Embracing winter in Western Australia is a breeze. In fact, the winter season in WA still offers sunshine, adventure, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking warmth or cozy moments by the fire, there are myriad options to cure any winter blues.

If you’re looking to stay warm, there are plenty of “sunshine” getaways in winter, such as exploring Broome and the Kimberley. Alternatively, sitting by a campfire or booking holiday units in caravan parks in the southern part of WA can provide a heartwarming escape.

Whether you want to hibernate or have an active winter, here are the top locations for a healing winter getaway in WA.

Stay Cozy in Albany and Esperance

Albany proves to be an ideal choice for winter.

With winter temperatures ranging from 9°C to 18°C, there’s plenty to do even in the colder months. The town is renowned for its coffee shops, white beaches, and picturesque landscapes.

Things to do:

• Take the kids to Whale World for an educational trip, featuring life-sized whale skeletons.
• Explore history at the Desert Mounted Corps Memorial Museum, a replica of Egypt’s Suez Canal.
• Albany Heritage Park offers beautiful mountain trails.
• Visit Old Marron Farm, a family retreat with farm animals, guided tours, and off-road Segway experiences.
• Torndirrup National Park now offers an observation platform with views of a 24-meter crevice and water under a natural bridge.

Continue to Esperance, campfireside, or book a stay in self-contained units at the local caravan park. Drive along the Great Ocean Drive and detour to Stokes Inlet National Park.

Escape the Cold Along the Coral Bay Coast

If chasing the sun is your way of embracing winter in WA, head north along the Coral Bay coast for postcard-perfect scenery.

Depending on your travel time and adventurous spirit, warm winter climates make these stops ideal:

• Turquoise Bay: Swim in sheltered beaches or ride along 4WD tracks to little bays.
• Kalbarri: Visit Kalbarri National Park, fish along the coastline, whale watch, or join an inland tour.
• Coral Bay: Swim with whale sharks and manta rays, dive in warm waters, or explore Cape Range National Park.
• Exmouth: A must for sun-seekers, boasting Ningaloo Reef, Turquoise Bay, swimming spots, and abundant accommodation options.

Immerse Yourself in Dwellingup’s Cabin Charm

Less than an hour’s drive from Perth is Dwellingup, a wooden town in WA—a perfect winter retreat.

Dwellingup is surrounded by tall trees, jarrah forests, and reservoirs, making it an ideal spot for camping, charming cabins, coffee shops, and pub lunches.

Things to do:

• Visit Lane Poole Reserve, watching the Murray River wind through it. Rent a kayak to conquer the river.
• Indulge in gourmet food at boutique wineries and restaurants.
• Head to Caraholly Orchard, three kilometers from the center, to pick your fruit, picnic, or explore.
• Take the kids to Trees Adventure for a forest obstacle course experience.

Avoid the Tourist Rush on Rottnest Island

Winter might be the best time to visit Rottnest Island, as accommodations are cheaper, and the island sees fewer visitors.

Stay warm, don’t expect to swim (unless you’re bravely facing the cold), and enjoy the sunshine that can still warm up to around 20°C. There are plenty of activities to make Rotto an ideal winter getaway.

Things to do:

• Rent a bike to explore the island. Stop for a picnic lunch on one of the white sandy beaches along one of the limestone edges.
• Surf scenes. If you’re into surfing, winter is the best time for waves at Rottnest. Surfboards and wetsuits are available for rent.
• Adventure skydiving, overlooking the entire island. For a more relaxed activity, enjoy a scenic flight.
• Hike trails; the Wadjemup Trail peaks in winter, offering vibrant colors and lush vegetation. Start from the west and walk through to Lake Baghdad.

Discover the Heart of Kimberley in Broome

Looking for warmth in winter in Western Australia? Broome and the Kimberley are the go-to destinations for many locals and tourists alike.

Temperatures will reach around 30°C, with the coldest nights hovering around 14°C. Broome is a laid-back coastal town and the gateway to the Kimberley region—one of Australia’s most diverse and untouched natural wonders.

Things to do in Broome:

• Camel ride along Cable Beach.
• Explore gorges and waterfalls.
• Take a tour of the Willie Creek Pearl Farm.
• 4WD the Gibb River Road.

Extend your travels to Kununurra, visit the Bungle Bungles (take a direct flight from Broome), where winter temperatures reach 34°C, and the inland areas are diverse and beautiful.

Where will you be spending your winter holiday in WA?

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