The Southern Forests & Valleys region offers more than just towering forests and winding rivers – it also boasts a stunning 140-kilometer coastline with a diverse array of beaches, perfect for every kind of traveler. From rugged, adventurous shores to tranquil, family-friendly spots, our beaches deliver a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, all set against the backdrop of Western Australia’s breathtaking landscapes.
Black Point
Black Jasper is a secluded gem in the Southern Forests and Valleys, offering a peaceful stretch of coastline perfect for fishing, swimming, and nature walks. The area is renowned for its stunning views and rugged natural beauty. Nearby, Lake Jasper provides a serene freshwater retreat ideal for picnics. Both locations offer a tranquil escape into nature, making them perfect for those seeking relaxation and outdoor adventure in the region’s coastal and forest landscapes.
Broke Inlet
Broke Inlet is a peaceful and picturesque location near the southern coast of Western Australia, offering stunning views and a variety of recreational opportunities. Popular for fishing and canoeing, this inlet is also a great spot for birdwatching, as the area is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Accessible by four-wheel drive, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking a secluded getaway with opportunities for exploration and relaxation in the surrounding natural beauty.
Coalmine Beach
Coalmine Beach, near Walpole, is a peaceful destination with calm waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. It offers stunning views of the Southern Ocean and surrounding landscapes, accessible via scenic walking tracks. For extended stays, visitors can enjoy the nearby Coalmine Beach Caravan Park, providing comfortable accommodations close to the beach. Whether you’re looking to relax on the shore or explore the natural beauty of the area, Coalmine Beach offers a peaceful and convenient base for a coastal getaway.
Conspicuous Cliffs
The Conspicuous Cliffs offer stunning limestone formations, creating a dramatic backdrop for the pristine beach below. This photographer’s paradise is also a prime spot for whale watching during migration seasons. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from walk trails and lookouts, with a boardwalk leading down to the beach for fishing, shell hunting, or simply relaxing by the surf. The surrounding coastal heathland, with swamp paperbarks and red flowering gums, adds to the area’s natural beauty, while seabirds and marine life can be spotted year-round.
D’Entrecasteaux Beaches
D’Entrecasteaux National Park’s stunning beaches offer a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy four-wheel driving along long sandy stretches, fishing in the surf, or snorkeling and diving in the clear waters. Popular spots like Yeagarup, Jasper, Warren, and Malimup beaches are ideal for adventure seekers, while Windy Harbour, Salmon Beach, and Walpole Beach provide peaceful spots for relaxation. Broke Inlet and Gardner Beach are great for those seeking seclusion. These pristine coastal areas, accessible by 4WD or conventional vehicles, provide a range of recreational opportunities in a stunning natural setting.
Donnelly River
Donnelly River Beach offers a serene escape with opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and motor boating along the picturesque river. The Donnelly River winds through national parks before reaching the Southern Ocean. Visitors can launch their vessels from Donnelly Boat Landing and enjoy the scenic journey through jarrah forests, passing limestone cliffs and a seasonal sandbar. The area is also a great fishing spot, with diverse wildlife including freshwater fish and birds. Whether you’re exploring the river or relaxing on the beach, this location provides a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.
Mandalay Beach
Mandalay Beach, named after the Norwegian barque wrecked there in 1911, is one of the most stunning beaches in the Walpole area. This pristine spot offers spectacular views of the Southern Ocean and Chatham Island, located three kilometers offshore. With its wide, rugged beach and historical significance, it’s a must-visit destination. Visitors can explore the beach, view the occasional wreck remnants at low tide, and enjoy whale watching from elevated platforms. Fishing enthusiasts also flock here, attracted by its abundant catches of skippy, whiting, and seasonal salmon.
Salmon Beach
Salmon Beach, located just west of Windy Harbour along D’Entrecasteaux Drive, is known for its dramatic coastal scenery, rugged limestone cliffs, and powerful surf. While popular during holidays, it offers a sense of isolation. A short walk through dunes brings visitors to a beach where crashing waves meet towering cliffs. It’s a great spot for surfing and fishing, but not suitable for swimming. For panoramic views, a whale watching platform at Tookulup provides stunning vistas of the coastline. The nearby walking trails offer a variety of experiences, including the Cliff Top Walk.
Sandy Beach
Sandy Beach, located on the Nornalup Inlet near Walpole, is a tranquil spot perfect for families. With calm waters ideal for swimming, it’s a popular picnic destination and fishing haven. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic 1.5km Sandy Beach to Rest Point Trail, which meanders through lush tingle and karri forests, offering a peaceful nature experience. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or exploring the trail, Sandy Beach provides a great way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Walpole Beaches
The coastal town of Walpole is known for its beautiful, untouched natural landscapes, and its beaches are no exception. Walpole’s beaches offer tranquil, crystal-clear waters that are perfect for a leisurely swim or a scenic walk along the shore. For those looking to relax and take in the surroundings, the beaches in Walpole provide a calm and serene environment. They are also great for birdwatching, as the area is home to a variety of local and migratory bird species. Whether you are exploring the beaches in Walpole or venturing further into the surrounding national parks, the area offers both peacefulness and scenic beauty. For local information, visit the Walpole-Nornalup Visitor Centre, where you can learn more about the area’s beaches and surrounding attractions.
Windy Harbour
Windy Harbour is another family-friendly beach located within the D’Entrecasteaux National Park. Known for its sheltered, calm waters and surrounding natural beauty, it’s an excellent destination for a relaxing day with the whole family. The beach is dotted with picnic tables, barbecues, and lush grassed areas, making it easy to settle in for a day of fun in the sun. There are also facilities nearby, ensuring convenience for visitors. Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a peaceful moment, Windy Harbour offers a great balance of accessible amenities and unspoiled natural beauty.
Yeagarup Beach
Located within the Warren National Park, Yeagarup Beach is a hidden gem for those seeking solitude. This unspoiled stretch of coastline is accessible via a long sandy road that leads you deep into the park, making it feel like a world away from the usual tourist spots. The beach is perfect for fishing, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings. With its vast expanse of sand dunes and the calming sound of waves crashing against the shore, Yeagarup is ideal for a quiet retreat. Visitors can often spot local wildlife, such as kangaroos and emus, roaming the dunes, enhancing the remote beauty of the beach.
The Southern Forests & Valleys region may be best known for its towering forests and winding rivers, but our beaches are equally deserving of attention. Whether you prefer the serenity of Yeagarup Beach, the family-friendly atmosphere of Windy Harbour, or the tranquil shores of Walpole’s beaches, there’s a perfect spot for everyone to enjoy.
So pack your gear, plan your route, and discover the stunning coastal beauty of the Southern Forests & Valleys. With every beach offering its own charm, you’re sure to find your slice of paradise along this breathtaking coastline.