Western Australia

Western Australia is home to the sunniest capital city, whitest beaches, and the largest expanse of outback in Australia. Along with being one of the largest states in the world, Western Australia’s climate has shaped some of the most diverse landscapes across the globe. From the Pinnacles Desert, with its lunar-like limestone spires rising from the desert sand, to the lush, green vineyards of the Margaret River, to the steep and distinctive mountain ranges of The Kimberley, and of course the aquatic wonderland of Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia has a wealth of unique experiences for you to enjoy.

Swim with the gentle giant of the sea, the whale shark, at World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef. Explore Margaret River’s acclaimed wineries on horseback or unwind on one of Perth’s picture-perfect beaches and enjoy the plentiful Western Australian sun.

As the capital of Western Australia, Perth is an intriguing destination known for its Mediterranean climate and ideal location overlooking both the gentle Swan River and the sparkling Indian Ocean. Perth enjoys a relaxed, coastal cosmopolitan atmosphere, well-complemented by the more bohemian neighboring city of Fremantle just 12 miles away. The Kimberley region is a vast and wild “last frontier” of Australia, unknown to non-Aboriginals until the early 1980’s. Although the awe-inspiring landscape may be well appreciated by plane, the sparsely populated region is also known for its history and its warm and unpretentious locals.

Locations

Broome

The coastal town of Broome offers a contrasting landscape, where the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean fringe rugged, green wilderness and red earth in a spectacular display of natural phenomena.

Known for its historic pearling industry, Broome bustles with laidback lifestyle-seeking locals, and travelers venture here to experience the wonders of the region. Camel trek at sunset along Cable Beach, an almost 14-mile stretch of white sandy shoreline, which earned its name from the telegraph cable that connected Australia’s Northwest with the rest of the world. Walk along ancient dinosaur tracks, venture into the vastness of the Kimberley Region, and sip ice-cold beer amongst a melting pot of cultures at a local brewery.

Margaret River

Western Australia is also home to the Margaret River, a premium food and wine region. Relax and unwind amongst the grapevines of Margaret River's vineyards, where you can hop from award-winning restaurants and wineries to stunning beaches, forests, and ancient caves. This is the ideal location for the expert foodie to explore the many food and wine events held throughout the year.

Ningaloo Reef

Head to World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef to marvel at the whale sharks that inhabit the waters between April and July of each year. Whale sharks can grow up to 52.5 feet and are very rare to find, though Ningaloo Reef is known as the most reliable site in the world to see a whale shark. Snorkel and explore the beauty of Ningaloo Reef or join a tour from Exmouth or Coral Bay to swim with the whale sharks and manta rays. See rare turtles, migrating humpback whales, pods of dolphins and vibrant tropical fish.

Perth

Western Australia is home to the sunny Perth, which is renowned for being a friendly city and aquatic wonderland. Bordered by the Indian Ocean and built overlooking the gentle Swan River, Perth is a contemporary city with a Mediterranean climate. Glide the Swan’s glittering waters in a kayak, or surf at some of Australia’s best beaches. Test your yachting skills by sailing to colorful Rottnest Island, home of the cuddly Quokka, and dive down to the isle's coral caves.

The Kimberley

Western Australia's rugged Kimberley landscape is as large as California and yet has a population of less than 15,000 people. Eroding winds and merciless summer monsoons have left their mark on the topography with its deep gorges and towering cliffs. It is little wonder that the best and often only way to travel to this rebellious Australian region is by plane.

Soak away your cares in the thermal Zebedee Springs. Curl up under an ancient boab tree with a book, or simply join the local wallaby population and lounge in the shade.