Last Updated on 5 December 2024 by Ariana Svenson
Looking for the BEST things to do in Manjimup? While not a common tourist destination, I really enjoy visiting Manjimup, WA. It makes a logical stop when heading either north or south on the lengthy 120 kilometres of tree-lined road between Walpole and Manjimup.
If you are traveling with kids, you will definitely want to get out and stretch your legs before or after the long forest walk. The good news is that Manjimup has a world-class kids’ playground and historical precinct that has been developed over the past few years.
Manjimup is located deep in the Southern forests and was the heart of the timber industry. A stunning 80% of the region is forests and national parks. When that ended, the town had to seek a new future. Impressively, they have done that in about 20 years as they have reinvented themselves as a multicultural community home to the Harmony Cherry Festival in December and also the food bowl of Western Australia.
The region is famous for its fresh produce. Try everything from milk, eggs, fresh meat, seafood, root vegetables, and stone fruit! The name Manjimup comes from the indigenous Manjin reed (the Yanjet).
I must admit that I’ve only stayed in Manjimup a few times as I usually base myself on Walpole on the South Coast (you can view the best things to do in Walpole here) or in pretty Pemberton nearby (read about the best things to do in Pemberton).
That said, my research for this article showed some very luxurious and interesting propositions that might mean a quick getaway to Manjimup on a long weekend coming up soon.
Is Manjimup worth visiting?
With areas around Margaret River and Denmark booming in popularity, people seeking solitude and genuine interactions with locals will need to be more discerning.
Manjimup, a lesser-known tourism destination, still holds a charm that other towns have lost. Yes, it was once a rough and ready timber town, not known for its class, but it has come a long way, and it shows when hosting events like the Truffle Kerfuffle.
Manjimup also has an indigenous heritage. The three Noongar language groups in the area are the Bibbulmun, Minang and Kaniyang people. They are acknowledged as the Traditional Custodians of the land spanned by the Shire of Manjimup (this includes Walpole, Northcliffe and Pemberton).
With several classy rural accommodation options popping up and some great wineries nearby, you should definitely consider making Manjimup your base for a couple of days of exploring the area.
When to Visit Manjimup
Manjimup and the Southern forests are much cooler than Perth, as they are located nearly 4 hours south. So in mid-summer, when Perth swelters, Manjimup can be a mild 25 degrees.
The best months to visit are November through April, as there should be little rain.
My favourite months in the Southern Forests are May, September and October. May is generally crisp and still, while September and October are the heart of wildflower season and warm without being hot.
Read more about the best time to visit Western Australia here >>>
Events in Manjimup
Another way to plan when to visit Manjimup is to plan your visit around a particular event. Here are the main events not to miss:
May 2025 – Pinot Picnic
A 3-day event showcasing Pinot and produce from Manjimup and Pemberton. There are lots of pop-up events throughout this time, and it’s a great chance to try some of the best wines in the region.
June 2025 – Truffle Kerfuffle
The top event of the year. The event celebrated the region’s fresh black truffles.
You’ll also have a chance to try the local wine and other produce and get involved in special experiences like truffle hunts with expert chefs and truffle tasting.
December 2024/2025 – Cherry Harmony Festival: The Manjimup Cherry Harmony Festival is your best chance to try the local cherries. There’s a centralised cherry purchasing area, plenty of street entertainment and a log chop.
Get involved with cooking classes, photography competitions and painting workshops. Don’t miss the grand parade, where you can see all sorts of vehicles parade through the town’s main street.
See the end of the day at a long table dinner with delicious, high-quality produce hosted by famous local chefs.
The Best Things to Do in Manjimup, WA
Manjimup, tucked away in Western Australia’s beautiful Southern Forests, has something for everyone. Whether you like outdoor adventures, such as mountain biking, hiking, or horseriding, or you’re looking for a couples retreat or a family adventure, Manjimup has something for you.
From trying the local cuisine to exploring the area’s diverse history, here’s a guide to the best things to do in Manjimup to ensure your visit is unforgettable.
1. Visit Manjimup Heritage Park
Location: 151 Giblett St, Manjimup
If you want to learn more about the history of Manjimup, the Heritage Park is the perfect place. There are three museums: the Power Up Museum, the State Timber Museum, and the Steam Museum.
There are also heritage displays and walking trails. Lots of heritage buildings in the area have been relocated and restored to create a historic hamlet!
The State Timber Museum
The State Timber Museum is a must-visit while you’re visiting Heritage Park. It is located next door to the new big building. It’s a small and slightly dated building, which you get in using a receipt code (e.g. it’s not manned). That said, its presentation of information is excellent, and it was interesting to learn about how the area was settled and the process that went into timber harvesting.
It is also interesting to reflect on changing attitudes, as the commercial harvesting of native forests is no longer occurring in these areas.
The Adventure Playground
This has to be one of the best playgrounds in the Southwest. It has a 40-meter flying fox and a massive 17-meter slide for the big kids.
It also has innovative water play area, a funky house that always catches my kids’ attention, and lots of green grass for picnics. This is definitely one of our favourite places along the South West Highway for a family-friendly stop.
In recent years, Heritage Park’s management has expanded to include the Heritage displays and the co-located museums and cafes.
If you park in the car park, you can visit the museums and the playground and get some yummy food at the Heritage Park playground.
Power Up Electricity Museum
Power Up Electricity Museum is next to the management visitor centre and the Park Cafe. We loved this museum because it was both hands-on and educational.
It’s a new museum that showcases the history of electricity in WA from the 19th century – there are clothes to try on for the kids – buttons to press, and lots that will help you understand how electricity and machines work. Highly recommended
Steam Museum
The Steam Museum celebrates using steam power in sawmills in the Manjimup area. Through exhibits and photographs, you’ll learn how steam improved processes and accelerated work.
2. Taste the Local Produce
Did you know that Manijmup is the home of the famous “Pink Lady” apple? Pink Lady is a promotional name for the Cripps Pink Apple, initially made by crossing the Golden Delicious Apple with the Australian variety of the Lady Williams (Granny Smith crossed with Rokewood). The Cripps Red Apple is also a blend of these two.
Truffles are another must-try in Manjimup, one of the world’s top truffle-producing areas. Manjimup is the largest producer of black Perigord truffles in the southern hemisphere.
You can try truffles at many of the region’s top restaurants or go truffle hunting in June and July.
If you visit Manjumup in June, make sure you stay for the Truffle Kerfuffle festival! During truffle season, you can also enjoy a truffle hunt in Manjimup. Join trained truffle dogs on a truffle hunt for the black truffle.
You can taste some of the best local produce at Manjimup Farmers Market, held every Saturday in Manjin Park.
Read all about how to enjoy the Truffle Kerfuffle Festival here >>>
3. Drive Down the Harvest Highway
When driving down the Harvest Highway, stop at one (or more) roadside stalls for some of the BEST fresh local produce in WA.
Some of the larger farms also offer tours and the opportunity to pick your own fruits and nuts.
4. Swim in Fonty’s Pool
Location: 699 Seven Day Rd, Manjimup
Fonty’s Pool is one of the most popular places to cool off on a warm day. The artificial pool has nearly 1 acre of spring water and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Many of the locals have learnt to swim here.
NOTE: There is also a caravan park, campsite and chalets. We cover more about this in the where to stay section.
5. See One Tree Bridge in the One Tree Bridge Conservation Park
Location: 2037 Graphite Rd, Glenoran
As the name suggests, this bridge was originally built from one large karri tree. Nowadays, there are modern bridges and footbridges. The remains of the “One Tree Bridge” can be seen on one side of the river.
6. Go Fishing or Swimming in Glenoran Pool
Location: Glenoran WA 6258
Downstream from One Tree Bridge and 30km from Manjimup, you’ll find Glenoran Pool, where the Donnelly River opens. It’s a great place to go fishing or swimming.
7. See Four Aces
Location: QWQJ+2F5, Glenoran
Four Aces is just 20 minutes from Manjimup in Tree Bridge Conservation Park. See a row of four huge ramrod-straight karri trees in a perfectly straight line. The trees are a whopping 75m tall and over 400 years old!
8. Visit the Manjimup Shops
There are some lovely independent shops in Manjimup. Browse the Little Lifestyle Boutique and the Southern Belle Boutique, or take the kids to Toyworld.
Most of the shops are around the Rose Street and Gilbert Street area.
9. Explore Donnelly River Mill and Village
Location: Cnr Sears & Andrews Rds, Donnelly River, WA
Located towards the southern side of Donnelly River, the Mill and Village features 26 rustic timber workers’ cottages from long ago. The cottages have wood fires and incredible views. The site is now a holiday destination and a fantastic opportunity for a unique stay.
The cottages are back to basics, although some have been recently renovated. You’ll need to bring your linen and towels.
Around the area, you can see the old timber mill and learn about how it operated, as well as the general store, butcher’s shop, and school, which remain today.
If you’re lucky, you’ll see kangaroos and emus. You can also explore the forest, see the native Western Australian wildflowers (e.g., creeper and kangaroo paw), and go biking.
The area is perfect for a family stay. There is playground equipment and manmade cubby houses that the kids will love! The common room plays a kid’s movie at 5 p.m. every day, and there’s a communal pool table.
The nearby lake is the ideal place for swimming or bringing a picnic.
10. Tour Chestnut Brae Farm
Location: 106 McKittrick Rd, Carlotta
Chestnut Brae Farm is located North of Manjimup, but it’s a great day trip idea.
Enjoy a garden tour, feed the animals, or learn about the local produce with a foodie tour. There’s something for everyone! You can even catch and eat seasonal marron.
NOTE: If you’re looking for somewhere to stay surrounded by nature. Chestnut Cottage Farmstay is the perfect option. Stay amongst the Jarrah Forest in Nannup, surrounded by picturesque views.
11. Go Mountain Biking
Manjimup is a very scenic area, perfect for mountain biking. There is also year-round cycling weather!
There are lots of bike hire options near Nannup and Pemberton. You can enjoy the Deanmill Heritage Trail, Munda Biddi Trail, the Northcliffe Federation, and Forest Park Trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at part of the Bibbulmun Track.
Here’s a guide to cycling in Manjimup and nearby.
Places to Visit Near Manjimup + Activities
Whether you’re going to or from Manjimup or staying there for a while, it’s the perfect secluded spot to base yourself for exploring nearby areas. Explore historic towns, beautiful forests, and waterfalls, each of which will make you fall in love with Western Australia even more!
12. Climb a Climbing Trees (Fire Lookout Towers)
Just out of Manjimup on the South West Highway, the Diamond Tree is now permanently closed. However, you can still go for a walk or have a picnic near the tree.
If you wish to climb one of the world famous Climbing trees, you should head to the recently re-opened Gloucester Tree in Pemberton. Read our guide to the best things to do in Pemberton to discover more! Pemberton is also near some of the best walking trails in the Margaret River Region.
13. Great Forest Trees Drive
This 50km drive starts on the northern side of the South Western Highway and finishes at the campground. It will take you past beautiful old-growth karri, marri, and jarrah forests. The route is suitable for two-wheel drives and small coaches.
14. Beedelup Falls
Location: Beedelup National Park, Beedelup
Beedelup Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Western Australia and a must-visit if you’re in the Manjimup area. The falls are located a 30-minute drive from Manjimup inside Beedelup National Park.
The flow is best seen during the winter and early spring, but the falls are beautiful all year round.
15. Horse Riding
If you happen to be traveling with your horse or coming to Manjimup specifically for riding, there’s a fantastic trail through Shannon National Park from Nannup to Bridgetown.
The Best Places to Eat in Manjimup
The Manjimup area is famous for its delicious homegrown fare, so choosing where to eat is very important! From a quick stop during a day trip to a fancy meal out, here are our top recommendations:
PARK Manjimup Café
Location: 151 Giblett St, Manjimup
This cafe is at Manjimup Heritage Park and is open for breakfast and lunch. Try the range of cakes, freshly baked pastries, and sandwiches. Everything is made with high-quality ingredients. There’s also lovely coffee on offer.
Whether you need a quick snack or you’re looking for a place to have a sit-down meal, PARK Manjimup Cafe is the place!
The cafe is family-friendly, with a large playground nearby. It is also dog-friendly! Parking is available at Heritage Park, giving you easy access to the museums, playground, and cafe!
Tall Timbers Brewing Venues
Tall Timbers Brewing owns a variety of venues throughout Manjimup. The menus showcase the region’s best wine and food.
Enjoy produce-focused dining at the main restaurant, Tall Timbers, or try wine tasting paired with cakes.
The Tall Timbers Brewery Co. also owns the Brew Pub. There are good vibes and chill-out music. The beer is batch brewed on-site.
Both venues are favourites with the locals, which is a good sign, right?
Most of the menu is also available for takeaway, which can be collected via the Bottle O Drive Thru.
Places to stay in Manjimup
There are plenty of budget stays in the Manjimup region, and many farms stay options. There is also a burgeoning number of luxury accommodation places in the Manjimup area, which is a testament to the changing values around Manjimup. Here are my top recommendations for all budgets:
Manjimup Gateway Hotel
Location: lot 1 Case St, Manjimup
Pricing: Budget
The Gateway Hotel is named after its location at the gateway to the Southern Forests. It has been fully renovated.
The no-frills rooms have everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay. Single, double and twin rooms are available. The hotel also features a terrace, restaurant, and bar.
The restaurant’s reviews are very positive. Make sure you try the wood-fired pizza! The drive-through bottle shop has a large selection of beers, wines and spirits.
You’ll be within walking distance from town and a short drive from major Manjimup attractions.
View on Booking.com >>>
View on Agoda.com >>>
View on Expedia.com >>>
The Kingsley Motel
Location: 74 Chopping St, Manjimup
Pricing: Budget-Mid-Range
This Kingsley Motel has been recently renovated and features a contemporary bar and restaurant with local ingredients and a huge wine list—all from the Southern Forest area.
It’s a great place to stay if you want to visit the nearby wineries, go truffle hunting, or enjoy bush walks through the beautiful Southern Forests region.
Rooms range from affordable single rooms to two-bedroom suites, sleeping up to 6.
View on Booking.com >>>
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Manjimup Motor Inn
Location: 2 Hospital Ave, Manjimup
Pricing: Budget
The Motor Inn has also been recently refurbished. Rooms sleep 1-4, depending on the room type chosen.
The motel provides room service, breakfast, and dinner if required. It’s also a short walk to local shops and supermarkets.
Reviews praise the large TVs, comfy beds, and convenient location in town!
View on Booking.com >>>
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Dingup House
Location: 269 Dingup Rd, Manjimup
Pricing: Budget-Mid-Range
Dingup House is a historic bed and breakfast in a beautiful countryside setting. It’s been voted one of the top B&Bs in Western Australia.
Stay in a heritage homestead with over 150 years of history! The bedrooms are ensuite and feature antique furnishings with modern influence. They sleep 2-4, depending on the room chosen.
The breakfast is highly reviewed and praised for its high-quality local ingredients. There are also campfire nights with a BBQ dinner.
During your stay, you can use the grounds, play darts and tennis, and use the outdoor fireplace. Kids will love playing with the resident dog, Lady Lola, and petting the goats and pony. You can also pick fresh produce from the vegetable patch and collect eggs.
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Manjimup Hotel
Location: 109 Giblett St, Manjimup
Pricing: Budget-Mid-Range
This hotel is right by Manjimup Railway Station and Heritage Park. The rooms have everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay and sleep 1-3. Facilities include a shared lounge, restaurant and bar.
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Dalton’s Paddock
Location: 43 Hind Rd, Manjimup
Pricing: Luxury
Dalton’s Paddock is a farm stay with an on-site working vineyard. You’ll also find truffle trees, a fruit orchard and picturesque olive groves. You can explore the vineyard and pick fruit from the orchard.
This is a more luxurious accommodation option. You can stay in one of three beautifully appointed homes with outdoor baths, a fire pit, and large outdoor spaces.
Fonty’s Pool Chalets and Caravan Park
Pricing: Budget-Mid Range
There are self-contained cabins and chalets with views of Fonty’s Pool. You can also camp or bring a caravan. There are grassed and shady-powered sites.
Two-bedroom lodge options have a self-contained kitchen and living area. Luxury family chalets have large living areas and kitchens. They also have a large private deck overlooking Fonty’s Pool.
There’s also a self-contained chalet with a fenced yard for an outside pet.
There’s a communal kitchen, and the site allows pot fires during the winter.
Blue Moon Forest Lodge
Location: 1898 Graphite Rd, Glenoran
Pricing: Luxury
Blue Moon Lodge is perfect for families or small groups. It has four bedrooms and can sleep up to nine people.
The 80-acre property is in the Southern Forests near Manjimup, surrounded by stunning scenery and near many of the things to do in this post.
Cherswood Farm
Location: 855 Muir Hwy, Dingup
Pricing: Luxury
10km from Manjimup, this rural farm stay retreat is a two-story building with amazing views of Cardac State Forest. Enjoy life on a working farm and see free-ranging kangaroos, emus and cattle.
The lodge has two levels: a mezzanine bedroom (queen bed) with garden views and a lounge with forest views.
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Diamond Forest Farm stay
Location: 29159 S Western Hwy, Middlesex
Pricing: Mid-Range
Diamond Forest Farm Stay is one of the best farm stays in Western Australia. The rooms have beautiful lake views between Manjimup (13km) and Pemberton (17km) from Manjimup. They have air conditioning and a patio.
There is also a terrace with a seating area. There is a kitchenette with all the facilities you’ll need. You’ll also get free parking and WIFI.
Enjoy warming up at the communal fireplace after a day out.
This is a very family-friendly farm stay option. There’s an indoor and outdoor play area and an animal feeding session every morning.
Manjimup Camping
There is a nature-based Camping ground at Windy Harbour with affordable fees. Fonty’s Pool Caravan Park and nearby Quinninup Caravan Park also have camp spaces.
Caravan Parks in Manjimup
There are a few caravan parks in Manjimup, including at Fonty’s Pool and Manjimup Central Caravan Park.
How to get to Manjimup
Manjimup is located 300km south of Perth. It’s also 1.5 hours from Bunbury and Margaret River.
*Make sure you read our guide to the best things to do in Bunbury and accommodation in Bunbury if you’re visiting!
Here are the best ways to get to Manjimup from Perth:
Car: The drive from Perth to Manjimup is around three hours and 44 minutes. If you don’t want to drive in one day or you want to stop somewhere, Bunbury or Busselton are great choices. Bridgetown and Donnybrook are also lovely places to stop for lunch.
Bus from Perth to Manjumup: TransWA operates bus services from Perth to Manjimup. The route typically involves a transfer at Bunbury. Buses depart from the TransWA terminal at the East Perth Train Station, and the journey can take 5 hours, including transfers, depending on the schedule. Tickets can be booked online through the TransWA website or purchased at the terminal.
Private Tour: Limited tours of Manjimup are available from Perth. This 5-Day Tour goes from Perth to Manjumup and Back. You’ll Learn about Marron farming, visit Pemberton, and see all the major sights of Manjimup. You’ll also meet the local farmers and learn all about what the area is famous for!
Note: Although Manjimup has an airport, it is not for commercial purposes. If you’re traveling from further away, fly into nearby Busselton (150km) or Albany Airport (240km) and consider hiring a car to drive the rest of the journey.
Manjimup to Denmark
Manjimup is 192km from Denmark, and the drive will take just over 2 hours. There’s also a TransWA bus service, which takes around two hours and 47 minutes and travels via Pemberton, Quinninup, and Walpole.
*Use these posts to learn all about Denmark! Discover the best things to do in Denmark, the top Denmark restaurants and the best Denmark accommodation options.
Manjimup to Albany
The 212km distance from Manjimup to Albany takes around 2.5 hours. The TransWA bus service, which passes Denmark en route, takes around three hours and 15 minutes.
*Plan your visit to Albany by learning about the top things to do in Albany and the best family accommodation in Albany.
Final Words
There are so many things to do in Manjimup, WA, and I believe this is the most extensive and detailed list available online! Whether exploring the local town, trying the local produce, or getting out in nature, Manjumup is a must-visit destination.
Have you traveled to Manjimup? Let me know your favourite things to do in the comments below:
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