Flexible 10 Day Perth to Esperance Road Trip Itinerary

Planning a trip to Western Australia? My adjustable 10 day Perth to Esperance road trip is the perfect way to explore this great state’s southwest region.

There are road trips, and then there’s Western Australia. Vast, rugged and wildly beautiful, it’s the kind of place where empty roads lead to blindingly white beaches, ancient forests, and small coastal towns that feel untouched by time.

I rented a car in Perth and spent three weeks road tripping the southwest coast, and after fine-tuning every stop, I’ve created the perfect 10-day itinerary from Perth to Esperance.

This itinerary isn’t rushed or unrealistic, as it’s built from real experience. I wandered the historic streets of Fremantle, ferried to Rottnest Island to meet quokkas, sipped Cabernet in Margaret River, watched whales breach off Dunsborough, and stood barefoot on the sand at Lucky Bay.

What I love most about this road trip is the contrast. One day you’re tasting wine at a boutique vineyard, the next you’re swimming in secluded bays or hiking granite peaks overlooking the Southern Ocean. It’s adventurous, scenic, delicious, and slow in all the right ways.

This 10-day Perth to Esperance itinerary takes you along the coast and through the forested heart of Western Australia, without backtracking or missing anything iconic. It’s the exact trip I’d recommend to anyone who wants to make the most of their time without feeling like they’re racing the clock.

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Perth to Esperance Road Trip Itinerary: Overview

Day 0: Land at Perth Airport & Settle in to Fremantle
Day 1: Fremantle – Explore Fremantle
Day 2: Fremantle – Rottnest Island Day Trip
Day 3: Drive from Perth to Margaret River – Bunbury, Busselton Jetty
Day 4: Margaret River – Full-Day Wine + Food Tour
Day 5: Margaret River – Whale Watching, Brewery Lunch, Beach & Natural Pools
Day 6: Margaret River – Beaches, Stingrays, Caves & Lighthouse
Day 7: Drive from Margaret River to Albany – Coastline & Tree Tops
Day 8: Drive from Albany to Esperance
Day 9: Esperance – Great Ocean Drive
Day 10: Esperance – Lucky Bay & Frenchman Peak

Perth to Esperance Itinerary Route Map

Driving distances between destinations on this 10 Day WA road trip:

• Perth to Margaret River: ~280km (3.5 hours without stops)
• Margaret River to Albany: ~390km (5 hours without stops)
• Albany to Esperance: ~480km (5.25 hours without stops)

Driving distances to get back from Esperance to Perth (not included in this itinerary):

• Esperance to Hyden: ~380km (4 hours without stops)
• Hyden to Perth: ~340km (3.75 hours without stops)

Notes about my 10 Day Western Australia Road Trip

• Western Australia is a massive state, so this itinerary only covers the popular southwest region between Perth, Margaret River and Esperance.
• This WA itinerary includes longer days in the car between stops, so make sure to have enough gas and snacks stored away.
• WA offers so much natural beauty that the majority of the activities included in this itinerary are outdoors and susceptible to bad weather. Pack accordingly!
• This itinerary is considered flexible, because you can drive the loop in the opposite direction if you like as well as pick and choose the activities you’d like to include in your road trip.
• There is virtually no nightlife outlined in this 10 day itinerary since I am not a huge night person. I love getting up bright and early and walking so much, or driving to see all of the top WA attractions, that I am absolutely knackered by 7 pm.
• A rental car from Perth is the best way to see this region, as transportation between large distances in WA is lacklustre. So if you are uncomfortable driving or don’t have a license, maybe this region isn’t for you.
• This itinerary will take you from Perth to Esperance, so if you plan to return to Perth to drop off your rental car and fly out, please ensure you book two more days to get back to Perth, like I did.
• Like any adventure, there were definitely some popular spots we missed along the way, like Bremer Bay, Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks (which you will find all over Instagram). I’ve added optional stops to the itinerary if you don’t want to miss them.

Perth to Margaret River to Esperance Road Trip: Breakdown

Day 0: Land in Perth & Settle into Fremantle

After landing at Perth Airport, skip the urge to stay in the CBD and head straight to Fremantle (just 30 minutes from the airport by Uber), yet it feels like its own world.

Fremantle (or “Freo” as the locals call it) is the perfect place to shake off jet lag, stretch your legs and ease into Western Australia’s coastal lifestyle before hitting the road.

I checked into my accommodation in the late afternoon, wandered down the historic Cappuccino Strip, and grabbed dinner by the harbour as the sun dipped behind the fishing boats. Fremantle is a blend of heritage buildings, creative energy, and salty sea air, and it makes for a far more atmospheric first stop than central Perth.

If you arrive early enough, take a sunset walk along Bathers Beach or watch the sky turn pink at South Mole Lighthouse. Tomorrow is for exploring, today is just about settling in, grabbing a good night’s sleep, and getting excited for the journey ahead.

Day 1: Explore Fremantle

Your first full day in Fremantle is all about soaking up its creative, coastal charm.

I started my morning at the Fremantle Markets, one of the most popular attractions in Fremantle, where the smell of fresh pastries, coffee and eucalyptus soaps fills the air. It’s the perfect place to grab breakfast, browse local crafts and pick up road trip snacks for the days ahead.

From there, head to the Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with tours that dive into convict history, daring escapes and life inside the walls. I did the daytime “Convict Prison” tour and loved how immersive and honest it felt.

In the afternoon, wander over to South Fremantle. This laid-back neighbourhood is full of quirky cafés, vintage stores and beachy vibes. Spend some time at South Beach, where you can dip your toes in the water or relax with gelato in hand.

End your day with fish and chips at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour (I loved Kailis Fishmarket Cafe) and a beer at Little Creatures Brewery if you’d like a bevvie to cap off your first day.

Day 2: Rottnest Island Day Trip from Fremantle

Catching the morning ferry from Fremantle to Rottnest Island (Rotto) is the perfect way to kick off your adventure.

I always recommend getting on the first ferry of the day. It gives you more time to explore the island at your own pace. Once you arrive, grab a pastry or sandwich from Rottnest Bakery. Trust me, you’ll want something tasty to stash in your backpack for later.

Grab your ferry pass and bike rental early (Rottnest is popular, especially in summer!)

Pick up a bike (like I did) or jump on the hop-on hop-off bus and make your way to Pinky Beach and the Bathurst Lighthouse, two of the most photogenic spots on the island. The sand here is blindingly white, and the water crystal clear. From there, head inland to the Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic views across the island.

One of my favourite stops is the Oliver Hill Battery, where you can explore WWII tunnels and artillery structures. In the afternoon, cool off at Little Salmon Bay, one of the best snorkelling spots on the island.

Before heading back, don’t miss a cold beer at Isola Bar e Cibo, right by the water.

Back in Fremantle, finish your day with dinner and sunset views at Gage Roads Brewery overlooking the harbour.

Day 3: Drive from Fremantle to Margaret River (Scenic Stops Included)

Today marks the start of your driving adventure.

Fremantle to Margaret River is about three and a half hours direct, but with a few scenic detours, it becomes one of the most enjoyable travel days of the trip.

I left early with a takeaway coffee and hit the road south, making my first stop at Lake Clifton to see the Thrombolites – ancient living fossils sitting in shallow, glassy water. It’s quiet, peaceful, and a fascinating glimpse into Earth’s earliest life forms.

Next, head to Bunbury, a coastal town perfect for a brunch break. The Bunbury Farmers Market is legendary (locally-made pies, fresh fruit, artisan cheeses), ideal for stocking up on road trip snacks. If you have time, swing by the Bunbury Lighthouse or take a walk along Koombana Beach.

Continue towards Margaret River with a final stop at Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. You can walk the full 1.8 km stretch or take the little tourist train to the end.

From here, it’s a short one-hour drive into Margaret River township, the best place to stay in the Margaret River region for first time visitors. It’s the perfect central location for your next two days of exploration.

Day 4: Margaret River Wine Tour (or Self-Guided)

Margaret River is the heart of Western Australia’s wine country, and dedicating a full day to wineries is non-negotiable and one of my top recommended Margaret River activities for gourmands.

You can either join an organized wine tour, which I highly recommend if you want to relax and not worry about driving, or follow a self-guided winery route if you prefer flexibility.

Most wineries offer beautiful long-table lunches with vineyard views. If you’re on a tour, lunch is usually included. If you’re self-driving, Voyager Estate’s wine-paired lunch or a charcuterie board at Vasse Felix is always a treat.

Expect a day of rolling vineyards, crisp white wines, bold reds, good cheese, and possibly a nap when you return to your accommodation. Tonight, keep things easy – grab takeaway or enjoy dinner in Margaret River town.

Day 5: Explore the Southern Margaret River Region

Today is all about beaches, forests, caves, and lighthouses, some of the most dramatic scenery in the Margaret River region.

I started my morning at Redgate Beach, a wild and beautiful stretch of coastline with crashing waves and rugged granite cliffs. It’s a favourite with photographers and surfers, and even just walking along the sand feels energizing. It definitely makes my list of the best beaches in Margaret River!

From there, take the scenic drive through Boranup Forest, where towering karri trees create a dreamy, cathedral-like canopy. Continue south to Hamelin Bay, famous for its friendly stingrays that glide along the shoreline. Come early in the day for the best chance to see them.

Next, explore underground beauty on a guided tour of Jewel Cave, the largest show cave in WA, filled with massive stalactites and glittering crystal formations. It was one of my favourite adventurous things to do in the Margaret River region.

Afterward, drive further down to Augusta and visit the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. It closes around 4 pm, so arrive before then.

Head back to Margaret River for dinner and a quiet evening (I did warn you that I am not a nightlife person!).

Day 6: Northern Margaret River Region – Whale Watching, Beaches & Breweries

This is one of the most exciting days in the itinerary, especially if you’re visiting between September and December, when humpback, southern right and even blue whales migrate past the coast.

After my yummy brunch at La Lah Cafe in Dunsborough, I boarded a half-day whale-watching tour with Naturaliste Charters, and it was unforgettable. Calm seas, close whale breaches, and dolphins surfing alongside the boat. Book ahead, and bring a warm layer (because brr!), it’s chilly on the water.

I loved and recommend this Dunsborough Whale Watching Tour

After returning to shore, head to Eagle Bay Brewery for lunch. Their wood-fired pizzas, craft beers and sweeping views over farmland and bushland make it the perfect post-whale-watching stop. From here, it’s a short drive to Eagle Bay Beach, a calm, clear bay ideal for a swim or a quick sunbake.

Next, follow the coastline to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, where a short walk leads to incredible cliff and ocean views. Continue to Canal Rocks Bridge and Injidup Natural Spa (located beside eachother), where wooden bridges and granite formations create swirling ocean channels and a natural jacuzzi-like lagoon.

Day 7: Drive from Margaret River to Albany

Today is one of the most scenic driving days of the road trip as you leave Margaret River and make your way through towering forests, quiet country towns and coastal viewpoints on the way to Albany.

I made sure to grab my morning coffee and treat from Margaret River Bakery, one of the finest cafes in the region of Margaret River (highly recommend!).

Your first stop is Pemberton, a charming timber town surrounded by karri forests. I grabbed a coffee and pastry from Wild at Heart Café, then continued towards the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk in Walpole. Walking 40 metres above the forest floor through ancient tingle trees is such a peaceful experience. Don’t skip the ground-level Ancient Empire Walk afterward.

If you have time and the weather’s clear, detour to Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks in William Bay National Park (this is something I missed along my three weeks in WA). I’ve heard the turquoise water and smooth granite boulders are breathtaking.

Arrive in Denmark for a late lunch. I loved my burger at Mrs Jones Café. From there, it’s a short final drive to Albany, where I ended the day attempting to watch sunset from Mount Melville Lookout Tower, overlooking the town, harbour and coastline (albeit I didn’t have great weather for it in early November, hopefully you don’t have my bad luck).

Get a good rest, as tomorrow we head for Esperance!

Day 8: Drive from Albany to Esperance

Today is a long but beautiful driving day as you make your way from Albany to Esperance – roughly five hours without stops, so it’s worth getting an early start.

I began the morning with breakfast at Emu Point Café, right by the water, where pelicans glide past and the light feels soft and calm. It’s the perfect slow start before hitting the road.

From there, you can choose to take a detour to Bremer Bay if you’re not in a rush. Famous for its white beaches and, between January–April, orca sightings. Otherwise, continue inland through quiet country roads and wheatbelt towns.

I stopped in Ravensthorpe for lunch and a short stroll around its colourful murals that brighten up the main street.

The final stretch into Esperance feels unreal. The landscape flattens, the sky widens, and flashes of turquoise start to appear through the scrubland.

Day 9: Esperance Great Ocean Drive

Today is all about one of the most scenic coastal drives in Australia – the Esperance Great Ocean Drive.

Start early with a takeaway flat white and pastry from Down Town Espresso Bar, then head straight to Rotary Lookout, where you get sweeping views over turquoise bays and the offshore islands of the Recherche Archipelago. It’s the perfect first stop to take in just how incredible Esperance really is.

From there, follow the 40km loop anti-clockwise, stopping at the region’s most beautiful beaches – West Beach, Fourth Beach, and then Twilight Beach (one of my favourite beaches in Esperance, WA!), where kids were jumping off the granite rock into the crystal-clear water when I visited.

Continue to Observatory Point, then onto Nine Mile, Ten Mile Lagoon and Eleven Mile Beach, each beach more pristine and secluded than the last.

You can swim, surf, wander the rock pools or simply sit in the sand and take it all in.

By late afternoon, head back into town and enjoy dinner at Taylor St Quarters near the jetty. If you time it right, you can watch the sky turn pink behind the Esplanade Lighthouse, finishing the day with sunset over the water.

Day 10: Esperance East Coast & Lucky Bay

Your final full day in Esperance is dedicated to the breathtaking coastline of Cape Le Grand National Park, chock-full of the most popular Esperance things to do.

Grab a morning coffee from Coffee Cat by the Esplanade, then take a peaceful stroll down to the Whale Tail Sculpture before hitting the road. Make sure you fuel up and pack snacks, as there are no shops inside the park.

First stop: Lucky Bay, famous for its blindingly white sand and wild kangaroos lounging on the beach. If you’re lucky, they’ll be grazing close to the shoreline, totally unfazed by humans. Please note, seeing kangaroos here is not guaranteed! I didn’t see them on my visit, but strolling Lucky Bay is still worth a visit.

From there, hike up Frenchman Peak. A short but steep climb that rewards you with panoramic views over the ocean and the national park.

Next, drive to Thistle Cove, where you’ll find the natural Whistling Rock, which makes an eerie humming sound when the wind passes through. If time allows, stop at Cape Le Grand Beach before heading back to town.

Finish your last night in Esperance with dinner and craft beer at Lucky Bay Brewery, a relaxed, open-air spot that perfectly wraps up the day (I loved the hot dogs). It’s the ideal place to toast to an unforgettable road trip before beginning the journey back to Perth.

Getting Back to Perth from Esperance

The drive back to Perth from Esperance is just over seven hours, so breaking it up with an overnight stay makes the journey far more enjoyable. I chose to travel via Hyden, which is the most scenic and practical route, especially if you want to visit Wave Rock along the way.

Day 11: Esperance to Hyden

Leave Esperance in the morning and take the inland road through vast wheatbelt landscapes and quiet country towns. It’s around a five-hour drive to Hyden, where I stayed overnight at Wave Rock Resort near Lake Magic (simple, peaceful and only a few minutes from the main attractions).

In the late afternoon, visit Wave Rock, a 15-metre-high granite cliff shaped like a curling wave, best seen at sunset when the colours deepen across the stone. If you have time, walk to Hippo’s Yawn and watch the sky change over Lake Magic.

Day 12: Hyden to Perth

After a quiet morning, make your way back to Perth (it’s about a 3.5-hour drive).

Drop off your rental car and, if you’re flying out the same day, allow time for fuel, packing and airport check-in. If your flight is the next day, spend your final evening relaxing in Fremantle or Perth with a good meal and one last walk along the river or beach (Port Beach is a good choice).

Have I convinced you to take a Perth to Esperance Road Trip?

Driving from Perth to Esperance is one of the most rewarding road trips in Australia, and after spending three weeks exploring this route myself, I can honestly say it’s the perfect mix of coastline, forest, wildlife and world-class food and wine.

Over 10 days, you’ll wander historic streets in Fremantle, meet quokkas on Rottnest Island, sip wine in Margaret River, watch whales off Dunsborough, and finish on the white-sand beaches of Esperance, where kangaroos nap by the sea (if you are lucky!).

Whether you’re planning it for adventure, photography, beaches, food or just the freedom of the open road, this itinerary gives you the best of Western Australia without rushing a thing. If you love wide open roads and wild natural beauty, start packing!