Busselton is a coastal town in the South West region of Western Australia. It is situated on the shores of Geographe Bay and is known for its beaches and the Busselton Jetty. The jetty, measuring 1.8 kilometers in length, is the longest wooden pier in the Southern Hemisphere.
The town serves as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its natural scenery and recreational opportunities. The Busselton Jetty offers various activities, including walking, train rides, and underwater experiences such as scuba diving and snorkeling. The surrounding waters are home to diverse marine life.
Busselton has developed a notable arts and culture sector. The town features multiple galleries, studios, and shops that showcase and sell works by local artists and artisans. This cultural aspect complements the town’s natural attractions, providing visitors with a range of experiences.
The area’s climate and coastal location make it suitable for outdoor activities and beach-related leisure. Busselton’s economy is significantly influenced by tourism, with the town experiencing increased visitor numbers during holiday periods.
Key Takeaways
- Busselton is a charming coastal town in Western Australia known for its iconic Busselton Jetty and beautiful beaches.
- Top attractions in Busselton include the Busselton Jetty, Underwater Observatory, and the Busselton Museum.
- Visitors to Busselton can enjoy a variety of dining options, from seafood restaurants to cozy cafes and beachside bars.
- Accommodation options in Busselton range from luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly caravan parks and holiday rentals.
- Outdoor activities in Busselton include swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and cycling along the scenic coastline.
Top Attractions in Busselton
Explore the Iconic Busselton Jetty
The iconic Busselton Jetty is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the town. Stretching out 1.8 kilometers into Geographe Bay, the jetty offers stunning views of the coastline and crystal-clear waters below. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the jetty, take a train ride to the end, or even go scuba diving or snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life that thrives beneath the surface.
Uncover the Natural Beauty of Ngilgi Cave
Located just a short drive from Busselton, Ngilgi Cave is a fascinating natural wonder that is well worth a visit. The cave features stunning limestone formations, underground lakes, and intricate crystal formations, providing a unique glimpse into the region’s geological history. Guided tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the cave’s formation and the Aboriginal Dreamtime stories associated with it.
Enjoy the Pristine Beaches and Waters of Geographe Bay
With its calm, clear waters and pristine white sand beaches, Geographe Bay is the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. The bay is also a popular spot for whale watching during the annual migration season, offering visitors the chance to see these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.
Immerse in Arts and Culture at the ArtGeo Cultural Complex
Housed in a historic courthouse and gaol complex, the ArtGeo Cultural Complex is a hub for arts and culture in Busselton. The complex features galleries, studios, and artisan shops showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople. Visitors can explore the exhibitions, take part in workshops, or even purchase unique handmade souvenirs to take home.
Where to Eat and Drink in Busselton
Busselton offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every palate and budget. From casual beachside cafes to fine dining restaurants, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out in this charming coastal town. 1. The Goose Beach Bar & Kitchen: Located right on the waterfront with stunning views of Geographe Bay, The Goose Beach Bar & Kitchen is a popular dining spot known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious food. The menu features a range of modern Australian dishes made with fresh local produce, as well as an extensive selection of wines and craft beers. 2. The Equinox Restaurant: For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, The Equinox Restaurant offers contemporary Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients. The restaurant’s elegant waterfront setting and attentive service make it the perfect choice for a special occasion or romantic dinner. 3. Busselton Jetty’s Underwater Observatory: For a truly unique dining experience, visitors can book a meal at the Busselton Jetty’s Underwater Observatory. Enjoy a delicious meal while taking in panoramic views of the underwater world through the observatory’s large windows, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience surrounded by marine life. 4. Busselton Foreshore Markets: For those who prefer a more casual dining experience, the Busselton Foreshore Markets are held regularly and offer a wide variety of food stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and gourmet burgers to international cuisine and sweet treats. Visitors can grab a bite to eat and enjoy their meal while taking in the stunning views of Geographe Bay.
Accommodation Options in Busselton
Busselton offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From luxury beachfront resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, visitors are sure to find the perfect place to stay during their visit to this charming coastal town. 1. Abbey Beach Resort: Situated right on the shores of Geographe Bay, Abbey Beach Resort offers luxurious accommodation with stunning ocean views. The resort features spacious self-contained apartments, an indoor heated pool, outdoor pools, tennis courts, and a day spa, making it the perfect choice for those looking for a relaxing beachside getaway. 2. The Sebel Busselton: Nestled amongst beautiful gardens and just a short stroll from the beach, The Sebel Busselton offers stylish self-contained villas with all the comforts of home. The resort also features an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and barbecue facilities, providing guests with everything they need for a memorable stay. 3. Bed and Breakfasts: For those seeking a more intimate and personalized experience, there are numerous bed and breakfasts scattered throughout Busselton offering cozy rooms, homemade breakfasts, and warm hospitality. Many of these properties are located in peaceful rural settings or within walking distance of the town center, providing guests with a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle. 4. Caravan Parks and Camping Grounds: For budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a more outdoorsy experience, Busselton also offers several caravan parks and camping grounds with powered sites, cabins, and facilities such as communal kitchens, barbecue areas, and laundry facilities. Many of these parks are located near the beach or within easy reach of the town’s attractions.
Outdoor Activities in Busselton
Busselton’s stunning natural surroundings provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. From water sports and beach activities to hiking and cycling trails, there’s no shortage of ways to get active and soak up the region’s natural beauty. 1. Water Sports: With its calm waters and pristine beaches, Geographe Bay is the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. Visitors can also try their hand at fishing or book a boat tour to explore the bay from a different perspective. 2. Cycling and Walking Trails: Busselton boasts a network of scenic cycling and walking trails that wind their way through coastal dunes, native bushland, and picturesque vineyards. The Busselton Foreshore Trail offers stunning ocean views and takes cyclists and walkers past popular swimming beaches, picnic spots, playgrounds, and cafes. 3. Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse: Located just a short drive from Busselton, Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is an iconic landmark offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline from its observation deck. Visitors can take a guided tour of the lighthouse to learn about its history and enjoy scenic walks along the surrounding trails that lead to secluded beaches and rugged cliffs. 4. Golfing: For golf enthusiasts, Busselton offers several world-class golf courses set against stunning backdrops of rolling green hills and ocean views. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking to enjoy a leisurely round with friends or family, there are plenty of options to tee off in Busselton.
Day Trips from Busselton
Wine and Wilderness in Margaret River
Just a short drive south of Busselton lies Margaret River, famous for its world-class wineries, gourmet food producers, stunning beaches, and ancient forests. Visitors can spend the day wine tasting at award-winning vineyards, sampling local produce at gourmet food outlets, or exploring the region’s natural wonders such as caves, forests, and coastal cliffs.
Charming Coastal Towns
Located just 20 minutes from Busselton, Dunsborough is a charming seaside town known for its beautiful beaches, boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Visitors can spend the day swimming at Meelup Beach, browsing local art galleries, or enjoying a leisurely lunch at one of the town’s waterfront restaurants. Another scenic 30-minute drive north of Busselton will take visitors to Yallingup, famous for its world-class surf breaks, dramatic coastal scenery, and limestone caves. Visitors can spend the day surfing or watching surfers tackle the waves at popular breaks such as Yallingup Main Break or visit Ngilgi Cave to explore its underground wonders.
Escape to the Countryside
For those looking to escape into the countryside, Ferguson Valley is just over an hour’s drive east of Busselton and offers rolling green hills dotted with vineyards, breweries, art galleries, and quaint country towns. Visitors can spend the day wine tasting at boutique wineries or sampling craft beers at local breweries while taking in the picturesque rural scenery.
Practical Tips for Visiting Busselton
1. Weather: Busselton enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. Visitors should pack sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and light clothing for summer visits and bring layers for cooler evenings during winter.
2. Getting Around: While many attractions in Busselton are within walking distance of each other, having access to a car is recommended for exploring further afield or taking day trips to nearby towns and attractions. 3.
Booking Accommodation: It’s advisable to book accommodation in advance during peak holiday periods such as school holidays or long weekends as Busselton can get busy with visitors seeking a coastal getaway. 4. Respect Nature: When enjoying outdoor activities such as swimming or hiking in Busselton’s natural surroundings, it’s important to respect the environment by disposing of rubbish responsibly and following any signage or guidelines in place to protect local flora and fauna.
5. Local Events: Check local event calendars for festivals, markets, live music performances, or community events happening during your visit to experience some of Busselton’s vibrant arts and culture scene. In conclusion, Busselton is a delightful coastal town that offers visitors an array of attractions and activities to enjoy against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches or adventure in the great outdoors, exploring arts and culture or indulging in gourmet dining experiences – Busselton has something for everyone to savor during their visit to this charming corner of Western Australia.