Uncover your own secret stretch of sand at one of these lesser-known summer spots.

Feature by Nancy Csutoros

When summer comes around, the postcard-worthy beaches of the South West are the place to be. But with so many miles of coastline, there’s no reason to compete for towel space – not when a hidden treasure is almost certainly lying in wait, just around the corner. Get into explorer mode and add these four spots to your summer hit list.

Foul Bay, Margaret River region

While neighbouring Hamelin Bay teems with sunbakers and surfers, the amusingly named Foul Bay remains blissfully bare. Lucky for you, the name is a misnomer: “Stinkies”, as the locals sometimes humorously call it, is a secret paradise.

Relax on gleaming white sand, swim in calm, crystalline waters, explore the surrounding coves and reefs, and maybe even spot the friendly stingrays and manta rays known to glide through the shallows here. Despite only being a five-minute walk from the Hamelin Bay boat ramp, Foul Bay feels a million miles from anywhere. Sheltered by a granite headland, it’s a lovely spot to set up camp; pack a picnic and make a day of it.

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Point Picquet, Margaret River region

Visit in winter and you might not realise Point Picquet, an unassuming point between Meelup Beach and Eagle Bay, is a beach at all. While winter is a prime time to glimpse migrating humpback whales from the lookout point, the high tide of the colder months means the shore is completely submerged. Of course, it’s still exquisite – sunburnt red slabs of granite sit in glorious contrast to the turquoise waters, crystal clear even on the cloudiest day.

But come summer, the tide peels back to reveal sandy banks and one magic beach. Peer into rock pools, warm yourself lizard-style on the rocks, or take the kids splashing through the calm shallow waters. There’s also some decent snorkelling around the reefs surrounding the rocks.

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Granny’s Pool, Augusta

The town of Augusta is not short on water – it’s bordered by two oceans and a river. But there’s one stretch of sea that deserves special mention: Granny’s Pool, a secluded cove with clear shallows and a sheltered rock pool. This protected pocket is always still and calm – making it perfect for the little ones.

Plus, while it has the pristine beauty of a place in the middle of nowhere, Granny’s Pool has its own carpark and easy access points.

Nanarup Beach, Albany

People call the wooden staircase that leads through scrub-carpeted dunes to Nanarup Beach the “path to heaven”. Once you sink your toes into the squeaky fine sand, you’ll see what they mean. Nanarup Beach in Albany has got it all: turquoise waters, teeming with marine life, and gobsmacking views – with barely a soul to be seen. Have a refreshing dip, snorkel around the rocks, or cast your line out over the breaks to catch a fish (salmon, if you’re lucky).

After, you can cook your bounty on the gas BBQ in the car park, or climb the stone staircase to take in panoramic views from the cliffs. Don’t leave without taking a quick stroll west to the secret lagoon, where ancient rocks guard cool green waters. It’s the kind of ‘pinch me’ place you won’t forget.

Looking for more inspiration?

Explore these blissful beaches and more on The South West Edge road trip.