-class wineries, surf beaches, and incredible food!

You could start by diving into the local foodie scene. The Margaret River Chocolate Company is a must for your sweet tooth, while wine lovers can visit iconic wineries like Vasse Felix, Voyager Estate, or Leeuwin Estate.

Theyโ€™re not just about the wine, though โ€“ many wineries have gorgeous grounds and top-tier restaurants, so theyโ€™re great for a long, leisurely lunch.

There are heaps of wine tours in Margaret River too, so definitely consider booking one so you don’t have to worry about driving.

If wine isnโ€™t your thing, there are other epic tours – kayaking, surf lessons, mountain biking… here are the best ones if you’re keen!

Where to stay in Margaret River

There are heaps of places to stay in Margaret River, and for all kinds of budgets.

Click here to find more accommodation options in Margaret River!

Day 7: Margaret River

If you don’t have any tours for today, then this is your chance to dive deeper into everything Margaret River has to offer โ€“ beyond the wineries and chocolate you mightโ€™ve tried yesterday!

Start your day with a visit to Mammoth Cave, a massive limestone cave filled with fascinating rock formations and ancient fossils. Itโ€™s self-guided, so you can take your time exploring at your own pace. Here’s the entry ticket!

Next, head to the Boranup Karri Forest, just a short drive from the cave. The towering karri trees here are breathtaking, and thereโ€™s a scenic drive or walking trails to immerse yourself in the natural beauty.

For lunch, why not try something different? The Berry Farm is a local favourite, known for its delicious jams, chutneys, and berry wines. Their cafรฉ serves up everything from scones to hearty mains, so itโ€™s perfect for a midday break.

In the afternoon, hit up Surfers Point at Prevelly Beach, one of the regionโ€™s most famous surf spots. It’s for experienced surfers only – if you’re not confident enough, it’s still worth a visit to watch the pros!

By the end of the day, youโ€™ll see why Margaret River has something for everyone. You’ll have a hard time leaving!

And if none of this fits your fancy, this guide has everything to do in Margaret River! Check it out for more ideas.

Day 8: Margaret River to Augusta via Hamelin Bay (57km, 45 min)

Itโ€™s time to leave Margaret River and head south toward Augusta, with a must-visit stop at Hamelin Bay along the way!

Hamelin Bay Beach is a 30-minute drive from Margaret River. It’s an iconic spot where stingrays glide right up to the shore โ€“ theyโ€™re huge and sooo beautiful!

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They’re used to humans but please remember they’re still wild animals. Give them space, don’t be pushy and let them come to you.

There are some facilities and a kiosk if you want to buy some snacks while you’re on the beach. There’s also a great caravan park if you want to stay overnight! More info here.

On your way to Augusta, you could take a quick 5-minute detour to check out Jewel Cave, one of the largest show caves in WA.

There’s a 1-hour guided tour of Jewel Cave that takes you through the impressive chambers filled with sparkling stalactites, 100% recommended.

After that, go to Augusta and check into your accommodation. If you have energy left, definietly consider going to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse!

Itโ€™s the tallest lighthouse on mainland Australia and marks the point where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. You can go inside with a guided tour for epic views and some fascinating maritime history.

Settle in for the night because tomorrow, youโ€™ll explore Augusta even more!

Where to stay in Augusta

Augusta is a small town that attracts lots of tourists in high season, so make sure to book ahead!

There are great accommodation options there, like the Augusta Hotel Motel. The location is unbeatable and has good value for money.

Another solid option is the Turner Holiday Park. It’s on the riverside so the views are incredible, plus has powered and unpowered sites, cabins and chalets.

Click here to find more accommodation options in Augusta!

Day 9: Augusta

If you visit between May and August, definitely start your day with a whale-watching tour!

Humpback whales migrate through these waters every year and it’s incredible to see them up close, don’t miss the chance!

Plus, these whale-watching tours are in the morning and last around 2 hours. It will give you ample time to explore more of Augusta.

Here’s an epic whale-watching tour in Augusta, check it out!

If it’s not whale season during your visit, don’t worry. Start your day early with a kayak or paddleboard session on the Blackwood River.

The calm waters are perfect for beginners, and you might spot birds, fish, or even dolphins as you paddle along!

You could also do a part of the Cape to Cape Track. The trail has jaw-dropping views of the coastline and rugged cliffs, plus it’s iconic so consider doing it if you’re into hiking.

After a morning of activity, take it easy with a visit to the Augusta Historical Museum. Itโ€™s small but packed with fascinating insights into the townโ€™s maritime past and pioneering days.

Or you could go check out Flinders Bay โ€“ a perfect spot for swimming or just lazing on the beach! It’s also a prime location for whale watching, so donโ€™t forget your binoculars if you’re visiting in the season.

End your day with dinner back in town or pick up fish and chips to enjoy by the water!

There are way more things to do in Augusta, though. Here’s a guide with more ideas, places to eat, and more!

Day 10: Augusta to Pemberton (124km, 1h 20min)

Today, wake up early because youโ€™re heading inland to Pemberton, the heart of Western Australia’s Karri country. Get ready for towering forests!

On your way, take a quick detour to Beedelup Falls. It’s a beautiful 10-metre cascade that is particularly impressive during the wet season.

There’s a short 4.5-km hike there, too. It takes you around the surrounding forest and through a suspension bridge with spectacular views of the falls cascading.

Once you arrive in Pemberton, check into your accommodation and grab lunch. Then, it’s time to check out the most iconic attractions in the area – the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree and the Gloucester Tree!

They’re some of the tallest fire-lookout trees in the world. It’s hard to explain how awe-inspiring they are, you have to see them for yourself!

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At the time of writing, both trees are undergoing renovations. But if you’re feeling brave, you can climb the first 20 metres of the Dave Evans Bicentennial! Check the renovations’ latest updates here.

You can also walk through the surrounding trails – they are just as magical and far less terrifying.

Wrap up your day with a ride on the Pemberton Tramway, a heritage train that winds through forests and over old timber bridges!

Foodies can also go wine-tasting, or even go truffle-hunting.

There are more things to do in Pemberton, like Dโ€™Entrecasteaux National Park, which has sand dunes and it’s awesome for 4WD driving! This guide has all the things to do in Pemberton if you need more ideas, plus where to eat, etc.

Where to stay in Pemberton

Pemberton might be a small town but there are heaps of places to stay at.

The Pemberton Hotel is a great option right in the town centre. The Karri Forest Motel is another good alternative!

Click here to find more accommodation options in Pemberton.

Day 11: Pemberton to Denmark via Walpole (186km, 2h 10min)

Wake up early today! There’s plenty to do and the drive is one of the most scenic on the trip, as you’ll go through beautiful, dense forests on your way to Denmark.

Make sure to break the trip at Walpole-Nornalup National Park to walk the iconic Tree Top Walk in the Valley of the Giants!

The elevated walkway takes you 40 metres above ground, weaving through ancient Tingle trees. It’s a truly unforgettable experience.

Then back on the road, head toward Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks, near Denmark.

Greens Pool is perfect for a swim, with calm turquoise waters surrounded by granite boulders. While Elephant Rocks is a beach with massive rocks that look like, well, elephants wading through the sea.

Both are absolutely stunning and worth the stop (and a swim!).

If you do all these things, you’ll likely be in Denmark by late afternoon, or early evening. Grab dinner and sleep tight, tomorrow you’ll explore more of this lovely town before heading to the nearby Albany!

Where to stay in Denmark

The hotel 31 on the Terrace is a favourite because of its location – it’s in the heart of town and has good prices.

But if you want to be closer to nature, stay at Denmark Rivermouth Caravan Park. It’s at the mouth of the Denmark River so the views are incredible, plus powered sites, cabins, and chalets.

Another alternative is staying in Albany, which is a 40-minute drive away. It’s a bigger town, with more options than Denmark! We’ll give you accommodation options there further down.

Click here to find more accommodation options in Denmark!

Day 12: Denmark to Albany (55km, 40min)

Today you’ll spend most of the day in Denmark and do the short drive to Albany in the arvo.

Start off early by heading to the stunning Ocean Beach, perfect for snorkelling and swimming. If you’re more into hiking, then head to Mount Lindesaywildflowers bloom there year-round!

There are other beaches and hiking trails in Denmark, so check this guide if you want more ideas plus where to eat!

Then, make your way to the historic Albany.

Check into your accommodation, put on your swimsuit, and go straight to Emu Point Beach for a nice swim or to Middleton Beach for epic kitesurfing.

If you’d rather stay dry, go to the National Anzac Centre, an award-winning museum that tells the story of Australia and New Zealandโ€™s military history in WWI.

Or go to Albany’s Historic Whaling Station, another great museum about the whaling past of Albany, with a preserved whale-chasing ship.

Regardless of what you do, definitely head to the Wind Farm to end the day. It’s a beautiful spot which is also epic for whale-watching.

Sleep tight today because tomorrow will be jam-packed!

Where to stay in Albany

Albany is a big town compared to others you’ll visit throughout this road trip, so there are heaps of accommodation options.

Pelicans Albany is a favourite. It’s a hotel with an ideal location (Middleton Beach) and great value for money.

The local BIG4 Holiday Park is another great alternative and it’s right at the beach!

Click here to find more accommodation options in Albany!

Day 13: Albany

Today you’ll dive deep into the rugged beauty of Albany, in Torndirrup National Park. You’ll start at the award-winning Misery Beach.

This beach is a literal slice of paradise, with turquoise waters, white sand, plus great snorkelling and surfing!

If you are strong enough to leave, head to another gem – Goode Beach. It’s a bit more popular than Misery’s but still beautiful. Plus has facilities and you can grab lunch in the area.

Now, you can’t say you visited Albany if you didn’t go to The Gap and Natural Bridge, two jaw-dropping natural rock formations.

Thereโ€™s a viewing platform at The Gap that sits right over the roaring ocean โ€“ itโ€™s both thrilling and humbling!

If you’d rather hike instead of going to the beach, head to Bald Head Trail, one of the most scenic trails in the region.

Itโ€™s a 12.5 km return hike with breathtaking views of the coastline and dramatic cliffs, so make sure youโ€™re up for the challenge (and pack water and snacks).

If you’re keen on a shorter walk, the Point Possession Heritage Trail is a great alternative.

As you can see, there are heaps of things to do in Albany! Check this guide for more ideas, where to eat there, and tips for your visit.

Day 14: Albany to Perth (420km, 4h 40min)

The final day of your road trip takes you back to Perth along the inland route โ€“ around 420 km of driving and just under 5 hours on the road, not counting breaks.

While the scenery might not be as dramatic as the coast, there are some great spots to stop and stretch your legs!

First, Kojonup, a 1.5-hour drive from Albany. Grab a bit and stop by the Kodja Place to learn about local Noongar culture and the areaโ€™s history. There’s also a cool rose maze in the back for something unique before hitting the road again.

Your next pit stop is Williams, a 1-hour drive from Kojonup. Head to the iconic Williams Woolshed Cafรฉ for a bite to eat and a coffee. Their homemade pies and cakes are a standout!

From there, you’ll be in Perth in just under 2 hours.

Shorter itineraries if your time is tight

If it’s your first time in the area and you only have 5-7 days, stick to the basics! Here’s a modified version to make the most out of it:

NOTE: We recommend doing these shorter itineraries with a caravan. It’s way more convenient, as you won’t waste much time checking in and out of accommodations. We tell you more about renting a caravan for this road trip further down!

5-Day southwest itinerary

Stick to the south-west edge if you only have 5 days:

  • Day 1: Perth to Busselton

  • Day 2: Busselton, Dunsborough/Yallingup

  • Day 3: Margaret River Region

  • Day 4: Margaret River to Augusta

  • Day 5: Augusta to Perth via Bunbury

You’d essentially spend one day in each town. It’s not ideal, but it’s a solid option if you want to check all the highlights!

Alternatively, you could pick 1-2 towns and spend your 5 days between them (we’d recommend Busselton and Margaret River).

7-Day southwest itinerary

This is the minimum amount of time we’d recommend to also check out Denmark and Albany. You’d have to spend one day per town, so plan carefully:

  • Day 1: Perth to Busselton

  • Day 2: Busselton to Margaret River

  • Day 3: Margaret River to Augusta

  • Day 4: Augusta to Pemberton

  • Day 5: Pemberton to Denmark

  • Day 6: Denmark to Albany

  • Day 7: Albany to Perth

Another option is doing the same 5-day itinerary mentioned before but spending more time in each town, for a total of 7 days.

It’s a great alternative if you plan on visiting Perth in the future, because you can actually fly to Albany! You could rent a car at the airport and spend 5 days checking out Albany, Denmark, and Walpole.

…Or do another road trip but from Perth to Albany *wink*

Have more days? Add these spots

If youโ€™re lucky enough to have a few extra days to spare, here are two incredible destinations worth adding to your itinerary. These are more rugged, so make sure to stock up in Albany before heading there:

Bremer Bay (if you have at least 2-3 extra days)

Bremer Bay is about a 2-hour drive east of Albany, and itโ€™s worth every kilometre โ€“ especially during orca season (January to April).

Every year, dozens of orcas gather in the Bremer Canyon to feed – the largest gathering in the southern hemisphere!

We went on an orca tour there a while ago and it was life-changing. But it was a bit hard to pick which orca tour to do, hopefully this guide will save you some brainpower and help you choose.

But even outside of orca season, this area is packed with things to do, like exploring the stunning Fitzgerald River National Park. The park has beautiful beaches, epic hikes, and several lookouts to check out – it’s a must in the area.

The town also has pristine beaches, like Bremer Bay Beach, Blossoms Beach, or John Cove!

Wanna visit? Check out this post with all the things to do in Bremer Bay, where to eat, where to stay, and more!

Esperance (6-7 days)

Esperance is the ultimate add-on if youโ€™ve got a week or more to spare. It’s around 4 hours east of Bremer Bay (or ~5 hours from Albany).

The town is very remote, which is why we recommend spending 4-5 days there. Otherwise, it might not be worth the detour because there’s LOTS to do in Esperance!

For starters, there’s Cape Le Grand National Park and its stunning beaches like Lucky Bay, where you can meet friendly kangaroos lounging on the sand! Or Wharton Beach, our favourite beach in the whole country.

There’s also the epic Twilight Beach, often ranked among the best beaches in the country, and Hellfire Bay, another picture-perfect slice of paradise.

And if youโ€™re into hiking, climb Frenchman Peak for panoramic views of the park!

However, you can always do another road trip from Perth to Esperance, don’t force it because a south-west road trip already packs enough!

Wanna visit? Check out this post with all the things to do in Bremer Bay, where to eat, where to stay, and more!

Planning your road trip to Australia’s Southwest

A road trip through the southwest is one of the most incredible ways to explore Western Australia, but planning ahead is key to making the most of it.

Hereโ€™s everything you need to know before hitting the road:

Renting a car

Most of the southwest is accessible via sealed roads, so a standard car will get you to the main towns and attractions without any trouble.

If youโ€™re sticking to the main routes, you wonโ€™t need a 4WD.

But if youโ€™re planning to venture off the beaten track, like exploring some 4WD trails in the national parks, renting a high-clearance vehicle is a must.

You can rent a car from Perth and return it there at the end of your trip.

Compare options on websites like Rental Cars or Discover Cars to find the best deals for your specific trip!

Just make sure to double-check the mileage, preferably go with providers that offer unlimited mileage. Youโ€™ll cover a lot of ground and the extra fees can kill your budget later!

What about renting a caravan?

The southwest is the PERFECT place for caravanning.

There are plenty of caravan parks and campgrounds with excellent facilities along the route, plus the settings are jaw-dropping.

It’s also a convenient option if you’re short on time, as you won’t have to deal with check-ins almost daily. It can also save you money on accommodation and food!

You can rent a caravan in Perth and drop it off there once you’re back. These are some excellent providers:

Camping along the road

The southwest is dotted with campgrounds, from coastal spots to bush settings.

Most national parks and popular towns have paid campsites with basic amenities, and some even offer showers and powered sites. For free campsites, apps like Wikicamps are a lifesaver.

If youโ€™re on a tight budget, camping is a great way to save money โ€“ just be prepared for limited facilities at some sites.

Remember to book ahead for popular sites, especially during holidays and peak seasons, as they fill up quickly.

Access to National Parks

Western Australiaโ€™s southwest is home to incredible national parks, like Cape Le Grand, Fitzgerald River, and Dโ€™Entrecasteaux.

Some of them are free to enter, but others require a park pass per vehicle. You can purchase it online, though!

There are park passes for a single entry or for several days. The latter is often more cost-effective if youโ€™re visiting a few paid parks.

Check the official WA Parks and Wildlife Service website for the most up-to-date information on fees and passes!

Best time to do a road trip in the southwest

The best time for a southwest road trip is spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May).

The weather is mild, and spring brings the added bonus of wildflower season โ€“ youโ€™ll see the countryside come alive with colour!

Summer (December to February) can be great for the beaches, but itโ€™s also peak tourist season, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices.

Winter (June to August) is quieter and perfect for exploring forests and national parks, but it can get chilly and rainy, especially in the southern parts.

Free downloadable map of this Southwest road trip itinerary

โ†‘ Go back to top โ†‘

Top Tips

While the southwest is well-populated compared to WAโ€™s outback, you can still hit stretches where fuel stations are scarce.

Always keep an eye on your tank, especially if youโ€™re venturing to remote spots like Bremer Bay or Esperance. Major towns like Busselton, Margaret River, and Albany have plenty of options, but smaller towns often have just one servo that closes early.

Also, many areas (especially around national parks or remote beaches), have little to no mobile coverage. Always have a downloaded map handy on your phone.

Did you know?

The Cape to Cape Track, stretching 123 km between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, is deeply significant to the local Noongar Wadandi people, the Traditional Owners of the land.

The track passes through areas rich in Aboriginal heritage, including sacred sites and ancient songlines, which were traditional routes used for navigation and storytelling.

Also, Fitzgerald River National Park is one of the most biodiverse areas in Australia, home to nearly 20% of WAโ€™s plant species!

Over 1,800 plant species thrive here, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.

The parkโ€™s unique environment has attracted botanists from around the world, and it was one of the first places in Australia to be designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its global ecological importance.

FAQs

Do you need a 4WD to drive through South West Australia?

No, you donโ€™t need a 4WD to drive through Southwest Australia, as most major routes and attractions are accessible via sealed roads. However, a 4WD is useful if you plan to explore remote areas like 4WD-only tracks in Fitzgerald River National Park or rugged coastal spots.

The bottom line

And thatโ€™s a wrap on your South West Australia road trip!

From rolling hills to stunning national parks, and that marine life-rich coast, this adventure packs a bit of everything that makes this region so unforgettable.

Youโ€™ll be snorkelling in Busselton, hiking through towering forests in Pemberton, or spotting stingrays at Hamelin Bay, leaving with a camera full of memories and a heart full of wanderlust.

Before you hit the road, stock up in major towns, plan your stops, and pack for all kinds of weather โ€“ itโ€™s part of the charm of exploring Western Australia!

Now, all thatโ€™s left to do is load up the car, turn on your favourite road trip playlist, and hit the open road. Adventureโ€™s waiting, and trust us โ€“ youโ€™re in for an epic time!

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

Weโ€™ve spent 10+ years exploring Western Australia. This free guide gives you the places weโ€™d send our mates to.
โœ… Sorted by region
โœ… Hidden beaches, hikes + 4WD tracks
โœ… How long to stay, best times to go
๐ŸŽ Bonus map to make planning stupid easy

Our Essential Travel Toolkit

๐Ÿคฉ Wise Card – Online bank to hold money in different currencies worldwide and lowest fees in the market! (FREE debit card here)

๐Ÿคฉ Trip.com โ€“ Consistently great accommodation and hotel deals.

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๐Ÿคฉ Rentalcars.com โ€“ Best range, super easy to compare prices rental car and motorhome prices.

๐Ÿคฉ Viator.com – Easily book tours and experiences at the lowest rate. Great selection all over Australia.

๐Ÿคฉ Tripadvisor.com โ€“ Other than our website…๐Ÿ˜‰ the best place to find things to do

๐Ÿคฉ Airalo – eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving travelers access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards).

๐Ÿคฉ Caravan RV Camping โ€“ 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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