11 Best Western Australia Towns For A Weekend Trip

Highlights of a weekend escape in Western Australia's small towns include fresh ocean air, jarrah forests, and a surprising amount of art. In Augusta, you can stand near the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, where the Indian and Southern Oceans converge, then head out on a seasonal whale-watching tour at Flinders Bay. In Collie, the concrete wall of nearby Wellington Dam now carries Reflections, a monumental mural by Guido van Helten. Off Jurien Bay, tours bring you close to Australian sea lions in one of the state's most important breeding areas. Out in the Wheatbelt, Koorda's drive-in cinema is one of the few still operating in Western Australia. Read on for the 11 best Western Australia towns for a weekend trip, with forest trails, rugged coastline, and gold rush history all within reach.

Collie

Collie has built a new identity around outdoor recreation while retaining its industrial heritage. Located in the Darling Range, the town puts visitors within reach of an extensive network of mountain biking and walking trails. There is also the Collie River and forested landscapes of Wellington National Park to explore. Art lovers can view the giant mural called Reflections, which has transformed a concrete dam wall at the Wellington Dam into a monumental artwork by Guido van Helten.

Visitors can follow the Collie Mural Trail or catch exhibitions at the Collie Art Gallery. The nearby Black Diamond Lake occupies a former mine site, and Minninup Pool is a quiet stretch of the river that can be used for paddle boarding, kayaking, or stopping for a picnic. The popular Harris River Estate rounds out a weekend outdoors with locally produced wine and beer, with the Collie Ridge Motel serving as a convenient base to stay near the town's main attractions.

Augusta

At the southwest tip of Western Australia, Augusta sits near the meeting point of the Indian and Southern oceans. With the surrounding sea, estuary, and limestone caves, the area's landscape reveals the natural forces that shape this corner of the continent. The Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is one of the region's most recognizable landmarks, and stands above the water where the two oceans converge. There is a walking path called the Cape to Cape Track that follows along the stretches of rugged coastline.

Near town is where the Blackwood River flows into the Hardy Inlet. This creates opportunities for visitors to go kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. The Jewel Cave is Western Australia's largest show cave, a labyrinth of limestone creations. Migrating humpback and southern right whales can often be seen on seasonal whale-watching tours at Flinders Bay. A great accommodation option is Chandler's Augusta Farm Stay, a self-contained design studio with glass framing on a working farm.

Dwellingup

The town of Dwellingup grew around Western Australia's timber industry, and its history remains closely connected to the jarrah forests that surround the settlement. The Forest Discovery Centre adds dimension to the town's cultural life with exhibitions, artisan displays, and a canopy walk among the trees. Outdoor areas like Lane Poole Reserve and the Murray River attract visitors for their great options for hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, and seasonal whitewater rafting. The reserve links the town to larger walking and cycling routes, including the Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail.

Then there's a look into Dwellingup's industrial past at the Hotham Valley Railway, which has heritage trains traveling through the forested countryside. The community hosts events that fit the vibe, such as the Dwellingup Log Chop and the Community Fair, that keep traditional skills and local participation in the spotlight. Rather than separating its history from activities, Dwellingup brings both together in a compact regional setting. The Dwellingup Forest Lodge is a housing option among the trees, whereas the Kurrajong Cottage suits visitors seeking a more private stay for the weekend.

Jurien Bay

Jurien Bay stands out along the Coral Coast region for its access to protected marine habitats and one of Western Australia's important sea lion breeding areas. The Jurien Bay Marine Park encompasses limestone reefs that support snorkeling, diving, and boat excursions to immerse yourself in the ocean. Visitors can learn about the native sea lions on tours that offer education on their natural habitat. Another ideal outdoor retreat is the Lesueur National Park, which has more than 900 plant species that are notable year-round, but especially so during the spring wildflower season. The reserve can be explored on a scenic drive or by following local walking trails. The remains of the old Jurien Bay Jetty is a testament to the town's maritime past, and nearby are local skydiving operators that run tandem jumps with views over the shoreline. The Sandy Cape Recreation Zone is a beachside campground that lets you stay in the best part of the local nature.

Nannup

Nannup combines a strong artistic personality with the forests, rivers, and cycling routes of Western Australia's southwest. Its name comes from the Aboriginal Noongar language and is translated to "stopping place," which is a fitting connection for a town that serves as an important meeting point along the Munda Biddi Trail. This cycling route has helped shape the local services and community initiatives, including support for riders passing through the region. Beyond cycling, visitors can cool off at the Barrabup Pool in St John Brook Conservation Park, where forest surrounds a natural freshwater swimming area.

The wider landscape includes both jarrah and marri woodland, while the Warren Blackwood Stock Route follows historic droving routes through the countryside. Nannup's cultural calendar adds another reason to visit, with several exciting events during the year. The Nannup Music Festival brings performers to the town, while the annual Flower and Garden Festival showcases regional horticulture. There are also local markets and artisan businesses that further reflect the town's creative character. Holberry House is an accommodation set within an established garden area and operates as a country guesthouse.

Bridgetown

Bridgetown's position along the hills of the Blackwood River Valley has shaped both its historic streetscape and its agricultural surroundings. The town retains its collection of historic buildings such as the Town Hall, the former National Bank building, and St Brigid's Catholic Church and convent. Visitors can explore these landmarks on a self-guided heritage walk before heading into the bushland. Hester Cascades Road makes a worthwhile walking destination outside town, and the Bridgetown Jarrah Park features trails through different types of forests. The region's apple-growing history also underpins its contemporary food and drink culture.

Local cider makers and breweries form part of the wider Western Australia Cider Drive, giving visitors a taste of the produce associated with the Blackwood Valley. Art has its own place in the community, with the Bridgetown-Greenbushes Art Trail that highlights works by local creators. Each November the town hosts the Blues at Bridgetown Festival, which draws in musicians and audiences for the major regional event. People wishing to stay over the weekend can find BIG4 Bridgetown as a practical base for exploring the area.

Mount Barker

Along with vineyards and the agricultural communities of the Great Southern, Mount Barker is a stunning weekend escape. The town serves as a starting point for exploring Stirling Range National Park, home to the Bluff Knoll, and the Porongurup Range, where Castle Rock's Granite Skywalk frames elevated views across the countryside. These reserves support a remarkable diversity of wildflowers, including orchids that attract nature enthusiasts.

The summit area of Mount Barker Hill, also known as Pwakkenbak, holds significance to the Aboriginal Noongar people and features a lookout across the region. Mount Barker has a cultural side beyond its natural environment. There are murals that brighten parts of town, and the historic railway station and Old Police Station Museum preserves aspects of its development. Wine remains central to the district's identity, with cellar doors such as Plantagenet Wines showing visitors an inside look at the Great Southern's established wine industry. Events like Graze Mount Barker celebrate the local food and wine scene. Caber House is a distinct pole-house bed-and-breakfast that overlooks the Stirling Range.

Balingup

Balingup sits among rolling hills of the Blackwood Valley where forest tracks, small farms, and creative businesses shape the character of the area. One of its most notable attractions is Golden Valley Tree Park, which is a heritage-listed arboretum covering 60 hectares. Its collection of local trees from Australia and from overseas creates a different perspective on the region's landscapes, with walking paths winding through the grounds.

The Bibbulmun Track passes through the area and links Balingup to a larger network of long-distance walking routes. In town is the Balingup Heritage Precinct that documents local working and social life through displays and historic buildings. There is also the Avenue of Honour that commemorates local servicemen who died during the First World War. Contemporary craft and art remain part of the town's appeal, with the Balingup Medieval Carnivale that transforms the town with medieval themed festivities and performances. A weekend stay can be managed at the Balingup Heights Hilltop Forest Cottage that is nestled within the trees.

Westonia

A glimpse into the gold rush settlements that helped shape Western Australia's inland development is found at Westonia. The town has a heritage-style streetscape that recreates the appearance of an early 20th-century mining town. Local museums preserve objects and stories from the district's pioneering years. The Hood-Penn Museum recreates scenes from everyday life, such as a shop, workshop, and Cooper's Garage displaying vintage cars and memorabilia.

The former Edna May Gold Mine, which began its operations in the early 20th century, gives more context on the town's origins and economic history. Beyond the center is the Wheatbelt landscape that features granite formations and patches of native woodland. Sandford Rocks Nature Reserve supports native plants and wildlife, and Elachbutting Rock is about an hour's journey away and features a wave-shaped granite surface and cave formations. There is also the Woodlands and Wildflowers Heritage Trail to explore more on foot. Community gatherings such as Wessy on the Green bring live music, food stalls, and entertainment to the town each year. Westonia Tavern and Motel is a great option to stay in a classic building along Wolfram Street.

Boddington

Boddington is a river country with a heavy community calendar and with the picturesque Hotham River running through it. The town is where the jarrah forest meets the Darling Range. The river foreshore makes a pleasant setting for walks and picnics. Nearby spots like Lions Weir and Ranford Pool attract anglers and birdwatchers. Sections of the Bibbulmun Track are also connected to the countryside, allowing people to explore the region on foot.

The town also has a sculpture trail that features artworks in public spaces, along with a local Arts and Crafts Centre that supports makers and community creativity. Although the Boddington Gold Mine is not open for public tours, its presence helps explain how it plays an important role for the local economy. The Boddington Lions Rodeo is an event with street celebrations and rodeo competition. The Quindanning Hotel is a great option for a stay with historic character in a country pub setting outside the town center.

Koorda

A representation of the agricultural heart of the Wheatbelt is Koorda, where wheat growing and small-town communities define the local experience. The farming industry is visible in the local fields and grain infrastructure. Places like the Koorda Museum and Koorda Motor and Heritage Museum preserve machinery, artefacts, and stories from the earlier generations. At Boodalin Soak, a natural water source with historic significance teaches visitors how people have relied on scarce water in the environment. There are granite formations nearby, such as Mollerin Rock and Badgerin Rock, that create spaces to explore the landscape, watch wildlife, and appreciate the region's open horizons.

The Native Flora Reserve adds seasonal color with glimpses at the local Koorda rose. The local Koorda District Agricultural Show celebrates farming, crafts, and regional traditions. Community arts are also actively participated in at the Wheatbelt Cottage Industries. Part of the town's classic feel is retained in the drive-in cinema, one of the few still operating in Western Australia. The Koorda Hotel is a straightforward base for visitors exploring the district.

A Different Side of Australia's West in Small Towns

The small towns of Western Australia reflect the state's diversity in ways that larger cities cannot always capture. From timber settlements to seaside communities, the spaces listed above all have their own unique reasoning for bringing in visitors. Weekend trippers may be drawn in by the appeal of mountain biking, whale-watching, or interest in regional art and heritage buildings. Together, these places provide more than a change of scenery. These towns give a closer look at the histories, landscapes, and local cultures that continue to shape Australia's western region.