Cape to Cape Track

Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse guided tours offer fascinating insight into the functions of a working lighthouse, the extraordinary maritime history of the Cape region and what life was like as a lightkeeper. An easy climb of just 59 steps, visitors to the tower balcony are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, and Geographe Bay. <br/><br/>Housed within one of the original lightkeepers' cottages, the Lightkeepers’ Museum is an immersive experience sharing the captivating stories of maritime history, shipwrecks, and the dedicated individuals who have protected the coastline since 1904. Historical artifacts and interactive technology bring to life the isolation and resilience of the lighthouse keepers and the remarkable engineering and enduring legacy of this historic lighthouse, which has guided maritime traffic for over 120 years. <br/><br/>The accessible observation platform at the lighthouse's base also offers sweeping ocean views and scenic photo opportunities. Between September and December whales are often seen from the tower and the observation platform as they migrate along the coastline.

Sugarloaf Rock is a bird watcher's, whale watcher's and nature lover's paradise. Located in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, it is one of the most photographed seascapes in Western Australia. This impressive rock formation dominates the coastline near Cape Naturaliste. <br/><br/>The Cape to Cape walking trail passes by Sugarloaf Rock – journey along this track and you might see humpback and southern right whales wallowing, breaching or just cruising by on their migration off the coast between July to October.<br/><br/>You can see Sugarloaf Rock at the lookout via Sugarloaf Rock Road west of Dunsborough. Dunsborough is about a three hour drive south of Perth.

Smiths Beach near Yallingup on the south west coast is where the locals go for summer holidays. <br/><br/>Here, the swimming, fishing and surfing are top-class. Sheltered areas offer great conditions for family swimming, while further along, surf breaks are popular for boogie boarders and surfers. The wide expanse of white sand at Smiths Beach is perfect for beach combing and walking. Entire days can be spent relaxing in the sunshine, taking a refreshing dip in the sea, and unwinding from the pressures of every day.<br/><br/>Smiths Beach is also the ideal place to watch spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean.<br/><br/>There’s plenty of accommodation nearby ranging from camping to luxury homes to rent. <br/><br/>Smiths Beach is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive south of Perth.

Take a scenic drive through the tall forests of the south-west. Boranup Forest is just south of Margaret River. <br/><br/>The area, which is part of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, is also well known for its wildflowers that colour the forest floor during spring. <br/><br/>Boranup Forest is unique for its proximity to the coast. This is the furthest west that the tall pale-barked karri trees grow. Karri trees can reach 60m or more in height.<br/><br/>There's a stunning scenic drive through the forest which is suitable for two-wheel drive vehicles. You'll feel dwarfed by the massive trees that line the road. <br/><br/>A short walk takes you to Boranup Lookout, which gives sweeping views of the forest and the coast. There are several spots to stop for a barbecue or picnic and there's a campground at the southern end of Boranup Drive. <br/><br/>You can access Boranup Forest from Caves Road, a short drive south of Margaret River.

Redgate Beach near Margaret River is a popular destination for surfers, locals and visitors. The stunning undulating terrain and exclusive bays offer an interesting backdrop with a safe surfing beach suited to beginners and experts alike. There is a bit of walking along soft sand to get to the more popular bays, so don’t pack too much beach gear!<br/><br/>Despite its outstanding beauty, the coastline was associated with some eighty shipwrecks in the late 1800s. It is also home to the shipwrecked SS Georgette which ran aground in 1876. If you can time your visit to the beach on a calm day you will be able to see the wreck lying in five metres of water off the coast. <br/><br/>Visit the Grace Bussell Memorial Plaque to learn all about the heroic rescue of most of the ship’s inhabitants that took place.<br/><br/>Capture a perfect sunset photograph, watch the surfers demonstrate their skill or enjoy a swim. There are a range of rock pools for the children to explore, though be sure to pick your day to visit as it can get windy and choppy. <br/><br/>Redgate Beach is located 3 hours drive south of Perth.

Get away from the hustle of everyday and relax at Injidup Beach near Yallingup in the south west. <br/><br/>This relaxed beach has a summer holiday vibe and is the ideal spot for the family to go swimming.<br/><br/>It’s also popular for local surfers, while rocky outcrops create great conditions for snorkelling and diving.<br/><br/>Go fishing from the beach at dawn or dusk and you might reel in a catch of the Indian Ocean’s best. <br/><br/>Injidup Beach is a short drive from Yallingup. <br/><br/>From Perth, it’s about a 3.5 hour drive.

Wilyabrup Cliffs stand 40 metres tall, are naturally stunning and offer spectacular views of the ocean and coastline. The north side of the cliffs bloom with wildflowers during spring and give you the chance to spot whales and dolphins. Or settle in and wait for a breathtaking sunset as you see the colours change in the cliffs.<br/><br/>There is plenty to do on the Wilyabrup Cliffs - enjoy a discovery tour and be shown the sites safely. Take in the fresh air, hear the waves crashing and feel the strength of the sea breeze. <br/><br/>Go abseiling and enjoy the heart pounding heights with the experts - starting at the bottom, you'll climb four routes on the wall, then hike up and abseil down, once, twice maybe three times if you're keen! <br/><br/>There is an 8 day guided tour for those who want to really experience the region. If you like heights and want more of an adventure, jump onboard a helicopter and get a birds eye aerial view.<br/><br/>Or perhaps, take on the whole 135 kilometre stretch of the coast and walk at your own pace on the Cape to Cape Track.<br/><br/>Wilyabrup is a 3 hour drive south of Perth central business district.