07 May WHITE SANDS, BLUE SKIES & RED WINE: MY ULTIMATE WESTERN AUSTRALIA BUCKET LIST!
Long before I ever set foot in Australia, Western Australia was where I wanted to go the most. There was something magnetic about its wild, untouched beauty—from the rust-red gorges of Kalbarri to the bubblegum-pink waters of Hutt Lagoon, and of course, the crystal-clear turquoise bays of Rottnest Island. The diversity of landscapes almost felt like whispers from another world, it felt almost otherworldly, and I knew I had to experience it for myself.
When the long-awaited journey finally unfolded, it brought with it moments more magical than I could have imagined. Yet,Western Australia is vast—it’s the largest state in the country and covering it in one go would have been a challenge. Its sprawling landscapes and countless wonders made it clear: I would have to return, gladly. Still, what I did see left me awestruck, as if the land had gifted me a glimpse of something far greater than I ever expected.
Here are my top highlights of the journey through Western Australia!
Perth
It would be remiss of me not to begin with it’s sunny capital—Perth, where the rhythm of city life dances effortlessly with the raw beauty of nature. Glass towers shimmer along the banks of the Swan River, while golden beaches lie just a stone’s throw from the city’s edge. In the heart of the CBD, the pulse is lively—cafés spill onto sunlit sidewalks, Murray and Hay Street beckon with bustling shops and vibrant street performers, and by night, the city hums with electric energy. Just beyond the bustle, serenity awaits in Kings Park and Botanic Garden, where native flora frame sweeping views of the skyline and invite quiet reflection. For the adventurous at heart, Perth has its own share of thrills—soar above the river on the Matagarup Zip+Climb, or test your courage with acrobatics atop with the Vertigo Tour at the Ozone at Optus Stadium. It’s a city that strikes a rare balance between exhilaration and tranquility—offering something for every kind of traveler.
FREMANTLE:
Just a short 25 Minutes drive from Perth lies Fremantle—a coastal treasure where history, creativity, and the scent of the sea drift through the air. Cobbled laneways weave between colonial-era buildings now transformed into quirky cafés, artisan markets, charming bookstores, and lively microbreweries. The town is filled with a bohemian spirit—one you can feel in every sun-dappled corner, whether you’re wandering through the echoes of Fremantle Prison(only world heritage-listed building in Western Australia), browsing local art, or simply savoring the slow, salt-laced rhythm of life. Fremantle doesn’t just welcome you—it invites you to linger, reminding you that the most memorable moments often come when you stop to breathe them in.
Rottnest Island:
Rottnest Island with it’s 20 beautiful bays or 63 pristine beaches is the crowning jewel of Western Australia. It is a place so idyllic, it feels as though it was dreamt into existence. Long before I could point to Western Australia on a map, I knew of the quokkas—those wide-eyed, perpetually smiling creatures who are the happiest creatures in the world! I wanted a selfie with more than any celebrity on the planet. But Rottnest is more than its famously friendly locals. With dazzling turquoise waters, powder-white sands, and car-free roads, the island calls for a slower, simpler rhythm. Spend your days cycling between hidden coves, snorkelling in crystal-clear lagoons, or simply basking in the sun and sea breeze. There’s magic to be found in every corner—from the vibrant reefs of Little Salmon Bay to the quiet grandeur of Wadjemup Lighthouse. And if you can, stay the night at Samphire Rottnest—because once the day-trippers leave and the stars blanket the island, you’ll understand why there’s nowhere else in the world quite like it.
THE PINNACLES:
The Pinnacles is one of Western Australia’s most striking natural wonders, set within Nambung National Park along the Coral Coast. This surreal desert landscape is dotted with thousands of ancient limestone pillars that rise from golden sands, creating an almost otherworldly scene. Watching the sun set over the Pinnacles was truly unforgettable—the sky ablaze with color, casting long shadows across the desert- one of the most glorious sights ever. And when darkness falls, the stargazing is simply spectacular, with the clear outback skies revealing a breathtaking display of stars set amongst a back drop of the Pinnacles!
Hutt Lagoon:
There are many places on the Coral Coast that are worth the stop notably Jurien Bay, Georgetown or Lancelin. But none more beautiful or instagramy than the very Pink Lake at Hutt Lagoon. The striking color results from the presence of the algae Dunaliella salina vary from soft lilac to vivid bubblegum pink, depending on factors like time of day, season, and cloud cover. A great option is to take a scenic flight. When it comes to getting the perfect pictures of Pink Lake, planning the right time of visiting is extreamly crucial. Don’t worry we got you!
KALBARRI
Kalbarri is where rugged coastlines collide with dramatic red-rock gorges, creating one of the most visually striking destinations you’ll ever encounter. This charming coastal town is dotted with inviting cafés and delicious local fare, giving it a relaxed, welcoming vibe. At its heart lies Kalbarri National Park, home to the iconic Nature’s Window, the majestic gorges of the Murchison River, and the breathtaking Kalbarri Skywalk, which offers sweeping views over the vast, ancient landscape. Kalbari gets especially Whether you’re hiking through gorges, kayaking along the river, hunting for lobsters, or simply unwinding on the beach, Kalbarri is the essence of barefoot luxury and natural wonder.
MARGARET RIVER:
Perhaps saving the most luxurious and for last, the Margaret River region is the ideal finale to your Western Australia journey. A paradise for wine lovers, food enthusiasts, and nature seekers, it invites you to slow down and savor the experience without a rigid itinerary. Home to over 200 wineries, the region is famed for its world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, complemented by a thriving food scene and artisanal produce. Beyond the vineyards, you’ll find charming beachside towns like Busselton, stunning coastal landscapes, and unforgettable experiences like dolphin watching—making Margaret River a perfect blend of indulgence, relaxation, and natural beauty.
Ten days in and nearly a thousand words later, it feels like I’ve only just begun to uncover the vast beauty of Western Australia. From swimming alongside kangaroos on the white sands near Esperance and snorkeling the vibrant Ningaloo Reef, to witnessing the natural marvel of Wave Rock and the surreal “Staircase to the Moon” in Broome, this region is filled with unforgettable experiences that stretch far beyond a single itinerary. Western Australia is a land of contrasts and wonder—where ancient landscapes, rich Aboriginal culture, and jaw-dropping coastlines make every day an adventure, and leave you longing to return for more. It is truly the dream state!!