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

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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.

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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.

Blend the addictive energy of dance, creative cinematic movies, captivating theatre, and energising music during Perth Festival.

Perth Festival has extraordinary roots. Born as a summer community experiment back in 1953, the brainchild of Professor Fred Alexander, it’s now Australia’s longest-running international art-based festival. From its first event at University of Western Australia, it now spans across Noongar Boodjar country (Perth City) bringing worldclass performances into the hearts of ardent festivalgoers. Hundreds of curtain calls, including numerous free events, are set to linger and leave a lasting impression on those who seek thrills that fill life’s in-between spaces. Featuring unmissable highlights from 6^th February to 1^st March, we’ve done the legwork for you – here’s what’s on, and where:

1. East Perth Power Station

East Perth Power Station during Perth Festival — See East Perth Power Station come alive. (Image: Jessica Wyld Photography)

Abandoned, run-down and shutdown in 1981, East Perth Power Station, located on the banks of the stunning Swan River, was reinvented in 2025 as an entertainment venue for the Perth Festival. Pack a picnic, bring the family and kick back under paperbark trees at Casa Musica – a free event featuring a melting pot of world-class musicians from Australian shores and around the globe. The diversity will have you bopping until the final encore.

A decade after David Bowie’s passing, his powerful music lives on in the electrifying show, Rebel Rebel. Powerhouse vocalists join Perth Symphony Orchestra for one incredible night showcasing the singer-songwriter’s iconic hits. Illuminate your world through the eyes of First Nation Noongar artist, Lance Chadd Tjyllyungoo in a free event. His distinctive paintings and Dreamtime stories decorate the Power Station’s walls depicting spiritual beliefs. Or settle in to watch British indie pop singer-songwriter, Nilüfer Yanya.

2. St Mary’s Cathedral

Take in Award-winning vocal group, Roomful of Teeth. (Image: Anja Schutz)

Step into the lofty ceilings of Perth’s grandest cathedral, St Mary’s, and soak up choral harmonies. Dating back to 1865, the stained-glass reproductions of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper are a talking point, add talented maestros, and the stage is set to enthral.

The international line-up is impressive. Master Irish fiddler, Martin Hayes takes to the stage with exquisite lyrical compositions from his native land. Åkervinda, an award winning Swedish quartet, weave stories of love, loss, and resilience into harmonious Nordic folk songs. The USA Grammy Award-winning vocal group, Roomful of Teeth, break all the rules. Hear their voices echo through the arched vaulted ceilings.

3. Lotterywest Films

guests at Lotterywest Films as part of Perth Festival — Discover the Lotterywest Films program. (Credit: Jessia Wyld Photograpghy)

One of the festivals longest-running favourites, Lotterywest Films run a rich tapestry of cinematic features showing until 29th of March. Pack a picnic, cushions, popcorn and pop a cork under a Somerville Pine Tree as the sun sets and screenings begin. Cinema lovers, choose your poison from thrillers, deep-dive documentaries, tearjerkers, raunchy rom-coms and side-splitting comedies. The program is fantastically full, the filmmakers the best in the business, and the outdoor setting, unequalled.

4. The Embassy

guests at The EMbassy as part of Perth Festival — Step into the old world glitz of The Embassy. (Image: Franz Bato)

Modelled on Perth’s historic Embassy Ballroom, a devilish dance venue that operated in the 1900s, The Embassy in Perth Town Hall, serves sophistication in its A-list shows. Set your sequins a’sparkle at the, What’s TINA Got to Do With It extravaganza where guest artists play tribute as they belt out the glitzy star’s hits. The returning act, Ali Bodycoat & The Embassy Big Band, will have you jiving as you take to the dance floor reimagining a bygone era. Who doesn’t like chocolate? Black-bearded drag sensation, La Gateau Chocolat puts the raw in cacao. World-renowned for his feisty range of storied songs, he reveals the inner-man come artist through his deliciously sweet and intimate act.

5. Unusual locations

still from The Trial theatre — Watch a star-studded cast in The Trial. (Image: Cole Baxter)

We’ve all heard of the hit show, The Office, but a spinetingling operatic thriller acted out in disused office space? Philip Glass’ nail-biter, The Trial, has a star-studded line-up. Together they deliver a dramatic ordeal showcasing Oscar-winner Christopher Hampton’s libretto; the suspense lingers after the final bow.

Sit back under starry skies and soak up dynamic dance at Ballet at the Quarry: Incandescence. Four exclusive classical and contemporary acts illuminate the amphitheatre’s stage as Perth City twinkles at nightfall. Mystery excites the mind. West Australian Opera returns again with another ‘secret opera’. Be led from an undisclosed meeting point and let the music lead to the secret.

6. A View From A Bridge

A View From A Bridge special event at Perth Festival — Share your innermost thoughts at A View From A Bridge.

Free, connecting strangers, and inclusive to everyone, artist, Joe Bloom’s collaborative project, A View From A Bridge has one prop – an old red telephone. Talk into the receiver, share thoughts, innermost feelings, memories, hopes and dreams as Bloom captures you from afar. The freedom to speak through the telephone movement has a worldwide following. A range of clips will be shown online.

What else to do in Perth

Shadow Wine Bar in perth — Taste the best of Perth at eateries like Shadow Wine Bar.

Endless blue skies crown Perth during February, making it the perfect time to explore Australia’s most western capital city. The city might be compact, but it packs a punch when it comes to what’s on. Perth Cultural Centre houses the city’s art-scene venues: Western Australian Art Gallery, WA Museum Boola Bardip and Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA).

After exploring the city’s alleyways, hidden corners, and main hub, savour worldclass food in Perth’s vibrant eateries. Award-winning restaurants, rooftop bars, and cafes can be found throughout; the leisurely eat-and-drink scene is literally mouthwatering, so book extra nights.

Start planing your 2026 trip to Perth Festival at perthfestival.com.au.