Busselton is the heart and soul of Western Australia’s scenic South West region. With its white sandy beaches and pristine forests, there’s no destination better suited to relaxing weekends away.
Built on the southwestern tip of WA, this seaside village is home to just 40,000 people. Despite its relatively small size, it’s impossible to run out of things to do in Busselton. There are wineries to visit, hiking trails to explore and local landmarks to tour, as well as a wealth of other charming attractions.
This itinerary will help you plan the perfect long weekend in Busselton.
Friday
Morning
Begin your trip by visiting the most well-known landmark in town: the Busselton Jetty. During its long and storied history, this 150-year-old jetty has survived tropical cyclones, fires, and repeated threats of demolition. It extends 1.8 kilometres over the glassy waters of Geographe Bay, offering mesmerising views of the surrounding coastline.
A popular tourist attraction, the restored jetty now features an underwater observatory and a museum.
There’s also a purpose-built hourly tour jetty train, so you can put your feet up and relax while taking in the sights.
Lunch
Get to know Busselton’s locals a little better by visiting the Busselton Golf Club. Founded over 100 years ago, this 52-hole golf course has perfectly manicured greens, wide fairways and lush woodland. The club’s rural setting is ideal for laidback lunches. Play a few rounds of golf when you arrive or simply sit back and soak up the scenery from the picnic area.
Evening
When it comes to Busselton restaurants, it doesn’t get much better than The Goose Bar and Kitchen. Set on the shorefront of Geographe Bay, this beachside venue serves up some of the finest fare in town.
Featuring everything from smoked kangaroo to fresh seafood, the menu is sourced from local suppliers throughout the South West region. You can choose to dine in the outdoor area (which overlooks the Busselton Jetty), or sit inside for a cosy evening meal.
Saturday
Morning
Comprised of sheltered bays and surfing hotspots, Busselton’s coastline is beautifully diverse. After you’ve picked up some breakfast and a coffee at one of the assorted cafés around town, seize the day by heading to the beach.
The protected waters that surround the region make it a prime whale-watching destination. You can either take a whale-watching cruise, or try to catch a glimpse of any passing pods from the shore.
For the best chance of seeing whales, plan your trip during peak whale-watching season, which runs from May to December.
Lunch
For lunch, take a short 30 minute drive from Busselton to visit Australia’s premier wine-growing region, Margaret River. Teeming with vineyards and craft breweries, this enchanting township entices visitors from all over the world in search of world-class food and wine.
Taking vineyard tours and indulging in gourmet cuisine are just some of the lunchtime activities you can enjoy in the Margaret River region.
Evening
After enjoying the best of Margaret River’s food and wine all afternoon, you may be in the mood for a simpler dinner. For a tranquil end to the day, pick up some fish and chips in central Busselton and watch the sunset over the ocean.
Sunday
Morning
Make the most of your last day in Busselton by taking an early-morning hike. The Busselton-Dunsborough Bike and Walk Path follows the coastline through beautiful beaches and lush forests, taking trekkers on a tour through the region’s best scenery.
Lunch/Evening
Leaving a destination as beautiful as Busselton is never easy, but there are sights to enjoy on the drive back to Perth. Be sure to stop at Mandurah along the way, a seaside town just under two hours’ drive north of Busselton.
The perfect place for a pit stop or overnight stay, this lively community is famous for its stunning waterways and marine wildlife. Make the most of your visit by taking a boat cruise along the town’s calm inlets, splashing around in the aquatic fun park, or strolling along the shorefront.
To experience the best of Mandurah accommodation, stay at The Sebel Hotels and Apartments’ waterfront property.
For expert advice on finding Busselton accommodation and more travel tips, get in touch with The Sebel Hotels and Apartments.