36+ Amazing Things to Do in Albany WA (2026)

Last Updated on 3 October 2026 by Ariana Svenson

Looking for the top things to do in Albany, Western Australia? Here’s absolutely everything you need to know! Historically rich, Albany- Kinjarling is one of Western Australia’s bigger cities. As such, it is a practical place to base yourself for a few days or a week of exploring. It isn’t well known as a Western Australian tourism destination, but in our opinion, it flies under the radar because it’s a regional centre and is growing its offering for visitors. 

Thanks for joining us in discovering one of Western Australia’s best-kept tourism secrets. We love the South Coast of Western Australia, stretching from Walpole in the West to Albany in the East.

If you are considering Western Australia with kids, then you can’t go past Albany as an excellent family travel spot. It makes a great and affordable base for a 5-7 day itinerary.

Albany is famous as the place where Australian soldiers last saw their country before heading to the country’s fateful battlegrounds of World War I and the ANZAC battles. Albany also has an important connection with the origins of the Anzac Day dawn service tradition, which holds deep significance for many Australians.

Beyond its history, Albany has incredible beaches, adventure opportunities in nearby Porongorups, and a growing food and wine scene.

Disclosure:  Through my site, there are links to affiliates, which means that I might receive commission if you buy something after clicking them. This costs you no more, and you definitely don’t pay extra. However, I do get a small amount, which contributes to the upkeep of this blog. Thanks so much for all of your support – and we hope you have a ball in Western Australia!

Why do I sometimes see Albany referred to as Frederickstown? Frederick’s Town, sometimes written as Frederickstown or Frederick Town, was a proposed early name for the settlement that became Albany. Major Edmund Lockyer proposed the name in 1827 in honour of Prince Frederick, Duke of York and Albany, although it was never formally adopted. The settlement remained commonly known as King George Sound, or simply The Sound, until Governor James Stirling officially named the town Albany, using the second part of the same royal title.

Things to do in Albany, WA

There are a LOT of things to do in Albany, WA! To make things easier, we’ve grouped the best things to do in Albany into sections, from historic and central Albany to beaches, national parks, food and wine, family activities, and places worth exploring east, north and west of the city.

If you were going to spend 5 days in Albany, you would be very busy! In fact, if you want to have some long lunches at one of the great Southern wineries, you should plan to spend at least 7 days or more.

Historic Albany

Albany has one of Western Australia’s most fascinating histories. Known as Kinjarling (Place of Rain) by the Menang Noongar people, this area has been home to Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years.

The people of Menang Boodja (Menang People’s Country) are the traditional owners of this area of the Great Southern of Western Australia,  and we recognise 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.

Albany later became the site of Western Australia’s first European settlement and played an important role in Australia’s military and maritime history. Many of Albany’s attractions connect to its history, from the ANZAC history of Mount Clarence and Mount Adelaide to colonial buildings, museums, and Albany’s whaling industry.

1. Mount Clarence – Padre White Lookout & The Mounted Corps Memorial

Location: 113 Apex Dr, Mount Clarence

Mount Clarence is part of the Albany Heritage Park, along with neighbouring Mount Adelaide. It’s one of the best places to get your bearings in Albany, with incredible views across King George Sound and Princess Royal Harbour. It is also an important part of Albany’s ANZAC story.

At the summit, the Padre White Lookout commemorates the Reverend Arthur Ernest White, an army chaplain closely associated with Albany’s early Anzac Day dawn service tradition. White held a dawn service at St John’s Church on 25th April 1930, while a pilgrimage to Mount Clarence followed the next year. The lookout is also a lovely spot simply for the views, particularly around sunrise.

The Desert Mounted Corps ANZAC Memorial is another important part of Albany’s ANZAC story. The memorial commemorates the Australian and New Zealand mounted troops who served during the First World War.

2. Mount Adelaide and the Princess Royal Fortress Military Museum

Location: Mount Clarence

Neighbouring Mount Clarence is Mount Adelaide, home to the Princess Royal Fortress, National ANZAC Centre and the Convoy lookout. The Fortress is an important part of Australia’s defence history, and it remained in use until 1956.

We went here lots when the kids were young because there is plenty of space to run around while still discovering some fascinating history. The gun emplacements, underground tunnels, and other military remains make it a very visual, hands-on way for kids to learn about Albany’s past.

You can also explore historic buildings, including the barracks, guardhouse, and commanding officer’s residence, and visit the large gift shop.

3. The Convoy Lookout

The Convoy Lookout has spectacular views across Albany and King George Sound. It really helps bring history to life. From the lookout, you get spectacular views of where the ships carrying Australian and New Zealand troops gathered before departing in 1914 to WW1, where many troops lost their lives. It’s a defining moment in Australian history and identity.

4. National Anzac Centre

Location: 70 Forts Rd, Mount Clarence

The National ANZAC Centre opened in 2014 to commemorate 100 years since the convoy set out from Albany. The city was chosen as the site of the centre because, for many of the Australian and New Zealand troops who departed in 1914, Albany was their last sight of Australia.

Rather than taking a pro- or anti-war stance, the centre tells the ANZAC story through the voices of those who served. When you enter, you are given the identity of a real person and follow their story as you move through the interactive multimedia displays. It’s a relatively small museum, but the interpretation is very modern and extremely well done.

Planning a visit with kids? There is a hushed, sombre feeling inside, more like a memorial than a conventional museum. For that reason, I didn’t take my kids inside until they were around seven. When they were younger, I felt they were simply too boisterous for the atmosphere. That doesn’t mean you should skip the Princess Royal Fortress with younger children. We’ve spent a lot of time exploring the free exhibits outside. Kids can see the gun emplacements and other military displays while learning some of the history without going into the centre itself. We’ve made several 1-hour visits to the free exhibits, looking at the missiles and the view and discussing the ANZAC history.

The cost is $25 for adults, $11 for kids, and $60 for a family ticket.

Somewhere to Eat? If you want to taste delicious Great Southern produce, the Garrison Restaurant gets good reviews and offers stunning views over King George Sound. The Garrison menu includes wines from the local Great Southern wineries. It also has a seasonal menu that highlights local organic fruit and vegetables.

5. Museum of The Great Southern and Brig Amity Replica

Location: Residency Rd

Back in the centre of Albany, there are even more fantastic historical places to visit.

The Museum of the Great Southern is on the site of Western Australia’s first permanent European settlement, overlooking Princess Royal Harbour. There’s plenty to see across the museum precinct, but the Brig Amity is always a favourite with our family.

By the way, a Brig is a special type of boat! This is a full-scale copy of the ship Amity that brought the first European settlers to Albany in 1826. Apparently, they landed very close to where the Amity sits today.

We all love visiting the Brig Amity replica! It was completed in 1976 (50 years ago). Climbing all around the ship gives you an idea of how people used to travel. It is hard to imagine 50 other people on board and what it would be like in rough seas.

The kids love climbing around the ship, and we all imagined what it would be like at sea for weeks at a time. The 5-year-old was ok with the ladders; we just took it easy.

The old-fashioned Residency building is directly next to the Brig Amity. It has galleries sharing stories from Menang Noongar Boodja (Country), including the region’s Aboriginal and Wadjella (non-Aboriginal) history. The museum also explores the area’s natural and social history, including stories of early settlers and convicts.

Also part of the Museum Of The Great Southern is the Discovery Centre, which includes a range of interactive, engaging, and hands-on programs that are always changing and fun! We have been a few times with different exhibits for the kids.

6. Albany Convicts Gaol and Museum

Location: 267 Stirling Terrace

Right next door to the museum and Brig Amity is the Albany Convict Gaol and Museum. This old-fashioned museum is staffed by volunteers. The gaol cells are pretty spooky, and the museum captures the conditions prisoners faced in colonial times.

7. Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum

Location: 37 Duke St

This tiny little cottage was built in 1832 and is tucked away in downtown Albany, whitewashed and with a cute little garden. It’s considered the oldest surviving dwelling in Western Australia. Made of wattle and daub, the cottage has 11 rooms and offers a unique insight into colonial life.

8. Strawberry Hill-Barmup

Location: 174 Middleton Road

Note – The farm is due to reopen on 31st October 26 after major conservation works, with a new visitor experience and cultural map where you can learn even more about Menang history.

Strawberry Hill Farm, Western Australia’s oldest farm, was established in 1827, shortly after the first European settlers arrived on the Brig Amity on Christmas Day 1826. 

It served as the town’s government farm until a private owner purchased it. Just six acres of the original farm remain, and the gorgeous gardens give you a sense of how important cultivation was in a new colony. Some of the original fruit trees are still alive!

Unfortunately, the old farmhouse was closed the day we visited. However, we peered through the windows, and it offered a lovely insight into colonial life.

9. Anzac Peace Park

Location: 9/21 Munster Ave

The Anzac Peace Park is on the Albany foreshore at the bottom of York Street, overlooking Princess Royal Harbour. It is another important place to visit to learn about Albany’s ANZAC history.

The park was developed in stages and was officially dedicated in 2010. The park includes a Memorial Wall, interpretive information, landscaped areas, and the Lone Pine Grove, where Aleppo pines grown from seeds connected to Lone Pine at Gallipoli provide a living link between Albany and Gallipoli.

There is also a Whispering Wall, which is fun for kids to try. Stand at opposite ends and see if you can hear each other!

Iconic Central Albany

You don’t have to venture far from the city centre to find some of Albany’s top sights. If you’re looking for places to go in Albany without going far, here are our top recommendations around the city centre:

10. Stroll down York Street

York Street is the heart of Albany’s historic town centre, running downhill towards Princess Royal Harbour. Without a doubt the heart of Albany town, it spans around 4 blocks and is where most boutiques, restaurants, cafés, and a couple of churches and pubs are centred. We usually allow an hour or two to wander down the street.

There are many things worth looking out for as you walk:

• Alison Hartman Gardens & the Bibbulmun Track terminus – 259 York St: Near the top of York Street, the gardens are a pleasant place to stop. This is also the southern terminus of the famous Bibbulmun Track, a 1000km long hiking trail from Perth to Albany. Look out for the statue of Mokare when visiting Alison Hartman Gardens, a Menang Noongar man who played an important role in Albany’s early history and in relations between the local Noongar people and European settlers.
• Albany Visitor Centre – 221 York St: In the middle of York Street, this new facility is inside the library. A useful place to pick up local information, brochures, maps, and ideas for what is happening during your visit. It is particularly handy for checking seasonal activities such as whale watching and WA wildflower tips, plus finding up-to-date local info. You can also pick up souvenirs.

• Albany Town Hall – 217 York St: You can’t really miss the town hall on the corner of York and Grey Streets. It’s a Victorian-style, free classical building built in 1888 from local granite; it was originally used for municipal offices, public meetings, and performances. It later became Albany’s main theatre, a role it held until the Albany Entertainment Centre opened in 2010. The square beside the Town Hall also sometimes hosts pop-up markets.
• St John’s Anglican Church – Staying on the same side, you’ll come to St John’s Anglican Church, the oldest consecrated church in Western Australia, dating back to 1848. It’s a historic highlight of York Street, with Colonial Gothic architecture and peaceful grounds surrounded by memorial rose gardens. You’ll also sometimes find pop-up events and markets held in the gardens.

Looking for somewhere to eat? Due South Restaurant is great for a relaxed atmosphere with harbour views and enjoying what Albany is all about

Once you reach near the bottom of York Street, you can continue towards Stirling Terrace, where you’ll find more places to eat and drink and some lovely waterfront views. I grew up on the South Coast and visited Albany often, and I remember when this area was mainly rundown. The waterfront redevelopment has completely transformed it, opening up the harbour and making the most of Albany’s heritage setting.

In fact, you get glimpses of Princess Royal Harbour from the top of York Street, with the views getting better as you make your way down the long, gently sloping street towards the water.

11. Visit Dog Rock

Location: Middleton Rd &, St Werburghs Ln, Mount Clarence

When I think of Albany WA attractions, I think of Dog Rock. That’s right, when I was a kid, the most famous place to visit in Albany was Dog Rock. That might be a kid’s perspective, as I am sure there were other things to do and see! 

The huge tip of a large underground boulder, sticking up from the surface, bears an uncanny resemblance to a dog’s head (if you can’t see it, imagine a Labrador sniffing the air). Now, with a black-and-white collar painted around the base, much-loved Dog Rock is a popular spot for locals to snap a photo.

Dog Rock is also known as Yakkan Toort and has long been significant to the Menang Noongar people. It is connected to traditional stories of the area and other important landmarks around Albany.

12. Albany Silos & Street Art

I’ve snapped a few pictures of Albany’s street art during our visits, including a few murals on York Street and, my personal favourite, orchids on a telephone box down near the footy oval! 

However, the most famous piece of art is the CBH Group Albany Silos, which are also part of the Australia Silo Art Trail Collection. The Silo was inspired by the discovery of the Ruby Sea Dragon, which is the third species of sea dragon discovered in the world! It certainly looks pretty cool up there on the Silo.

Albany is also the final stop on the PUBLIC Silo Trail, which winds its way through regional Western Australia, with huge artworks transforming grain silos and other buildings along the way.

If you drop into the Albany Visitor Centre, ask for the Public Art Trail Map.

13. Albany Entertainment Centre

Location: 2 Toll Pl

The Albany Entertainment Centre sits right on the waterfront overlooking Princess Royal Harbour. The building itself is worth a look, with its unusual crystalline geometry, interesting roofline and fantastic views across the harbour. Inside, the Princess Royal Theatre seats just over 600 people.

It’s a great option if the weather isn’t great. There are also plenty of family-friendly performances and events, so it’s worth checking what’s on before your visit.

14. Wild West Bowling

Location: 3 Chester Pass Rd, Orana

Wild West Bowling is a great option for a rainy day in Albany, especially with kids. In addition to ten-pin bowling, they have arcade games, simulators, air hockey, pinball, and a café if you want to make an afternoon or evening of it.

Food and Drink

Albany has a surprisingly good food and drink scene, with plenty of local Great Southern produce to try. From the Saturday farmers market to cafés, restaurants and local wine and spirits, there are some great places to eat and drink both in the centre and around the waterfront.

15. Albany Farmers Market

Location: Collie Street

If you are in Albany on a Saturday morning, the Albany Farmers Market is a great place to start the day.

This is the place to stock up on fantastic local produce, from honey to vegetables, baked delicacies, and artisan products.

Even if you don’t need to stock up, it is worth wandering through for the atmosphere, enjoying the regular live music, grabbing a coffee or something for breakfast and seeing what looks good!

16. Stirling Terrace Restaurant Strip

Stirling Terrace is perfect if you’re hungry, with plenty of restaurants and cafés overlooking Princess Royal Harbour, the Albany Entertainment Centre and the foreshore. If you turn off York Street before the train tracks and ultimately the harbour, you’ll come to the restaurant strip opposite Queen’s Park Rotunda.

We have mentioned some local spots above, but these places are worth checking out in their own right:

• Liberte– 162 Stirling Terrace: Located in the historic London Hotel, this is one of the top restaurants. French-Vietnamese dishes and the tasting plates are popular. 
• Dylan’s On the Terrace – 82-84 Stirling Terrace: Dylan’s has been an Albany favourite since 1987, serving breakfast, burgers, cakes and plenty of café classics from its historic building overlooking Princess Royal Harbour. The burgers are particularly popular, including their famous lentil burger.

For all the top spots, make sure you read our guide to the top places to eat in Albany >>>

17. Limeburners and Ginversity

Location: 252 Frenchman Bay Rd

Overlooking Frenchman Bay, this venue was at the forefront of Western Australia’s craft spirit boom. Try the single-malt whiskies, or my favourites, the Tiger Snake and Dugite, for their local flavour.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Fun

18. Visit the Beaches of Albany

Albany has some gorgeous beaches, from easy family swimming spots close to town to wild stretches of coastline further out. We cover more in our separate guide to the best beaches in Albany WA, but Middleton Beach is the top option.

Just five minutes from Albany town centre, “Midds” offers white sand, turquoise water and protected swimming. It is one of our favourite family beaches thanks to the playground, nearby café and easy access to the Ellen Cove Boardwalk. This easy, short out-and-back coastal walk has lovely views over King George Sound and links Middleton Beach with scenic lookouts.

19. Emu Point

Emu Point has a semi-enclosed swimming area, plus picnic tables and a playground. You can also walk or cycle here from Middleton Beach along the paved dual-use trail, which is perfect for kiddos learning to ride their bikes.

We’ve always loved the cosy atmosphere and delicious food at Emu Point Café. It’s also a popular brunch spot, especially on weekends, and once the kids finish eating, they can let off steam by running around on the grass.

20. Torndirrup National Park – Bald Head, The Gap and Natural Bridge

Location: The Gap Rd, Torndirrup WA 6330

If you head out of Albany toward Frenchman’s Bay, you are in for a big treat! This rugged headland is just a short distance out of Albany. The Gap is probably Albany’s most iconic tourist destination and well-worth a visit.

The Gap viewing platform is bolted directly into the rocks 40m above the ocean, and the bottom of the platform is see-through! The new platform at the Gap means that you can stand directly over the crashing, swirling waves. Won’t lie – I got jelly legs! You are standing 25 meters over a sheer drop, and the ocean is scary!

The Natural Bridge is very close to the Gap in Torndirrup National Park. In fact, you need to turn left, and a few meters down the path you will see the Natural Bridge.

Also in Torndirrup National Park are the Blow Holes, located about 5-8 minutes’ drive away from the Gap and Natural Bridge. Powerful waves create the Blowholes when they hit the rocks and force water through a crack in the granite, blowing air and spray. The noise is quite loud.

More fantastic things to do in the park include:

Misery Beach – Despite the name, this is one of Albany’s most beautiful beaches, with white sand and clear water. It was even named Australia’s Best Beach in 2022.

Stony Hill Track – a short 500m loop walk offering 360-degree coastal and inland views 

Bald Head Walk Trail – One of Albany’s best-known hikes, this challenging 12km return trail follows the Flinders Peninsula in Torndirrup National Park, with spectacular views across the Southern Ocean and King George Sound. It’s definitely on our list for a future trip.

Peak Head Track – This shorter, challenging 4.8 km return walk takes you through coastal heath to a granite headland with sweeping coastal views.

21. Discovery Bay

Location: 81 Whaling Station Road at Discovery Bay – 24 mins drive from Albany

Formerly known as Whale World, Albany’s Historic Whaling Station is part of the wider Discovery Bay tourism precinct. The Cheynes Beach Whaling Company ceased operations here in 1978, bringing commercial whaling in Australia to an end.

Discovery Bay includes Albany’s Historic Whaling Station, the Australian Wildlife Park and the Regional Wildflower Garden.

The first thing you notice is the huge Cheynes IV whale chaser, which was brought ashore after the whaling station closed and is now one of the main exhibits. You can climb aboard and explore the ship, which gives you a real sense of what life was like for the crews who worked here.

The history of whaling is interesting and dramatic, but it is not pleasant and is even grisly. The site has some confronting footage and images. I shielded my kids from the worst of it, while also choosing to explain why it is such a great thing that whaling ended.

Your kids might see the playground, and there is a café and a souvenir shop. Further up the hill – you can drive or walk – is an interesting collection of WA wildflowers and also an animal farm which my kids loved. We got to pet a number of animals, and even feed a baby joey! 

22. Uredale Point Heritage Trail

The Uredale Point Heritage Trail, formerly known as the Point Possession Heritage Trail, is a 5 km circuit around the Vancouver Peninsula near Quaranup.

The trail winds through coastal bushland with ridiculously good views across Princess Royal Harbour and King George Sound. Along the way, you’ll also find interpretive signs sharing some of the area’s history.

For more options, see our complete guide to the best hikes and walking trails in Albany.

23. Point King Lighthouse

Location: Marine Dr, Port Albany

The absolutely atmospheric Point King Lighthouse is located at the entrance to Princess Royal Harbour.

Built in 1858, it was the first navigational light for the Port of Albany and the second lighthouse built on Western Australia’s coastline. It is quite different from the tall, traditional lighthouse you might be imagining. The small stone building sits right on the edge of the harbour and feels wonderfully historic.

You can reach Point King Lighthouse via the Ellen Cove Boardwalk, and the views of the harbour are awesome!

24. Albany Wind Farm

Location: Sandpatch WA 6330

We often venture out into nature to celebrate its power, but the Albany Wind Farm celebrates both nature and how we work with it harmoniously. 

I’ve taken my kids to the Albany Wind Farm a couple of times. Each time, we come home feeling more inspired to live sustainably.

The relatively simple information boards at the base of one of the wind turbines offer an easy-to-understand lesson about wind power and how this wind farm supports the local area’s energy needs. 80% of Albany is powered by these awe-inspiring windmills, some of which are 100m high.

The wind turbines are elegant and graceful as they tower above the landscape. An informative walk leads to the lookout, with other walking tracks around the park. The cliff and ocean scenery is spectacular with huge sweeping views of the coast. 

25. Whale Watching

One of the BEST things to do in Albany WA in winter is whale-watching. The whale-watching season in Albany begins in late May every year and generally continues until early October. Each year is slightly different depending on the Humpback Whales.

In general, from May onwards you can see Humpback Whales arrive in King George Sound on their way to the warmer waters of the Kimberlies to calve.

You will be delighted by their behaviours, including gorgeous mother-and-calf interactions. They begin to leave King George Sound to migrate south in October.

Get this  – Southern Right Whales can also be seen around Albany during the whale season, with sheltered coastal waters providing important habitat for mothers and calves. They can be distinguished from Humpback Whales by features including their broad backs, lack of a dorsal fin and the distinctive callosities on their heads.

One of the best ways to see the migration is a Kalgan Queen Scenic Cruise. This 4-hour trip from Emu Point aboard a glass-bottom riverboat offers close-up viewing.

Aboriginal Cultural Experiences in Albany

One of the best ways to understand Albany, or Kinjarling, is to spend time learning about the country and culture of the Menang Noongar people, whose connection to this area stretches back tens of thousands of years.

There are several Indigenous cultural experiences around Albany, and I think these are particularly worthwhile because you are learning about the land from people with a direct cultural connection to it, rather than simply reading about it in a museum:

26. Indigenous tours

Kurrah Mia tours– Guided Aboriginal cultural experiences led by Menang Noongar guides. You’ll head out onto Country to learn about 40,000 years of Indigenous history, including traditional plants, bush food, medicine, ochre, tools and stories. The Corndarup (Mount Clarence) Walk is a relatively easy 1.5-hour experience, while longer tours explore traditional fishing, camping areas and the relationship between people and the local environment. Kurrah Mia also runs longer experiences of up to four hours. These deeper on-Country tours explore ancient camping grounds, traditional fishing practices and fish traps.

Kaarl Wirn Cultural Tours: These family-run tours provide a very hands-on way to learn about Menang Noongar culture and Country around Oyster Harbour. The 120-minute Catch and Cook experience is the standout, where you can learn traditional fishing, crabbing and gathering techniques before sharing freshly prepared food and damper around the campfire. You’ll also hear stories about Country, bush medicine, and traditional knowledge.

Things to Do in Albany With Kids

Though many of the above things to do are family-friendly, there are plenty of other activities in Albany for families with younger kids.

Don’t forget: Albany has various family-friendly swimming spots like Middleton Beach and Emu Point.

27. Playgrounds

We love Albany Playgrounds so much that we wrote a whole post about it! If you are travelling to Albany with kids, you’ll likely be looking for a place for them to burn off some steam at one of the Albany playgrounds. 

Take a look at our complete post and information in Best Playgrounds in Albany Western Australia.

28. Handasydes Strawberry Farm and Café

Location: 382 Chester Pass Rd, Walmsley

Ask any Albany family where to go for a fun, value-for-money catch-up with the kids, and they will tell you Handasydes Strawberry Farm. 

Just 10 minutes from Albany town centre, it has a warm, welcoming vibe. They also have an expansive playground that keeps the kids busy for ages.

The miniature bull and donkey are famous – and the kids will love them. They offer light lunches. If you are looking for coffee and cake, they have a brilliant selection of gelato, desserts and cakes. 

Definitely try out the freeze-dried strawberries or take them home for a snack later. (Also take home their jams or syrups- yum!)  You can also buy fresh locally grown strawberries in season for really good prices.

29. Chainsaw Drive

If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Albany WA, Chainsaw Drive definitely fits the bill.

Chainsaw Drive is a unique showcase of a talented artist who has created awesome wood sculptures with a chainsaw. Every piece of timber, and some living trees, has been beautifully carved with real talent and attention to detail. Some of them even look real! 

Drive through this property near Bayonet Head (Albany) and be wowed by his genius. The price is a $5 donation per person via an honesty box system, and it’s SO worth it.

Must-Do Day Trips from Albany – Exploring South West WA

One of the best things about staying in Albany is how much there is to do in the Albany region and around:

30. Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve and Little Beach

Around 35 km east of Albany, Little Beach features pristine white sand and turquoise water and is one of the most beautiful beaches on the South Coast. It is one of those picture-perfect beaches that appears all over Instagram. Even if you don’t have a lot of time on your hands, it’s worth heading here for a walk or a swim in summer. Waterfall Beach is another hidden gem accessible from Little Beach.

If you have more time, the Two Peoples Bay Heritage Trail is a great way to explore more of the reserve on foot. The trail has four sections, ranging from an easy 30-minute return walk to the full walk from Little Beach and back, which takes approximately four hours. Alternatively, you can drive directly to Little Beach and walk back along the trail towards the visitor centre, exploring just part of the trail that way.

31. West Cape Howe National Park and Shelley Beach

West Cape Howe National Park is a lesser-known but stunning detour. The park contains Torbay Head, the southernmost point of mainland Western Australia, with rugged cliffs, coastal scenery and some beautiful beaches.

One highlight is Shelley Beach, which has a wilder feel than the beaches closer to Albany. Shelley Beach Lookout above it is also a popular launch point for hang gliders and paragliders.

32. Porongurup National Park and Castle Rock

Less than an hour’s drive north of Albany city, this mountain range offers awesome bush walks and a wonderful diversity of plant life. There is so much to do around the Porongorups! You could definitely spend a whole day.

Don’t miss the challenging but spectacular walk to the Castle Rock Granite Skywalk. We’ve done this one with the kids. The walk climbs through beautiful forest before the final scramble to the Granite Skywalk and its impressive views. Read our complete guide to the Castle Rock Granite Skywalk hike for more details

33. Explore the Wineries near Albany

The Great Southern wine region is right on Albany’s doorstep, so it’s well worth leaving town for a winery or two. A couple of easy options to consider are:

Monty’s Leap – Just 20km from Albany, Monty’s Leap has a beautiful setting overlooking the Kalgan River and produces a range of cool-climate wines. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are some of the varieties to look out for. The cellar door is open for walk-in tastings and takeaway wine purchases. Keep in mind it’s not open every day, so check the opening times.

Oranje Tractor Wine – This is a much smaller, boutique organic farm and is mostly by appointment for wine flights, picnics and the farm shop. It is particularly well known for its Riesling.

34. Oyster Harbour Fish Traps 

Where: Lower King – East of Albany

This is such a special place. The Menang Noongar people constructed the fish traps, and the wider site has been used for at least 7,500 years. There is a short boardwalk and interpretative signage. 

They consist of eight separate weirs, each made of thousands of stones. As the tide moved out, fish would be stranded inside the stone walls, which could be topped with branches, and then collected at low tide.

As the weather cooled, the Menang Noongar people traditionally moved inland to more sheltered areas. It is thought that before they left, some rocks were removed from the fish traps so they would no longer catch fish while they were away.

35. Denmark

Where: West of Albany

Albany and Denmark are 54 kilometres apart in Western Australia. It takes 45 minutes to drive if you follow the South Coast Hwy.  If you have a full day planned in Denmark, then you will want to get there early, as there is so much to do and see – check out our full post The Best Things To Do In Denmark WA and our Albany to Denmark road trip guide. There are also incredible things to do around Denmark, such as William Bay National Park, Elephant Rocks, and Greens Pool.

Read our full guides to William Bay National Park and Greens Pool here.

If you are thinking of going slowly and exploring, we recommend taking the Lower Denmark Road, which runs through some picturesque farmland and offers some beautiful views.

Festivals and Events in Albany, Western Australia

36. Major Festivals

Albany has a busy calendar of festivals and events throughout the year:

• Binalup Festival – Held annually on 26th January at Middleton Beach, Binalup Festival is an important local community and cultural celebration.
• Taste Great Southern – One of the Great Southern’s main annual food and wine events, Taste Great Southern usually runs across two weekends in March. Events are held throughout the region, with local restaurants, cellar doors and producers offering special menus, tastings and dinners.
• Albany Maritime Festival – Held throughout July, the Maritime Festival celebrates Albany’s long connection with the sea. Events take place around the city and can include exhibitions, live music, family activities and displays exploring Albany’s maritime history.
• Southern Art and Craft Trail – This popular regional event showcases artists, studios and galleries throughout the Great Southern. It’s a great time to visit if you’re interested in local art and want to explore some of the smaller towns around Albany.
• Albany Agricultural Show – Held in November, the traditional Albany Agricultural Show brings together livestock, exhibitions, rides and entertainment for a classic country show.

Map of the top things to do in Albany WA

Albany Accommodation

Albany has plenty of affordable accommodation. As a regional centre, it has several caravan parks, motels, and a range of more boutique-style accommodation. The good news is that availability is often good, and there should be something in your price range.

Check out our full posts:

• Accommodation in Albany
• Family friendly accommodation in Albany
• Top luxury accommodation in Albany

The Verdict – Things to do When You Visit Albany

I love going back to Albany again and again, peeling back the layers and discovering more.

We really think that there are so many things to do in Albany WA. It is underrated as a brilliant base for exploring the amazing South Coast of Western Australia. It is perfectly sited for comfortable day trips to the North, East, and West, while also spending a day or two in the historic city itself. Without a doubt, there are so many things to do in Albany. Plan to spend a week or more!

Perhaps your trip to Albany is part of a South Western Australia road trip? If so, make sure you check out the Esperance area and all it has to offer. It is about a 5-hour drive from Albany but well worth a visit. Read more about it on our Esperance Accommodation and the BEST Things To Do In Esperance WA. Also, if you are wondering how to visit these destinations on a road trip from Perth, we’ve got you covered. Check out our An Awesome Perth To Esperance Road Trip And Explore The Esperance Beaches.

Return to Homepage >>>