17 Things To Do In Denmark, WA: Iconic Spots, Hidden Gems, And Tips For Planning Your Trip

Denmark (Western Australia) is a quaint and charming town in the southwest. It has stunning beaches, ancient forests, delicious wine, and mouth-watering food.

…No wonder why it’s one of the gems of this side of the state, it has it all.

You can start your day in the ocean, at Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks. Then finish it in the forest, doing the awe-inspiring Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk.

Plus, it’s about 420 kilometres southeast of Perth, making for an excellent road trip along this side of the state.

The climate is excellent year-round, but the best time to visit is definitely summer. We explain why further down, as well as the advantages of visiting in other seasons.

Now, there are many things to do there (we counted 17!), so planning your trip can be a bit overwhelming.

But this guide will take care of that. You’ll know all the things to do in Denmark, cool nearby spots to check out, where to eat, where to stay, and more!

17 Best things to do in Denmark, Western Australia

Here are the activities and attractions that make Denmark a must-visit spot in the southwest:

1) Greens Pool

Greens Pool is a stunning spot in William Bay National Park. It’s a peaceful place known for its clear and calm turquoise waters.

There are a few big rocks that protect the pool from the Southern Ocean waves, making it perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or just chilling on the sandy beach!

Plus, it’s a 10-minute walk distance from another famous spot… Elephant Rocks!

2) Elephant Rocks

Elephant Rocks genuinely lives up to its name.

It’s a secluded section of the coast with massive, rounded granite boulders that, from the right angle, look eerily like a herd of elephants chilling in the shallow waters.

Getting there is part of the adventure. You’ll walk from the parking area, through some bushes and down a set of stairs. It’s accessible yet feels worlds away from the bustle.

And the clear water is perfect for a dip. Plus, the surroundings add a lush, green backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the “elephants.”

3) Marvel at the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk

The Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk is an epic adventure spot nestled in the heart of the Walpole-Nornalup National Park. It’s a 40-minute drive west of Denmark.

It’s a 600-metre long circular walkway hanging 40 metres above the ground… and it’s wheelchair accessible! So, anyone can enjoy the spectacular views of the forest.

This attraction was opened in 1996. It was designed to protect the precious roots of the tingle forest while allowing visitors – some of these trees are over 400 years old! We must protect them.

4) Ancient Empire Walk

After enjoying the treetop views, you must do the Ancient Empire walk!

It’s a 650-metre-long boardwalk on the forest floor. It zigzags through it, taking you close to these ancient trees and its inhabitants.

Most of it is wheelchair-accessible too.

It’s a dirt track in and a little climb in the car, so don’t be deterred when you turn off the pavement! The drive is a sight in itself as well.

5) Climb Monkey Rock

Monkey Rock is perfect for those who love a good hike with a unforgettable view.

The top of this granite outcrop gives you a jaw-dropping view over the Southern Ocean and the lush, green surrounds.

The hike itself takes around 30-40 minutes (it’s 2km long). The trail is very well-kept but somewhat steep, so be prepared for a bit of a workout.

At the top your rewarded with 360 views all around the coast and Denmark. It’s one of the best sunset locations in Australia. In our humble opinion.

It’s a must-do during wildflower season – the whole area explodes with colour!

6) Hit the waves at Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is an iconic beach in the area, as it’s one of the best surfing spots in the area. It’s has something for every level, plus the waves are pretty consistent.

You can also do other water sports, like kite surfing and stand-up paddleboarding – you can’t go wrong with either!

However, if you want to stay dry, you can still enjoy this beach. There are excellent hiking trails nearby, like a section of the famous Bibbulmun Track.

Plus, you might spot kangaroos on the beach during the early mornings or late afternoons – Lucky Bay in Esperance is not the only place in the southwest where you can see them!

The ocean here is teeming with life too, so it’s a good spot for fishing or even just keeping an eye out for dolphins and whales during their migration season.

7) Enjoy Lights Beach

Lights Beach is another gem nestled in William Bay National Park. The coastline is a bit wilder, with rock formations, cliffs, and an ocean that can go from calm to rough in no time.

This means it’s not good for swimming… but it’s excellent for experienced surfers! The fishing is great as well.

The beach itself is beautiful, ideal for a coastal walk. And there are some epic trails to explore the surroundings, with lookout points where you can just stand and soak it all in.

8) Don’t miss Waterfall Beach

Waterfall Beach is also in William Bay National Park and it’s a bit off the beaten track, but it’s absolutely worth it.

The beach gets its name from a small waterfall that cascades down the rocks directly onto the sand. The waterfall is particularly impressive after a heavy rain.

But the waterfall isn’t the only thing to do here.

The beach itself is stunning and sheltered, making it a fantastic spot for swimming and snorkelling. Especially for families or those who prefer calmer waters.

9) Chill at Peaceful Bay

The name itself gives you a hint of what to expect, doesn’t it?

This little coastal spot is between Denmark and Walpole, and it’s just as you think it will be – peaceful, serene, and just downright beautiful.

The bay itself is sheltered, with calm waters. It’s an excellent spot for families, as the kids can splash around safely while the adults relax on the pristine sandy beach.

It’s perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, too!

10) Wilson Inlet

This is a massive and calm body of water, and it’s the backdrop for the town of Denmark.

It stretches over about 22 kilometres, it’s fed by the Denmark and Hay rivers, and it opens out to the Southern Ocean.

The inlet is a haven for wildlife, like waterbirds and black swans. In fact, it’s called Koorabup in the Noongar language, which means “The place of the black swan”.

There are lots of outdoor activities to do, too – kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and lots of trails to hike, like the Denmark-Nornalup Heritage Trail.

11) Hike Mount Lindesay to see wildflowers

The hike up Mount Lindesay is a bit of a trek – it’s 10km long and steep at times, but the views are absolutely worth it.

Plus, the trail takes you through different types of vegetation, from karri and marri forests to heathlands, each offering its own unique beauty.

The views start to open up as you get higher. By the time you reach the summit, you’re rewarded with panoramic views that are simply breathtaking.

Now, imagine enjoying all those views during the wildflower season!

Locals know this is one of the best places in the south to enjoy the wildflower season. The area becomes a carpet of colour, with flowers blooming in every direction you look.

12) Harewood Forest

The Harewood Forest is a 10-minute drive from Denmark. It’s a peaceful escape into nature, offering you something a bit different from the pristine beaches the region is famous for.

There’s a short loop walk that takes you around the stunning karri trees. The sunlight filters through the leaves in a way that’s just magical.

Plus, the walk itself isn’t too demanding and it’s pretty short – it’s only 1.5 kilometres long. It’s perfect to stretch your legs somewhere different and enjoy a different and unique landscape.

13) Go wine, cheese, and chocolate-tasting

The Denmark region is a bit of an underappreciated gem when it comes to food and wine – Margaret River usually steals the show.

That said, the wines here are top-notch. There’s a wide variety of wineries, from small family-owned operations to more established vineyards.

Popular wineries include Singlefile Wines, Monkey Rock Winery & Cider, and Forest Hill Wines.

Then, you’ve got the cheese, which local producers craft themselves. Lots of places pair their cheese tastings with their wines, so you’ll likely try both if you go to a wine or cheese-tasting experience.

The best place to get both would be Ducketts Mill Wines & Cheese farmhouse.

And let’s not forget the chocolate. Denmark has some fantastic chocolatiers who are doing exciting things with quality cocoa and local ingredients all the time!

Head to the Denmark Chocolate Company for the best chocolates in town.

🤩 Wine connoisseurs can’t miss this behind-the-scenes tour of Singlefile Wines, with a special tasting along the vines: ‘A Sense of Place’ Singlefile Wines Tour & Tasting

14) Denmark Historical Museum

The Denmark Historical Museum has an impressive collection of over 1000 artefacts – photographs, documents, tools… all of them showcasing the town’s history.

It’s run by volunteers, who are passionate about the history of the area and are usually more than happy to share anecdotes and insights that you won’t find in any guidebook.

15) Denmark Thrills Adventure Park

Here’s where you go to let your inner child loose!

It has the world’s longest globe-riding track. So if you’ve ever wanted to get into a plastic bubble and run away from your problems (or not), this is where you do it!

There’s lots of fun for all ages, including trampolines, ziplines, wall-climbing, high ropes courses, and more.

The park is designed to cater for people from all levels and interests – from the cautious first-timer to the seasoned thrill-seeker.

16) Denmark Dinosaur World

Denmark Dinosaur World is packed with cool activities, for kids and adults alike. It’s a 30-minute drive from town.

The key feature is the life-sized dinosaur replicas. Imagine standing next to a Tyrannosaurus Rex or a Brachiosaurus… Well, you can do that here.

This place also houses a bird and reptile park. There, you’ll meet a range of modern-day reptiles, birds, and kangaroos!

17) Denmark Animal Farm

Denmark Animal Farm is a hit with families, but also with animal lovers and anyone looking to enjoy a bit of the countryside vibe in Denmark.

It’s an interactive experience where you can feed, pet, and even cuddle some of the farm’s furry (and not-so-furry) inhabitants.

Alpacas, camels, goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and even kangaroos come right up to nibble food from your palm. It’s a great way to learn about them, all while having a bit of fun.

Awesome spots near Denmark, WA

Denmark is incredible, but there are a few incredible spots at a short drive! Don’t miss the opportunity to check them out during your visit:

• Walpole, at a 40-minute drive east. Here’s the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk! Other attractions include the Circular Pool, Fernhook Falls, and Conspicuous Cliff.

• Pemberton, at a 2-hour drive east. Attractions here include the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree, Beedelup Falls, and Warren River.

• Albany, at a 40-minute drive west. Here you can visit The Gap, the Natural Bridge, and the Blowholes in Torndirrup National Park, among other things.

• Bremer Bay, a 2.5-hour drive west. You can watch whales and orcas, check out the famous Fitzgerald River National Park, and more.

Road-trip fanatics may notice these destinations could make for a great road trip… And you’re not wrong! We talk more about how to fit Denmark in a road trip further down.

When is the best time to visit Denmark WA?

The best time to visit Denmark (WA) is in the summer, from December to February. The weather is ideal for outdoor and water-based activities – swimming, snorkelling, surfing, kitesurfing, SUP, etc.

Plus, it’s not as hot as Kalbarri, for example, a touristic area north of Perth known for being dangerously hot during summer.

The downside is that summer is also the peak season. So you’ll have to book your accommodation ahead of time.

The second best time would be in autumn, from March to May. It’s not as busy and the weather is still good for water activities.

However, there are things you can only do at other times of the year:

• Winter (June to August) is whale watching season, where you can see these gentle giants migrating through these waters.

• Spring (September to November) is wildflower season, where the landscape transforms into a display of colour.

That said, good wine and great food will be there year-round!

How to get to Denmark, WA?

Denmark is on the south coast of Western Australia. It’s a bit remote, but you can get there by plane, car, or bus.

Getting there by plane

It’s the quickest way to get to Denmark.

You’ll have to book a 1-hour flight from Perth to Albany, the nearest airport. Once there, rent a car or hire a taxi to take you to Denmark, which is a 40-minute drive.

This means you’ll go from Perth to Denmark in less than 2 hours!

We recommend using Trip.com to book your flights, as they find the cheapest deals available.

As for car rentals, RentalCars is your go-to.

Albany’s airport is a bit small, so there isn’t a wide variety of providers, but Rental Cars will find you the cheapest deal even there. You can pick up your vehicle at the airport and drop it off there or somewhere else.

Getting there by car

It’s a 4.5-5 hour drive to get from Perth to Denmark if you go via the inland route, through the Albany Highway/State Route 30. Stop midway to stretch your legs, in Kojonup.

You could return to Perth the same way, or via Margaret River if you have 2-3 more days to spare!

Due to the location of Denmark, it’s an excellent stop on a few road trips:

• From Perth to Esperance – go to Esperance inland and return to Perth via Margaret River

• From Perth to Bremer Bay – a shorter version of the previous road trip

• A road trip around the Southwest, where you visit every single spot in this part of Western Australia.

Driving is our favourite way to get to Denmark (and anywhere to be honest) because of all the freedom it gives you.

And it’s even better if you stay in a caravan! We recommend going to StarRV for that. Their caravans and in top condition, the prices are excellent, and have options for up to 6 people!

Getting there by coach

This is the cheapest way to get to Denmark. It’s best if you don’t plan on exploring nearby towns, or are travelling solo and don’t want to drive the entire way there.

TransWa has coaches that take you from Perth to Denmark in 8-9 hours, dropping you in Hollings Road. It’s the route GS3 Perth to Albany via Bunbury and Walpole.

Check the info on the timetables and costs on their website.

How many days to stay in Denmark (WA)?

We recommend staying for at least 3 nights in Denmark to really enjoy all the fun things to do and see there. This will give you plenty of time to check out the area’s beautiful national parks, clean beaches, and lovely town centre.

If you want to see more, like Walpole, Albany, etc, we recommend adding 2-3 more days. And if you want to explore the Margaret River region, the sky is the limit!

Top accommodations in Denmark (WA

There are dozens of accommodation options in Denmark, catering to all needs and budgets. These are the best ones:

• Best stay: Bear’s Den. It’s in Ocean Beach, so it’s perfect for connecting with nature while having Denmark Town a stone-throw away. Plus the price is great and sleeps up to 6.

• Best budget-friendly stay: 31 on the Terrace. This 3-star hotel has a privileged location – right in the centre of town. And has options from 1 to 4 people.

• Best for families and groups: Braidwood Escape Denmark. This holiday home sleeps up to 10 people and has everything – even a hot tub and a fireplace. It’s really close to town, too.

• Best caravan park: Denmark Rivermouth Caravan Park. This caravan park is at the mouth of the Denmark River, making for spectacular views. Has cabins for 3-6 people, powered and unpowered sites.

• Best luxury option: Aiyana Retreat. Wanna pamper yourself? Come here. It’s a beautiful retreat with chalets and villas surrounded by lush bushland.

Where to eat in Denmark, WA

Denmark is a bit of a foodie haven, with cafes and restaurants that often feature local produce. Here are some of the best ones:

• Kebab & Gozleme House ($) is your budget-friendly choice, with delicious food and great portions. It’s in the heart of town.

• Massimo’s Place ($$) is famous for its mouth-watering pizzas and fun toppings, like prawn with chorizo. Also in the centre of town.

• Mrs Jones Cafe ($$) is this cozy café in the town centre. The coffee is top notch and it’s your best option for a delicious brunch or some sweet treats.

• The Lake House ($$) is the place to be if you want some of the best wine in the area along with your mouth-watering meal. And the views are iconic, it’s surrounded by woods.

• Pepper & Salt Restaurant ($$$) is where you go for a fine dining experience. Choose from a set of menus and let your tastebuds get some love. Book in advance!

Top Tips

If you’re visiting during summer, be aware of bushfire risks. Stay informed about fire bans and follow local guidelines. Always check the My Fire Watch website for updates.

Also, keep in mind that Denmark is home to a variety of wildlife, including snakes and spiders. Be careful when hiking spots like Monkey Rock or Mount Lindesay. Wear protective footwear!

As for the beaches – they’re absolutely stunning, but the ocean on this side of the country can be unpredictable. Be cautious of strong currents and rips, especially at unpatrolled beaches.

Did you know?

Denmark was named like so not because of the Nordic country, but after a surgeon named Alexander Denmark. He was a naval commissioner for the Royal Navy back in 1829.

This naming commemorates the contributions of individuals who played a significant role in the exploration and mapping of the region during the early days of European settlement.

FAQs

The bottom line

Denmark has something for everyone – quiet and beautiful beaches, old and green forests, and incredible food for every taste.

The beaches are perfect for surfing, snorkelling, kitesurfing, paddlesurfing… While the forests and mountains nearby are ideal for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.

But the food scene is just as exciting. From wineries and breweries to restaurants for every budget, your taste buds will want to come back!

This gem in Western Australia is a must-see for anyone who wants to enjoy the best of the Australian scenery, culture, and community.