The 14 best things to do in Albany

Where: Torndirrup National Park

Hold onto your hats because you’ll be blown away by the natural wonders at Torndirrup National Park. Just a 15-minute drive from Albany, this popular park is full of wonderful walks, white sandy beaches and stunning wildflowers. Must-visits include The Gap and Natural Bridge, dramatic formations sculptured by centuries of ocean erosion – a vast gap in one rock face and a natural arch in another.

Time Out tip: From The Gap, take a short walk to The Blowholes, where you might spot migrating whales along the coast between May and October.

Where: Torndirrup National Park

Hiking up a hill isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time – but this one’s an easy win. A mostly flat 500-metre walk gets you to the top of Stony Hill, where you’ll score ridiculously scenic 360-degree views of Torndirrup National Park’s wild heathland. If you’re up for more, you can continue along the 2.4-kilometre trail to Peak Head – the southernmost peak of the Torndirrup Peninsula, where a bluff of dramatic cliffs drops into the roaring Great Southern Ocean.

Time Out tip: Visit during wildflower season in spring (September to November) when the heathland bursts into colour.

Where: There are many entry/exit points, so decide where to start here

Widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest long-distance trails, this 1,003-kilometre hike from Albany to the Perth Hills attracts more than 80,000 walkers each year. Some hardcore hikers choose to do the entire six-to-eight-week journey, but you don't have to go for a long time to have a good time. There are plenty of short – in comparison, that is – day walks to dip your toes into, like the 15-kilometre Mutton Bird Island to Sandpatch Campsite stretch or the 17-kilometre return route from Cosy Corner to Shelley Beach.

Time Out tip: Albany gets pretty hot in summer (December to February), so we recommend planning your hike in the cooler months.

Where: Middleton Beach, Little Beach, Emu Point and Goode Beach

Time to cool off? Albany’s coastline is renowned for its long stretches of sugar white sand and equally aesthetic turquoise waters. Middleton Beach is the most accessible from town and a favourite among young families, thanks to its sheltered waters that are protected from the wind by King George Sound. The calm shores of Emu Point are perfect for paddling or kayaking, while Little Beach is a treasure trove for snorkelling and Goode Beach has several pretty walking trails.

Time Out tip: Although Albany’s beaches are spectacular, the region is known for its strong winds – so use this guide to find the best beaches to visit based on current wind conditions.  

Where: Porongurup National Park

Soar high above the granite outcrop and bushland of Porongurup National Park on this scenic 4.7-kilometre return skywalk. After winding through karri and marri tree forests, you’ll climb a six-metre ladder that leads you to the granite skywalk, providing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and mountain ranges. Keep an eye out for rare orchids, beautiful birds and extraordinary flowering plants along the way.

Time Out tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most unforgettable views. 

Where: Albany's Historic Whaling Station, Torndirrup

While humpbacks, blue whales and southern rights grace the waters in Albany, the Western Australian town hasn't always been so whale-friendly. Once a bustling whaling station, Albany’s Historic Whaling Station has transformed into a fascinating heritage-listed tourism site since closing in 1978. It’s a must-visit for anyone keen to see Australia’s largest marine mammal skeleton display, alongside a treasure trove of marine history.

Time Out tip: From May to October, you can spot whales from the shore at Ellen Cove Boardwalk, Discovery Bay and Marine Drive lookouts.

Price: $32 for entry to Albany's Historic Whaling Station

Where: Start at the car park off Murray Road in Torndirrup National Park

Strap on your hiking boots, because one of WA’s most beautiful walks is right here in Albany. You’ll need to work for the views on this challenging 12.5-kilometre return trail, which traces the coastline in Torndirrup National Park. During the five to seven-hour hike, you’ll navigate boardwalks, limestone paths and rugged granite sections, with sparkling views of the Southern Ocean on one side and King George Sound on the other. Pack snacks and plenty of water to refuel once you reach Bald Head, before following the trail back home. 

Time Out tip: Make sure to bring plenty of snacks and sunscreen, as there's limited shade.

Where: 67 Forts Rd, Mount Clarence

Step into the shoes of one of 32 heroic Anzac characters as they relive their First World War experiences at Albany’s award-winning National Anzac Centre (free entry). From recruitment and training through to conflicts in Egypt, Gallipoli, Sinai and beyond, you’ll see their personal stories unfold through a mix of interactive, multimedia and audio displays. At the end of your journey, you’ll discover the fate of your character and can pay your respects at the Pool of Reflection.

Time Out tip: Keep your eyes out as whales can be spotted in the bays surrounding Albany Heritage Parkland reserve between June and October.

Where: William Bay, Denmark

The Greek Islands get a pretty major rap for their blinding white sand and wildly blue water. But Elephant Rocks in William Bay National Park gives Milos a run for its money. In 2025, this coastal gem just became Western Australia’s most-liked destination ever – and it's not had to see why. This incredibly special spot is named for its giant granite rocks that look like a herd of elephants waddling through the crystal-clear waters. Drape yourself over a hot rock, and bring some chilled wine in your icebox for the full Euro experience. 

Time Out tip: Beyond its viral boulders, Denmark offers plenty of other natural wonders and outdoor adventures for every kind of traveller. You can take a dip at the sheltered Greens Pool (just next door to Elephant Rocks), kayak along the tranquil Denmark River or sip your way through the region’s renowned wineries.

Where: 72 Stirling Tce, Albany

Bringing the beer-soaked fun to the Rainbow Coast is Wilson Brewing, the home of Albany’s best local brews. This laidback brew pub opens its doors to locals and travellers, along with their kids and pups, from Wednesday to Sunday. You can chill out in the beer garden with a 'Locals Only' lager, 'Shore Thing' summer ale or 'Lighthouse' XPA. Pair your frothy with fried chicken wings and pulled pork burgers from Wilson’s Food Van, and sway along to live tunes from Thursday to Sunday night.

Time Out tip: You can find Wilson's brews at many other local joints, including the Albany Hotel, The Earl of Spencer Historic Inn, Garrison Restaurant and Bar and Rustlers Steakhouse, plus at local BWS and Dan Murphy stores.

Where: Starts at the car park at the end of Bluff Knoll Road in Stirling Range National Park

Located an hour from Albany’s town centre, Bluff Knoll is the most popular trail in Stirling Range National Park. The 6.8-kilometre return trail is well-signed and takes you 1,098 metres above sea level to simply spectacular views at the summit. You’ll start from the southern end of the Bluff Knoll car park, where the trail drops down to a creek before venturing across a mountain offering amazing views over the ridge to the south coast. The trail turns left to follow the ridge to the summit, and you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with the 360-degree countryside views. The lower slopes are covered with eucalypt, banksia and grass trees, and more than 1,000 species of flowering plants, including mountain bells and the Queen of Sheba orchid.

Time Out tip: Heads up, there is a $17 (per vehicle) entry fee to enter the Stirling Range National Park. 

Where: East Bay Camping Ground, Manypeaks

This scenic little spot near Albany is the perfect landing pad for exploring the region's bluer-than-blue coastlines. Due to its beauty and secluded location, it could so happen that the place is totally at capacity by the time you arrive, but fear not, because there are multiple campgrounds speckled along the Albany coastal reserves. The area is popular for swimming, and the vistas are unreal. East Bay campground backs onto the beach’s sand dunes, making it only a couple of paces from your bed to the water, while nearby Cosy Corner West is set up with picnic facilities.

Time Out tip: Although this campground is accessible via 2WD, it's not suitable for caravans or large campervans. 

Price: Free camping for a maximum of seven days

Where: 162 Stirling Terrace, Albany

You wouldn’t expect to find a Parisian-inspired bar with a Vietnamese twist in a coastal town like Albany, but Libertē is full of surprises. Dishes here are designed to be passed around the table, including Shark Bay clam frites, crispy chicken bao, wok-seared shaking beef and garlic chilli crab noodles. However, they’re so divine that you might not want to share. Ramp up the fun with a refreshing cocktail or pop a bottle of bubbly because you’re in France for the night (almost). 

Time Out tip: These legends have their own Uber Eats operation – LiberEats – serving up all their menu faves, alongside drinks and merch, for takeaway.