The picture postcard resort town of Busselton lies sheltered on the sweeping shores of pristine Geographe Bay. Its crystal blue waters and 30kms of dazzling, white sandy beaches stretching away towards Cape Naturaliste has been the subject of countless photographs and appears in travel books and personal albums around the world. Busselton’s tranquil waters are an aquatic playground for those who love to swim, water-ski, snorkel, dive, fish and sail.
It’s the perfect place to bring the family, indulge in a romantic getaway, or just to sit back, relax and watch the world go by.
The town offers a variety of eateries, from relaxed coffee shops to sophisticated and trendy bars, cafés and fine dining restaurants.
There is plenty of adventure, entertainment, nature and historic attractions to keep the whole family happy. A cycle path meanders along the stunning Geographe Bay foreshore. Stop at Yoganup Park to enjoy the imaginative play equipment for children of all ages.
As the northern gateway to the Margaret River Wine Region, it attracts visitors year round.
Busselton is best known for its 146 year old jetty measuring 1841 metres. Visitors can stroll the jetty or take the jetty train to reach the unique underwater observatory. Be sure to check the projects progress with the local visitor centres. Described as one of Australia’s most unique eco-tourism sites and greatest artificial reef, the underwater observatory is gaining worldwide recognition. Previously, the privilege of viewing the aquatic wonders beneath the jetty was limited to divers and snorkellers. Now people of all ages and abilities can marvel at an awe inspiring ‘forest’ of vividly coloured tropical and subtropical corals, sponges, fish and invertebrates. Over 300 individual marine species live in the shelter of the jetty and it is a remarkable experience to view them from 8 metres below the surface without getting wet. An interpretive centre on the jetty gives visitors a glimpse into the Busselton Jetty’s rich past and its exciting future.
Historic Sites
Take the 22km scenic drive to Wonnerup House near the Vasse Estuary Wetlands. Built by the Layman family it is an important surviving example of early farm pioneering in Western Australia. There is a magnificent homestead (1859) and earlier house (1837) which was later converted into a dairy, plus a kitchen, stables and blacksmiths workshop, teacher’s quarters and school. These National Trust buildings set in beautiful gardens have all been restored with many original items and furniture on display. The heritage listed Old Courthouse Arts Complex, built in 1854, is the oldest building in Busselton. Comprising a courtroom, jail cells, stable, post office and bond store, it offers a unique cultural experience. The original jail cells remain, with other parts of the complex displaying a range of local arts and crafts. Take the time to visit the Heritage Park and Trail which commences opposite the Busselton Visitor Centre. It includes a range of contemporary sculptures and the acclaimed ‘Aboriginal Interpretive GGarden’ as well as a number of historic landmarks such as the Ballaarat Steam Engine, Saint Mary’s Church and Pioneer Cemetery.
The Tuart Forest National Park, situated seven kilometres east of Busselton, is the southern part of the only natural tuart forest remaining in the world. The trees are estimated to be 300-400 years old. Enjoy the peaceful forest setting with many picnic areas and walk trails.
Vasse - Wonnerup Wetlands
The Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands have been listed by the Ramsar Convention as ‘Wetlands of International Importance’. So far more than 75 species of birds have been recorded, several of them rare. The wetlands offer sanctuary to a range of nesting, resting and migrating birds. A walk trail off Layman Road leads to a bird hide.
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