One of the Locals
Australia
Photography By: Kristina Smith
BEACHES
Albany, Western Australia
Sweet slices of heaven, otherwise know as some of the most amazing beaches you may possibly discover.
One of the first things you will come to appreciate when travelling through or living in Albany is the scenic coast. It is rich in flavour and of course, there's the endless beach options - which means there's enough beach to go 'round. And if you're like me and don't like brushing shoulders with other beach goers (or civilisation in general), the abundance of beaches mean you are bound to have that pleasant, secluded beach kind of experience.
You can visit local beaches within minutes of town/your accommodation, or if you feel like disconnecting for a little while, you may prefer to head along the outskirts of town and take your pick. Either way, it's highly unlikely to run out of beach options, so you can keep coming back to experience Albany in a whole different way every time.
To get you started, I've included my top 5 beaches (below) to visit while you're in Albany.
Happy beachin'!
Top 5 Beaches You should visit while in Albany
1. Goode Beach
Distance from Albany City Centre: 22km or 21min
Runs Off: La Perouse Rd
Where: Goode Beach, WA
Google Maps: Click here for navigation
2. Little Beach
Distance from Albany City Centre: 41km or 41 minutes
Runs Off: Valliant Road
Where: Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, Nanarup, WA
Google Maps: Click here for navigation
About:
One of my most favourite beaches to return to - time and time again. This little beach packs a punch, it is not little in character at all.
The drive from Albany's city centre starts via Nanarup Rd, crossing the Kalgan River, opening up into the long stretch of dreamy, green landscapes and effortless mountain glimpses (see above gallery).
Upon arrival you will be greeted by two paths. One (veering right), leading to Little Beach and the other, a wooden path, leading to Two Peoples Bay Heritage Trail - offering breathtaking, panoramic sea views.
If you are as curious as I, you may appreciate a small trek (with caution) to even smaller, Waterfall Beach. Waterfall Beach is a short , stunning walk across Little Beach and accessible via a small track.
3. Whaling Cove
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Distance from Albany City Center: 20km or 21 minutes
Runs Off: Quaranup Rd
Where: Vancouver Peninsula, WA
Google Maps: Click here for navigation
About:
Whaling Cove / Whalers Cove or Fisheries Beach - known by many names but still the same attractive piece of unspoiled land. This beach is great if you're opting for a fairly private swim/bathe/snorkel and is accessed via a short bush trail.
Big boulders and rocky climbs are settled throughout the beach and in the water, where you will typically find the local, underwater sea life. As any beach, this beach is best experienced on a sunny, flat day...but don't be disappointed if you arrive on a grey day, as you will still have the opportunity to encounter this impressive seascape - even in it's gloom.
Don't forget to pack your swimwear, snorkel & camera with this one!
4. Middleton Beach
About:
This beach is so Goode, even the sand is squeaking with joy - yes! The sand is squeaky! And how could you ever turn down that clean, turquoise ocean water?
If you're after something quick and simple, I definitely recommend this beach. Get your toes in that fine white, squeaky sand and kick back to the soothing sound of the ocean.
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Distance from Albany City Centre: 4.1 km or 8 minutes
Runs Off: Middleton Rd
Where: Middleton Beach, Albany, WA
Google Maps: Click here for navigation
About:
If you're a mad shell collector like myself then you will definitely cherish Middleton Beach.
You can spend your time walking along the far north end of Middleton Beach, selecting your choice of a generous supply of shells. Maybe you'd like to head to the Ellen Cove boardwalk for a leisurely stroll, check out the jetty or simply have a dip in the salty blue,
There are wooden tables/chairs at the foot of the boardwalk and plenty of grassy areas if you're the picnic type.
A short drive from town, much to do and lots to see - it's no surprise as to why this vibrant place is such a popular destination and a regular to most.
I highly recommend a visit if variety is you're style.
4. Middleton Beach
5. Emu Point
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Distance from Albany City Centre: Approx. 8.6 km or 13 minutes
Runs Off: Swarbrick St (for beach access with car) / Roe Parade (for swimming)
Where: Emu Point, Albany, WA
Google Maps: Click here for navigation
Please ensure to be considerate of other beach users, terrain & wildlife.
About:
If you're wanting a great place to relax but not wanting to travel far (or leave the car) then Emu Point is a well suited destination for just that.
You can park up on the beach (use caution) and get the BBQ sizzling while the kids play in the shallow waters or stop and take an easy stroll. There's a café at hand and public toilets, so there's option to get comfortable and stay a while.
Vehicle entry point is at the end of Swarbrick St/across from The Squid Shack restaurant by Emu Point Boat Harbour. Otherwise, if you prefer the more active side of the beach you can access via Roe Parade or Mermaid Ave (no vehicle access).
This beach is always glistening in it's own tranquillity and you can't help but to feel hypnotised by the flat waters fading out into the hilly backdrop. Definitely pay Emu Point a visit.
Kristina Smith