9 Of The Friendliest Towns In Western Australia
What comes to mind when you are asked about Western Australia? Is it kangaroos munching on leaves in an open savanna? Or cute Quokkas smiling for selfies and stealing hearts? Well, the idea is certainly not wrong. Western Australia is known worldwide for its incredible wildlife, vast landscapes, and vibrant culture. Still, its true beauty can be attributed to its towns, where the locals welcome tourists with open arms. These places can feel like a home away from home for travelers seeking genuine hospitality and a sense of belonging.
Towns like Busselton, Pemberton, Exmouth, and many more create a unique blend of traditions, events, and resident warmth that makes visiting them a lifetime memory. Let’s wander through the nine friendliest towns in Western Australia.
Busselton
The crown jewel of Western Australia's towns, Busselton is known for its laid-back vibe and family-friendly atmosphere—it is often called the West Coast’s friendliest town. The town hosts recurring markets where residents come together to support Western Australia's produce farmers. The Busselton Jetty is a focal point for community gatherings and conversations. If you want to check out Busselton’s art, food, and music, the Festival of Busselton, held annually in January, is a must-visit. Local businesses are worth exploring, and to experience the real taste of Busselton, visit local cafes like The Urban Coffee House, which offers personalized service, warm smiles, and hot coffee.
Denmark
A rural and coastal town; that’s right, town, not country. Welcome to Denmark, one of Western Australia’s friendliest towns (with a dash of eccentricity sprinkled in). Denmark’s historical and natural heritage creates a sense of belonging in its visitors. The local community members also relish sharing stories about Denmark’s history and nature. To witness their hospitality, visit the Denmark Bakery, where the helpful staff makes every visit feel personal. For nature lovers, the Greens Pool is a serene beach location that is the perfect spot to converse with visitors. If you want a unique shopping experience, visit the Denmark Markets, the monthly artisan markets where the community comes together for business and one-on-one interaction.
Albany
Another coastal town on Western Australia’s southern coast, Albany prides itself on its rich history and strong communal values. To learn about the area’s history, head to the National Anzac Centre, where the staff goes above and beyond to share the center’s historical significance. Locals frequent the Albany Farmers Market. A town’s friendliness is evident in its local shops and restaurants. Domes Coffee offers an all-day menu if you fancy breakfast for dinner or a sweet stack of pancakes in the middle of the afternoon—there are no judgments here!
Margaret River
Margaret River, or as the locals call it, “Margs,” is a town where natural beauty and a close-knit community blend seamlessly. World-class wineries and a strong eco-conscious ethos bring together a diverse and welcoming crowd. Voyager Estate, one of the leading wineries in the region, offers the Origins Tasting & Cheese Board experience, where tourists and locals can share in a cabernet masterclass and extensive (and exclusive) tasting. For a fine dining experience, visit the Settlers Tavern, where the staff is known for their relaxed service. If you fancy a nice walk, talk, or trek through the Cape to Cape Track—guides are always willing to give trekkers a hand. You cannot know entirely about a town until you have visited its market, and for a casual marketplace experience, you must visit the Margaret River Farmers’ Market. This place creates a lively and inclusive environment for locals to chat with the visitors.
Pemberton
Named after botanical collector Pemberton Walcott, Pemberton is known as one of the most inviting towns in Western Australia. This quiet timber town offers a warm, family-like atmosphere. Train journeys evoke nostalgia, and if you love the sound of trains, you'll enjoy the Pemberton Tramway, where conductors often share insightful commentary, making for a memorable experience. While visiting, you can dine at cozy cafes like the Millhouse Café, where the friendly staff genuinely care about your day. Don't miss the chance to visit the famous Gloucester Tree, with locals happy to share tips on climbing it safely.
Exmouth
Exmouth, a hidden gem on Western Australia's coast, warmly welcomes all visitors. Famous for its stunning natural sights like Turquoise Bay—home to 500 tropical fish species, turtles, and manta rays—it’s a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town serves as a gateway to Ningaloo Reef, where locals are eager to help visitors experience the vibrant marine life. For more details, stop at the Ningaloo Visitor Centre for personalized advice. Consider joining Turtle Tours, which actively involves guests in conservation efforts. For a relaxed yet upscale dining experience, the Whalebone Brewing Company offers delicious pizzas in a casual atmosphere.
York
Western Australia’s oldest inland town, York, offers a unique blend of rich history and genuine community hospitality. You'll find this little window into the past about 60 miles east of Perth, Western Australia's capital city. York offers its visitors a complete bouquet of experiences and memories. From historical landmarks to natural landscapes and a plethora of events and festivals, the town has something for everyone. Visit the York Motor Museum to immerse yourself in the region’s automotive history, where the staff often goes out of their way to share stories about the exhibits. To see the town’s community events, check out the York Festival, which celebrates the lively arts culture. Local boutiques and shops are major tourist attractions, and to buy locally crafted items, you can visit The Old York Mill. The owners of the local shops love a good chat, so don't worry about hanging around for a while and getting into a great conversation.
Kalbarri
Kalbarri, situated at the mouth of the Murchison River, is a coastal haven that attracts visitors with its breathtaking scenery and exciting outdoor activities. Beyond the spectacular views, it is renowned along the coast as one of Western Australia's most welcoming towns. The locals take great pride in their remarkable environment and are always ready to go the extra mile to make visitors feel comfortable. Nature enthusiasts must explore Kalbarri National Park, where guides and residents are eager to share tips for discovering Nature’s Window. As a coastal town, Kalbarri is a popular spot for pelicans; don’t miss the daily volunteer-led pelican feeding. For great food and scenic views, visit the Gorges Cafe, known for its friendly service and stunning surroundings.
Esperance
Named after the French ship the “Esperance” (meaning “hope” in French), this pleasant little town is renowned its stunning beaches and a tight-knit community. Famous for its white sands and crystal clear water, nearby Lucky Bay is a stop that needs to be on every itinerary. If that’s enough to impress you, then visit the Taylor St Quarters restaurant to get a deeply personal feel for Esperance's hospitality. The place combines terrific food with some of the warmest and most attentive customer service you will ever experience. And, if you want to learn a bit more about the town’s history, be sure to visit the Esperance Museum, where the volunteers are willing to go the extra mile to personalize the experience and guide you through the exhibits in detail.
A Warm Welcome Awaits in Western Australia’s Friendliest Towns
Whether you seek a short trip or are a home away from home, these Western Australian towns and their folks will surely welcome you with wide arms and open hearts. From the exceptional flavors of Margaret River's wineries to the kaleidoscope of fish in Exmouth's Turquoise Bay, each of these towns is hiding its own special, sparkling treasure trove of experiences. Visitors will palpably feel the towns' “Welcome Home” vibes, which help put them at ease when exploring new and unusual destinations. For the tourists, the people here are almost as memorable as the towns themselves. So, pack your bags! Western Australia, your second home awaits.
