Fancy getting off the tourist trail and exploring some of Australia’s best beaches and untouched wilderness? Then head to Western Australia, the perfect place for a camper adventure!
The next question is, do you go north to Broome or south to Esperance? For the most beautiful beaches in the world and for shorter driving times definitely go south! After asking many locals, 9 out of 10 recommended this route – and WOW I am so glad we took their advice. So buckle up, and take a look at what you could do on your camper adventure…
Perth
Start your adventure in the capital of Western Australia, Perth. The city has so much to offer, from stunning beaches to great nightlife and delicious restaurants. Far smaller than the eastern capitals Melbourne and Sydney, the city is only home to approximately 1.8 million people. But that doesn’t stop the party! For the best nightlife, head to James Street in the city center and check out Air or Geisha – two popular late night spots. Spend a few days exploring the seaside neighborhoods of Cottesloe and Freemantle. If you have a free afternoon be sure to grab a picnic and head to Kings Park, a great place to chill out with panoramic views of the city.
Campsite: Central Caravan Park
Dunsborough
So it’s time to move on from Perth, wave goodbye to the gorgeous beaches and say hello to…oh wait, even better beaches! The first stop on your epic camper adventure is Dunsborough. This drive is 2 hours 45 minutes along the coast and there are SO many amazing places along the way. Two of my favorite stops are Yallingup and Busselton. The latter is home to the Southern Hemispheres longest wooden jetty. Take a stroll down the pier and if you are lucky you will spot wild dolphins playing out at sea. Alternatively if you are feeling lazy take a ride on a cute red train down the jetty, a great chance to sit back and admire the view. For dinner in Dunsbourough, if you are not cooking in your camper, I recommend heading to Occy’s 2 for a delicious and reasonably priced pizza. It would also be a sin for any chocoholic to miss out on ‘Hot Chocolate’ – a quirky chocolate shop & café. Promise you will not be disappointed!
Campsite: Dunsborough Lakes Holiday Resort and Caravan Park
Margaret River
When you are dun with Dunsbourough (get it?) set off early and have your campervan breakie at Eagle Bay. This is just a short drive away and oh em gee it is absolutely stunning. A Long stretch of glistening sand and the clearest sea I have ever seen. A few luxury homes dot the oceanfront but that is it. My travel buddy and I were the only two people there all morning, actual paradise. Once you are done frolicking on the shore, head to Margaret River, and your next overnight stop. You will want to spend a good few days/weeks/months/years here – such a vibrant town with boutique stores and trendy cafes. It is a great base to head out and explore the famous vineyards nearby as well as stretches of unspoiled beach. This is when having a campervan really comes into its own…
Campsite: Margaret River Tourist Park
Denmark
When you are ready to tear yourself away from the beautiful bubble that is Margaret River, head further down the coast to the town of Denmark. This drive is one of the longest of your trip at approximately 4 and a half hours but make sure you hit up the sites along the way. The first stop being the quaint town of Augusta, a great scenic choice to park up your camper for breakfast. Head to the lighthouse at the end of the peninsula, Australia’s furthest southwest corner! Next on the list is The Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk. This is an amazing experience, walking 40 metres high among the treetops of the Tingle Forest – if you are scared of heights you may want to sit this one out! Once you arrive in Denmark you will want to set up camp for at least 2 nights. Be sure not to miss Elephant Rock (named because the rocks look like elephants…apparently) and Greens Pool. These stunning coves with white sandy beaches are the perfect place to spend another glorious day is Oz.
Campsite: Denmark Rivermouth Caravan Park
Esperance
The final stop on my epic west coast road trip was Esperance. The drive is pretty long – so if you want somewhere to stay on the way have a night or two in Albany. Esperance is AMAZING, such a lovely seaside town with, again, the best beaches I have ever seen in my life. A perfect place to explore the coastline in your camper and enjoy the great outdoors! When you are ready to head back to Perth I recommend starting off early – it’s a long one. I suggest driving via Wave Rock (a rock formation that looks like a wave, believe it or not). It is pretty cool and means you will be traveling a different route back to the city!
Campsite: Pine Grove Holiday Park