Augusta

Urban

Past tall Karri tree giants and long sandy beaches, Augusta is as far south-west as you can go in Australia. Right on the tip of rugged Cape Leeuwin, you can head up to the top of the historic lighthouse (the largest of its kind on mainland Australia) or cast your eyes down to watch the waters of the Indian and Southern oceans collide.

The town itself is 310 kilometres south of Perth, and you can get here in under four hours by road, or hop on a 50 minute flight from Perth airport to Busselton and shorten the drive to just over an hour.

If you have the luxury of time, walking is by far the best way to travel. Following the Cape to Cape Track on its 135 kilometre course from Cape Naturalist along the coast will reward you with some of the most varied trekking in the world in one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth.

From June to September, all eyes turn to the waters of Flinders Bay where migrating humpback and southern right whales gather for a little rest and play before continuing on their journey north to the breeding grounds. Often, these majestic creatures can be spotted close to the shore, or from the vantage point of Cape Leeuwin. A whale watching tour will give you the most memorable encounter, getting you closer to the breaching, spy-hopping and tail-slapping action.

Follow the waters of the Blackwood River from its mouth to the upper-reaches and you’ll find plenty of idyllic spots to cast a fishing line, launch a boat, paddle a kayak or view the abundant birdlife. Regular ferry cruises will also lead you on a meandering path up the river, or you can take the scenic drive to Western Australia’s largest show cave, hidden deep beneath towering karri trees.

For spectacular Indian Ocean views and some swing practice, head to Augusta Golf Course and play nine or the full 18 holes.

A good selection of accommodation options make it the ideal family holiday destination, with hotel/motel rooms to modern, self-contained apartments and holiday homes.