Located in the picturesque south west region, Busselton is a one-stop shop for your next holiday. Only 2 and a half hours drive from Perth, the coastal town has FIVE town centres and is on the doorstep to the beautiful Geographe Bay. With the calm waters of the bay on one side, a stunning Tuart Forest to the East and the booming town site of Dunsborough to the West there are plenty of things to do in Busselton.
Busselton is known for its tourism and retail, along with agriculture and fishing! The city boasts about 40,000 residents, four national parks and almost one hundred playgrounds in town!
The family friendly foreshore in the centre of town is not to be missed on your trip to the south west. The most recognisable piece of infrastructure here is 1.8km long and extends out over the water… You guessed it – Busselton Jetty!
The Busselton Jetty
Busselton Jetty is the longest wooden piled jetty in the southern hemisphere and has a rich history! Built in the mid 1800’s, the full working jetty went into disrepair 50 years ago and suffered from the occasional fire, wood rot and borers and even impacts from a cyclone! The township rallied together to save the jetty and is now a booming tourism and recreational attraction.
There is so much to do on the jetty including Diving, an underwater observatory, historical tours and even a small train!
While you are down visiting the Jetty you will be immersed in the Busselton Foreshore. With stunning views of Geographe Bay, you can sit and watch the world go by in the numerous cafes and new restaurants and breweries!
A match made in heaven is the new Brewery and the Busselton Foreshore! The massive and airy Shelter Brewing Co has a fresh local menu and beer brewed on site. The relaxed atmosphere is one to experience next time you are in town!
Whale Watching in Busselton
With dolphins regularly fishing along the shoreline and whales migrating annually there is no shortage of wildlife. Whale Watching Busselton tours run from September through to November and leave from the Busselton Jetty. Naturaliste Charters run tours twice daily throughout this season and give you the chance to get up close and personal with the whales. Humpback, Southern Right, Blue and Minke whales frequent the calm waters of the bay to rest. Most of these whales are on their return journey home after a long migration north to give birth! Nursing calves or excitable juveniles play in the shallow waters while their mothers rest.
The foreshore also features three playgrounds for all ages! Along with BBQs and shaded picnic areas the whole family will love it! During summer there is nothing better than running up from the beach after a swim and grabbing an ice cream or settling in with a warm cup of tea and watching the waves lap the shore during winter.
Busselton’s Cultural Precinct
Busselton’s Cultural Precinct is a hub for visual and performing arts in the restored heritage listed buildings. A Courthouse runs historical tours and the ArtGeo Gallery regularly hosts art exhibitions or be immersed in Indigenous culture at the Merenj Boodja Bush Food Garden. Cared for by the Undalup Association, you can learn about how plants in the garden were used over 40,000 years ago.
So how many things to do in Busselton have you added to your list so far? Leave some space because there is plenty more to uncover.
The Markets
Markets are held regularly across the five town sites of Busselton. Community and garden markets run fortnightly while The Rotary and Lions Club of Busselton both host regular events. Whether its fresh produce, handmade goodies, gifts or treats Busselton has something for everyone. Be sure to check out the local council website for more information by exploring for Busselton in your search engine.
Sporting Events
Sporting events are held throughout the year here too! Whether it’s a long-distance ocean swim, triathlon or cycling event there are always active escapes happening here. Or if a leisurely bike ride is what you’re after then the bike paths around town will take you where you need to go! Maybe spectating local sport is what you’re after in which AFL and cricket is held weekly over the winter months.
Busselton has all you need!
Whether it is a day trip, short stay or extended trip to the southwest, Busselton has all you need. With an endless list of things to do from whale watching to watching the sunset from the new brewery you will feel right at home at this coastal town. Bring the entire family or just your pet, you will be surprised as to what is on offer here. So there you have it, plenty of things to do in Busselton, all you need to do is get down here and enjoy it!