Esperance is a quiet coastal town in Western Australia, and a region of incredible natural beauty.
Surrounded by pristine beaches and national parks, adventurous spirits will delight in the abundance of wandering to be done in Esperance.
Cape Le Grand National Park is only 60 kilometres from town, and one of the most popular parks in the state. The coastline is marked with granite outcrops and white beaches perfect for swimming, surfing and boating. In spring, the park blooms with colourful wildflowers including banksia. Camping on the beach is a popular option with nature lovers, featuring a sheltered food preparation area for sunset dinners on the sand. But to understand what really makes Cape Le Grand famous, make sure to check out Lucky Bay, where kangaroos are known to sunbathe on the shore.
For hikers, situated within the Cape Le Grand National Park is Frenchman Peak – a 262-metre high mountains that takes around one hour to climb. The trail is made up of wooden boardwalks, gravel paths and steep, smooth granite rock.
Just off the coast of Esperance is Woody Island Nature Reserve. The official operator of the island’s facilities, Woody Island Eco Tours host daily trips and tours departing from Esperance. After a relaxing ferry ride over, guests are invited to join a guided walking tour to learn all about local history and wildlife. Other activities include snorkelling, fishing and sunbathing. After a long day of exploration, head to the island’s cafe or bar for a refreshing drink and light-hearted chats with new friends.
To take your holiday to new heights, Fly Esperance operates scenic flights above the town and surrounding natural attractions. There are several different options to choose from, which vary in length and destination. The Lake Hillier flight covers an impressive 300 kilometres of the WA coastline, in a 90-minute tour over Cape Le Grand National Park, the breathtaking pink Lake Hillier, rocky cliffs, reefs, and more.
For a different sort of tour, Dabungool Cultural Experiences are the only Nyungar tour group in Esperance. Each walking trail takes visitors through the spectacular landscape, while a Wudjari guide explains the importance of the land and its cultural connections to Australia’s Indigenous people. On the Taananeditj Trail, you will wander a gentle walking path with amazing views over town. Along the way, your guide will point out native plants and invite the group to sample bushfoods. Dogs are also welcome on this experience.
The Esperance Mountain bike track, also known as The Piggery, is made up of almost 15 kilometres of tracks with several turns and jumps. With options to take the shorter family path or full 13.5-kilometre XC track, beginners and experts alike can enjoy the surrounding landscape as they ride.
For a dose of the stunning coastline in these parts, Esperance offers easy access to the Great Ocean Drive. The 40-kilometre self-driving tour includes 360-degree views over town, and optional stops at Australia’s first wind farm, pink Lake Hillier and more.
There are awesome swimming spots on the route including Blue Haven Beach, Twilight Cove, Ten Mile Lagoon and Eleven Mile Beach. For those keen on snorkelling, Blue Haven Beach or Twilight Cove offer ideal conditions. Families will want to fit in a visit to the Esperance Jetty Headland, which features a discovery-based nature playground, food and coffee vans offering delicious treats, and several gentle walking tracks.
For a unique experience you’ll want to tell your friends about, Esperance Stonehenge is a full-sized replica of Stonehenge in the United Kingdom made out of solid pink granite weighing 2,500 tonnes. As a natural amphitheatre, live music and theatre performances are often held here. It also boasts stunning views over the Esperance township and coastline.
For the best places to eat and drink in Esperance, click here.
