Busselton, WA

Busselton is one of those coastal towns that instantly makes you slow down and breathe a little deeper. Located in Western Australia’s beautiful South West, it’s known for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and that famous landmark, the Busselton Jetty. Stretching 1.8 kilometres out to sea, it’s the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere and even has an underwater observatory at the end where you can explore a living aquarium beneath the waves. You don’t have to walk the full length of the jetty as there is a heritage train that runs along it, offering an easy (and fun) way to take in the views. However, we ended up walking it not once but twice, good for stretching the legs!

The Foreshore is a highlight too, with walking paths, shady lawns, and spots to swim or just sit back with an ice cream and watch the world go by. The town itself has a quirky charm, think boutique shops, local art, and plenty of character. When it’s time for a bite, Shelter Brewing Co. serves up good food and views across the bay, while the Fire Station Café is a favourite for coffee and relaxed vibes in a converted old firehouse. I have heard that Goose restaurant is amazing but it was busy being the long weekend so we opted out.

Busselton also makes a perfect base for exploring the wider region. Dunsborough is just up the coast, with calm turquoise bays, walking trails, and great spots for a morning swim or sunset picnic. A little further on, the dramatic Sugarloaf Rock rises out of the ocean, a photographer’s dream and gives Game of Thrones vibes. This was recommended to us to see and I’m glad we took the time to drive out and see it in all its glory.

If you head inland you will find Cowaramup, affectionately known as “Cow Town,” with its playful cow sculptures, local wines, and small-town charm. Interesting fact, this place wasn’t named after cows, it gets its name from the Noongar word “Cowara,” which refers to the purple-crowned lorikeet, a small, colourful native parrot found in the area. The suffix “-mup” in Noongar means place of, so Cowaramup translates to “place of the Cowara”, or “place of the purple-crowned lorikeet.”

Furthermore, if you drive towards the coast again, Prevelly near Margaret River offers surf, sea views, and a relaxed beachside feel that sums up the South West lifestyle perfectly. This place is home to many surfing competitions, famously holding the Western Australia Margaret River Pro, a stop on the World Surf League Championship Tour.

Whether you’re after a beach break, local flavour, or a gateway to Margaret River country, Busselton has a little of everything and plenty of reasons to stay for a while. We stayed here on our way to Margaret River as we had heard great things and boy did it deliver. Next stop, Margaret River! 🍷