The 12 best things to do in Albany

Strap on your hiking boots, because one of WA’s most beautiful walks is right here in Albany. You’ll need to work for the views on this challenging 12.5-kilometre return trail, which traces the coastline in Torndirrup National Park. During the six to seven-hour hike, you’ll navigate boardwalks, limestone paths and rugged granite sections, with sparkling views of the Southern Ocean on one side and King George Sound on the other. Pack snacks and plenty of water to refuel once you reach Bald Head, before following the trail back home. 

Time to cool off? Albany’s coastline is renowned for its long stretches of sugar white sand and equally aesthetic turquoise waters. Middleton Beach is the most accessible from town and a favourite among young families, thanks to its sheltered waters that are protected from the wind by King George Sound. The calm shores of Emu Point are perfect for paddling or kayaking, while Little Beach is a treasure trove for snorkelling. Although Albany’s beaches are spectacular, the region is known for its strong winds – so use this guide to find the best beaches to visit based on current wind conditions. 

Hold onto your hats because you’ll be blown away by the natural wonders at Torndirrup National Park. Just a 15-minute drive from Albany, this popular park is full of wonderful walks, white sandy beaches and stunning wildflowers. Must-visits include The Gap and Natural Bridge, dramatic formations sculptured by centuries of ocean erosion – a vast gap in one rock face and a natural arch in another. From here, take a short walk to The Blowholes, where you might spot migrating whales along the coast between May and October.

While many species from humpbacks to blue whales grace the waters in Albany (and can be spotted from the shore – including from Ellen Cove Boardwalk, Discovery Bay and Marine Drive lookouts), the Western Australian town hasn't always been so whale-friendly. What used to be a whaling station back in the day has turned into a historic tourism site since it shut down in 1978. Albany’s Historic Whaling Station is heritage-listed and worth a visit to see Australia’s largest marine mammal skeleton display amongst a wealth of other marine information.

Step into the shoes of one of 32 heroic Anzac characters as they relive their First World War experiences at Albany’s award-winning National Anzac Centre. From recruitment and training through to conflicts in Egypt, Gallipoli, Sinai and beyond, you’ll see their personal stories unfold through a mix of interactive, multimedia and audio displays. At the end of your journey, you’ll discover the fate of your character and can pay your respects at the Pool of Reflection.

The Greek Islands get a pretty major rap for their blinding white sand and wildly blue water. But, Elephant Rocks in William Bay National Park gives Milos a run for its money. It's got it all, and unlike pretty much anywhere in Greece at the height of summer, you'll probably have the place to yourself. The traditional land of the Menang People is an incredibly special spot named for its elephant-like rocks that tumble out in the crystal clear water. Drape yourself over a hot rock, and bring some chilled wine in your ice-box for the full, Euro experience. 

Soar high above the granite outcrop and bushland of Porongurup National Park on this scenic 4.7-kilometre return skywalk. After winding through karri and marri tree forests, you’ll climb a six-metre ladder that leads you to the granite skywalk, providing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and mountain ranges. Keep an eye out for rare orchids, beautiful birds and extraordinary flowering plants along the way.

Bringing the beer-soaked fun to the Rainbow Coast is Wilson Brewing, the home of Albany’s best local brews. This laidback brew pub opens its doors to locals and travellers, along with their kids and pups, from Wednesday to Sunday. You can chill out in the beer garden with a 'Locals Only' lager, 'Shore Thing' summer ale or 'Lighthouse' XPA. Pair your frothy with fried chicken wings and pulled pork burgers from Wilson’s Food Van, and sway along to live tunes from Thursday to Sunday night.

This scenic little spot near Albany is the perfect landing pad for exploring the region's bluer-than-blue coastlines. Due to its beauty, and tiny secluded location, it could so happen that the place is totally at capacity by the time you arrive but fear not, because there are multiple campgrounds speckled along the Albany coastal reserves. The area is popular for swimming and the vistas are unreal. East Bay campground backs onto the beach’s sand dunes making it only a couple of paces from your bed to the water, while nearby Cosy Corner West is set up with picnic facilities.

You wouldn’t expect to find a Parisian-inspired bar with a Vietnamese twist in a coastal town like Albany, but Libertē is full of surprises. Dishes here are designed to be passed around the table, including Shark Bay clam frites, crispy chicken bao, wok-seared shaking beef and garlic chilli crab noodles. However, they’re so divine that you might not want to share. Ramp up the fun with a refreshing cocktail or pop a bottle of bubbly because you’re in France for the night (almost). 

Located an hour from Albany’s town centre, Bluff Knoll is the most popular trail in Stirling Range National Park. The trail is well-signed and takes you 1,098 metres above sea level to simply spectacular views at the summit. You’ll start from the southern end of the Bluff Knoll carpark, where the trail drops down to a creek before venturing across a mountain offering amazing views over the ridge to the south coast. The trail turns left to follow the ridge to the summit, and you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with the 360-degree countryside views. The lower slopes are covered with eucalypt, banksia and grass trees, and more than 1,000 species of flowering plants, including mountain bells and the queen of sheba orchid. Heads up, there is a $15 entry fee to enter the Stirling Range National Park.