A Perth to Esperance road trip is one of the most scenic drives in Western Australia, taking you through ancient rock formations, world-famous beaches, and lush forests. Whether you’re chasing coastal adventures, unique landscapes, or great food and wine, this route has it all.
We spent 8 days on the road, stopping at Wave Rock, Esperance, Bremer Bay, Denmark, Pemberton, and Margaret River, covering around 2,100 km. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your own unforgettable Perth to Esperance road trip.
| Route | Distance | Drive Duration | How Long to Spend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perth to Hyden | 350 km | 4 hours | 1 night |
| Hyden to Esperance | 380 km | 4.5 hours | 3 nights |
| Esperance to Bremer Bay | 380 km | 4.5 hours | 1 night |
| Bremer Bay to Denmark | 180 km | 2 hours | 1 night |
| Denmark to Pemberton | 180 km | 2 hours | 1 night |
| Pemberton to Margaret River | 140 km | 2 hours | 2 nights |
| Margaret River to Perth | 270 km | 3 hours | – |
How Long Does it Take to Drive from Perth to Esperance?
The direct drive from Perth to Esperance is about 700 km and takes around 7-8 hours without stops. But with so much to see along the way, we recommend breaking it up over a few days. Our itinerary gives you plenty of time to experience each stop without rushing.
Best Time to Do a Perth to Esperance Road Trip
The best time for a Perth to Esperance road trip depends on what you want to see:
- Spring (September – November): Wildflower season, great weather, and perfect swimming conditions.
- Summer (December – February): Hot days, ideal for beach lovers, but can get busy.
- Autumn (March – May): Fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.
- Winter (June – August): Cooler weather, whale watching in Bremer Bay, and lush green forests.
For the best mix of warm days and fewer tourists, we recommend traveling between September and April.
Do You Need a 4WD for a Perth to Esperance Road Trip?
For most of the Perth to Esperance road trip, a 2WD is all you need, thanks to well-maintained highways. But if you’re planning to explore spots like Duke of Orleans Bay, Cape Le Grand’s off-road beaches, or venture onto sandy tracks in remote areas, a 4WD is highly recommended. It gives you access to more secluded spots and rugged trails. Don’t have a 4WD? No worries – many of Esperance’s highlights are easily accessible without one, and local tours are available for off-road adventures.
Perth to Esperance Road Trip Itinerary
A Perth to Esperance road trip covers around 2,100 km and takes you through WA’s most diverse landscapes – from the quirky outback charm of Wave Rock to Esperance’s world-class beaches, the wildlife-rich coast of Bremer Bay, and the towering forests and gourmet experiences of Pemberton and Margaret River.
- Day 1: Perth to Hyden (4 hours, 1 night)
Start your journey with a drive through the Wheatbelt, stopping in York for breakfast before reaching Wave Rock, exploring nearby attractions like Hippo’s Yawn and Mulka’s Cave. - Days 2–4: Hyden to Esperance (4.5 hours, 3 nights)
Spend your days in Esperance visiting Cape Le Grand National Park, swimming at Lucky Bay, driving the Great Ocean Drive, and taking in views at Twilight Beach. - Day 5: Esperance to Bremer Bay (4.5 hours, 1 night)
Head west to Bremer Bay, with a stop at Fitzgerald River National Park for coastal hikes and scenic lookouts. - Day 6: Bremer Bay to Denmark (2 hours, 1 night)
Swim in the calm waters of Greens Pool and explore the unique boulders at Elephant Rocks in Denmark. - Day 7: Denmark to Pemberton (2 hours, 1 night)
Drive through towering forests, climb the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree, and enjoy short hikes around Beedelup Falls. - Days 8–9: Pemberton to Margaret River (2 hours, 2 nights)
End your trip in Margaret River, visiting wineries, exploring Lake Cave, and relaxing at Surfers Point before heading back to Perth.
Day 1: Perth to Hyden (4 hours, 1 night)
Kick off your Perth to Esperance road trip with a scenic drive through the Wheatbelt. Stop in York, WA’s oldest inland town, for breakfast and a stroll through its charming main street lined with heritage buildings.
Stops on the Way:
- Corrigin Dog Cemetery: A unique tribute to man’s best friend.
- Wave Rock: A 15-meter-high granite formation shaped like a breaking wave, perfect for photos and exploring nearby Hippo’s Yawn.
- Mulka’s Cave: See ancient Aboriginal rock art and learn about local legends.
Spend the night in Hyden, ready for the journey to Esperance the next day.
Days 2–4: Hyden to Esperance (4.5 hours, 3 nights)
Leave Hyden and drive south through open farmland and small Wheatbelt towns. Stop in Lake Grace for coffee and a quick break before continuing to Ravensthorpe for a sweet treat at the Yummylicious Candy Shack, known for its handmade fudge and chocolates.
Stops on the Way:
- Lake King: A peaceful stop with salt lakes and scenic views.
- Yummylicious Candy Shack (Ravensthorpe): Grab some homemade fudge for the road.
Things to do in Esperance:
- Cape Le Grand National Park: Swim at Lucky Bay, where kangaroos lounge on the beach.
- Great Ocean Drive: A stunning coastal drive with stops at Twilight Beach and Blue Haven Beach.
- Hellfire Bay and Thistle Cove: Perfect for swimming and relaxing on white sand.
Bonus Tip: Hike up Frenchman Peak for incredible coastal views.
Stay in Esperance for three nights before heading to Bremer Bay.
Day 5: Esperance to Bremer Bay (4.5 hours, 1 night)
Drive west along the South Coast Highway, passing through charming towns and scenic coastal views. Stop at Munglinup Beach for a quick swim or a photo break, and stretch your legs at Fitzgerald River National Park, known for its dramatic cliffs, wildflowers, and secluded beaches.
Stops on the Way:
- Munglinup Beach: A quiet beach perfect for a short stop.
- Fitzgerald River National Park: Take a short hike or enjoy a scenic lookout.
Arrive in Bremer Bay and spend the afternoon exploring the rugged coastline or, if you’re visiting between January and April, take a tour to see orcas in the Bremer Canyon.
Bonus Tip: Sunset at Bremer Beach is unforgettable – pack a picnic and enjoy the view.
Stay overnight in Bremer Bay before heading to Denmark.
Day 6: Bremer Bay to Denmark (2 hours, 1 night)
Head west along the coast, with a stop at Point Ann in Fitzgerald River National Park for whale watching (in season) or simply soaking up the views. Continue through the small town of Mount Barker, known for its rolling hills and wineries, before arriving in Denmark.
Stops on the Way:
- Point Ann: A prime spot for whale watching and coastal views.
- Mount Barker: Grab lunch or visit a local winery.
Things to Do in Denmark:
- Greens Pool: Swim in calm, crystal-clear waters.
- Elephant Rocks: Explore unique rock formations and shallow waters.
- Lights Beach: A scenic spot for sunset views and short walks.
Bonus Tip: Try local cheeses and wines at The Lake House Denmark for a relaxing afternoon.
Stay overnight in Denmark before heading to Pemberton.
Day 7: Denmark to Pemberton (2 hours, 1 night)
Drive through the scenic Walpole Wilderness Area, stopping for the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, where you’ll walk among towering tingle trees. Continue through lush forests to Pemberton, famous for its towering karri trees.
Stops on the Way:
- Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk: A 40-meter-high walkway through ancient trees.
- Walpole Inlet: A peaceful spot for a quick break or photo.
Things to Do in Pemberton:
- Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree: Climb 65 meters for breathtaking forest views.
- Beedelup Falls: A short forest walk to a tranquil waterfall.
- Pemberton Tramway: A scenic ride through karri forests and over wooden trestle bridges.
Bonus Tip: Pick up fresh local produce from Pemberton Farmers Market if you’re visiting on a Saturday.
Stay overnight in Pemberton before heading to Margaret River.
Days 8–9: Pemberton to Margaret River (2 hours, 2 nights)
Drive north through the scenic Blackwood River Valley, stopping in Nannup, a charming town known for its craft shops and wildflowers. Continue to Margaret River, WA’s wine and gourmet hub.
Stops on the Way:
- Nannup: Explore quaint shops and enjoy a riverside walk.
- Bridgetown: Grab a coffee in this historic town.
Things to Do in Margaret River:
- Lake Cave: Descend into a stunning crystal-adorned cave.
- Wineries and Breweries: Visit top spots like Voyager Estate or Cheeky Monkey Brewery.
- Surfers Point: Watch surfers at sunset or take a beach walk.
Bonus Tip: Don’t miss a chocolate tasting at the Margaret River Chocolate Company.
Spend two nights in Margaret River before driving back to Perth.
Perth to Esperance Packing List
Be ready for a mix of beach days, hikes, and coastal drives with these essentials:
- Hiking shoes: Perfect for trails in Cape Le Grand and Fitzgerald River National Park.
- Sunscreen and hat: The southern WA sun can be strong, even in cooler months.
- Reusable water bottles: Stay hydrated during long drives and hikes.
- Swimwear and beach towels: For Lucky Bay, Greens Pool, and other stunning beaches.
- Camera or drone: Capture epic coastal views and wildlife encounters.
- First aid kit: Handy for any unexpected mishaps on the road.
- Light layers: Mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially by the coast.
Driving Tips for a Perth to Esperance Road Trip
- Fuel up regularly: Fuel stations can be sparse, especially between Hyden and Esperance.
- Download offline maps: Phone reception is patchy in remote areas.
- Watch for wildlife: Kangaroos are common at dawn and dusk – drive carefully.
- Check road conditions: Some areas, especially in national parks, may have unsealed roads.
- Pack snacks and water: Long stretches without stops mean it’s best to be prepared.
Conclusion
A Perth to Esperance road trip is an unforgettable adventure through WA’s diverse landscapes. From the iconic Wave Rock to the turquoise waters of Lucky Bay, the rugged coastlines of Bremer Bay, and the towering forests of Pemberton, this journey has something for everyone. Over eight days, you’ll explore pristine beaches, hike through national parks, and indulge in world-class food and wine. Pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime – the south coast is calling!
Other Resources
- The Best Things to Do in Esperance, Western Australia
- The 13 Best Perth Road Trips
- Ultimate Perth to Exmouth Road Trip WA Itinerary
- 10 Best Things To Do In South West WA
