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Waterfalls and Waterways

Waterfalls and Waterways

We naturally gravitate to the coast, particularly in warmer months but experienced South West adventurers know there's a whole other world further inland ready to explore at any time of year.

In summer, these places are great for a dip or even for canoeing and skiing. In autumn, the weather is moderate and ideal for adventure along the surrounding hiking and cycling trails. In winter, the falls, cascades and rivers rush to put on a show and spring is when wildflowers send you on a rewarding search for our regions rare and endemic orchids. Above Image, Black Diamond Lake near Collie by Stephen Norman photography.

Here’s some of the South West’s best lakes, rivers, natural pools, falls and inlets, all easily accessible with plenty of other nearby activities. Be sure to pop into a local visitor centre for more things to see and do in the area.

Waterfalls

The variety of falls hiding in the South West are little known. Visiting in winter or early spring will give you the biggest treat as they’re in full flow.

Quinninup Falls

Is quite an adventure as you need to hike to the site (2 hour return) from Moses Road Carpark, south of Yallingup.

Beedalup Falls

Is surrounded by many other natural attraction of Pemberton like climbing trees and the Cascades.

Fernhook Falls

The Walpole Wilderness is also in a hotspot for natural attractions, like the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, Giant Tingle and Mt Frankland.

Yalgardup Falls / Kevill Road Waterfall

Viewed easily from the road side in Margaret River.

Ironstone Gully Falls

A picturesque waterfall near Capel.

Pools

We’re not sure it’s possible to beat a dip in a natural pool on warm day.

Honeymoon Pool

Between Ferguson Valley and Collie is also great for canoeing and camping.

Circular Pool

Near Walpole is fondly referred to as “the Cappuccino” in winter as the water darkens to the colour of black coffee and natural foam swirls in the centre of the pool.

Barrabup Pool

In Nannup often takes on a spectacular jade shade.

Pemberton Pool

In Pemberton is always beautiful and has a truly amazing atmosphere amongst the karri trees. 

Minninup Pool

In Collie is a lovely spot for a picnic or to watch horses being walked in the shallows.

Fonty’s Pool

In Manjimup is a long-time family favourite with chalets and caravan park onsite.

Waterfalls and waterways

Adventure inland in search of the South West’s many waterfalls, rivers, lakes, pools, dams and inlets. Go for a dip, paddle, ski or just soak up the peaceful, natural surroundings.

Beedelup Falls

Hang on tight and walk along the swing bridge to see the falls gushing below.

Wellington Dam

Venture out to the Wellington Dam where you will see the breathtaking 8,000 square metre mega-mural on the Wellington Dam wall.

Honeymoon Pool

Soak in the serenity of this idyllic picnic spot and swimming hole along the Collie River.

Black Diamond Lake

Don’t miss the views of turquoise-coloured waters at Black Diamond Lake.

Rivers

The South West is home to Western Australia’s longest continually flowing river, the Blackwood River at over 300km long. Canoeing, camping and events along the banks are very common in each town in the Southern Forests and Valleys region. Other common activities along the South West’s rivers include fishing, skiing and walking trails.

Margaret River

Isn’t just the name of an internationally acclaimed wine region. It’s also the name of the town and a river than runs through it.

The Denmark River

Is a hive of activity and runs through the townsite of Denmark.

Kalgan River

Near Albany has gentle walking trails and is home to a ski club.

Donnelley River

Near Pemberton, you can take a cruise tour down this river to arrive at the coast which is otherwise quite inaccessible

The Warren RiverLoop Trail

Nearby is a popular walk through the forest to a valley lookout.

Inlets

There are many harbours and inlets in the south west that are seldom visited compared to the beaches they break into; but are worth their own exploration.

The Irwin Inlet at Peaceful Bay

Is very secluded spot in a very secluded hamlet set between the two quiet coastal towns of Denmark and Walpole (super secluded we’re saying). It’s a popular location in school holidays but otherwise you’ll likely have it all to yourself.

The Wilson Inlet

Breaks out to the famous Ocean Beach in Denmark. In summer, the water is toasty and locals often take a pool floaty for a relaxed afternoon.

Torbay Inlet

Is a great place to explore by foot after four wheel driving along Muttonbird Beach (dog friendly) near Albany.

Broke Inlet

Is a popular camping spot and a great base to explore the Walpole Wilderness.

The Leschenault Inlet

Just north of Bunbury is an estuarine lagoon and in parts is bordered by mangroves, here you can learn about Aboriginal culture on a tour.

Stay by the water

Relax and unwind at these unique waterway accommodations. Choose from the dam, lakeside, on the banks of an inlet or float on by on a houseboat holiday.

Summerstar Walpole Rest Point Caravan Park

Relax and unwind nestled on the edge of the Walpole-Nornalup Inlet.

RAC Karri Valley Resort

Positioned on the edge of Lake Beedelup in Pemberton, relax and unwind in nature.

Houseboat Holidays

Spend your days and nights cruising the Walpole-Nornalup Inlet system.

Lake Brockman Tourist Park

Overlooking the crystal clear waters of Logue Brook Dam, only 10 minutes from Harvey.

Olio Bello Lakeside Glamping

Luxury safari-style bungalows in the heart of the olive groves.

Lakes

Nowhere does lakes like Western Australia. From pink lakes in our neighbouring regions of the Coral Coast and Golden Outback, to the surprising variety in the South West.

Lake of Many Colours

Accessible on an Aboriginal cultural tour in the Stirling Range area near Albany is the Lake of Many Colours. A culturally significant area and indeed a true sight to behold.

Black Diamond Lake and Stockton Lake

Both near Collie are renowned for their emerald hue and suitability to water sports.

Yeagarup Lake

Near Pemberton is next to the famous Yeagarup sand dunes, accessible by 4WD or on a tour.

Lake Seppings

In Albany is bordered by a walking trail fit for avid bird watchers. In spring, you may even spot the elusive Long Necked Turtles that come out of their hidey-holes for the breeding season.

Dams

The Harvey Dam

Has ample facilities for a family day out. With a lookout, playground and barbeques.

Big Brook Dam

In Pemberton, bordered by towering Karri trees this dam leaves a lasting memory of being picture-perfect with the pristine waters, picnic areas and trails.

Wellington Dam

There’s plenty to do around Wellington Dam near Collie with water sports and four wheel driving prevalent in the surrounding Wellington National Park. It’s also a relaxing visit with a lookout as well as meals and mountain bike hire available from the Kiosk.

Logue Brook Dam/Lake Brockman

Between Yarloop and Harvey offering basic bush camping in the jarrah forest.

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Welcome to Australia’s South West!

Here you can easily enjoy natural beaches beautiful vineyards, forests, caves and more, all in a single day. More than 23,000km make up the south west corner of Western Australia, with 1000 of those kilometres consisting of awe-inspiring coastline just waiting to be explored.

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