The Perfect Perth to Esperance Road Trip
Discover the ultimate Perth to Esperance road trip below!
A road trip from Perth to Espernece is a quintessential Australian experience where you will see some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Aussie wildlife, and stunning natural landscapes.
I rented a van for a week and drove from Perth to Esperance to FINALLY experience van life in Australia – and it was amazing! The freedom of driving through Western Australia to endless hidden beaches and landmarks is an unreal experience that I highlight and recommend to everyone!
From the vibrant cityscape of Perth to the remote beauty of Esperance, each stop along the way offers its own unique charm and attractions. This road trip itinerary has something for everyone.
Keep reading for the ultimate Perth to Esperance road trip.
(Disclaimer: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning if you click on the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and you may even receive a small discount. See disclosure for more information.)
In This Post
Perth to Esperance Road Trip
➡️ Day 1: Perth
➡️ Day 2: Margaret River
➡️ Day 3: Denmark
➡️ Day 4: Albany
➡️ Day 5-7: Esperance
If you have limited time I highly recommend going straight to Esperance and spending all your time here as there is a lot to see and you can easily fill a week in Esperance alone.
🚐 I rented my van through Camplify – and I booked the Van of Spoils Van which was so nice!
Day 1: Perth
If time permits it is best to spend one day in Perth before beginning your road trip to ensure enough time to rest and prepare. Plus to see a little of the city!
Here are some of the top things to do in Perth
➡️ Visit Kings Park and Botanic Garden: Explore this parkland offering stunning views of the city skyline, native flora, and walking trails.
➡️ Walk along Elizabeth Quay: Enjoy a walk along the picturesque waterfront dotted with cafes, restaurants, public art, and the iconic Bell Tower.
➡️ Discover Fremantle: Wander through its historic streets lined with Victorian architecture, boutiques, galleries, and the Fremantle Markets.
➡️ Relax at Cottesloe Beach: Unwind at one of Perth’s most famous beaches, Cottesloe Beach, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and iconic Indiana Tea House.
After a day of exploration, relax and prepare for the adventures ahead as you pick up your van the next day and set off on your journey towards Esperance.
Read More: 3 Week Australia Itinerary
Day 2: Margaret River
🚗 Distance to Drive: Approximately 270 kilometers (about 3 hours drive) from Perth to Margaret River.
After picking up your van, it’s time to hit the road and make your way to Margaret River, a famous region known for its stunning landscapes, world-class wineries, and outdoor adventures.
Here are five things you can do in Margaret River:
➡️ Visit the Margaret River Chocolate Company: Indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to this popular chocolatier, where you can sample an array of handcrafted chocolates and treats.
➡️ Explore the Caves: Discover the region’s underground wonders by exploring one of Margaret River’s limestone caves, such as Mammoth Cave, Lake Cave, or Jewel Cave.
➡️ Surfers Point: Head to Surfers Point to watch the surfers ride the waves at one of Margaret River’s famous surf breaks, or take a lesson and try it out yourself.
➡️ Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse: Visit the historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, where the Indian Ocean meets the Southern Ocean, and enjoy panoramic views from the top after climbing the stairs.
Day 3: Denmark
🚗 Distance to Drive: Approximately 245 kilometers (about 3 hours drive) from Margaret River to Denmark.
After a day in Margaret River, it’s time to continue your journey southward towards Denmark, a charming town located along Western Australia’s southern coast.
Here are five things you can do in Denmark:
➡️ Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks: Visit these iconic natural formations in William Bay National Park, where crystal-clear waters lap against granite boulders, creating a stunning backdrop for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
➡️ Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk: Experience the thrill of walking among the ancient tingle trees in the Valley of the Giants, where a suspended walkway takes you high above the forest canopy for breathtaking views.
➡️ William Bay National Park: Explore the rugged coastline of William Bay National Park, home to picturesque beaches, secluded coves, and dramatic rock formations, including Madfish Bay and Waterfall Beach.
➡️ Read More: MOST beautiful places in Australia
Day 4: Albany
🚗 Distance to Drive: Approximately 55 kilometers (about 1 hour drive) from Denmark to Albany.
After exploring the natural wonders of Denmark, continue your road trip southward to Albany, a historic port city known for its rugged coastline, beautiful beaches, and rich heritage.
Here are five things you can do in Albany:
➡️ Middleton Beach: Relax and unwind at Middleton Beach, a pristine stretch of sand popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, with cafes and amenities nearby.
➡️ The Gap and Natural Bridge: Marvel at the dramatic coastal scenery of Torndirrup National Park, where sheer cliffs plunge into the ocean, creating breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
➡️ Albany Heritage Park: Explore the military history of Albany at Princess Royal Fortress and the National ANZAC Centre, commemorating Australia’s involvement in World War I.
Day 5-8: Esperance
🚗 Distance to Drive: Approximately 480 kilometers (about 5.5 hours drive) from Albany to Esperance.
As you continue your road trip along the southern coast, make your way to Esperance, a coastal paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and stunning natural landscapes.
A highlight for most visiting Esperance is the BEACHES! Esperance is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and honesty they are stunning.
Some of the beaches you cannot miss are:
➡️ Lucky Bay
➡️ Twilight Cove (this is my FAVORITE BEACH in Esperance)
➡️ Blue Haven Beach
➡️ Wharton Beach
➡️ 11 Mile Beach
While here be sure to also check out
➡️ Pink Lake: There are some amazing pink lakes in Western Australia you don’t want to miss.
➡️ Cape Le Grand National Park: The most stunning park with beautiful beaches.
With its unparalleled natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities, Esperance offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Take your time to soak in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy the laid-back coastal lifestyle before continuing your road trip adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do you stop between Perth and Esperance?
The drive from Perth to Esperance is a long journey, covering approximately 720 to 770 kilometers, depending on the route taken. Here are some suggested stops along the way to break up the journey:
➡️ Williams: Located about 160 kilometers southeast of Perth, Williams is a small town known for its charming country atmosphere and picturesque landscapes. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and explore local attractions like the Williams Woolshed.
➡️ Wave Rock: A huge rock that is formed by nature to look like a giant wave.
➡️ Albany: If you have extra time, consider making a detour to Albany, which is about 480 kilometers from Perth. This historic port city offers stunning coastal scenery, fascinating heritage sites, and a range of attractions including the Gap and Natural Bridge, Middleton Beach, and the Albany Wind Farm.
How long do you need from Perth to Esperance?
The driving distance from Perth to Esperance is approximately 720 to 770 kilometers, depending on the route taken. The estimated driving time for this journey is around 8 to 9 hours without stops.
For a more comfortable and enjoyable road trip, it is best to break up the drive with one or more stops between Perth to Esperance. If you are in a rush you can do the drive all in one go with no problems just be sure to plan to drive during the day.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Driving at dusk, dawn, and at night in Western Australia can get VERY dangerous due to wildlife.
How many days should I stay in Esperance?
The number of days to stay in Esperance depends on what you want to see and do but it is best to budget at least two – six days. The weather is pretty volatile in Esperance so budgeting a few extra days in case of bad weather is best.
What is the halfway point between Perth and Esperance?
The halfway point between Perth and Esperance is approximately around the town of Ravensthorpe. Ravensthorpe is located about 540 kilometers from Perth and around 230 kilometers from Esperance.
It’s a good spot to consider for a break during the journey, with facilities like fuel stations, cafes, and accommodations available for travelers.
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Love,
SSW
