Van Life in South West WA
A 5 Day guide to exploring South West WA in a van
We have had so much fun re-living our van trip in Southwest Western Australia. It truly was a a journey from coast to coaster. The beauty we found on the WA Coastline captured our hearts and the delectable food we indulged in left us completely satisfied! If you are needing help with your Southwest WA itinerary, coast along with us as we take you through our 5 day guide.
Our journey began in Busselton, we picked up our beautiful home-on-wheels named 'Poppy' from Avraa car hire and what a great van she was!
Day 1: Margaret River
Canal Rocks
It takes approx 36 mins to get from Busselton to Canal Rocks. The perfect spot for rock hopping, it offers a narrow footbridge over the churning water to get you up close to these large granite formations!
Cape Mentelle Winery
Next, we arrived in Margaret River. A small beachy town known for its fantastic wineries. We visited Cape Mentelle Winery and ordered a picnic platter. It came with a wine flight and a scrumptious selection of local produce.
Lake Cave
A fully guided tour into the limestone caves is a must. The internal lakes, large stalactites, stalagmites and fossils found underground are so fascinating. We did a fully guided tour of Lake Cave.
Mindful Earth Sanctuary
We parked our van overnight at the Mindful Earth Sanctuary in Karridale! This is a creative community and sanctuary working toward a sustainable future. On this pristine 40 acre lot, we were pleased to find goats and horses roaming around. We came across this gem on wiki-camps and it runs off donations to park for the night.
Day 2: Pemberton
Snorkelling at Gnarabup Beach
Located in Prevelly, just 10 minutes away from Margaret River. We had a great time snorkelling in the crystal clear water at Gnarabup Beach.
Beedelup Falls
From Margaret River, Beedelup falls is approximately 1hr and 20 minutes. Cascading waterfalls only 300m from the carpark and a suspension bridge! There is a 4.5km walk through the karri forest, which can be broken up into smaller walks.
A Meal at Jaspers
We had a gourmet dinner at Jaspers in Pemberton. It has an extensive selection of whisky and bourbon, local Pemberton wines and craft beers. We felt so lucky to stumble upon this beautiful establishment after such a big day exploring.
Day 3: Denmark
Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk
A Walk suspended 40m in the air amongst the treetops, it sways with the wind and offers stunning views. Purchasing a ticket allows you to access this walk unlimited times.
Giant Tingle Tree
If staying on the ground is more your style, consider visiting the Giant Tingle Tree that has been hollowed out by fire. There is a 600 metre loop walk suitable for everyone.
Elephant Rocks and Green Pools
Within an hour drive, is the beautiful town of Denmark. From here, we visited William Bay National Park. Elephant rocks is a sheltered beach within this national park, it gets its name as the exposed rocks resemble a herd of elephants frolicking in the water. Green Pools is another stunning beach located on the edge of William Bay National Park, featuring sandy-white beaches, clear water and boulders.
Flame Trees
We Stopped in at Flame Trees bistro and bar, for some cocktails and kilpatrick oysters while we decided where to park for the night. Best oysters we've had, great atmosphere and super cosy.
Day 4: Albany
Surfing in Denmark
We decided to spend our morning surfing at Ocean Beach. The trailer was set up down there to hire boards from and surf lessons were available.
Denmark Bakery
Located in Fig Tree Square, we had to try these award winning pies. The scallop pie was delicious!
The Dam
A "Dam good" spot to have lunch. A picturesque place to eat with fresh food and house distilled hemp spirits. We purchased some sativa gin to take home with us.
Due South
A 40 minute drive from Denmark and we made it to Albany! Right on the waterfront was a bar called Due South, we came for cocktails and toasted to our amazing trip. We ended up staying for dinner. It was New Years Eve and celebrations were held on the foreshore.
Day 5: Busselton
We took the less scenic route on the way back to Busselton. It took 3hrs and 45mins to drive the inland route, we then filled up our van and gave it a clean before saying goodbye to 'Poppy.'
WA is the largest state in Australia, 5 days was nowhere near enough time to see it all! If you are also short of time, we hope our itinerary can guide you in your adventures.
Happy Coasting!