19 Epic Things to Do in Bremer Bay, Best Time To Visit, And Tips To Plan Your Trip

Bremer Bay is your go-to destination if you’re looking for pristine beaches, solid surfing, and orcas!

The town is on the south coast of Western Australia, about a 5.5-hour drive from Perth. Getting there is a road trip in itself, but it’s absolutely worth it.

One of the most extraordinary things to do here is seeing orcas in the wild. The experience is hard to describe, but everyone should do it at least once (even if you get a bit seasick like Bec!).

Bremer Bay is also the gateway to Fitzgerald River National Park, famous for its untouched beaches and scenic hikes, not to mention the spectacular wildflower displays in spring.

The best time to visit is in summer as it also coincides with orca-watching. But other seasons have unique advantages too, which we’ll discuss further down.

This guide has all the essential things to do in Bremer Bay, as well as tips to help you plan your visit -best time to come, where to stay, where to eat, and more!

19 Essential Things To Do In Bremer Bay

Bremer Bay is all about the beaches and the marine life, here are the best things to do there:

1) Watch the orcas (killer whales)

Around 150-200 orcas come to Bremer Bay’s waters to feed every year, from January to March/April.

This special phenomenon is unique to this area of the southern hemisphere, because of the Bremer Canyon – a deep-sea trench teeming with marine life.

The canyon’s currents bring up nutrients from the deep, attracting smaller sea life like fishes and squids. This, in turn, attracts bigger predators like orcas and other whales!

It’s 100% worth doing a tour to see the orcas up close.

The experience itself is unparalleled, plus it’s almost impossible to spot them from the shore since they’re usually hanging out further offshore.

We recommend booking your tour on the first day of your trip if possible – you’ll have ample time to reschedule if needed!

Also, bring seasick tablets if you’re prone. When we went, the ocean was really choppy and Bec had nausea after a while… Still worth it, though!

Here’s our complete guide on the best orca tours in Bremer Bay, with recommendations from our personal experience.

🤩 The best tour to see orcas in the wild is this one! It’s a full-day expedition where you’ll see all kinds of marine animals, not only killer whales: Bremer Bay Orca Experience

2) Go whale-watching

Bremer Bay is not just about orcas – it’s also a prime spot for whale-watching!

Between June and October, you can catch a glimpse of humpback and southern right whales as they migrate along the southern ocean.

The best vantage spots to see whales in Bremer Bay are:

• Point Ann, it offers views of the ocean and Point Charles Bay.

• Fishery Beach, most whale-watching tours depart from here.

They are epic for whale watching, especially during peak migration times. But a good pair of binoculars is a must.

If you truly want to see them, hop on a whale-watching tour. The excitement, awe, and adrenaline from seeing a whale breaching is really hard to match!

3) Check out Bremer Beach

Bremer Beach is one of the town’s gems, located just a stone’s throw from the town centre, about a 10-minute drive, right here.

The ease of access from the town means you can decide on a beach day on the fly without needing to pack for a trek!

It’s a fantastic spot for swimming, with stretches of water that are calm enough for all ages to enjoy. There’s good beach fishing, too.

And if you’ve got a 4WD, you can take advantage of some of the accessible beach driving spots. There are also dune systems nearby, which make for epic 4WD adventures!

4) Relax at John Cove

John Cove’s a little slice of paradise at a 5-minute drive from the town centre, right here.

It’s close enough that you could even cycle or have a decent walk if you’re up for it, which is perfect for those wanting to soak in the scenic views along the way.

Once you’re there, John Cove is a prime spot for swimming, with waters generally calmer than what you’d find at the more exposed beaches.

This makes it ideal for families or anyone keen on a relaxing dip. Kayaking is another popular pick, as well as the fishing – the jetty here is a favourite among locals.

5) Blossoms Beach for surfing

Blossoms Beach is a real beauty, sitting at a 10-minute drive from town, right here.

This spot is well-loved for its squeaky white sand, great 4WD driving, and excellent surfing conditions, making it a standout beach in the region.

The surfing here is epic, with waves that cater to both beginners and experienced surfers.

There are rocks at one end of the beach that are great for a bit of rock hopping or spotting some local marine life in the rock pools.

6) Back Beach for more surfing

Back Beach is another excellent surfing spot closer to town, at a 5-minute drive, right here.

The surf consistently delivers, offering up a mix of conditions that cater to both newbies trying to stand up on a board for the first time and seasoned surfers looking for a challenge.

The waves also create the perfect conditions for bodyboarding and skimboarding.

Plus, the beach is pretty long, making it perfect for long walks or just chilling around with a book.

7) Spend a family day at Short Beach

Short Beach is known for its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a 10-minute drive from the town centre, right here.

The beach is ideal for swimming, thanks to its sheltered location and gentle waves. Plus the shallow waters near the shore make it a perfect place for kids to splash around safely.

It’s also a popular spot for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

8) Go boating at Fishery Beach

Fishery Beach is the go-to if you’re after a bit more of an adventure. It’s a 10-minute drive from town, right here.

The beach has a boat ramp if you want to go fishing further away from the shore. The waters here are teeming with marine life, making it a great spot for diving as well.

Most whale-watching tours depart from here, so it might get a bit crowded during the season.

For those who prefer to stay on land, the beach offers stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset, and is a great place for a peaceful walk along the shore.

9) Get away from the crowd in Little Boat Harbour

This quaint little beach is a 15-minute drive from town, right here. It isn’t your typical tourist destination, it’s more of a quiet retreat away from the crowded spots.

It’s an excellent spot for snorkelling, with clear waters and plenty of marine life to check out. Fishing is another popular activity, with the harbour waters being home to a variety of fish species.

Just remember, it’s a bit secluded, so bring along whatever you might need for the day, as there aren’t any shops around.

10) Explore Fitzgerald River National Park

Fitzgerald River National Park is an absolute (and massive) gem next to Bremer Bay.

Covering over 300,000 hectares, it’s one of the most biodiverse spots in Western Australia, if not the whole country.

The park is a bit of a drive from the town centre (around 45 minutes) but getting there is part of the adventure, with landscapes that change from coastal dunes to bush scrub and rugged hills.

Once in the park, there’s a heap to do, especially if you’re keen on nature!

There are unspoiled beaches, such as:

• Whalebone Beach

• Trigelow Beach

• Tooregullup Beach

• House Beach

• Peppermint Beach

There are lots of walking trails that range from easy strolls to full-day hikes, taking you through some stunning scenery and past unique plant species you won’t find anywhere else.

Birdwatching is another top activity, with the park being home to endangered species like the western ground parrot.

11) Try the Point Ann Heritage Trail

The Point Ann Heritage Trail is in Fitzgerald River National Park, right here. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking to stretch your legs and soak up some nature and history.

This trail is about a 2.5-kilometre loop, so it’s not going to knock you over with exhaustion but gives you plenty to see and do along the way.

It’s pretty manageable for most people, making it a good pick for families or anyone who wants to enjoy a leisurely walk with stunning views, especially of the coastline and the surrounding bushland.

The trail map is here!

12) Hike the East Mount Barren

East Mount Barren offers a short yet challenging hike up to the top, with jaw-dropping views of the ocean and the area. It’s in Fitzgerald River National Park, right here.

This track stretches out to about 3 kilometres return, so it’s a bit of a hike but nothing you can’t handle if you’ve got a reasonable level of fitness.

The path takes you up the side of East Mount Barren, and while it’s a bit of a climb, reaching the summit is worth every step for the panoramic views you’re rewarded with.

The hike is considered moderate to hard, mainly because of the steep sections and the rough terrain in parts. Good hiking boots are a must, as they’ll help you tackle the rocky and sometimes slippery sections.

The trail map is here!

13) Enjoy the wildflower season

Wildflower season in Fitzgerald River National Park is an absolute spectacle, kicking off around July and stretching all the way through to November.

The park explodes into colour, with thousands of plant species coming into bloom. For the aficionados, the wildflower species you’ll see here include:

• Fitzgerald River Daisy

• The Royal Hakea

• Qualup Bell, among others

When exploring, it’s crucial to stick to the paths to protect the fragile environment, and not wander off amongst the flowers.

This is because some of these plants are pretty rare and you could bring damaging bacteria on your shoe, which could seriously harm them.

If you’re keen on learning, consider snagging a wildflower guidebook or joining a guided tour to get a better understanding of the flora you’re seeing.

14) 4WDing on the beach

4WDing on the beach is a bit of a thrill, especially around Bremer Bay where you’ve got that perfect mix of stunning coastal views and challenging sandy tracks.

Plus, it gives you the chance to find those secluded spots that are off the beaten track, perfect for fishing, surfing, or just enjoying the peace and quiet away from the crowds.

Blossoms Beach, Peppermint Beach, and Dillon Bay are solid picks for beach 4WDing. Both offer a decent challenge for drivers and have enough space to manoeuvre without feeling too crowded.

Just remember to follow all safety regulations and be aware of your surroundings when tackling these challenging tracks.

15) Go birdwatching at the Wellstead Estuary

The Wellstead Estuary is right here, where the river meets the sea. This creates a unique ecosystem that’s a magnet for a diverse range of birdlife, such as:

• Black swans

• Rainbow bee-eaters

• Hooded plovers

• Ospreys

For those wanting to stretch their legs, the estuary walk is a pleasant 2-kilometre loop that lets you take in the sights and sounds of this unique area.

It’s an easy walk, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and offers plenty of opportunities to spot the local birdlife along the way. Here’s the trail map.

16) Visit the Wellstead Museum

The Wellstead Museum is full of artifacts (around 6,000) and displays that tell the story of the Wellstead family, one of the region’s early settlers. It’s right here, a 6-minute drive from town.

You’ll see everything from vintage farm equipment to personal items that give you a real sense of the grit and resilience of those early days.

And before you head off, check out the museum’s café. It’s a great spot to grab a cup of coffee and something sweet before leaving.

Awesome spots at driving distance from Bremer Bay

Bremer Bay is located on the southern coast of Western Australia, serving as a midway point between the popular southwest and more remote areas like Esperance.

That’s why we recommend seizing the privileged location and spending at least one day in any of these nearby spots:

17) Albany

If you plan on driving back to Perth, make sure to stop in Albany.

It’s around a 2-hour drive west from Bremer Bay and it’s a change of pace from Bremer Bay’s laid-back vibe, offering up a blend of urban and outdoor activities.

Things to do here in one day include:

• Visiting the Albany Whaling Station and the Anzac Centre.

• Exploring Torndirrup National Park, where you can check out the Natural Bridge and The Gap.

Keep reading: More things to do in Albany, Western Australia

18) Denmark

As you continue your way back to Perth, make sure to stop in Denmark. It’s a 40-minute drive from Albany (2.5 hours from Bremer Bay).

If you’re looking to switch gears from the seaside to sipping wine and wandering through tall tree forests, Denmark’s your place.

Things to do here in one day include:

• Hitting up a local winery.

• Doing the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk.

• Swimming at the iconic Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks.

Keep reading: 17 Things to do in Denmark (iconic spots, hidden gems, and tips for planning your visit)

19) Esperance

If you want to explore the real unspoiled beauty of Western Australia, go further east, to Esperance.

It’s a bit of a drive (4 hours) so we recommend staying at least one night here – the trip is totally worth it for the jaw-droppingly beautiful beaches alone.

This town has got some of the whitest sand and bluest water you’ll ever see. Things to do here in one day include:

• Exploring Cape Le Grand National Park, especially Lucky Bay, where kangaroos are known to lounge on the sand.

• Drive the Great Ocean Drive, a 40-kilometre loop that takes you past some of the area’s most scenic coastal spots.

• Climbing Frenchman’s Peak for incredible panoramic views of the national park and beyond.

Keep reading: 18 things to do in Esperance that should be on every itinerary

Best time to visit Bremer Bay

The best time to visit Bremer Bay is generally in the summer months, from December to February.

It coincides with the orca season (January-April), plus the weather is perfect for hitting the beaches, snorkelling, surfing, and kayaking.

The downside is that it also coincides with the local school holidays, so expect crowds.

However, June to early October is an excellent time to visit as well.

The waters might be too cold for swimming, but it coincides with whale-watching and wildflower season! Plus the weather is excellent for hiking, too.

How to get to Bremer Bay?

Bremer Bay is on the south coast of Western Australia. You can get there by plane, car, bus, or with a tour:

Getting there by plane

The nearest airport is in Albany, a 2-hour drive from Bremer Bay.

If you have more days to spare, consider flying from Perth to Esperance, staying a few days there, and then going to Bremer Bay!

Whatever you decide, we recommend using Trip.com to book your flights. We’ve used them a few times and they really find the cheapest deals available (even cheaper than booking directly from the airline sometimes).

As for car rentals, Rental Cars is the best one out there. They check all the providers available to find you the best deals, even in airports as small as Albany’s or Esperance’s.

Getting there by car

The drive from Perth to Bremer Bay takes 5-6 hours, covering about 515km. We recommend stopping midway, at Kojonup, to stretch your legs and grab a coffee.

Mobile service can be patchy once you start getting closer to Bremer Bay, so download a map ahead of time (and maybe a solid playlist, too)t.

Also, keep in mind that the roads in rural WA can be a bit wild with kangaroos, especially around dawn and dusk, so keep your eyes peeled.

Getting there by coach

This is the cheapest way to get to Bremer Bay, but it’s a bit cumbersome. You’d have to take a bus from Perth to Jerramungup (route GE1), and from there hire a cab to Bremer Bay.

You can book your tickets, check the info on the timetables, and more on TransWa’s website.

How many days to stay in Bremer Bay?

We recommend staying 3-4 days in Bremer Bay. This will give you a solid chance to dive into the area’s diverse attractions without feeling rushed.

You’ll have enough time to explore the key sights, like the beaches and Fitzgerald National Park, and hop on an orca tour.

If you want to go whale-watching, make sure to book that tour on the first day or two of your visit. This will give you wiggle room to reschedule if the tour is postponed due to the weather.

And if you want to enjoy the wildflower season, it may be best to be a bit flexible with your dates. The season is usually between August to October, but it may start earlier or later depending on the weather.

Best places to stay in Bremer Bay

If we had to choose, we prefer to stay in a caravan. It can be cheaper than renting a car, plus accommodation, plus eating out because you have all of that in one place.

Caravans also allow you to explore at your own pace, plus if you’re visiting several destinations, you don’t have to pack-unpack at every stop.

If you want to rent one, definitely rent a JUCY campervan. You can pick up and drop off from most big airports and they have campervans for 2-5 people! Star RV is another great option if you want to rent premium caravans.

That said, if you prefer a more traditional accommodation, here are the best places to stay in Bremer Bay:

• Best stay: Bremer Bay Resort. This 3-star hotel is also a budget-friendly option. It’s in the town centre and has an excellent restaurant. There are room options for up to 5 people.

• Best for families and groups:  Pointviews Views. It’s a home with 3 rooms and 3 bathrooms, at a 10-minute drive from town. It’s perfect to connect with nature. Sleeps up to 8.

• Best caravan park: Bremer Bay Caravan Park. The location is excellent – next to the estuary and at walking distance from the beach. Has chalets, budget cabins, and powered sites.

Where to eat in Bremer Bay?

Bremer Bay is a small town, so there are only a handful of places to eat there:

• The Roadhouse – Hooked and Cooked ($$) is where you go to have a nice lunch with big servings. The fish and chips here are a must.

• The Telegraph On Bremer ($$) has a few brekky options (all of them mouth-watering), good coffee, and delicious sweet treats.

• Orcas Coffee Company ($) is a coffee van down Bremer Bay Road, on the way to John Cove. The coffee is in-cre-di-ble.

• Bremer Bay Brewing Company ($$) is a small family business known for its brews and the nice atmosphere of the restaurant.

• Bremer Bay Resort Restaurant ($$) it’s a restaurant in Bremer Bay Resort. It has a varied menu with great breakfast and lunch options.

Top Tips

Fitzgerald River National Park has park entry fees, but you can purchase them online.

A car is essential for getting around, as many attractions are spread out across the region. Some tracks require a 4WD vehicle, so plan accordingly if you’re considering off-roading adventures.

Mobile reception can be patchy in and around Bremer Bay, particularly as you venture into more remote spots like the Fitzgerald River National Park. It’s a good idea to download offline maps.

Also, given the town’s remote location, services like fuel stations and grocery stores can be limited outside of the main town area. Plan accordingly by stocking up on essentials and keeping your fuel tank topped up.

The ocean around Bremer Bay is stunning but can be unpredictable. Always swim at patrolled beaches, if available, and heed local advice on ocean conditions, especially regarding rips and currents.

Did you know?

Fitzgerald River National Park, bordering Bremer Bay, is internationally recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its incredible biodiversity.

The park is home to over 1,800 species of plants, 75 of which are found nowhere else in the world! This makes it one of the most botanically significant parks in Australia.

The area around Bremer Bay is known for its significant Aboriginal heritage, with the Noongar people being the traditional custodians of the land.

The Noongar have a deep spiritual connection to the region, with its lands and waters playing a crucial role in their culture, traditions, and survival for thousands of years.

FAQs

The bottom line

Bremer Bay is not your average coastal town. It’s a place where you can genuinely switch off from the world and dive headfirst into nature.

Whether you’re all about the thrill of spotting orcas and whales in their majestic natural habitat, keen to wander among vibrant wildflowers that aren’t seen anywhere else, or just stoked to catch some waves, Bremer Bay’s got you covered!

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your camera, and set off for Bremer Bay! It’s time to tick this remarkable place off your bucket list.