The west coast of Australia is often overlooked by tourists, who would rather visit the more fast-paced hot spots on the east coast. However, Western Australia actually boasts some of the most amazing scenery, beaches, and overall good vibes in the country. Because of its location so far away from the likes of Sydney and Melbourne, its far less touristy and much more laid-back. WA locals know they reside in the best state in Australia, but you won’t catch them bragging about it, because they wouldn’t want the secret to get out. Here are 10 reasons why we think that Australia’s west coast is truly the best coast to be (but shh, don’t tell anyone!).
1. The breathtaking beaches
Step aside east coast. The west coast of Australia has some of the world’s most breathtaking white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters. They truly are spoiled over there, with beaches on the east coast not even in the same league. You may even catch a kangaroo hopping on the shoreline in Lucky Bay, Esperance.
2. The perfect weather
The west coast climate is known for its dry, sunny heat all year round. While the east coast experiences the tropical rain season in the north as well as more dramatically cold climates in the south, the west coast is sittin’ pretty in clear skies and high temps. Western Australia has the lowest amount of rainfall compared to any other Australian state, with an average of 3,000 hours of sunlight a year.
3. The complete remoteness
Because the west coast of Australia is dramatically less touristy compared to the east, there are a lot of spots you will visit that will feel very secluded. It’s not uncommon to have an entire beach to yourself in more remote locations, and you will truly get to experience the country in all its glory since you won’t be running into tourists around every corner.
4. The world-renowned surfing
Western Australia has some of the best surfing spots in Australia…and the world. Margaret River, a few hours south of the capital city of Perth, hosts annual surf competitions where some of the best surfers in the world come to compete. Hang ten, right?
5. Experience swimming with whale sharks
Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef is regarded as one of the best locations in the world to swim with whale sharks, thanks to the clarity of the water and the ethical conservation of the sharks themselves. Along with these amazing underwater beasts, the reef is home to creatures such as manta rays, sea turtles, and various types of tropical fish. Grab a snorkel and experience this magical underwater world!
6. Quokkas. Enough said.
We have all seen one or two #QuokkaSelfies on Instagram, where these friendly little creatures will gladly hop up to you to snap a picture. I swear it looks like they are smiling in every photo. They are essentially a mix between a kangaroo and a rat, with their home base being the picturesque island off of Perth known as Rottnest Island.
7. The sunsets over the ocean
The West Coast of Australia is the only place you can see the sunset directly over the Indian Ocean, which is why most people stick around for dusk after spending a day at the beach. And let me tell you, they are worth sticking around for.
8. The epic camping trips
From ocean-side campsites to spots where you feel as though you are smack dab in the middle of the outback, the camping in Australia offers so much variety. The summer months bring some pretty gnarly temperatures, therefore it may be best to explore in the off months where you will still be welcomed with sunny weather, however the temperatures will be much more bearable.
9. Camel riding directly on the beach
The iconic Cable Beach, located in Broome, is known by many as THE place where visitors go to experience a sunset or sunrise camel ride along the ocean shore. It is truly an unforgettable activity that is a must-do while passing through Broome. As they say: “Camels and Cable Beach go together like a horse and a carriage”.
10. The laidback city of Perth
Last but certainty not least, state capital Perth is truly the heart of WA and contributes to what makes it so special. It’s (mostly) free from tourists, which gives it a very quaint and homey feel that you won’t find in any other major city in Australia. The locals are very laid-back and relaxed, with no one taking life too seriously (as you’ll find with most Aussies). The city center is also located directly on the swan river, which makes for some epic waterfront views.
Want more content like this? Register for free site membership to get regular updates and your own personal content feed.
