Sandwiched between glorious Princess Royal Harbour and King George Sound, the heritage-rich port city of Albany exudes charm and delivers an endless stream of picture-perfect views.
Albany is 415km southwest of Perth (4hr 40min drive) in the South West WA region.
Its mix of sparkling and dramatic coastal scenery, thoroughly fascinating past, vibrant city centre, and easy access to gobsmacking natural attractions are a handful of compelling reasons.
The National Anzac Centre
Albany has a strong link with this attraction’s theme: The city was the final departure point for the first Anzac troops bound for the battlefields of World War I.
And the Anzac centre cleverly commemorates the Anzac spirit via powerful and emotive stories told through the eyes of various war-related individuals. It’s a moving and important tribute to the Anzacs and a must-visit attraction.
Albany Heritage Park
While the National Anzac Centre is the headliner within this precinct, there are several other historical monuments to observe.
A highlight is Padre White Lookout, which sits atop Mt Clarence and is reputed to be the birthplace of the Anzac Day Dawn Service.
As a bonus, this vantage point gifts glittering views of King George Sound, Princess Royal Harbour, and more.
Albany beaches
Albany and its surrounds are home to some seriously sensational strips of sand. Here are some centrally located highlights:
Albany's Historic Whaling Station
Another interesting element of Albany’s heritage is its whaling days. This interactive museum allows for a rare glimpse into an intact whale processing factory and restored whale-chasing ship and comprehensively traces this fascinating subject matter.
Fortunately, whales are no longer hunted in Australian waters and instead admired. Get up close to these majestic marine creatures on a whale-watching tour in Albany, which are available May-October.
Dog Rock
Unleash your cheesy photo pose on this massive granite outcrop, which bears a strong resemblance to a canine’s cranium.
Chainsaw sculpture drive
This quirky find showcases seriously impressive chainsaw-carved creations from talented local artist, Darrel Radcliffe. Essentially, it’s a drive-through sculpture park with free entry, but donations are welcome. This attraction is found on Mercer Rd.
Albany wineries
Albany is a subregion of the wider Great Southern wine area, so expect to find a sprinkling of cellar doors in and around the city. Pinot noir is a popular find in this cool-climate area.
Torndirrup National Park
Explore a treasure chest of funky formations and scenic delights within this popular park. Highlights include the Blowholes, Natural Bridge, and The Gap, which has a raised platform for marvelling at the wild ocean’s immense power and fury. There are ample lookouts and walking trails to witness the vast beauty.
Distance: 10km south of Albany.
Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve
The reserve is jam-packed with sparkling coastal scenery. Among the standouts is Little Beach, which is big on appeal thanks to its white sand, turquoise waters, and rocky backdrop. Two Peoples Bay is also home to endangered wildlife.
Distance: 35km east of Albany.
Albany is the oldest European settlement in Western Australia, founded in 1826.
Looking for accommodation in Albany, WA? BIG4 has two fantastic holiday parks in the city and both have a wide assortment of cabin accommodation and caravan and camping sites.
BIG4 Middleton Beach Holiday Park
Park type: Premier
With stunning placement along a vast stretch of alluring beach frontage, the park is a dream destination for a coastal getaway. A large heated pool, hydro spa, and recreation room are some of the leading in-park facilities. And the camp kitchen and barbecue areas are set among gorgeous gardens.
BIG4 Emu Beach Holiday Park
Park type: Holiday
BIG4 Emu Beach boasts a relaxing, tranquil environment dotted with peppermint trees and within a pebble’s throw of the beach. The excellent on-site facilities include mini-golf and a jumping pillow. Pet lovers take note: BIG4 Emu Beach has a host of dog-friendly sites.
Isn’t it time you had an Albany escape? Book your BIG4 getaway now. See below for more.
