Guide to Esperance

Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park claims the whitest sand in Australia. Wild kangaroos love it too, sunbathing and posing for photos against the incredible turquoise water. Don’t miss the dramatic Le Grand Coastal Trail towards Hellfire Bay.

Inland from Esperance lies a rainbow of lakes. The lakes can be pink, green, blue and even yellow depending on the season. Hop aboard a scenic flight with Fly Esperance to see the natural marvel from above.

The waterfront Taylor St Quarters has been a hospital and tearooms, and is now a chic restaurant and bar on the Esplanade. Contemporary Australian cuisine is served on a deck overlooking the yacht marina, or if it’s cool, try a cosy seat inside.

The 40km (25mi) Great Ocean Drive from West Beach to 11 Mile Beach takes in rugged surf beaches and rock-rimmed swimming lagoons. Stop at Twilight Beach for a dip, climb the lookout at Observatory Point and return via the salt lakes.

Lucky Bay Brewing is an indoor-outdoor venue brewing beer from locally grown grains. Taste the wares, like the Sandy Hook Barley Pale Ale and the Lockdown Dark Lager, while the kids explore play equipment. Fill up on woodfired pizzas or nachos.

Join Esperance Island Cruises for a half-day trip through the Recherche Archipelago. See basking Australian sea lions, New Zealand fur seals, and a sea eagle that may pop by. Snorkel Blue Haven beach, and keep an eye out for friendly dolphins.

The new Esperance Jetty replaces the historic Tanker Jetty, and is 415m (1,300ft) long. Grab coffee from the Coffee Cat kiosk and take in the sweeping views. Check out the diving platforms and historical displays, or book a fishing tour.

Said to resemble the hat of French troops in the 1800s, this distinctive peak is in Cape Le Grand National Park. The hike is 3km (1.8mi) return and very steep, but features sublime coastal and island views. Not recommended on wet days.

Take in this isolated coastline on a day trip to Cape Arid National Park, about 1.5 hours’ drive east of town. Pristine beaches at Thomas River and Little Tagon are accessible by two-wheel drive. Drop in at Condingup Tavern for country pub vibes.

HeliSpirit offers spectacular trips from downtown, taking off from a foreshore groyne. Appreciate the magic turquoise waters and white sands of Lucky Bay, transfer to Woody Island, or even land on Middle Island near the pink-coloured Lake Hillier.

Stretching along the bay, the Esplanade park has kids of every age covered. Adventureland Park has a flying fox, skate ramp, bike track, miniature railway and mini golf. The beach is safe and shark-netted, for endless family fun. 

Just 15km (9mi) from town, Woody Island is the only island near Esperance with visitor facilities. Day trips by boat or helicopter include a guided eco-walk and snorkelling. Glamping is available for a sublime nature escape.