Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip adventure in Western Australia? Chartering through stunning beaches, world-class wineries, national parks, and iconic natural wonders, this 10-day loop from Perth to Esperance takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of Western Australia. Stopping by popular sites like the pristine shores of Cottesloe Beach, the renowned Margaret River wineries, the rugged beauty of Cape Le Grand National Park, the enchanting Pink Lake, and the fascinating arched formation of Wave Rock.
Regardless of what time of year you set off, this iconic Western Australia road trip is bound to deliver. Be it warm summer days, mild spring temperatures or even cozy winter landscapes – each season unveils its unique charm. So, grab your campervan, get your road trip budget in place, and let's explore the best things to do between Perth and Esperance.
Start your adventure by picking up your camper from the Perth Mighty branch and taking some time to explore the vibrant city limits of Perth. With its satisfyingly squeaky beaches, thriving food scene, and cultural attractions, Perth is bursting with seaside city charm.
During your day in Perth, make sure to visit Kings Park and Botanic Gardens and enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline while exploring the beautiful gardens. Then, take a leisurely stroll along the white sands of Cottesloe Beach or soak up the creative atmosphere at the Art Gallery of Western Australia. And, of course, don't miss the opportunity to witness a sunset at Scarborough Beach. Why not take your kitchen and enjoy the views while cooking up a storm in your campervan – the perfect ending to the first day.
Stay at Perth Central Caravan Park.
On day two, it’s time to leave behind the city and begin the drive south towards Bunbury. This coastal city is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life and its breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. When you arrive in Bunbury, head straight to the Dolphin Discovery Centre for a unique opportunity to interact with these intelligent marine creatures. Here you can join a guided tour or take part in a dolphin swim experience, where you can witness these magnificent animals in their natural habitat – all while learning about their behaviour and conservation efforts. The best time to see the dolphins is in the morning, so consider leaving Perth early to be here for the dolphin's morning visit.
Then, spend the rest of the day enjoying the township of Bunbury. First, make your way to Bunbury Back Beach for a leisurely walk along the sandy shores. Stopping along the way to check out the cafes and local boutiques along the way. End the day with a visit to Bunbury Farmers Markets to stock up your campervan kitchen with local fresh produce before heading to camp for the night.
Stay at Bunbury Glade Caravan Park.
This region is famous for its exquisite wines, picturesque landscapes, and laid-back atmosphere. As you approach Margaret River, you'll be greeted by lush vineyards and rolling hills. But, before you do, make a stop in the charming town of Busselton – home to the iconic Busselton Jetty, which extends 1.8 kilometres into Geographe Bay! Here you can go on a leisurely stroll along the jetty, soaking up the views of the crystal-clear waters. Alternatively, if you’re after a little more unique experience, hop on the famous jetty train to explore the entire length. This train ride pass will also give you access to go below to the live aquarium at the end of the jetty.
Once you arrive in the Margaret River, there are plenty of things to do on a budget. However, you could easily spend the rest of the day exploring the numerous wineries and vineyards that dot the countryside. Sampling world-class wines and indulging in delectable gourmet delights, showcasing the region's culinary prowess. From cabernet sauvignon to chardonnay and everything in between, Margaret River's wines are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
If you're up for an adventure, put on your hiking shoes and venture into Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park to explore the famous coastal hiking trails. This region is best known for its ancient forests, dramatic coastal cliffs, and hidden caves, as well as being home to the Cape-to-Cape Track. This hiking trail stretches over an impressive 135 kilometres along the coastline – a section of which runs through Leeuwin-Naturaliste. Whether you choose to do the whole length or just a few kilometres, this is the perfect place to soak up the breathtaking vistas and witness the region's unique flora and fauna up close.
Stay at Margaret River Tourist Park.
Along the way, don’t miss the chance to stop by Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks. This area is easily spotted by its massive granite boulders that dot the shores and is the perfect spot for a swim and a picnic.
Arriving in Albany, pay a visit to the National ANZAC Centre, a world-class museum that commemorates the ANZAC troops and their role in World War I. Gain a deeper understanding of Australia's military history through interactive exhibits, immersive displays, and personal stories. The panoramic views of King George Sound from the centre are incredible and provide a poignant backdrop to the experience.
Just a short 20-minute drive south of Albany, Torndirrup National Park is another must-visit destination perfect for nature enthusiasts and history buffs. This park is home to the Natural Bridge and the thrilling attraction known as ‘The Gap’. This viewing platform extends 10 metres out over the cliffs and sits at a staggering 40 metres above the surging seas below. This is an exhilarating way to experience the raw power of the ocean as waves crash against the rugged coastline – a must-do for any Perth to Esperance itinerary.
Stay at Tasman Holiday Park.
As you travel along the coastline, make sure to stop by the mesmerizing Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve. This pristine reserve is home to secluded beaches, beautiful bushland, and endangered animals such as Gilbert’s Potoroo, a small native marsupial, and the near-extinct Noisy Scrub-Bird. Spend the morning exploring the trails, trying to spot the locals and immersing yourself in the solitude.
If you've got time, stretch your legs at Bremer Bay – a gorgeous off-the-map coastal town littered with secluded white sand beaches and cute local cafes and restaurants. For a panoramic view of the region, hike to the summit of East Mount Barren. The challenging yet rewarding trail offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscapes, with breathtaking views of the coastline and nearby islands.
Stay at Hopetoun Caravan Park.
Today marks the halfway point of the road trip, and it's time to continue to the most easterly destination of the road trip – the stunning coastal town of Esperance. After driving along Highway 1, soaking in the pastel blue hues of the ocean and the sprawling bushland along the way, you will arrive in Esperance. Here you'll be greeted by some of Australia's most pristine beaches and turquoise waters, and it’s guaranteed you’ll be itching to go swimming in these surreal shores.
So head straight to Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand to wander along its powdery white sand and cool off in the crystal-clear waters. You may have seen this spot from the iconic image of a kangaroo lounging on the pristine shore. It’s true – this beach is famous for the friendly kangaroos that frequently visit the beach. However, even though you may see other vehicles on the beach, our Mighty campers are not allowed to venture out. Thankfully, there are plenty of scenic car parks where you can park your camper to head down to the beach on foot.
Want to keep exploring? Cape Le Grand National Park is a coastal paradise known for its breathtaking beaches and unique wildlife encounters – so you have plenty of other stunning beaches within the national park to explore, including Hellfire Bay, Thistle Cove, and Twilight Cove. Each beach offers its own unique beauty and serenity, providing ample opportunities for kicking back to relax.
A visit to Esperance would be incomplete without a stop to experience the enchanting strawberry milkshake hues of Lake Hillier. Located on Middle Island, this naturally occurring pink lake is a rare phenomenon created by bacteria that use this pink structure to harvest light from the sun as energy – wild and beautiful. The best way to experience this place is to take a scenic flight or join a guided tour to marvel at the striking contrast between the bubblegum-pink water and the surrounding lush greenery.
Stay at Esperance Bay Holiday Park.
After six days of adventuring, it’s the perfect time to take a day to unwind and further explore Esperance and its surrounding areas. Begin by visiting Twilight Beach, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations. For hikers and adventurers seeking out panoramic views of the region, enjoy a leisurely hike to the top of Frenchman Peak, located within Cape Le Grand National Park. The trail offers a moderate challenge, but the reward is well worth the effort. As you ascend, you will have plenty of opportunity to marvel at the panoramic vistas of the rugged coastline and expansive beaches this region is known for.
Extend your stay at Esperance Bay Holiday Park.
As you bid farewell to Esperance, set your sights on Wave Rock. This natural rock formation is located in Hyden, around 4 hours north of Esperance. It has become widely popular for the fact that it strikes a remarkable resemblance to a massive wave frozen in time – an iconic place to grab a photo or simply admire its grandeur. The drive northwest will take you through diverse landscapes, showcasing the beauty of Western Australia's countryside. Along the way, you will have plenty of opportunities to stop in at scenic viewpoints and charming towns and immerse yourself in the Outback culture.
Once you arrive at Wave Rock, be prepared to be amazed by the sheer size and unique shape of this geological masterpiece – take your time to explore the area, capturing photos and marvelling at the intricate patterns formed by erosion over millions of years. Nearby, you'll find the far less popular – but in our opinion a huge draw – the Hippo's Yawn. This rock formation is exactly as it sounds and resembles a yawning hippopotamus (how cute!)
Stay at Wave Rock Caravan Park.
On the ninth day of your Perth to Esperance road trip, it's time to begin your return journey to Perth. As you traverse the picturesque countryside, take the opportunity to stop in at the charming towns along the way. One such town worth exploring is York, a historic settlement known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. Stroll along the quaint streets, visit local shops and galleries, and soak in the town's rich heritage. Continue your drive towards Perth, savouring the scenic beauty of these quiet desert roads.
Stay at Perth Central Caravan Park.
On the final day of your Perth to Esperance road trip, spend a few hours exploring Perth before heading home. This is the perfect chance to head back to your favourite beach and local cafe on your first day or to check out some of the other fun and free things to do in Perth. Including looking for dolphins on the Swan River, exploring the local street art or maybe even treating yourself to a day trip to Rottnest Island. Once you have finished exploring, return your campervan to the Perth branch and begin your journey home.
Ready to embark on an epic Australia road trip? Hire a campervan with Mighty today and set off on an adventure of a lifetime from Perth to Esperance and beyond! This is the perfect way to see more of Western Australia at your own pace. For more tips on planning your campervan adventure as well as the best free camps in Australia and more, check out the Mighty blog.
Australian Itineraries