The best towns to visit in Western Australia, ranked

From spirited outback townships to remote communes along stunning coastline, these towns in WA are worth ticking off your bucket list.

Western Australia is so expansive it takes several days of driving, non-stop, to travel its length. But scattered in between are a host of wonderful towns that warrant long-term lingering. Spanning wildlife-rich boroughs to country escapes, these are the very best towns to visit in WA, as ranked in Australian Traveller’s 100 best Aussie towns to visit list.

1. Broome

Overall rank: 6/100

Yawuru Country

Cable Beach, Broome — Red earth, turquoise water and Cable Beach sunsets create an unforgettable scene. (Credit: Tourism Australia)

Broome has a wildly beautiful landscape of clashing colours: where the deep red of the outback earth meets the shimmering turquoise of the Indian Ocean. The town is a gateway for legendary Kimberley adventures and home to one of the most famous beaches in the country: Cable Beach. Here, panellist Adrian Williams’ great joy is enjoying a Matso’s Ginger Beer while watching the camels walk at sunset – a quintessential Broome experience.

Don’t miss: Broome’s “rich pearling history and cultural diversity," says panellist Paul Ah Chee. It was considered the pearling capital of the world in the 1880s, luring workers from Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Japan and Europe. Time your visit with Shinju Matsuri – or the Festival of the Pearl – a week-long cultural celebration held annually in August/September.

2. Eagle Bay

Overall rank: 8/100

Wadandi Country

Soak in the peaceful coastline beauty of Eagle Bay. (Credit: Tourism Australia)

“This north-facing beach town is WA’s secret enclave of laid-back Aussie charm, where the luxe beach pads are just as fascinating as the beach itself," says panellist Quentin Long. Sitting atop Cape Naturaliste in Geographe Bay, this Margaret River beauty is a true scene-stealer with its powdery, pure-white sands and bewitchingly clear waters. Proximity to the nearby towns of Yallingup and Dunsborough, and the area’s exceptional wineries, means there’s plenty to do once you finally drag yourself away from the beach.

Don’t miss: “The sugary fine sand and translucent water feels so pure you could bottle it – it’s hard to leave," says Quentin Long. And if you’re a diver, Eagle Bay’s clear waters have plenty to delight below the waves with the HMAS Swan wreck colonised by all manner of sealife.

3. Kalbarri

Overall rank: 19/100

Nanda Country

the Kalbarri Skywalk from above — Admire the expansive views from the vertiginous platforms at Kalbarri Skywalk. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

“Epic cliffs and stunning gorges," is how panellist Irene Jones describes the appeal of Kalbarri/Wurdimarlu, one of the top towns in WA for stunning surrounding landscapes. This Coral Coast town is on the map for its dramatic convergence of ocean and outback. New tourism infrastructure, including the spectacular Kalbarri Skywalk (completed 2020) suspended over the Murchison River Gorge and an ongoing Foreshore Revitalisation Project, which will include the restoration of Nanda cultural site Gidamarra Spring, is securing Kalbarri as one of Australia’s premier tourism towns.

Don’t miss: Wildflower season, from late winter through to spring.

4. Margaret River

Overall rank: 20/100

Wadandi Country

Enjoy world-class drops and local produce at Voyager Estate. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

A three-hour drive from Perth, Margaret River sits at the centre of the region that bears its name – where wine, waves and food converge. Begin your day with a morning surf, then commit to a long lunch at winery restaurants like Voyager Estate or Vasse Felix where local crayfish, abalone and truffles inform the menus. “Wine plus surf plus food is a ridiculous combo," says panellist Irene Jones.

Don’t miss: The outdoors as well as cellar doors: wander amid towering karri trees, explore ancient cave systems etched over millennia and follow the curves of the coastline.

5. Fremantle

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

Overall rank: 24/100

Whadjuk Noongar Country

Soaking up the sun at Bathers Beach. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia/@ospreycreative)

A short spin from Perth, this salt-licked, charmingly offbeat port hub whirs with lively art and musical festivals basically year-round. Its hundred-year-old markets are worth a visit, as is its spatter of craft breweries, independent boutiques and maritime heritage sites such as the WA Shipwrecks Museum. “It’s a historic location with a great emerging bohemian vibe," says panellist Paul Hamra.

Don’t miss: New stays such as Owston Hotel and The Garde (located in the former police headquarters), which are reinventing the town’s past with local-infused creativity.

6. Esperance

Overall rank: 25/100

Kepa Kurl Wudjari Country

The sands on this east-facing curve of WA coast are so iridescently white they make sunglasses an imperative. Offset by aquamarine waters, Esperance is one of those truly special places that etch themselves deeply into your heart. “It’s a long way for most of us to get to," says panellist Catriona Rowntree, “but the effort pays off – truly breathtaking." While here, enter the Cape Le Grand National Park to visit Lucky Bay, where wild kangaroos are equally drawn to this stunning spot. Beach expert and panellist Brad Farmer concurs, calling it the “gateway to the best beaches in the west."

Don’t miss: Esperance is also home to colourful lakes, which bloom pink from algae. They’re best glimpsed from above on a scenic flight.

7. Denmark

Overall rank: 44/100

Minang & Bibbulmun Noongar Country

Greens Pool in Denmark, WA from above — Large granite boulders rise out of the turquoise waters at Greens Pool. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

“Green, coastal and crazy pretty," says panellist Irene Jones of this Great Southern region town that is all white-sand beaches, staggeringly clear waters and smooth boulders that look as though they’ve been rolled into the landscape by giants. It’s a place that truly invites disconnection. Hike through the wildflower-strewn William Bay National Park, immerse yourself in the shallow waters of the sheltered Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks, and leave the phone behind in favour of an old-school camera. It’s by far one of the best towns in WA for nature adventures.

a tiny cabin with picturesque views at Heyscape Denmark — Go off-grid at Heyscape Denmark.

Don’t miss: Continue your connection to nature with a stay at Heyscape. These cabins are set to absorb the beauty of your surroundings with a few modern luxuries. Choose from one-bedroom, two-bedroom or four-person cabins.

8. Albany

Overall rank: 47/100

Menang Noongar Country

ultural dancer in Balgang, Albany — Experience the vibrant Noongar culture during Balgang Albany. (Credit: Astrid Volzke)

A year-long party is marking the 200-year milestone of Albany, Western Australia’s first European settlement. Balgang Albany anchors the city’s bicentenary with a landmark series of events running across 2026. Balgang, meaning ‘together’ in Noongar culture, grounds the program, which features immersive soundscapes and community-led events, in connection. Expect bold ideas, dual cultural histories and a city – traditionally celebrated for surfing and whale-watching – rewriting its own story.

Don’t miss: “Those sheer cliffs and pounding Southern Ocean swell are proper dramatic! Great walking tracks, powerful history and a genuinely excellent kebab in town seal the deal for me," says panellist Rae Johnston.

9. Kununurra

Overall rank: 62/100

Miriuwung & Gajerrong Country

lake argyle — The vast waters of Lake Argyle show off the region’s unforgettable colours. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

Meaning ‘Big Water’ in Miriuwung language, Kununurra is surrounded by a rugged landscape and wildlife-rich waterways including the croc-inhabited Ord River and spectacular Lake Argyle. “I still dream about the colours of Kununurra at sunset," says panellist Imogen Eveson, “and can’t wait to go back to experience how the town has continued to evolve since my last visit." While it has long been a gateway to the East Kimberley, Kununurra is emerging as a base for First Nations-led experiences, from cultural walks with Kingfisher Tours to Blak Tapas cafe and the ever-evolving Waringarri Aboriginal Arts centre in town.

Don’t miss: “Hidden Valley [Mirima National Park] on the edge of town. I would rate it 11 – it feels so ancient," says panellist Adrian Williams.

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

10. Pemberton

Overall rank: 69/100

Bibbulmun Noongar Country

Yeagarup dunes in Pemberton, WA — Yeagarup is the largest inland dune system in the southern hemisphere. (Credit: Tourism Australia)

Pemberton is steeped in history, established in 1912 as a timber town that supplied sleepers for the Trans-Australian Railway between Western Australia and South Australia. Those native karri forests, which Irene Jones describes as “magical", are an emblem of this south-west region, with some trees towering up to 90 metres in height. Walk among these ancient giants, alongside misty rivers, seasonal wildflowers and disused railway lines reclaimed by nature. They even butt right up against the remarkable Yeagarup Dunes.

the Vintner's Residence at Ampersand Estates in Western Australia — Check into The Vintner’s Residence at Ampersand Estates, just a 30-minute drive from Pemberton.

Don’t miss: Book a luxe stay at Ampersand Estates, a boutique cool-climate winery and artisanal distillery on the Donnelly River, inclusive of a gourmet breakfast hamper and wine tasting

11. Exmouth

Overall rank: 75/100

Baiyungu, Thalanyji & Yinigurdira Country

Exmouth is “about as isolated from the rest of the world as you can get, which is part of its beauty," says panellist Adrian Williams. This coastal town is known as the home to World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, an “underwater wonderland that delivers swims with whale sharks and humpbacks plus sightings of manta rays and nesting turtles," according to panellist Katie Carlin. Exmouth was hit by Tropical Cyclone Narelle in late March but is open for business. Continuing to plan trips and support local operators will play a vital role in the region’s ongoing recovery.

Don’t miss: The rugged limestone ranges and arid coastal plain of Cape Range National Park. It’s home to roos, emus and echidnas, plus luxury glamping at Sal Salis, walking trails and beaches where you can swim among coral.

12. Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Overall rank: 81/100

Marlinyu Ghoorlie Country

The Court Hotel in Kalgoorlie. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

Tick Australia’s oldest brothel in Australia’s largest outback town off your to-do list. Kalgoorlie-Boulder is filled with colonial-era buildings, characterful pubs and, ahem, historic brothels – remnants of the gold rush. It all started in 1893 when three Irish prospectors were travelling through by horse and found 3kg of alluvial nuggets by chance. By 1901, the Golden Mile was established – known as the richest square mile on Earth – and Kalgoorlie flourished.

Don’t miss: Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s “big mining energy with history," suggests panellist Irene Jones. The town remains an important mining hub and is home to the Super Pit, an open-pit gold mine so big it can be seen from space. Double down on the history lesson with a visit to the Museum of the Goldfields.

13. York

Overall rank: 97/100

Ballardong Noongar Country

Sitting pretty on the Avon River, York is a tried-and-trusted country escape for Perth weekenders thanks to its bucolic pastoral scenes and low-key energy. The town itself, WA’s first European inland settlement, is a flâneur’s dream with its Victorian and Federation-era architecture, while the surrounding countryside lends itself effortlessly to outdoor adventures – from horseback riding to skydiving. It’s one of the best towns in WA for good reason.

Don’t miss: A barbecue while taking in 360-degree views over York and rolling countryside from Mount Brown Lookout, a 342-metre-high viewpoint accessible by foot or car.

This article is part of Australian Traveller’s 100 best Aussie towns to visit, as chosen by a panel of industry experts, well-known Aussies and travel insiders. See our full list of 100 best Aussie towns here and visit the special 100 best Aussie towns hub here.

With its prime position on one of Australia’s most iconic beaches, lush tropical surrounds and exceptional dining, wellness and leisure experiences, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa is the perfect base for exploring the spectacular Kimberley region.

For many travellers, Broome is the gateway to the wild grandeur of the Kimberley – a launch point for epic 4WD journeys along the legendary Gibb River Road, rugged outback tours and expedition cruises tracing the remote coastline. Whether you’re arriving dust-covered from the red dirt or preparing to venture deep into the region’s untamed landscapes, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa offers the perfect place to begin or end the adventure. The only fully integrated resort in Broome, the property unfolds along meandering pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens, past tranquil lily ponds and hand-carved timber sculptures that subtly guide guests towards reception.

Location

camel ride along cable beach broome — Let friendly staff help you book a camel ride on Cable Beach. (Credit: Tourism WA/ Matt Deakin)

Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa lies just steps from the famed Cable Beach, where the silhouettes of camels crossing the shoreline at sunset have become one of Australia’s most enduring tourism images. The only beachfront resort in Broome, it’s also just a few minutes’ drive to the centre of town, where guests can wander through Chinatown and peruse its pearl stores and galleries or catch a movie beneath the stars at the heritage-listed Sun Pictures.

The friendly team at the resort’s tour desk can also help tailor your stay, whether that’s an iconic camel ride along the beach, a visit to Willie Creek Pearl Farm to discover how the gems are harvested or a guided tour to see the ancient dinosaur footprints revealed among the rust-red rocks of Gantheaume Point at low tide.

Style and character

Cable Beach Club Resort broome lobby — Walk into an eclectic blend of influences and eras.

Few resorts capture the essence of their surroundings quite like Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa. First opened in 1988, the resort is a celebration of Broome’s rich multicultural past, from its Japanese pearl divers to Chinese merchants. The result is an eclectic blend of influences and eras. The resort features wide timber verandahs, corrugated iron walls and tin roofs designed to temper the tropical climate. To keep it breezy, Broome’s signature lattice (a distinct painted timber lattice detailing iconic to the tropical architecture of the Kimberley region) has been used across the resort with two functions – allowing a breeze through while maintaining privacy.

Scattered throughout the manicured gardens is an impressive collection of rare Asian and international artefacts. Chinese bluestone lions stand sentinel at the entrance, while terracotta warrior horses, vermillion Japanese torii gates and traditional Shishi (lion-dog) statues lend an air of quiet grandeur. Fragrant with frangipani blossoms and shaded by century-old boab and mango trees, the grounds are also a haven for native wildlife. Birds provide a constant soundtrack, while wallabies and tiny lizards rustle through the foliage.

Rooms

Cable Beach Club Resort broome Price Jones Suite — Sleep in comfort and style.

The extensive accommodation options span studios, bungalows, club apartments, villas and suites. Family bungalows draw inspiration from the grand homes of Broome’s pearl masters, translating that heritage into generous layouts, high ceilings and verandahs that open to the gardens. Studios and villas are perfect for couples and solo stays, pairing soft coastal tones with private balconies or courtyards. While club apartments and suites are designed for longer stays, offering multiple bedrooms, kitchen facilities and seamless indoor-outdoor living.

Food and drink

kichi kichi at Cable Beach Club Resort broome — Tuck into an Asian fusion menu at Kichi Kichi.

The dining scene at Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa reflects Broome’s position at the crossroads of the Indian Ocean and Asia, where coastal produce meets a tapestry of multicultural influences.

Contemporary Asian fusion dishes – from crisp fried pork belly and roast Peking duck breast to Burmese lamb curry – deliver bold, vibrant flavours at Kichi Kichi. While the handmade tortellini filled with pearl meat and prawn served at atmospheric Italian restaurant, Cichetti, is the kind of dish that you will remember long after the final bite. Elsewhere on the menu, find effortless flair across dishes like Wedge Island octopus, market fish crudo and silky goat’s milk panna cotta.

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, Sunset Bar & Grill becomes the place to be. Here, guests gather over freshly shucked oysters, cured meat platters and buckets of sweet Exmouth prawns. Or, for a quieter evening in, guests can retreat to the comfort of their room and order from Cable Eats, the resort’s in-room dining service.

Pools

Cable Beach Club Resort broome ocean pool — Relax by the adults-only Ocean Pool.

Two distinct pool settings invite guests to shape their day exactly as they please. Drift into the calm of the adults-only Ocean Pool, where attentive service delivers dishes such as grilled prawn skewers and salt-and-pepper calamari straight to your cabana or sunbed well into the afternoon.

The mood at the family-friendly Kimberley Pool – framed by a cascading waterfall, the heart of the resort’s recreational precinct – is decidedly more playful. Here, younger guests are catered for with a dedicated kids’ menu of familiar favourites including chicken nuggets, fish and chips and ham-and-cheese toasties, while parents can graze on more refined poolside fare, such as fried squid, soba noodle salad and gourmet burgers.

Chahoya Spa & Salon

Cable Beach Club Resort broome Chahoya Spa — Book a treatment at Chahoya Spa.

Chahoya Spa brings a refined sense of indulgence inspired by its Japanese name, meaning “pamper”, with signature treatments including the Kimberley Dreamtime ritual and Chahoya Pearl Massage designed to soothe tired bodies and quiet busy minds. There is also an on-site salon providing personalised cuts, colour services and restorative hair care, ensuring guests leave feeling polished and renewed.

Other facilities

yoga class in the buddha sanctuary at Cable Beach Club Resort broome — Join a yoga class at the Buddha Sanctuary.

Wellness continues at the Buddha Sanctuary, a serene open-air pavilion just beyond the main resort grounds, where yoga classes are held six days a week amid ornamental gardens and a striking 3.5-metre hand-carved crystal Buddha statue. Beyond the sanctuary, the resort caters to every pace of stay, with a children’s playground, mini golf, tennis courts and a fully-equipped gym. Guests can also browse the resort’s boutique gift shop, home to Allure South Sea Pearls – the brand behind Broome’s first dedicated pearl boutique in Chinatown.

Book the ultimate Broome getaway at cablebeachclub.com.