Most visitors to Australia focus on the East Coast. It's better populated, has multiple points of entry by air and sea, and is solidly on the "tourist trail" for backpackers to luxury travelers. It's unfortunate that Western Australia is so often overlooked. Perth may be one of the most isolated cities on the planet, but that doesn't mean it's lacking in culture or adventures. In fact, it makes a fantastic jumping off point for an unforgettable South Coast road trip that will take you to some of the most stunning beaches in the world and through some of the best wine country in the world. But there's more than beach life and wine tastings in Western Australia, it's famous as a gateway to the outback and the National Parks that bleed into the interior are some of the most spectacular places to get away from it all, commune with nature and have some experiences you just can't find anywhere else.
Greens Pool
Tucked into a rocky beach between ribbons of white sand is the spectacular Green's Pool. You'll find it on the coastal highway between Denmark and Walpole. It's well signed, just turn right and follow the road all the way to the end; then hike. A local guy told us about it with a conspiratorial wink, "It's where I'm going if it all goes to hell, mate!" And we could certainly see why. It's the perfect place to while away an afternoon, or a lifetime. If you're a budding snorkeler you'll find the sheltered pools a reassuring place to get your feet wet. If you prefer crashing waves, you'll find those too, along the outer rock wall where you can slip like seals along the wash with each push and pull of a big wave. Bring a picnic, you'll want to stay awhile!
Bicentennial Tree
The giant karri trees are some of Western Australia's natural wonders. These quiet giants have kept watch over the forest for centuries, both literally and figuratively. Some of the tallest were used for forest fire lookouts. To celebrate the bicentennial a new karri tree was pegged for the purpose and a little cabin to shelter the watchers was built at an incredible 75 meters above the forest floor! The climb is not for the faint hearted, and not for young children. You'll make the knee-knocking ascent on metal bars hammered in a spiral into the side of the tree. There is no net below you, and no safety gear. You simply muster your courage and climb, hand over hand, around and around, to the very top of the world. It's an exhilarating, terrifying, fantastic experience for the adrenaline junkie in all of us. When you get to the top, give a good loud whoop and listen to the sound carry!
Hamelin Bay
If you're looking for a picture postcard beach, look no further. It feels like you could walk forever on this pristine piece of coastline, but that is not the most intriguing part. Instead of striking out for the tip of the crescent bay, go hang out around the boat launch and watch. If you're lucky, you'll see some enormous sting rays coming right up to the edge of the water. The biggest are nearly ten feet across. The brave can stand, calf deep, in the ocean and the gentle giants will brush your ankles with their enormous wings as they whisk by beneath the surface. The braver still can hop in and snorkel with them. Remember, stingrays are protected in this bay, and they're wild animals. Never touch them, or threaten them in any way.
What's your favorite Western Australian Adventure?
Brittany Love is a professional blogger that provides news and information on professional tennis. She writes for Travels With Soha, the best source for finding Australian Open tickets, Grand Slam tickets and booking your professional tennis tour vacation.
