Elephant Rocks WA: What You Need to Know in 2026

Last Updated on 23 January 2026 by Ariana Svenson

When I was a kid, Elephant Rocks near Denmark, WA, was a place of mystery and fascination. I suppose I was wowed by its beauty as well. Nowadays, it’s a popular destination for drone photographers (and Instagrammers), and whenever I go back to Elephant Rocks, I can see why—it really is one of Western Australia’s most spectacular spots.

Just over the rocks is the similarly breathtaking Green’s Pool, part of William Bay National Park.

I have said it before, and I will say it again: I don’t think I am biased; the south coast of Western Australia is absolutely stunning.  The combination of pure white sands, turquoise waters and sculpted granite rocks makes for some really beautiful places. 

These places are not busy much of the year, and you will be the only person on the beach. (Not during the height of summer, though!)

Apart from being a spectacularly unique rock formation, Elephant Rocks near Denmark is a nice spot for a swim or snorkel.  For us, Elephant Rocks and the nearby Greens Pool are definitely among the best beaches in Western Australia as well as the top beaches in Denmark, WA.

As a Western Australian AND South Coast local, I’ve been to Elephant Rocks and Elephant Rock Beach many times over the years – in all seasons and weather. 

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In this post, I have covered how to get there, the best time to visit, and what to expect when you arrive.

What are the Elephant Rocks, Denmark?

The South Coast is famous for its granite outcrops overlooking the great Southern Ocean. However, few are as distinctive and unique as this rock formation. The two towering rocks resemble a herd of elephants playing in the water. 

For the practical person, Elephant Rocks WA are huge, cracked oval boulders on the edge of Elephant Cove.  With a bit of imagination, you can see a grey herd of elephants heading out to sea.

Aboriginal people of the south-west of Western Australia are known collectively as Noongar (meaning: “the people”). The Noongar lived in and around the Denmark River and Wilson Inlet, or Nullaki, within the Menang and Bibbulman/Wardandi territories to the east and west. 

The Shire of Denmark Dual Naming Project did not identify a name for the Greens Pool/ Elephant Rocks area but did name these other areas along the Denmark coastline.

• Parry Inlet – Kordabup – meaning: “Place of the Heart” and “Coming Together Place”
• Peaceful Bay – Kwallup – meaning: “Sand/Place of Sand.”
• Ocean Beach Peninsula – Pooryungup – meaning: “Place of Large Rock.”

The people of Noongar Boodja (Noongar People’s Country) are the traditional owners of the South West of Western Australia.  We recognize their continuing connection to land, water and community.  We pay respect to elders past and present and continue a commitment to the amplification of their voices.

If you are visiting Denmark or Western Australia, check out our many resources:

• Things to Do in Denmark
• Your Guide to the Valley of Giants Treetop Walk
• Denmark Accommodation
• Walpole to Albany Trip (Including a Denmark Stop)
• Best Places to Eat in Denmark

How to Get to Elephant Rocks, Denmark

This unique herd of rocks are located in William Bay National Park, just outside the very attractive town of Denmark. 

Elephant Rocks are adjacent to the stunningly turquoise Greens Pool, famous for its tranquil, picturesque waters. The Greens Pool/ Elephant Rocks redevelopment and Greens Pool car park are 15km west of Denmark and 55km east of Walpole. 

From Perth, it’s a five-hour drive if you don’t stop. However, you should check out our Tips for a Perth to Albany Road Trip—you will divert to Denmark at Mt.Barker. Elephant Rocks are one of the most popular spots near the South Coast Highway.

As there is no accommodation or camping at Greens Pool or Elephant Rocks, Denmark town or the gorgeous surrounding areas are the best spots to base yourself.  

You can also stay in Walpole; here is a list of the best accommodations in Walpole.

William Bay Cottages: Best Accommodation Near Elephant Rocks

The exact location of Elephant Rocks is – William Bay Rd, William Bay, WA 6333.

If you’re looking for a peaceful stay, William Bay Cottages are the ideal stay near Elephant Rocks and just 15 minutes from Denmark. Think cozy fireplaces, spa baths, and fully equipped kitchens for a self-catered escape. A standout feature is the private path to Mazzoletti Beach, a truly magical spot.

Check availability for William Bay Cottages on Booking.com
Availability for William Bay Cottages on Agoda.com
Check availability for William Bay Cottages on Expedia.com

Map of Elephant Rocks WA

The stunning sight of Elephant Rocks is one you will never forget. Here’s a map of where you’ll need to go to view Elephant Rocks.

How to Get to William Bay National Park

If you are already in Denmark, it’s easy to get to Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks. It’s a 14-km drive, and if you come over a big hill and see the ocean sparkling out in front of you, you are nearly there! 

At the bottom of the hill, turn left and turn into William Bay Road, following the signs to Greens Pool.  It is then 4km from the turn-off from South Coast Hwy into the parking areas.

Since the Greens Pool redevelopment, there have been two car parks. The first right-hand turn is best for Greens Pool. If you go to the second carpark (with a toilet block on the left-hand side), you are perfectly positioned to head down to Elephant Rocks.

From here, follow the signs. There are recently paved paths, stairs and trees planted.   Along the path, there is a lookout from which you’ll already be able to spot ‘the elephants’.

More Things to Do at Elephant Rocks

As I mentioned before, my childhood memories are of climbing around the rocks. Now that I am a mother, I realize just how very high “the elephants” are—and how many crevices and places to fall there are! So, while we encourage adventures, we must also be cautious and careful.

Elephant Cove

When you find the entry to the Elephant Cove, you feel like you are an adventurer – or maybe a Pirate – as you find the secret entrance to the beach.

The beautiful beach has a view of the Elephants from below, just as beautiful as from above. 

Whether the kids want to paddle in the shallows or you want to go snorkeling, there are some very interesting things to see. Out of summertime, you are likely to have Elephant Cove to yourself or with very few people.

Safety on the Coast: As mentioned above, the South Coast is a dangerous, powerful place, and the ocean is prone to surges. Don’t go too close to the edge or take risks. People are lost to the ocean each year—it does happen. NEVER leave children unattended.

Greens Pool

Greens Pool is even more popular than Elephant Rocks.  Due to its turquoise waters and beauty, it’s one of Denmark’s most visited places. 

Locals know that on a windy day, it’s one of the best sheltered beaches in Denmark – perfect for swimming. 

NOTE: When it’s blowing, an Easterly Greens Pool is good, but Peaceful Bay is not.

While children’s swimming lessons are held at Green’s Pool, the water is completely sheltered and offers inviting water, so please do not think it is 100% safe.  It is definitely not.

In 2022, a tourist died while snorkeling out beyond the safe area.  He got taken out by a strong rip at an area known as “the plughole”.  His friends saved themselves by clinging to one of the outer rocks.

Is there a Cost to Visit William Bay National Park?

No, there is no cost.  Entry to William Bay National Park is free.

Best Time to Visit Elephant Rocks + Elephant Rocks Weather

Elephant Rocks can get very busy during summer and school holidays in April and September (see our special advice about the peak Christmas-New Year period below). 

Hot days are packed!  The south coast has plenty of cool days during summer, so if you go on a wet or rainy day, it’s not too busy (and the clouds make some very atmospheric photos).

In general, it is best to go early in the morning or later in the day to get picture-perfect photos or an untouristed experience.

While the water at Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks is a beautiful turquoise green and so inviting – it also happens to be freezing cold!  (Even in the summer months.) 

The best months for swimming are December through March; even then, it’s cold – my kids wear wetsuits most of the year!

Important – William Bay National Park December 26th through January 10th

From December 26th to around January 10th, Greens Pool/Elephant Rocks are amongst the busiest places in Denmark and the South Coast.

Each year, Greens Pool carpark gets VERY FULL.  Try to visit before 8 am or after about 3 pm.  If you must visit during busy hours, be aware of the following:

• Parking alongside the road verge is available about 1km back from the main carpark and up to 1km from the Elephant Rocks carpark.
• Drive slowly and carefully!  There are many walking along the road, including small children and families.
• Please don’t damage the environment when you park. Yes, get off the road, but don’t drive your 4WD up a rehabilitated bank, completely destroying it—or actually drive your big rig over planted areas with stakes in it. Yes, I saw it happen and couldn’t help telling the person!
• Take your rubbish with you.

Consider one of these other beaches as alternatives to Greens Pool:

• Ocean Beach (make sure you swim between the flags)
• Lights Beach (swim with care)
• Parry’s Beach
• Gorgeous Peaceful Bay. This is the best option for people with kids – read our guide to Peaceful Bay, WA.

Facilities at Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks

The entire car park has recently been redeveloped to accommodate the growing number of visitors more comfortably, though it cannot cope with the crowds between Christmas and New Year’s. 

The car park facilities include toilets and changing rooms at Greens Pool and a new changing room at Elephant Rocks.

William Bay National Park Denmark Western Australia

Elephant Rocks is only one of the many beautiful attractions in William Bay National Park.  The park was named after Sir “William” Edward Parry RN, a famous British Arctic explorer and navigator. 

He never visited Western Australia but worked in Port Stephens, New South Wales, from 1829 to 1834. Wildflower season is also a great time to visit William Bay. 

Some of the other places you might want to visit in William Bay National Park are:

• Madfish Bay
• Waterfall Beach
• Parry’s Beach

Where to Eat Nearby Elephant Rocks, WA

Denmark has some of the best food in Western Australia. If you’re visiting Elephant Rocks from somewhere outside of Denmark, make sure you try some of the amazing Denmark specialties!

The Dam

If you’re ever in Western Australia’s Great Southern region, a stop at The Dam is a must. Just a short 10-minute drive from Denmark’s town center, this spot is a true find. Set on the stunning 880-acre Raintree Estate with sweeping views of William Bay National Park, The Dam effortlessly combines sustainable tourism with great food and good times.

The Dam features both indoor dining with recycled timber frames and pearl-laden floors and a spacious outdoor area, complete with a playground and nature park for kids. The atmosphere is lively, often enhanced by live music. Though busy times may mean a wait for food, the friendly heads-up and vibrant setting make up for it. Dishes like the tender lamb rump with salad and the succulent marron paired with steak are worth savoring.

Plan your visit and secure your spot at The Dam—reservations are recommended!

Here is our guide to the best Denmark restaurants. You’ll also get information on some of the top dishes to try.

If you’re a fan of breweries, Denmark has lots of them, too—in fact, they are also some of the best in WA! The Boston Brewing Co is my favourite!

The Verdict – Elephant Rocks WA

We hope that you are excited to visit this picturesque herd of Elephants ambling into the green, blue waters of the Southern Ocean; but while they are beautiful and adventurous, they are not the only attraction in the area.

Pack your swimmers and head over to Greens Pool for a swim, or in winter, enjoy the dramatic ocean scapes you won’t experience in any other part of the world!

We realize that things change constantly, so it’s important to us that we provide the most up-to-date information possible! 

That’s why we review our pages annually to ensure they are as current as possible. As always, if you notice something that’s not quite right, please let us know in the comments!

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