For squeaky-white
beaches, getting off the beaten track and bunking down under the
stars, head south to Esperance. This place is so relaxed even the
kangaroos sunbathe on the beach.
Situated a one and a half
hour flight or a nine-hour drive from Perth, it's the ideal location
for beach lovers. The town is nestled on the shores of Esperance Bay
with hundreds of islands dotting the coast making up the Recherche
Archipelago.
The authentic way to see Esperance is by four
wheel drive. Four National Parks take you up close to pristine nature
with beautiful seasonal wildflowers, granite headlands, rugged
coastal scenery and views over the islands of the Recherche
Archipelago. Great for camping, fishing and bush walking, one of the
best spots there is Lucky Bay. The campsite has solar hot showers,
camp kitchens and barbecues and plenty of bush walks with excellent
coastal views.
Esperance has heaps to do including four wheel
drive safaris, coach tours, helicopter tours, island cruises, diving
charters, fishing, abseiling, skateboarding, sand boarding, canoeing,
mini golf and a steam train. Check out the museum, arts centre, art
galleries and boutique aquarium with touch pool for kids. Esperance
is an ideal swimming spot, while West Beach, Fourth Beach and
Observatory Beach boast some of the best surfing.
If
snorkelling appeals, locals say the lagoon to the east of West Beach
is good, as is idyllic-sounding Blue Haven Beach and Twilight Cove.
If you want to have a go at fishing, throw in a line at Tanker Jetty.
Watch out for cheeky local Sammy the seal!