Western Australia

Western Australia is home to the sunniest capital city, whitest beaches, and the largest expanse of outback in Australia.

Western Australia is home to the sunniest capital city, whitest beaches, and the largest expanse of outback in Australia. Along with being one of the largest states in the world, Western Australia’s climate has shaped some of the most diverse landscapes across the globe. From the Pinnacles Desert, with its lunar-like limestone spires rising from the desert sand, to the lush, green vineyards of the Margaret River, to the steep and distinctive mountain ranges of The Kimberley, and of course the aquatic wonderland of Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia has a wealth of unique experiences for you to enjoy.

Are you ready to...
Swim with the gentle giant of the sea, the whale shark, at World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef? Explore Margaret River’s acclaimed wineries? Unwind on one of Perth’s picture-perfect beaches and enjoy the plentiful Western Australian sun?

Split season

Summer

ClimateHot south; wet tropical north

Best forPerth, Margaret River, beaches

Perth and the southwest are warm and dry, while the tropical north is hot, humid, and in its wet season.

Shoulder

Autumn

ClimateWarm; drying north later

Best forNingaloo, wine, coast

A useful bridge season for the southwest and Ningaloo area, with the north beginning to move out of wet-season patterns.

North peak

Dry season

ClimateDry north; cool wet south

Best forKimberley, Broome, Ningaloo

The Kimberley and northern coast are in their dry-season window. The southwest is cooler and wetter.

Wildflowers

Spring

ClimateMild south; hot north late

Best forWildflowers, coast, road trips

Spring is a standout for wildflowers, warmer southwest touring, and late dry-season travel in parts of the north.

Seasons here are a guide. The right window for your trip depends on the regions, lodges, and pace you want.

When is the best time to visit the Kimberley?

The dry season, roughly May to October, when the access roads and cruises operate; the wet season closes most of the region. The Kimberley is a dry-season destination, Ningaloo whale-shark timing is roughly March to July, and Margaret River is strongest in spring and autumn. Western Australia covers multiple climate zones, so one season does not fit all.

Can you swim with whale sharks at Ningaloo?

Yes, in season, roughly March to July, with the peak in April and May, when whale sharks gather on the reef. The experience is seasonal and conditions-led, so it should be planned with realistic expectations and enough time in the region. Responsible operators follow strict interaction rules, which protects the animals and usually makes the encounter better.

What is Margaret River known for?

Margaret River is known for Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, surf coast, forests, and a relaxed food-and-wine scene in Australia's southwest. In a Western Australia trip it contrasts well with the Kimberley or Ningaloo because it is slower, greener, and easier to reach from Perth. It is best treated as a wine-and-coast chapter, not a substitute for the state's remote northern landscapes.

How do you see the Kimberley?

Most travelers see the Kimberley by expedition cruise from Broome, because the region's gorges, waterfalls and rock art are otherwise hard to reach. Perth and Broome are key route points, and long drives or cruise dates often shape the itinerary. Kimberley access should be planned around the dry season.

Broome

Tucked away on the remote northwestern coast of Australia, the red desert meets the turquoise sea in Broome (Aboriginal name: Rubibi; pronounced: roo-bee-bee).

Ningaloo Reef

Swim straight from the shore to explore the world’s longest fringing coral reef—the spectacular Ningaloo Reef, located within the UNESCO-listed Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area.

Perth & Surrounds

Nestled between the Indian Ocean and the tranquil Swan River, Perth (Aboriginal name: Boorloo; pronounced: boor-loo) is Western Australia's capital—and also Australia's sunniest.

The Kimberley

A rugged landscape as large as California with a population of less than 40,000, the Kimberley is one of the world's last wilderness frontiers.

Wine Regions

The wine regions of Western Australia are known for their gourmet offerings, including cheeses, chocolates, olive oils, lavender and other artisan products, in addition to their very special vineyards.

Australia

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Explore Australia on a luxurious journey from coast to coast.

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