Epic Things To Do In Esperance, Western Australia
Esperance is a coastal jewel located at the southernmost point in Western Australia, making it a town of untouched beauty. Its vast landscape is blessed by pristine beaches, diverse wildlife and fantastic hiking trails that leave travellers with an enriched experience and lasting memories of the marvel of Mother Nature. Beyond the outdoor adventure, Esperance also offers a fun glimpse into rural Australian life and what it’s like to be isolated from busy civilisation.
Trust me when I tell you that reading about Esperance doesn’t do justice to the epic things to do here. Pink lakes and kangaroos are the heart of the land, but there is so much more to love, so grab your sunscreen and sense of adventure and be ready to embark on a journey to this striking part of the world.
Travel and Accommodation In Esperance
How long is the drive from Perth to Esperance? On average, driving from Perth to Esperance takes 8 hours if you make limited stops.
Esperance is a small town, so there are few accommodation options. However, I would recommend booking in Hospitality Esperance by Best Western. Alternatively, you can hire a campervan and camp around the parks and beaches,
Things To Do In Esperance
Cape Le Grand National Park
Exploring Cape Le Grand National Park is the main thing to do when you are in Esperance. Located around 45 kilometres east of the town centre, this park boasts some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in the world. Spend the day wandering its perfect, powdery beaches, driving around the giant granite rock formations, and swimming in crystal-clear waters – it is a nature lover’s dream. If you want, there are also gorgeous camping spots to take advantage of if you want to fully immerse yourself in this gorgeous setting.
Highlights of Cape Le Grand National Park
Lucky Bay: famous for its snow-white sands and turquoise waters that create perfect conditions for swimming and snorkelling, Lucky Bay is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia and is usually what draws the most attraction to Cape Le Grand.
Oh, did I mention Lucky Bay is also home to kangaroos who relax on the beach at sunrise and has occasional visits from whales during the day?
There is no surprise why you would want to spend most of your time here.
Frenchman Peak: if you are up for a more thrilling adventure, challenge yourself with a hike up Frenchman Peak for panoramic views of the park. Frenchman Peak is 262m high and takes around one hour to climb, with the trail made up of wooden boardwalks, gravel paths and steep granite rock.
Hellfire Bay: another spectacular place within the park is Hellfire Bay, a quieter and more secluded escape known for its striking red and white sands.
Entrance fee for the park: $15 per car
Helicopter Ride to Lake Hillier
One of the most unique natural wonders in Western Australia is Lake Hillier, a bright pink lake on Middle Island in the Recherche Archipelago. To get a truly epic appreciation of this phenomenon, consider taking a helicopter ride from Esperance and soar over the iconic landmark for a surreal view of the high contrast between the pink lake, blue ocean, and lush greenery.
The vibrant pink colour of Lake Hillier is still a bit of a mystery, but it’s believed to be caused by the presence of algae and other microorganisms living in the waters.
The Great Ocean Drive
As you can tell from the bays and coves found within Cape Le Grand, Esperance is blessed with some of the most picturesque beaches in the world, and if you aren’t yet tired of all the sand and salt water, don’t miss the opportunity to take on the spectacular 38km Great Ocean Drive. On this loop, discover the magical backdrops of Blue Haven Beach, Twilight Cove, West Beach, Salmon Beach and much more.
Highlights of The Great Ocean Drive
Blue Haven Beach: known for its calm, azure waters, Blue Haven is an excellent spot for swimming, snorkelling, and simply soaking up the sun. The natural rock pool formations here are a popular feature.
Twilight Cove: as you might have guessed from the name, this is where you want to be for striking orange and pink sunsets. You may even spot dolphins playing in the bay.
Nile Mile Beach: head over if you are keen on snorkelling in rock pools.
Cindy Poole Glass Gallery
The award-winning Cindy Poole Glass Gallery displays an impressive range of contemporary, kiln-formed glass objects – including Cindy’s most renowned work, the Esperance Whale Tail Sculpture, which is a public art project symbolic of the ocean’s importance to the prosperity of the town.
The Gallery is open most days, but locals recommend calling ahead to confirm your visit.
Discover the perfect 10-day southwestern Australia itinerary here
Average Cost For Three Days In Esperance Per Person
Transport (local travel): N/A
Accommodation: £50 (£100 per double)
Attractions: £8
Food and amenities: £30
Practical Information About Esperance
Location: Western Australia, Australia
National Language: English
Currency: Australian Dollar
Neighbouring Countries: Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia and New Zealand
5 Comments
MicheleinPlaya
What a lovely area of Australia. The beaches are calling me!
Shafinah
you’ve got got me me daydreaming about a trip to Esperance – that glass gallery sounds particularly beautiful!!
Lenore
Australia has been on my bucket list for the longest time! I’d definitely like to hike up Frenchman Peak and check out Hellfire Bay. Great post!
Caroline Muller
My brother is getting married in Oz next year and I so want to take a road trip down the West coast! Reading through your guide makes me want to jump on a plane and go tomorrow!
Meghan Ramsey
The water is so blue and stunning here! I’ve never been to Australia but would love to go someday. Great ocean drive is definitely one spot that I feel like would be amazing to go!