During our trip to Esperance, a true hidden gem about 700 kilometers from Perth, we were captivated by its untouched natural beauty. We spent our days snorkeling, surfing, and hiking, with countless chances to connect with the wild landscape. At Lucky Bay, kangaroos lounged along the shore, and at Twilight Beach, we had an unforgettable experience swimming with a pod of wild dolphins right off the rocks—a memory we’ll always cherish!
With so much to explore, it was easy to feel FOMO, knowing we may not return anytime soon. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve rounded up our top 15 must-dos in this incredible corner of Western Australia.
Visit Cape Le Grand National Park
Exploring the breathtaking Cape Le Grand National Park near Esperance felt like stepping into a natural paradise. Just a short drive from town, we found ourselves surrounded by pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear bays, and even some rugged mountain peaks.
You can camp under the stars, fish by the shore, or hike trails with views that will leave you speechless. This park is an absolute gem, blending serenity with endless outdoor adventures – truly one of the best places we’ve experienced around Esperance.
Visit Wharton Beach
Wharton Beach, tucked away in Duke of Orleans Bay, quickly became one of our favorite spots near Esperance. It’s about an hour’s drive out, but we found the trip totally worth it. The beach feels incredibly peaceful, with sand so fine it even squeaks underfoot.
We decided to make it more than a day trip and camped at the nearby Orleans Bay Caravan Park, which was perfect for winding down. For surfers, the waves here are amazing, and we were even lucky enough to spot dolphins riding along with us—an unforgettable experience!
See the Kangaroos at Lucky Bay
Our visit to Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park was just as stunning as we’d heard – with powdery white sand and the bluest water. But the best part? The kangaroos! They were lounging right on the beach, relaxed and friendly.
We were careful to keep a respectful distance since they’re wild animals, and we made sure not to feed them after learning it can make them sick. Seeing kangaroos on the beach was an unforgettable highlight of our trip!
Relax at Cape Le Grand Beach
Our time at Cape Le Grand Beach was unforgettable. As we wandered along its seemingly endless shoreline, the sand was so soft it felt unreal, almost powdery beneath our feet. We decided to stay at the nearby beach campsite, where we woke to a gentle sea breeze and the sun rising over the water – a perfect start to the day.
This beach, the heart of Cape Le Grand National Park, is truly stunning and something everyone should experience when visiting Esperance.
Climb Frenchman’s Peak
My partner and I took on Frenchman’s Peak in Cape Le Grand National Park, and let’s just say it was more intense than we expected! Standing at 262 meters, it didn’t seem daunting from a distance, but once we got closer, the trail became nearly vertical, feeling more like a climb than a hike.
Navigating the rocky ledges added to the challenge, but the sweeping views from the top were absolutely worth it. We were glad to have brought solid shoes, plenty of water, and prepped for the climb!
Explore the Beauty of Hellfire Bay
When we arrived at Hellfire Bay, the crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by soft white sand were just breathtaking. Nestled within Cape Le Grand National Park, this cozy spot felt like a hidden paradise.
We enjoyed lunch with a view, thanks to the picnic tables and BBQ area overlooking the bay. It was peaceful, scenic, and perfect for soaking in the natural beauty around us—definitely a place we’d recommend for anyone exploring this beautiful part of the park.
Take a Leap: Rock Jumping Adventures at Twilight Beach
During our visit to Twilight Beach in Esperance, my partner and I were blown away by the incredible scenery and activities. The crystal-clear water was perfect for a swim, and the rocks along the beach were ideal for jumping into the surf.
Snorkeling there was a dream—vibrant marine life everywhere! And, as if it couldn’t get any better, we spotted dolphins playing in the waves. At one point, dozens swam right up to us, turning an already magical day into an unforgettable one!
Explore the Scenic Loop of the Great Ocean Drive
On our trip around the 40km Great Ocean Drive loop, my partner and I soaked in the breathtaking views of Esperance’s coastline. The drive has so many spots to pull over, but a few left us speechless.
The Rotary Lookout provided panoramic views that set the tone for our journey. Twilight Beach felt like paradise, with white sand and turquoise water perfect for a quick dip. Observatory Point was ideal for gazing at the endless ocean, and Pink Lake surprised us with its unique beauty. It was truly unforgettable!
This drive will take you to 23 different attractions. Here is a map for all stops.
Stroll Along Esperance’s Scenic Esplanade
After arriving back in Esperance, we took a long, relaxing walk along the vibrant Esperance Foreshore. The path lined the beautiful harbor and bay, with patches of soft grass, BBQ spots, and local food trucks.
We couldn’t resist stopping for fish and chips, savoring each bite while gazing out over the water. Afterward, we wandered inland to explore local art galleries, browse unique shops, and grab a coffee in a cozy cafe—a perfect way to spend the afternoon together.
Discover the Magic of Esperance’s Pink Lake
Nestled on the town’s edge is the Pink Lake. Though it’s not as vibrantly pink as it once was, the area still felt serene and full of natural beauty. The local wildlife made it feel like we were stepping into a hidden sanctuary.
From the lake, we drove to Eleven Mile Beach and Blue Haven Beach nearby, which offered stunning coastal views and a perfect spot to unwind. This part of Esperance is truly captivating for anyone seeking peaceful, scenic experiences.