12 Best Things to Do in Esperance WA for an Epic Itinerary

Planning a trip to Western Australia and wondering what to do in Esperance? This detailed travel guide covers all my favourite things to do in Esperance to make for an epic visit.

If there’s one place in Western Australia that truly surprised me, it was Esperance. Tucked away on the state’s southern coast, this little town is home to some of the whitest beaches and clearest turquoise water in the world—and yet, it still feels blissfully relaxed and untouched. I spent five unforgettable days here in early November, exploring everything from hidden coves and panoramic lookouts to quirky cafés and local markets, and I can confidently say Esperance is one of the most breathtaking destinations in WA.

What makes Esperance so special is how much variety it offers in a compact area. One morning you can jump into the water at Twilight Beach, and that same afternoon you can sip a cold beer at a local brewery or watch kangaroos at Lucky Bay. It’s a place that balances wild natural beauty with laid-back coastal charm.

This guide rounds up all the best things to do in Esperance, including beaches, scenic lookouts, food stops, local experiences, and insider tips to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, Esperance is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.

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Top Esperance Things to Do & See

1. Hop Along Esperance Beaches

Beach-hopping in Esperance is hands down the best way to experience the region. With so many stunning stretches of sand just minutes from town, it’s easy to spend a full day (or five, like me) exploring the coastline.

I loved spending our days cruising along the coastline in our rented car from Perth, either stopping for a swim or surf. Or simply just admiring the views.

Some beaches are calm and sheltered, others rugged and wild, and a few are so striking they’ll make you stop in your tracks (hello, Lucky Bay and Cape La Grand). Whether you’re chasing photo-perfect views, surf breaks, or kangaroos on the sand, beach-hopping here is the ultimate Esperance experience.

Twilight Beach

Twilight Beach is postcard-perfect with its turquoise bay and granite boulders. Kids jump off the famous Twilight Jump Rock while swimmers enjoy the calm, clear water.

Fourth Beach

Fourth Beach stole my heart with its soft sand, gentle waves, and peaceful vibe. It’s ideal for long walks and 4WD beach access if you’re set up for it.

Lucky Bay

Lucky Bay is famous for kangaroos lazing on the sand and its impossibly white shoreline. It’s a must-visit for a swim, a walk, or just soaking up the beauty of Cape Le Grand.

Hellfire Bay

Framed by granite headlands, Hellfire Bay is sheltered, stunning, and far quieter than Lucky Bay. It’s just a 40-minute return walk from the car park and is worth every step.

Cape Le Grand Beach

With powdery sand and calm water, Cape Le Grand Beach is made for long shoreline walks or a swim. If you have a 4WD, you can even drive along the sand for that classic WA adventure.

Thistle Cove

Thistle Cove pairs dramatic granite boulders with turquoise water and wild coastal views. Don’t miss Whistling Rock, where the wind creates an eerie, beautiful sound.

Ten Mile Lagoon

Sheltered by granite rocks, Ten Mile Lagoon is a calm natural pool perfect for swimming. It’s also Esperance’s nude-friendly beach, so expect a laid-back, carefree vibe.

2. Climb Frenchman Peak

If you’re up for a short but rewarding challenge, Frenchman Peak is the perfect hike. The trail is steep but manageable, and once you reach the summit, you’re rewarded with breathtaking 360° views of Cape Le Grand National Park, Lucky Bay, and the southern coastline.

I climbed it on a clear day with my mom and was blown away by how far I could see. The caves and rock formations near the top are equally impressive.

Insider tip: Start early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun, and wear proper shoes as some sections can be slippery.

3. Lunch at Lucky Bay Brewery

Just a short drive from town, Lucky Bay Brewery is a must-stop after a morning of exploring beaches or hiking. It has a relaxed, friendly vibe with outdoor seating and live music on some weekends.

We ordered the beer tasting paddle and hot dogs. Both were delicious and hit the spot after hours in the sun. This is also a great place to try locally brewed beers made with WA barley and rainwater.

Grab a table outside to soak up the coastal breeze, especially in summer.

4. Cruise the Great Ocean Drive

Driving the Esperance Great Ocean Drive is one of the best ways to take in the town’s spectacular coastal scenery.

This 40-kilometre loop winds past dramatic lookouts, turquoise beaches, and rugged granite formations. We spent an entire day cruising this route, stopping at Fourth Beach, Observatory Point, and Twilight Beach along the way.

It’s a scenic, easy drive that showcases why Esperance is considered one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal regions. Keep your camera handy! The views here are insane.

5. Surf at West Beach

West Beach is Esperance’s prime surf break and a favourite with locals. While my husband paddled out to catch some clean, consistent waves, I walked the length of the beach and soaked in the scenery. The headlands frame the bay perfectly, and the water glows a deep turquoise on sunny days.

Even if you don’t surf, it’s a great place to spend a morning or late afternoon. The car park sits high above the water, so you’ll also get an excellent view of the break.

6. Climb Up Observatory Point

A short set of wood stairs leads to the top of Observatory Point, where you’ll find some of the best views on the Great Ocean Drive. From the summit, the coastline stretches endlessly in both directions, with turquoise water and powder-white beaches as far as the eye can see.

We visited in the early afternoon when the colours of the water were at their most vivid. It’s also a peaceful spot to sit and take in Esperance’s wild beauty.

7. Panoramic Views from Rotary Lookout

Located just minutes from the town centre, Rotary Lookout offers panoramic views over Esperance, its harbour, and the shimmering Recherche Archipelago. It’s an easy stop but one that gives you a true sense of the area’s scale and natural beauty.

We climbed up as our first stop on our Esperance Great Ocean Drive cruise at mid morning for a great view over the town (albeit a bit cloudy). It’s one of those spots that really drives home how special Esperance is.

8. Peruse the Esperance Markets

The Esperance Growers Market is a great way to get a taste of the local community. Stalls are filled with seasonal produce, homemade goods, artisan crafts, and delicious pastries.

I loved wandering through on a Saturday morning with my husband and mom, chatting with local makers and picking up a few treats for the day. It’s small but full of charm, and it gives a real feel for life in a regional coastal town.

Get there early for the freshest baked goods and coffee. If you are hungry for lunch, grab a spot at Louis Bistro for a menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

9. Walk Along the Esperance Esplanade

The Esperance Esplanade is the town’s heartbeat. A scenic, palm-lined path that stretches along the waterfront. It’s an easy, flat walk that takes you past the Tanker Jetty, cafés, sculptures, gardens, and beach views.

My mom and I grabbed a coffee from Coffee Cat and wandered along in the early morning.

It’s a great way to get your bearings and soak in the town’s relaxed energy. Whether you’re walking, cycling, or just sitting on a bench to enjoy the view, it’s a must-do in Esperance.

Tanker Jetty

The Tanker Jetty is one of Esperance’s most photographed landmarks and a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll or quiet moment by the water. It’s also a popular place to watch for local wildlife, including dolphins that occasionally swim past.

Whale Tail Sculpture

The Whale Tail Sculpture, located along the foreshore, has become an iconic symbol of Esperance. The sculpture celebrates the town’s deep connection to the ocean and makes for a fun photo stop on your Esplanade walk.

Mechanical Clock Tower

The Mechanical Clock Tower is a quirky little landmark on the Esplanade. Built in the 1990s, this functioning clock has an intricate moving display that chimes every hour, delighting passersby.

Don MacKenzie Waterfront Garden + Mini Lighthouse

Tucked along the foreshore, the Don MacKenzie Waterfront Garden is a peaceful green space perfect for a mid-walk pause. The gardens are beautifully maintained, with shady trees, vibrant flowers, and views over the bay. The mini lighthouse adds a charming touch and makes for a lovely photo spot.

10. Grab a Takeaway Coffee at Coffee Cat

Located right on the foreshore, Coffee Cat was my favourite little coffee shop in Esperance. I loved starting my mornings here with a smooth flat white before setting off for a walk along the Esplanade.

It’s also conveniently located if you’re heading to the beach or the markets. Definitely worth a stop.

11. Fuel Up at Down Town Espresso Bar

Down Town Espresso Bar became my go-to for takeaway coffees and flaky pastries before a big day of exploring. We grabbed our flat whites here on the morning we drove the Great Ocean Drive, and it was the perfect way to kick off the day.

If you’re planning a Perth to Esperance road trip or beach day, this is an easy, delicious pit stop.

12. Dinner at Taylor St. Quarters

For a memorable evening out, Taylor St. Quarters is the place to go. This waterfront restaurant pairs elevated coastal dining with a laid-back atmosphere and stunning ocean views.

My husband and I came here for our anniversary dinner, and the fresh seafood and local wine made it an experience to remember.

Sitting on the deck at sunset, watching the sky turn gold over the bay, was the perfect way to end a day in Esperance.

What Esperance Activity Are You Doing First?

Esperance is one of those places that completely lives up to its hype. During my five days exploring in early November, I fell in love with its blindingly white beaches, turquoise water, and relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Everything in Esperance feels easy and unhurried, which is exactly what makes it such a joy to explore. Whether you’re here for the beaches, hikes, coastal drives, or great local food, this small town has a way of leaving a big impression.

If Western Australia is on your radar, make time for Esperance. You’ll never want to leave.