Top 10 Things to Do in Busselton – A Local’s Guide to Coastal Bliss

Busselton. If you've been, you know the vibe - relaxed, sunny, and full of small-town charm with big nature vibes. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway from Perth or road-tripping through the South West, Busselton is more than just a pit stop.

Here’s a list of the Top 10 Things to Do in Busselton that’ll help you soak up every bit of this coastal gem. Think: sunsets, marine life, fresh coffee, and a jetty that seems to go on forever!

1. Walk (or Train Ride) the Iconic Busselton Jetty

You can’t go to Busselton and not see the jetty. At 1.841km, it’s the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. You can walk the full length (good chance to burn off that bakery snack), or take the charming little train that runs along it.

Bonus: At the end of the jetty is an underwater observatory where you can see coral, fish, and even octopuses - without getting wet.

2. Swim in the Crystal-Clear Geographe Bay

The beach in Busselton is calm, shallow, and ideal for families or those who prefer a float over a surf. The water is usually a stunning turquoise and, if you’re lucky, you might spot a pod of dolphins cruising by!

3. Grab Coffee (and a Croissant) at a Local Café

Busselton is quietly brewing up a pretty solid coffee culture. Spots like Tonic By The Bay, The Firestation, or Albies serve up great coffee, and the baked goods are often locally made. Nothing like sipping a flat white just metres from the beach.

4. Explore the Busselton Foreshore

The foreshore has had a serious glow-up in recent years. Modern playgrounds, a purpose built skate park, BBQ spots, and even a microbrewery with ocean views. It's the kind of place you can easily spend a whole afternoon doing... not much, in the best way.

5. Visit the Underwater Observatory

Back to the jetty, but this one deserves its own spot. The Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory sits 8 metres below sea level and gives you a 360-degree view of the marine ecosystem - all without scuba gear. It’s a surreal way to see what lives beneath the waves.

6. Take a Sunset Picnic to the Beach

Simple, underrated and perfect. Pack some local wine and cheese (maybe swing by Vasse Village beforehand), grab a rug, and settle in for one of WA’s classic ocean sunsets. Depending on the day, the sky turns sherbet pink and orange - it’s straight-up magic.

7. Go Whale Watching (Seasonal)

If you're in Busselton between September and December, you’re in prime whale territory. Humpbacks, southern rights, and even blue whales cruise past Geographe Bay, and there are plenty of local tours that’ll take you out to spot them.

8. Hire a Bike and Cruise the Bay

There’s a beautiful bike path that hugs the coast from Busselton towards Dunsborough. Hire a bike (or bring your own) and enjoy flat, easy riding with epic ocean views. Pack snacks and take your time.

9. Explore Tuart Forest National Park

Just a short drive inland, this peaceful park is home to some of the last remaining tuart trees in the world. The walking trails are shady, quiet, and feel a world away from the beach crowd. A good option for a chill morning walk or picnic.

10. Check Out Origins Market

This indoor market is relatively new to the Busselton scene and brings together local makers, bakers, artists, and small-batch producers. It’s part farmers market, part food hall, part gallery — and 100% worth a visit.

Bonus Tip: Use Busselton as a Base

One of the best things about Busselton? It’s super central. You’re only 30 mins from Margaret River’s wineries, 25 mins to Yallingup’s surf, and 20 mins to Dunsborough’s hidden beaches. We offer one of Busselton's best rated places to stay for families and groups, so you can enjoy a day of exploring the best of the South West then retreat to your fully equipped holiday home accommodation that has it all. Availability is limited so check your dates and book today.