Albany Destination-Information Listings
Albany
Prepare to be blown away by Albany’s dramatic convict history, set against a backdrop of rugged granite coastline, green seas and a wild beauty that tugs at the heartstrings. Situated on the southern coast of Western Australia, Albany is a five-hour drive from Perth.
Step back in time and explore convict jails, old taverns, whaling ships and settlers’ cottages and grand National Trust homes in beautifully landscaped grounds. Discovered by Captain Vancouver in 1791 and settled in 1826, around 50 colonial buildings have survived – now housing museums, art and craft galleries and restaurants. The best way to take it all in is to follow the Amity Trail, a 30-minute self-guided walk that takes you past historical buildings of note.
Tour the old whaling station, jump aboard a whaling boat and don’t miss the Brig Amity – a replica of the ship that brought Albany its first settler and convict cargo. Albany is known for its natural attractions along the rugged coastline of Torndirrup National Park.
Get some salty sea air and fantastic photos at the Gap, boasting a dramatic 24-metre ocean drop. Nearby Natural Bridge is a mind-boggling granite formation in the shape of a bridge.
Take a drive past quirky granite Dog Rock, Albany’s towering wind farm, and walk the Middleton Beach boardwalk trail – a three-kilometre trail with sensational views of King George Sound.
The whaling industry shut up shop in 1978 and whale watching has taken its place.
Watch from the shore or take a whale-watching cruise to see magnificent Southern Right and Humpback whales close up. Albany also offers top-notch fishing, sailing and hiking.
Divers should make a bee-line for HMAS Swan, a prepared wreck which rests on the ocean floor offshore.
Named Western Australia’s Top Tourism Town 2000, there’s so much to do you won’t want to leave!
Frenchman Bay
Enjoy a relaxed family holiday at Frenchman Bay, Albany, on the south coast of Western Australia.
The area provides fantastic whale watching opportunities, swimming, diving, snorkelling, fishing and sailing. Go bushwalking or visit the intriguing historical monuments and sites near the town.
There is hotel and motel accommodation available as well as caravan parks and backpackers providing economical stays.
Middleton Beach
Middleton Beach is a coastal suburb of the City of Albany, located on the south coast of Western Australia. It is an easy five minute drive via Middleton Road (or half hour walk) from the city centre.
Middleton Beach is a popular beach. It is an ideal spot to go swimming, surfing and body boarding, or perhaps you would prefer a relaxing picnic on the lawns beneath the Norfolk Pine trees. The Middleton beach boardwalk starts at Ellen Cove and takes you past Point King and the entrance to Princess Royal Harbour, finishing in the city centre. The walk offers lovely views across the beach and King George Sound. Keep an eye out for whales, dolphins and wildflowers as you make your way along.
Enjoy a meal at one of several cafes and restaurants in the beach area.
There are camping and caravan sites, cabins, chalets, a range of apartments and hotel accommodation available at Middleton Beach.