Revel in the wondrous landscapes of Western Australia, soak in its breathtaking sights and experience a host of unique adventures
If you’re looking to venture to one of the world’s remote places, uncover rare wildlife and nature on land and in sea, relax in pristine beaches and learn about ancient histories from the land’s indigenous communities all in one place – then it’s time to make your way down under to Western Australia.
One of the world’s largest states, Western Australia is situated in the southern hemisphere known for her diverse climate, abundance of flora and fauna, and rich history. Only a 5-hour direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Perth (Borloo), visitors can expect to be captivated by the Western Australian mainland and island coastline, where within its domain are stunning hidden gems that are included in the UNESCO World Heritage.
Malaysians who wish to travel to Western Australia will be delighted by the same time zone the region shares with us, and leverage this as opportunity for a jetlag-free exploration of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena and majestic landscapes.
Get ready to plan that an unforgettable trip to Western Australia with these must-do unique experiences:
The Natural Heritage of Western Australia
The Pinnacles, Nambung National Park. Photo credit: Tourism Western Australia
From the towering forests of the Western Australian Southwest to the ancient gorges of the Kimberly, step into a world of diverse ecosystems and landscape with Western Australia’s national and regional parks.
Located just north of Perth (Boorloo), Yanchep National Park is the ideal place to experience a true Australian environment and rich heritage. From experiencing the Aboriginal culture to walking along park trails, you are bound to be mesmerised by the amazing biodiversity found at the northern Swan Coastal Plain. In the park, you will come face-to-face with the native wildlife such as kangaroos and koalas, while you explore the beautiful cave systems of Crystal Cave where an abundance of activities and adventures await you.
From there, continue north for one and a half hours to the Nambung National Park – home to the famous Pinnacle desert, to witness one of Western Australia’s unique natural attractions – where thousands of huge limestone pillars rise from the shifting yellow sand. The park is indeed a journey of sights, because its stunning view is also attributed by the colourful wildflowers that come to full bloom between August and October, and the white sandy beaches perfect for those looking to swim or snorkel. If you’re saving the water activities for another day, you can head over to Hangover Bay for a relaxing picnic break.
An Idyllic Haven in Esperance
Yellow verticordia wildflowers on Springdale Road. Photo credit: Tourism Western Australia
Known to be a nature lover’s bucket-list, Esperance (Kepa Kurl) will captivate you with its white sandy beaches, dazzling turquoise waters with dramatic rock formations and untouched islands of the Recherche Archipelago, which is a group of nearly 100 untouched islands affectionately called the ‘Bay of Isles’.
Watch the world go by as you relax at Lucky Bay, accompanied by kangaroos basking under the sun and lazing on the shores; or dive into the inviting waters at Twilight Beach’s ‘rock with a hole’ – a rock formation with rounded granite cliffs that sits on the pristine blue waters of the shoreline.
Alternatively, take a 45-minute drive from Esperance to Cape Le Grand National Park for a change of scenery and once you are there, revel in its rugged and ancient coastlines filled with large granite outcrops and freshwater pools that beg for a quick dip.
Situated on the south coast of Australia’s Golden Outback, Esperance has so much to offer and is one of the region’s most biodiverse landscapes that spans up to 2,000 kilometres. If you’re travelling throughout September to November, otherwise known as the wildflower season, you will be greeted by a technicolour adventure filled with the native Western Australian wildflowers. Hunt for the 14 rare species of spider orchids at Yilliminning Rock – a historic hotspot that hosts impressive panoramic views over the surrounding bush and farmland – or visit the native heath at Frank Hann National Park to bask in its honey-scented air. These are certainly opportunities that must not to be missed.
Nature’s Bluest Waters at Ningaloo Reef
Exmouth Dive & Whalesharks, Ningaloo. Photo credit: Tourism Western Australia
A sparkling gem of Western Australia, Ningaloo Reef (Nyinggulu) is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its vast biodiversity. Accessible via a short flight from Perth (Borloo), or a 1,200 km drive, this expansive turquoise haven is home to one of the world’s largest fringing reefs and longest near-shore reef systems. The region stretches up to 300 km in length from the towns of Carnarvon, Coral Bay and Exmouth, hosting a large diversity of marine species and over 300 varieties of corals that are listed under the UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Fun fact – Ningaloo is also regarded as one of the world’s last great ocean paradises.
Don’t miss the chance to dive into the blue waters and swim alongside whale sharks as you explore the 500 species of fish (some even grow up to 40-feet in length!), manta rays, and turtles. If you’re looking to explore the underwater world but want to stay above sea waters, there are many glass bottom boat tours that feature a semi-submersible vessel so you can take in the breathtaking views of the colourful reefs and the aquatic wildlife.
Journey through Western Australia History with the Aboriginal People
Oolin Sunday Island Cultural Tours, Dampier Peninsula. Photo credit: Tourism Western Australia
The Whadjuk Nyoongar people are recognised to be the traditional owners of Western Australia for more than 60,000 years and Perth (Borloo) offers a variety of Aboriginal experiences – from Aboriginal art galleries, Aboriginal-run camping grounds to Aboriginal guided tours – take this opportunity to see and learn about Western Australia through another perspective.
Whether you decide to fly into Broome from Perth (Borloo) or hire a car for a one day road adventure, travel to Dampier Peninsula in the north west of Western Australia and delve into one of the world’s oldest living cultures in Australia’s most remote and breathtakingly beautiful regions. While you are there, take an Aboriginal guided tour to discover ancient traditions and learn about their deep connections to the lands, waters and skies. Wake up to a chorus of colourful native birds and sleep under a canopy of stars as you retreat into this spectacular peninsula.
You can also partake in the Camping with Custodians initiative, an Australian-first programme that develops high quality campgrounds on Aboriginal lands operated by the Aboriginal community. There are currently six locations under this programme: Imintji, Mimbi, Violet Valley, Doon Doon Roadhouse and Djarindjin (in the Kimberley) and Peedamulla (in the Pilbara). Simply book an accommodation in your desired campground and you’ll be able to stay and socialise with the Aboriginal community there.
Western Australia’s Most Outstanding Outbacks
Cathedral Gorge, Purnululu National Park. Photo credit: Tourism Western Australia
With a landmass that takes up more than 90% of the region, there is a magnitude of protected national parks, state forests and marine parks in Western Australia. As of 2023, the state is home to 112 national parks – a feat not easily defeated.
The Bungle Bungle Range is the state’s renowned Outback located in the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park, which is a two-and-a-half-hour flight away from Perth (Borloo). The land is home to Australia’s Aboriginal people for over 20,000 years and is formed from soft sandstone that is more than 350 million years old. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the park and learn from the Djaru and Gija people as you take in the magnificent views.
It is also a famous destination for self-driving travellers who are driving the Great Northern Highway. If you’re in for some exciting adventure, hop in a four-wheel drive and embark on a two-day road trip from Perth (Borloo) as you tread into the world’s most unique landmark. Once you arrive, set up camp at one of the park’s campsites and captivate yourselves with a scenic view of the twinkling skies above.
From its long list of award-winning beaches, ancient old Outbacks, to world-heritage sites, Western Australia’s vast region will easily fulfil your wanderlust for leisure travel and a spot of adventure. With so much to see and a lot more to discover, one can never truly exhaust of the magical experiences that Western Australia has to offer.
For more details and destination inspiration for your exciting expedition, head over to Tourism Western Australia’s website at https://www.westernaustralia.com.
