28 Unmissable Things To Do In Busselton (Beyond The Jetty) + Travel Guide

Busselton is a holiday resort town just a 2.5-hour drive from Perth. It’s the go-to destination for a relaxing getaway with a bit of adventure.

This town is famed for its Jetty (the longest in the Southern Hemisphere) and the underwater ecosystem that lives there.

Exploring the Busselton Jetty is an adventure in itself (it has an observatory, underwater sculptures, and even a train) but it’s not the only thing to do there!

There’s the Ludlow Tuart Forest, the Vasse-Wonnerup estuary, whale-watching, biking trails that connect Busselton to Dunsborough, wine-tasting, beer-crafting… There’s no way to get bored there.

The best time to visit is undoubtedly during the summer (December to February). But each season has a unique advantage, which we’ll discuss later.

This guide will walk you through everything, from the must-visit attractions to the best spots for dining, the best accommodations, and how to make the most of your journey to this idyllic town.

Whether you’re looking to unwind or fill your days with exciting activities, we have you covered!

28 Top things to do in Busselton, Western Australia

These are the Busselton attractions that should be on everyone’s itinerary:

1) Walk the iconic Busselton Jetty

Stretching 1.8 kilometres into the turquoise waters of Geographe Bay, the Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere. It’s right here.

Built in 1865, it was a trading port for over a century before ceasing operations in 1972. Nowadays, the jetty is open 24/7 and you can walk on it, or snorkel/dive under it!

It has an entry fee of $4 (the Day Pass) which gives you full access to the jetty – to walk, snorkel, dive, fish, swim, etc.

2) Unwind at the Busselton Foreshore

This area stretches along the beautiful coastline of Busselton, with plenty of things to do to keep everyone entertained.

Apart from being home to the Jetty, it has a swimming enclosure designed as a safe space for kids to swim and splash around. The enclosure is right here.

There are modern facilities too, including:

• Playgrounds

• BBQs

• Skate Park

• Public art installations

There are several cafes and restaurants along the foreshore as well, so you can stop in any of them and enjoy the views.

If you’re visiting during the summer months (December-February), look out for the outdoor markets and music events!

3) Hop on the jetty train

This is a charming little train that takes you nearly 2km out to sea along the jetty. It’s the perfect way to enjoy stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the coastline while saving you a lengthy walk.

There’s a fee to ride the train, which also covers your jetty admission, so have that sorted before you go. The train has limited seats, so during peak times, it might be a good idea to book your tickets in advance to avoid missing out.

4) Visit the Underwater Observatory

This observatory is at the end of the jetty, offering a unique peek into the oceanic world without getting wet. It’s right here.

The underwater ecosystem around the jetty’s pylons is teeming with marine life, including colourful corals, sponges, and schools of fish! And you can see all of them through the many windows of the observatory.

The descent into the observatory involves walking down a spiral staircase, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with stairs.

The number of visitors per tour is limited to ensure everyone gets a good view, so it’s smart to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

🤩 Watch the marine life of the Busselton Jetty without getting wet by visiting the unique Underwater Observatory: Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory Experience

5) Try the local brews

Busselton is a hotspot for craft beer lovers! The area’s breweries are known for their innovative approaches, often adding local ingredients and flavours that reflect the regional character.

Must-visit breweries include:

• Rocky Ridge Brewing Co., which prides itself on being completely self-sustained, growing their own hops and using rainwater in their brewing process.

• Shelter Brewing Co., located right on the Busselton Foreshore. This brewery offers not only great beers but also stunning views of the Busselton Jetty and the bay.

• The Fire Station, originally a functioning fire station built in the 1930s. The building is now a microbrewery and bar while retaining much of its original charm, including the fireman’s pole and brickwork.

There’s also the South West Craft Beer Festival. It’s held only one day per year during summer, in Signal Park (here).

The festival has +100 craft beers from different breweries – a beer lover’s dream come true. Check the date on their website.

6) Go wine-tasting

Much like the rest of Margaret River, the climate of the region around Busselton is ideal for growing high-quality grapes, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

Local wineries take full advantage of this to produce award-winning wines!

Popular wineries near Busselton include:

• Flametree Wines, famous for their Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, is a 17-minute drive from town. It’s an excellent stop straight off the beach.

• Aravina Estate, known for its beautiful vineyard, lush gardens, and stunning lake, it’s under a 30-minute drive. The estate also boasts a high-end restaurant with dishes that pair beautifully with their wines.

• Windows Estate, a boutique winery a 30-minute drive from town. It focuses on producing small quantities of high-quality wine, using traditional wine-making methods.

But a wine-tasting tour is honestly the best option.

Your guides will take care of everything (including transport, don’t drink and drive) and you’ll be guided by an expert who will enhance the experience with their knowledge.

Plus, wine tours often include visits to multiple wineries, which means you can taste a range of styles without worrying about driving between stops.

🤩 Explore the best of Margaret River’s wineries and breweries on a day trip that includes a gourmet winery lunch, ensuring a taste of local excellence: Margaret River Winery and Brewery Day Trip Including Gourmet Winery Lunch

7) Go whale-watching

From September to November, you can see humpback whales, southern right whales, and even blue whales in Busselton’s waters, as they migrate south for the summer.

The Jetty is a prime spot for whale-watching, but we recommend booking a whale-watching tour so an expert can take you to the best areas to see them!

Make sure to wear layers as it can get chilly on the water, even in spring. Also, be patient – whale watching can require some waiting, but the payoff is definitely worth it.

🤩 Book this tour to witness majestic whales in their natural habitat, complete with expert commentary and comfortable viewing decks: Whale Watching Busselton Departing from Busselton Jetty

8) Snorkel or scuba dive the jetty

If you’re comfortable underwater, you have to snorkel or dive the jetty!

The calm waters and the structure of the jetty create a protected environment that’s a diver’s dream. There’s also an underwater sculpture park with 13 sculptures (map to locate the sculptures here).

You’ll have to purchase a Dive/Snorkel Day Pass from the Interpretive Centre ($4 at the moment of writing) and sign a waiver.

We went snorkelling from our boat and many people do the same. Don’t worry if you don’t have a boat though, you can easily jump off the jetty. There are great ladders to get in and out of the water.

You can rent the gear from nearby shops if you don’t have your own. You can also hire trolleys in the Centre to transport the gear to the end of the jetty – you can’t get in the jetty train with it and it’s a long walk!

Another option is booking a guided tour. These include the gear, plus you’ll be with guides who can take you to the best spots (which you can revisit later on your own!).

🤩 Explore the Busselton Jetty and its sculptures with a guided snorkelling tour that brings you face-to-face with colourful marine life: Busselton Jetty and Underwater Sculptures Guided Snorkeling Tour

9) Go squidding

Busselton’s waters are ideal for squid fishing!

The small fishes that come to this area also draw in lots of squids, which are fairly easy to spot due to the calm and crystal-clear waters of the bay.

If you want to go squidding, it’s a good idea to do so during times of low light, like early morning or late evening – this is when they’re most active.

Also, make sure to have a valid fishing license and check the local guidelines regarding bag limits and sizes.

10) Go boating

Busselton also has epic fishing! The bay is protected by the strong winds from the south, making it perfect for boating and for casting a line.

The waters near the jetty are great for fishing herring, whiting, and tailor. Offshore waters bring opportunities to hook snapper, dhufish, and even samson fish.

However, there are fishing seasons. Go to the Fish WA official website to know more about this, right here.

If the jetty is too packed for fishing or you don’t want to fish there, here are a few great boat ramps nearby:

• Abbey Boat Ramp, a 15-minute drive west of town. It’s the closest ramp to RAC Busselton Holiday Park.
• Quindalup Boat Ramp, closer to Dunsborough than Busselton, it’s a 25-minute drive.
• Port Geographe Boat Ramp, not our favourite but it’s closer to town, a 10-minute drive east.

11) Check out the deep sea pool

This is a giant ocean pool at the end of the jetty. It gives snorkellers and divers a one-of-a-kind experience, where you can see the marine life of the area in a safe environment.

It’s really safe even though it’s 2km from the shore, thanks to the electromagnetic shark shields installed.

These artifacts emit a noise that only sharks can perceive, keeping them away from the place and making it safe for swimmers without damaging the ecosystem.

12) Dive the HMAS Swan Wreck

If you’re a certified Open Water diver, this experience is a must.

The HMAS Swan is a decommissioned naval destroyer that was intentionally sunk in 1997 to create an artificial reef. Over the years, it has become a haven for marine life and a truly unique dive site.

The wreck lies at a depth that ranges from 6 to 32 metres, making it accessible for both novice and experienced divers.

We recommend going with a local operator who knows the site well – they can guide you to the most interesting parts of the wreck and point out marine life you might not notice on your own.

🤩 Dive the wreck of the EX-HMAS Swan, exploring its historic corridors and abundant sea life with this guided tour: EX-HMAS Swan Dive tour

13) Paddle at Abbey Beach

Abbey Beach is a serene beach at a 10-minute drive from Busselton’s town centre, right here.

It’s less crowded than some of the other beaches in the area, and the water is usually clear and shallow, ideal for a swim or a paddle. There are BBQ facilities available too.

14) Visit the Ludlow Tuart Forest

The Ludlow Tuart Forest is one of the last remaining natural tuart forests in the world and it’s just a 20-minute drive from the town centre, right here.

There are well-marked walking trails that wind through the forest. Walking among the towering tuart trees is awe-inspiring – some of them are over 300 years old!

15) Zipline in Forest Adventures Park

This adventure park is nestled in the Ludlow Tuart Forest National Park, right here. It has fun activities for the entire family, including:

• High ropes courses

• Flying foxes

• Climbs

• Zip lines

The park has different difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone!

If you’re going with kids or you’re not much of a climber yourself, there’s plenty of space to relax and watch others as they navigate the courses.

Make sure to book your visit in advance, especially during peak times like school holidays and weekends, as it can get pretty busy.

🤩 Challenge yourself on the high ropes course and zip-lines of Forest Adventures Park by booking your visit here: Busselton Forest Adventure with Zip Lining and Rope Course

16) Do the possum spotlighting trail

This is a 1.5km easy and well-marked hike designed to be done at night, allowing you to spot the nocturnal wildlife of the forest. The starting point is right here, a 10-minute drive from town.

It’s free to enter and you can do it in the daylight and see wildlife like birds and kangaroos.

Or at night, heading into the forest with a torch to look for owls, bandicoots, and possums, including the endangered (and adorable) Western ringtail possum.

Dress warmly, as it can get quite cool at night, especially outside of the summer months.

🤩 Meet the nocturnal wildlife of Busselton with this unique guided walk. See woylies, quendas, possums, kangaroos, and more! Busselton: Nocturnal Animal Tour

17) Birdwatching at the Vasse-Wonnerup estuary

The Vasse-Wonnerup Estuary in Busselton is known for its significance as a habitat for migratory and resident waterbirds. It’s a 7-minute drive from the town centre, right here.

This wetland area attracts +50 bird species, including the black swan, Australian shelduck, and a variety of waders and shorebirds that flock here, especially during the migration seasons in spring and autumn.

18) Sunflowers Animal Farm

If you’re visiting with kids, add this to your itinerary. This animal farm is a hit with families and it’s pretty close to the town centre – a 10-minute drive, right here.

Kids and adults can feed and pet animals like kangaroos, llamas, and rabbits. The farm is quite interactive, letting visitors hold baby animals, collect eggs, and even bottle-feed them!

When planning your visit, check their feeding times online to make sure you don’t miss out on any fun activities. Check that on their website, here.

19) Visit Discover Deadly

Discover Deadly is a reptile and wildlife education centre a 15-minute drive from Busselton, right here.

It’s perfect for families, as it provides an up-close look at some of Australia’s most fascinating (and fearsome) creatures, like venomous snakes to crocodiles, but from a safe distance.

You can watch live feeding sessions, handle some of the friendly reptiles, and learn about the roles these creatures play in the ecosystem.

Make sure to check their website for feeding times and other activities!

20) Go to Dunsborough by bike

There’s a network of bicycle trails connecting Busselton to Dunsborough, of about 24 kilometres long (one way).

Also known as the Geographe Path, this trail is made of concrete, pretty flat and well-maintained, so you can focus on soaking in the scenic views of the coastline!

The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your pace. Some stretches don’t have much shade or places to refill your water, so make sure to bring sun protection and water.

21) Visit the Busselton Museum

This museum is in the town centre, right here.

Housed in the old Butter Factory, it gives you a deep dive into the local heritage through an extensive collection of displays that cover the region’s Aboriginal history, early European settlement, and the development of the Busselton district.

They regularly host special events and exhibitions, so it’s a good idea to check what’s on before you go.

22) Explore the Busselton Cultural Precinct

This is Busselton’s hub for arts and culture and it’s located in the heart of the town, right here.

It’s a collection of cultural facilities, including the ArtGeo Gallery, the Old Courthouse, and a jail.

The precinct is designed to showcase local talent with its exhibitions and performances, as well as hosting workshops and community events throughout the year. Check what’s on here.

23) Check out the historic Wonnerup House

This historical homestead offers a glimpse into early colonial life in Western Australia and it’s a 10-minute drive from Busselton, right here.

The site includes an original 1859 homestead, a kitchen built in 1850, a dairy, and a teacher’s house that doubles as a schoolroom.

It’s managed by the National Trust of Australia and was preserved to showcase the daily lives of the Layman family, one of the region’s early European settlers, providing an authentic representation of rural life in the 19th century.

24) Busselton Fringe Festival

This art festival takes place in February-March and has diverse programming including theatre, comedy, music, and dance.

It showcases local talent, performers from across Australia, and sometimes even international acts. It’s a great opportunity to catch live performances that are often innovative and offbeat.

The festival venues are spread throughout the city, including traditional theatres, open-air stages, and more unique, improvised spaces, so there’s a good chance you’ll get to explore different parts of Busselton as you move from one performance to another.

Just make sure to check the schedule in advance and book the tickets for the activities you want to check – they sell out quickly! All the info is on their website, here.

25) Do the Busselton Jetty undersea walk by SeaTREK

Note: The tour operator that offers this activity is temporarily closed at the moment of writing due to operational restrictions. Check their Facebook Page to see if they’ll be open during your visit!

The SeaTrek Undersea Walk in Busselton is a unique way to explore underwater life without needing any diving experience.

You’ll walk along the seabed around the Busselton Jetty with a specially designed helmet that allows you to breathe normally!

Just make sure to book your spot early, as the spots tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Also, make sure you’re comfortable with the idea of walking underwater while wearing the helmet, which can feel a bit heavy at first.

Awesome spots at driving distance from Busselton

Busselton has a privileged location, as it’s pretty close to these areas:

26) Bunbury

Bunbury is a 45-minute drive from Busselton and it’s a must-stop if you’re driving from Perth down to the southwest. It’s right here.

This town is known as the City of Three Waters, thanks to its location where the Indian Ocean, Koombana Bay, and Leschenault Inlet meet.

This makes it a great spot for water activities like dolphin watching and snorkelling! Also, the city has a vibrant café scene and street murals that add to the experience.

27) Yallingup

If you want to go surfing without straying too far from Busselton, go to Yallingup. It’s a 30-minute drive from town, right here.

Yallingup is a top spot for surfers thanks to its consistent breaks.

But if you’re not into surfing, you can check out the Ngilgi Cave, the Injidup Natural Spa, hike a section of the Cape-to-Cape track, or just chill at one of the many beaches.

Keep reading: 15 epic things to do in Yallingup

28) Margaret River

Margaret River is a 40-minute drive from Busselton, right here. It’s jam-packed with things to do, so you’ll have to follow a strict itinerary or stay 1-2 days to enjoy it.

This town is globally renowned for its wine, cheese, chocolate, and even olive oil. The surfing is superb as well, and there are a few caves nearby you can check out as well.

It’s the place to go if you want a taste of the very best of the Southwest!

Keep reading: 32 things to do in Margaret River

When is the best time to visit Busselton?

Generally, the peak season from December to February (summer) is a winner if you’re looking to make the most of the warm weather and beach vibes.

During these months, the temperatures are comfortably warm, perfect for snorkelling and doing other water-based activities in the ocean.

But there will be lots of people, so make sure to book everything – tours, stays, etc – well ahead of time.

If you’d rather have a quieter visit with fewer crowds and still decent weather, go to Busselton in the spring (September to November). The water might be a bit cold when snorkelling, but it’s whale season!

How to get to Busselton?

You can fly to Busselton, drive there, go by coach, or with a tour:

Getting there by plane

The Busselton-Margaret River Airport is less than a 10-minute drive from town. It has direct flights from Melbourne (4-hour flight) and Sydney (5-hour flight), as well as chartered flights.

We recommend using Trip.com to book your flights. They are the best at finding the cheapest deals available, sometimes even cheaper than booking directly from the airline!

That said, if you’re visiting from Perth, it will be best to go driving. More on that in the next section.

You might want to rent a car to get around Busselton, though.

Moreso if you want to go to the Tuart Forest, visit nearby towns, go wine tasting, etc.

Thankfully, you can rent a car directly from Busselton’s airport. Check out Rental Cars to see the best rentals available and their prices! They compare all the car providers available at the time of your trip to find you the best deals, with the convenience of pick-up and drop-off in the airport (or somewhere else).

Getting there by car

If you’re in Perth, this is the best way to get to Busselton. The route is pretty straightforward and absolutely beautiful, as you’ll be driving along the coast.

You’ll cover around 220 kilometres, which usually takes around 2.5 hours. It’s fairly quick for a road trip so you can probably do it in one go, but you can break the trip in:

• Mandurah, where you can grab a coffee, check out the giant sculptures, or stroll along the foreshore.

• Bunbury, if you’re not in a rush. Check out the Dolphin Discovery Centre or just enjoy a bit of a beach break.

You can also continue the road trip into the Margaret River Region and check out Dunsborough, Yallingup, Hamelin Bay, and even Augusta… But this will depend on how many days you have on your trip.

Getting there by coach

This is the cheapest way to get to Busselton from Perth. It takes around 4.5 hours and the round ticket costs $85-100.

Take the TransWa route SW1 (East Perth to Augusta and Pemberton via Bunbury and Augusta) and the bus will drop you in Albert Street.

This is the best way to get to Busselton for those who don’t plan on going outside of the town centre. Otherwise, you’ll have to rent a car or hire a taxi to take you wherever you want to go.

Book your tickets, check the info on the timetables, and more on TransWa’s website.

Visit Busselton with a tour

This is the best option for those who don’t want to do any of the driving or the planning, but want to enjoy Busselton and check out a few cool places nearby.

If that’s you, this tour is for you. It’s a full-day tour that starts and ends in Perth.

This experience is jam-packed with activities, including:

• Busselton Jetty

• Mammoth Cave

• Boranup Forest

• Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse

It’s an excellent way to get a taste of Busselton and the South West if you don’t have much time.

Amazing day trip, highly recommend. All the stops were amazing and didn’t feel rushed at all! Definitely worth the long drive!

-Cherisse

How many days to stay in Busselton?

Try to stay in Busselton at least 3-4 days. This gives you enough time to explore Busselton’s main attractions without feeling rushed:

• One day for the Busselton Foreshore, including checking out the Jetty, the Underwater Observatory, snorkelling/diving, etc.

• One day for the Ludlow Tuart Forest, doing the possum spotlighting trail, and even visiting the Forest Adventures South West park.

• One day to either explore the town centre, go to the museum, and the cultural precinct, or explore a nearby town.

Best places to stay in Busselton

We love staying in caravans. They give us the freedom to explore at our own pace, plus they can be cheaper in the end (compared to adding the costs of car rental, plus accommodation, and eating out).

If you’re like us, definitely head to JUCY Campervan to rent your caravan. They service most big airports and have caravan options for 2-5 people! And if you’re looking for something more luxurious, Star RV is the place to go for premium campervans.

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

• Best caravan park: RAC Busselton Holiday Park offers a serene getaway with modern cabins and many outdoor activities. It’s a 12-minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 6.
• Best budget-friendly stay: Restawile Motel provides comfortable and budget-friendly accommodations, ideal for travellers looking to explore Busselton without breaking the bank. It’s a 6-minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 6.
• Best for families and groups: Be Wowed By Bayou is a home designed to charm, with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms – enough space for the whole family. It’s a 3-minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 8.
• Best hotel: Nightcap at the Ship Inn combines the comfort of modern rooms with the charm of pub-style hospitality, ideal for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere. It’s in the town centre and sleeps up to 3.
• Best luxury: Busselton Villas & Glamping Village provides a unique blend of traditional villa accommodation and exciting glamping options near the beach. It’s a 5-minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 6.

Where to eat in Busselton?

There are many places to eat in Busselton, the most popular are:

• The Deck Busselton ($$) offers an airy, glass-fronted dining experience overlooking the water with a focus on seafood and Australian wines. Enjoy generous portions, friendly service, and stunning views.
• The Vasse Tavern ($$) serves up craft beer and Italian-inspired dishes in a family-friendly setting complete with outdoor seating. Enjoy exceptional pizzas and top-notch service in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Equinox Restaurant & Bar ($$) features a simple dining room with spectacular water views and a menu ranging from breakfast to seafood. Good portions, delicious meals, and friendly service.
• Spice Odysee ($$) is a hidden gem in Busselton offering home-cooked Indian food. Enjoy generous portions, fair prices, and a warm, friendly staff at this family-owned restaurant.
• The Goose ($$) serves breakfast, sharing plates, and burgers in a modern waterfront setting with an upbeat vibe and outdoor seating. Enjoy huge breakfast portions, great coffee, and stunning views.

Top Tips

Sun protection is a must, even on cloudy days.

The Aussie sun is famously brutal, especially in the summer months. So, slap on some sunscreen (reef safe), wear a hat, and maybe even a long-sleeve shirt if you’re planning to be out in the sun for long stretches.

Did you know?

The settlement of Busselton began in 1832, and it quickly became significant due to its timber industry.

Ships from around the world would dock at its jetty to load timber, primarily destined for the building industries across Australia and other countries. This industry was critical in the development of the area throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Busselton also hosts the Ironman Western Australia Triathlon annually, a major event that attracts athletes from around the world.

The race includes a 3.8 km swim in the clear waters of Geographe Bay, a 180 km bike ride through the Tuart Forest, and a 42.2 km run along the foreshore, making it one of the most scenic Ironman courses globally.

FAQs

The bottom line

Busselton truly stands out as a top destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Australia’s coastal charm, at a stone’s throw from Perth.

Stroll down the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere, watch the whales breaching, wander through the ancient Ludlow Tuart Forest, and snorkel in the clear waters of Geographe Bay… whatever you do, your trip to Busselton will be unforgettable.