Discover Bunbury: Western Australia's Best-Kept Coastal Secret

When most people plan a trip to Western Australia, they usually gravitate toward Perth or Margaret River. But tucked away just two hours south of Perth lies Bunbury—a vibrant city where the ocean meets wineries, wildlife adventures await around every corner, and yes, there's an entire village made of garden gnomes.

Let me share the best things to do in Bunbury so you can plan an unforgettable trip.

1. Swim with Wild Dolphins at the Dolphin Discovery Centre

This is Bunbury's crown jewel. The Dolphin Discovery Centre offers you the rare opportunity to interact with wild Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Unlike captive programs, these dolphins choose to swim alongside you. Book a snorkeling or shallow-water interaction session early—slots fill up fast, especially during school holidays.

Pro tip: Book online at least a week in advance. Morning sessions tend to offer the calmest waters and best visibility.

2. Explore the Leschenault Peninsula

Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the tranquil waters of Leschenault Inlet. The calm, sheltered waters make it perfect for beginners. Keep an eye out for pelicans, swans, and if you're lucky, a glimpse of dolphins playing in the distance.

3. Get Lost at Gnomesville

Okay, "lost" might be an overstatement, but you'll definitely need a sense of humor for this one. Gnomesville is a bizarre, beloved roadside attraction where thousands of garden gnomes have colonized a small forest clearing. Locals add new gnomes weekly, and there's something oddly charming about stumbling upon this whimsical community. Bring a gnome of your own if you want to contribute!

4. Sample Local Wines at the Ferguson Valley

Just 20 minutes from Bunbury, the Ferguson Valley is an emerging wine region with boutique wineries that fly under the tourist radar. Think: intimate cellar doors, passionate winemakers, and outstanding Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Schedule a half-day wine tour and escape the crowds of Margaret River.

Must-visit wineries: Tinderbox, Hillman Winery, andgb]

5. Walk the Bunbury Lighthouse and Jetty

The historic Bunbury Lighthouse is one of the few remaining in Western Australia still standing. Take a stroll along the breakwater, watch fishing boats come and go, and enjoy panoramic views of Geographe Bay. At sunset, the sky turns magical shades of orange and pink.

6. Visit the Bunbury Botanic Gardens

Spread across 42 hectares, these gardens showcase Western Australia's incredible native flora. Walk the Treehouse Outlook for elevated views, spot kangaroos grazing at dawn, and explore the Wildflower Garden. It's free, it's beautiful, and it's perfect for a morning stroll.

7. Snorkel or Dive at the Tuart Forest

The Tuart Forest near Bunbury is one of the last remaining habitats of the tuart tree. Beneath its canopy lies a peaceful, less-visited dive and snorkeling site with unique marine life. Great for certified divers looking to escape the busier spots.

8. Beach Hop Along Geographe Bay

Bunbury's beaches are pristine and often uncrowded. Back Beach is popular for surfing and bodyboarding, while潮汐池 and Koombana Beach are better for families with young kids. Pro tip: Koombana Bay has a lovely foreshore with cafes and playgrounds nearby.

9. Eat Your Way Through Bunbury's CBD

Bunbury's food scene has exploded in recent years. For breakfast, grab coffee and avocado toast at [Café]. For dinner, try the waterfront restaurants at The Goods Shed. Don't miss the Saturday morning Bunbury Harbour Markets for fresh local produce, artisan goods, and live music.

10. Day Trip to Ferguson Falls

A hidden gem for bushwalkers, Ferguson Falls rewards hikers with a stunning waterfall cascade surrounded by jarrah forest. The 4km return walk is relatively easy and perfect for a peaceful afternoon escape.

11. Discover Aboriginal Heritage at the Bunbury Museum

Learn about the Noongar people and the region's fascinating history at the Bunbury Museum and Historical Village. It's an eye-opening introduction to the cultural significance of this land—and a great rainy-day activity.

12. Whale Watching (Seasonal)

Between September and November, humpback and southern right whales migrate past Bunbury's coastline. Several local operators offer whale-watching cruises. If you're lucky, you might spot mothers with calves playing in the bay.

13. Play Golf at One of Bunbury's Premier Courses

Bunbury Golf Club and Cape Divine Resort offer challenging courses with stunning ocean views. Even if you're not a serious golfer, the scenery alone is worth the green fee.

14. Explore the Marlston Waterfront

This revitalized precinct is Bunbury's social hub. Stroll along the waterfront, grab a craft beer at a local brewery, and watch the sunset over the bay. The area comes alive on weekend evenings with live music and events.

15. Go Birdwatching at the Leschenault Conservation Reserve

With over 140 bird species recorded here, this wetland sanctuary is a bird-lover's paradise. Bring binoculars and a field guide—you might spot black swans, grebes, and even the elusive bush stone-curlew.

16. Attend a Local Festival

Bunbury hosts several annual events worth planning around: the Bunbury Music Festival, Show 'n' Shine car show, and the Truffle Festival in winter. Check local event calendars before your trip.

17. Relax at a Local Spa

After all that adventuring, treat yourself. Several wellness retreats in and around Bunbury offer massage, facials, and thermal spa experiences using native Australian ingredients.

18. Take a Scenic Drive to Busselton

Only 40 minutes away, Busselton offers the famous Busselton Jetty (the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere) and stunning Geographe Bay beaches. Combine it with a winery lunch for the perfect day trip.

Getting to Bunbury:

• By car: 2 hours south of Perth via the Kwinana Freeway and Forrest Highway
• By bus: Transwa operates daily services from Perth's terminal
• By train: The Australind train service connects Perth to Bunbury daily

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (Sep-Nov): Wildflowers, whale watching, mild temperatures
• Autumn (Mar-May): Wine harvest season, comfortable weather
• Summer (Dec-Feb): Beach weather, but book accommodation early

Bunbury might be a hidden gem, but it won't stay secret for long. Start planning your South West adventure today—and don't forget to leave a gnome at Gnomesville.