Discover the Best of This Coastal WA Gem
Planning a trip to Busselton? This laid-back coastal town in Western Australia is more than just the famous Busselton Jetty. From white-sand beaches and marine life to forest walks and craft beer, here are our recommendations for the top 10 things to do in Busselton to make the most of your time.
Quick Highlights
- Busselton Jetty & Underwater Observatory
- Meelup Regional Park
- Shelter Brewing Co
- Tuart Forest National Park
- Busselton Foreshore
- Whale Watching (seasonal)
- Geographe Bay Beaches
- Local Markets
- Bike Trails
- The Par 3 Golf and Minigolf
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1. Busselton Jetty & Underwater Observatory
The Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere, stretching almost 2km into Geographe Bay. You can walk or take the cute red train all the way to the end.
Make sure to check out the underwater observatory at the end of the jetty, there is so much incredible marine life. Adult tickets are about $38 and children between age 3-17 are $23, they include a return ticket with the train as well.
Read more about ticket prices and opening times etc here.
This is without a doubt the most iconic place and should be on everyone’s list of things to do in Busselton.
Tip: Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and catch the light filtering into the observatory windows.
2. Meelup Regional Park
A short drive from Busselton, Meelup offers stunning turquoise bays, shady picnic areas, and peaceful walking trails. Meelup Beach, Eagle Bay, and Castle Rock are some of our personal favourites for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing on the beach.
Local Tip: Bring a snorkel and explore the rocky reef off Castle Rock Beach — visibility is best in the mornings!
3. Shelter Brewing Co
One of the best things to do in Busselton is trying out all the local food venues and breweries.
Our go-to place is Shelter Brewing Co which is the perfect spot for a post-beach pint while enjoying the views over the ocean.
They have plenty of house-brewed beers, WA wines, and locally sourced meals and offer some of the best vibes in town. Check out their menu or make a table reservation here.
Don’t Miss: The salted caramel stout and their epic woodfired pizzas.
4. Tuart Forest National Park
Just north of Busselton lies one of the world’s last remaining tuart forests. Perfect for a peaceful forest walk, a picnic or some nature and wildlife watching.
If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the Possum Night Spotlighting Trail and follow the reflective trail markers and use your torch. There are plenty of wildlife and nocturnal residents to spot such as the endangered western ringtail possum.
Be careful if driving around here at dawn or dusk as kangaroos are most active during this time.
5. Busselton Foreshore
Newly revamped and full of life — the Busselton Foreshore is great for a morning coffee, beach swims, a walk along the coast and for watching the sunset.
You’ll also find playgrounds, food trucks and weekend events here.
6. Whale Watching (Seasonal)
Busselton and Dunsborough become hotspots for humpback whales between September and December as the whales start migrating from the Kimberley region after breeding and calving in the warmer waters.
Hop on a boat tour and spot them breaching in Geographe Bay, it is one of the most thrilling things to do in Busselton. We recommend booking through Get Your Guide.
7. Geographe Bay Beaches
There are so many exciting things to do in Busselton, but a fun beach day should definitely be on your list.
Calm, shallow, and family-friendly — the beaches along Geographe Bay stretch for miles and are some of the best in Western Australia!
Some of our personal favourites are:
- Meelup Beach
- Bunker Bay
- Smiths Beach
- Eagle Bay Beach
- Point Picquet
- Castle Rock
Perfect for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, SUP or just relaxing with a book under the shade of a tree.
8. Local Markets
If you’re visiting between Thursday – Sunday, head to the Origins Market or every 1st, 3rd and 5th Sunday of the month you can visit Busselton Foreshore Markets for artisan gifts, produce, and great coffee.
Bunbury Farmers Market also opened up a Farmers Market in Vasse in December 2024, so make sure to check that out.
Visiting the local markets is one of the unique things to do in Busselton that offers a taste of local culture.
9. Cycle the Busselton Paths
Busselton is very bike-friendly and you can rent a bike in town and check out some of the trails around.
The Dunsborough to Busselton Shared Path is a popular option and easily one of the most scenic coastal trails in the region. The route stretches over 30 km along a shared pathway and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and rest along the way.
10. The Par 3 Golf & Mini Golf
Easily one of the best and most well-kept mini golf courses we have enjoyed. It’s located only about 10 minutes from the iconic Busselton Jetty amongst the natural bushland of Old Broadwater Farm.
Whether you’re up for a game of 9-hole golf or a game of 18-hole minigolf, this place promises a very picturesque scenery and is a fun way to wrap up your list of things to do in Busselton, suitable for all ages.
Make sure to grab a drink and some food from The Neighborhood Bar and Cafe as well.
Our Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Depends on the kind of vibe you are looking for. Our recommendation would be during Spring (Sept–Nov) with a chance of seeing the humpback whale migration or Autumn (Mar–May) when temperatures start to cool down a little, it’s a little less windy and it isn’t too crowded during summer and school holidays.
- Getting There: About 2.5 hours from Perth by car
- Where to Stay: We recommend staying near the foreshore for walking access to cafes and the jetty.
- What to Pack: Beachwear and appropriate clothing if you decide to go cycling, comfy shoes, reusable water bottle, sun protection
Other Activities and Tours To Consider
- Busselton Jetty Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Sculptures
- Forest Adventure with Zip Lining and Rope Course
- Ngilgi Cave Ancient Lands Experience
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re passing through on a South West road trip or spending a few days here, Busselton offers an incredible mix of beach, food and nature and there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this area.
We hope you found these recommendations of the best things to do in Busselton helpful!
If you are also heading further down to Margaret River then make sure to also check out our Margaret River Itinerary.
If you are heading back to Perth but want some inspiration on more adventure, then check out our 15 Day Trips From Perth.