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.

Time your visit to Margaret River just right, and you can spend the ultimate weekend wining, dining and exploring the region with Pair’d Margaret River Region x Range Rover.

Wine, world-class produce, surf, sun and beaches: it’s an alluring combination. And the reason so many pin the Margaret River region high on their travel hit-lists. There’s drawcard after drawcard to the southwestern corner of Western Australia, and the Pair’d Margaret River Region x Range Rover food and wine festival showcases the best of it over the course of one weekend in November. It’s never been easier to sip, see and savour the Margaret River region.

In partnership with Pair’d Margaret River Region, Range Rover invites you on a seven-day itinerary of refined adventure, where luxury and exploration go hand in hand. It’s the perfect WA road trip, and there’s no better way to do it than in a Range Rover.

Day 1

the pool at Pullman Bunker Bay — Check into Pullman Bunker Bay.

There’s no more popular West Australian road trip route than that between Perth and the Margaret River Region. It’s an easily digestible, three-hour drive, with worthy pit stops along the way.

Make the first of them one hour and 15 minutes in, at Lake Clifton. Here, find a 2000-year-old living thrombolite reef. Drive for a further 40 minutes and chance meeting some of Bunbury’s dolphin population at Koombana Bay.

Pullman Bunker Bay is the final stop, just over three hours south of Perth. This beachfront, five-star resort is the ultimate base for exploring the Margaret River Wine region.

Day 2

After a leisurely morning breakfast with an ocean view, start your Range Rover and head towards the Dunsborough town centre. Browsing the decidedly coastal-themed goods of the town’s many independent boutiques is a great way to while away the hours, breaking up the sartorial with an artisan gelato snack stop, or some good old-fashioned Australian bakery fare.

Leave room; you’ll need it for the Good Natured Gathering dinner at Wayfinder. Indulge in a four-course feast by chef Felipe Montiel, which uses produce from the winery’s market garden to enhance a selection of sustainably sourced seafood and meat. But food is just the support act. It’s organic wine that’s the star of the show, generously poured and expertly paired to each dish.

Day 3

Settle in for cabernet at Cape Mentelle Winery.

With a grand total of 20 wines from vintage 2022 to try, it’s a good thing Cape Mentelle’s International Cabernet Tasting kicks off early. Make your way to the estate for a 10:00 AM start, where a global selection of wines will be poured blind, before a long lunch by Tiller Dining is served.

Given that the Margaret River is responsible for more than 20 per cent of Australia’s fine wine production, it’s only right to delve into it while in the area.

Continue exploring the region via taste and terroir aboard Alison Maree, a whale-watching catamaran, as you cruise Geographe Bay. Admire the rolling green hills and crisp white beaches of Quindalup in sunset’s golden light, all the while sipping through the Clairault Streicker catalogue and dining on canapes.

For a more substantial dinner, venture into Busselton for a seven-course British x Australian mash-up, courtesy of Brendan Pratt (Busselton Pavilion) and Oliver Kent (Updown Farmhouse, UK). They’ll be putting their rustic yet refined spin on the likes of local marron, wagyu and abalone – championing the simple beauty of the world-class ingredients.

Day 4

Wrap your fingers around a wine glass and wiggle your toes into the sand at Pair’d Beach Club x Range Rover on Meelup Beach. Sit down to an intimate wine session with sommelier Cyndal Petty – or a four-course feast by Aaron Carr of Yarri – and revel in the open-air beach club, bar and restaurant’s laidback coastal vibe. It’s a whole new way to experience one of the region’s most renowned beaches.

Follow up a day in the sun with a casual Italian party at Mr Barvel Wines. Purchase wines –including the elusive, sold-out Nebbia – by the glass and enjoy canapes with the towering Karri forest as a backdrop.

If you’d prefer to keep it local, head to Skigh Wines for the New Wave Gathering, where the region’s independent wine makers and their boundary-pushing wines will be on show. Street-style eats, a DJ and complimentary wine masterclasses complete the experience.

Day 5

pair'd Grand Tasting — Taste your way through Howard Park Wines. (Image: C J Maddock)

Spend the morning at your leisure, driving the winding roads through the Boranup Karri forest in your Range Rover. Soak in the views at Contos Beach, and call into the small cheese, chocolate and preserve producers along the way.

Make your next stop Howard Park Wines for The Grand Tasting presented by Singapore Airlines. Numerous wine labels will be pouring their catalogues over four hours, accompanied by food from chefs Matt Moran and Silvia Colloca, with live opera providing the soundtrack.

Cap off a big weekend with one last hurrah at Busselton Pavilion. Six ‘local legends’ – chefs Brendan Pratt (Busselton Pavilion), Mal Chow (Chow’s Table), Aaron Carr (Yarri), Ben Jacob (Lagoon Yallingup), Corey Rozario (Dahl Daddies) and Laura Koentjoro (Banksia Tavern) – will be preparing a dish each. Dance the night away as vinyl spins and the sun sets on another day.

Day 6

Ngilgi Cave western australia — Head underground. (Image: Tourism WA)

After a busy few days of wining and dining, it’s wise to observe a rest day. There’s no easier task than unwinding in the Margaret River Region, also famous for its high concentration of world-class beaches.

Relax on the grassy knoll as you watch the region’s most experienced surfers braving the World Surf League break at Surfer’s Point, or don your own wetsuit and try out one of Gracetown’s more beginner-friendly waves. Swimmers will find their Eden at Meelup Beach, Eagle Bay, or Point Piquet, where the sand is brilliantly white and the water as still as a backyard swimming pool.

Not into sun, sand, and surf? Head underground at Mammoth Cave, just one of the region’s many stalactite-filled caves.

Day 7

Burnt Ends event at Pair'd — Farewell the Margaret River.

Pack up your Range Rover with new favourite wines and newfound memories, ready for the three-hour journey back to Perth.

Prebook your discovery journey through the south-west corner of Western Australia with Pair’d Margaret River Region x Range Rover.