How to Get to the South West

Getting here

The Australia’s South West region is in the south west corner of Western Australia, just two hours’ drive south of the State’s capital city, Perth.

One of the best ways to explore the South West is to drive, but you can also reach us by public rail, coach transport, flights and a variety of day and extended tours from Perth. You can even cruise here!

Drive

The relatively compact region has short (by Australian standards!), scenic drives between towns, making it easy to navigate by car.

We’ve put together a collection of road trip itineraries to help you plan your visit, depending on how much time you have, and what sort of holiday experiences you’re after.

You can hire a car (or camper) or arrange for an airport transfer or chauffeur service if you’d prefer someone else to do the driving.

Fly

Flying to Australia’s South West is easy with flights from Western Australia’s capital city Perth, to Albany and Busselton. You can also get here direct from Australia’s east coast, with flights from Melbourne to the Busselton-Margaret River airport.

Rail

You can access the region by public rail with TransWA from Perth to Bunbury – the gateway to the South West.

Coach

Australia’s South West has a range of bus and coach transport (including with TransWA), travelling to many destinations within Australia’s South West. There are also a variety of day and extended tours from Perth.

Cruise

Australia’s South West has over 1,140 kilometres of spectacular coastline which defines a region of exceptional experiences and the port cities of Busselton, Albany and Bunbury capture it all.

Natural beauty, a sensational wine and food industry and endless outdoor activities makes Busselton in the Margaret River Region a destination that promises new discoveries and rewarding holiday experiences. See the Busselton Cruise Ship schedule.

Bunbury’s resident dolphin population and long white beaches are only a short drive from the acclaimed Margaret River Wine Region. Closer to Bunbury the hinterland is a patchwork of jarrah forest, rivers, farms, wineries and orchards.

Albany’s beautiful natural harbour shelters the town and only hints at the rugged coastline that can be found nearby. Within easy reach of wineries, the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk and pristine secluded beaches there is something for everyone. Whales and prolific wildflowers can be found in season.

See who’s cruising to Albany in the coming seasons.

All South West ports can offer passengers a variety of experiences in the stunning settings that make Australia’s South West so special.

For information about customs, port services and more visit the Australian Cruise Association website.

Safe Travels

Australia's South West is a region easily accessible to self-drive holiday makers. But even the most experienced drivers should be aware of local tips before setting off.

Plan ahead, check weather conditions and always let somebody know your itinerary when driving. There can be limited phone reception in some areas of the South West. Our tip is to plan your route beforehand and pack a hard copy of a map, just in case.

Take it slow if travelling on gravel roads and be prepared for dust and stones from passing vehicles. Some of our wildlife (like kangaroos!) are most active at dawn and dusk, so try to avoid driving at these times if you can.

Visit Tips for Safe Travel in Australia’s South West for travel advice as well as information about licenses, Australian driving rules and more.

Visit one of the region’s many visitor centres for local travel advice.