Planning a South West getaway from Perth?
Whether you're heading down for the school holidays, a long weekend escape, or your annual summer tradition, Busselton and the surrounding South West region offer endless opportunities for families to slow down, reconnect and create unforgettable memories.
Just a few hours south of Perth, you'll find some of Western Australia's most beautiful beaches, ancient forests, incredible food experiences and family-friendly adventures. From exploring the iconic Busselton Jetty to watching the sunset at Yallingup Beach, there is something for every age and every kind of traveller.
As a local South West family photographer, I have the privilege of seeing families return to this beautiful region year after year. Many families tell me their South West holiday has become a tradition—a place where they can escape the busy pace of everyday life and spend quality time together.
If you're planning your next trip south, here are some of the best family-friendly things to do in Busselton and the surrounding South West.
1. Walk the Iconic Busselton Jetty
No visit to Busselton is complete without experiencing the famous Busselton Jetty.
Stretching almost two kilometres into the crystal-clear waters of Geographe Bay, Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere and one of Western Australia's most recognisable landmarks.
Families can choose to walk the length of the jetty, jump aboard the jetty train, or explore the Underwater Observatory to discover the incredible marine life living beneath the surface.
Children love spotting fish through the windows of the underwater observatory, while parents can enjoy the incredible views across Geographe Bay.
The Busselton Jetty is also a beautiful place to visit at sunrise or sunset, when the sky changes colour and the water becomes beautifully calm.
Local tip: If you're visiting during school holidays, arrive early as the jetty and foreshore can become very popular.
2. Spend the Day at Busselton Foreshore
The Busselton Foreshore is the perfect place for families wanting a relaxed beach day without having to travel far.
With calm waters, soft sand, grassy picnic areas, playgrounds and plenty of space for children to explore, it's easy to spend an entire afternoon here.
Kids can:
- Play at the foreshore playground
- Build sandcastles
- Ride scooters along the pathways
- Swim in the calm waters of Geographe Bay
- Enjoy an ice cream while watching the sunset
Parents will love the relaxed atmosphere, nearby cafes and beautiful views across the bay.
The foreshore is also one of the most popular locations for family photography in Busselton, especially during golden hour when the evening light creates a beautiful warm glow across the water.
3. Relax at Meelup Beach
Located just outside Dunsborough, Meelup Beach is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the South West.
With crystal-clear turquoise water, white sand, granite rocks and surrounding native bushland, it's easy to see why families return here year after year.
The sheltered bay makes it a favourite for families with younger children, as the water is often calm and perfect for swimming, paddleboarding and exploring the shoreline.
Pack a picnic, bring your swimmers and spend the afternoon enjoying one of the South West's most picturesque coastal locations.
Please note: Meelup Beach is located within Meelup Regional Park, where dogs are not permitted due to conservation requirements, so plan accordingly if you're travelling with your furry family members.
4. Explore Eagle Bay
Just around the corner from Dunsborough, Eagle Bay is another favourite destination for Perth families.
The long stretch of white sand, sparkling blue water and beautiful coastal views make it the perfect place to spend a summer afternoon.
Children can explore the shoreline, search for shells, build sandcastles and splash in the shallows while parents enjoy the relaxed holiday atmosphere.
Eagle Bay is also a wonderful place to watch the sunset, with uninterrupted views across the ocean and surrounding coastline.
For families wanting to capture their holiday memories, Eagle Bay offers some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the region.
5. Watch the Sunset at Yallingup Beach
There is something truly special about ending the day at Yallingup Beach.
As the sun begins to set over the Indian Ocean, the coastline transforms into a breathtaking display of golden light, dramatic waves and beautiful colours.
Yallingup is loved by locals and visitors for its rugged coastline, relaxed atmosphere and incredible sunsets.
Families can spend the afternoon exploring the beach, watching surfers catch the final waves of the day, or simply sitting together and enjoying the view.
For photographers, Yallingup Beach is one of the most beautiful sunset locations in the South West. The combination of golden light, ocean views and natural textures creates timeless images that perfectly capture the feeling of a South West holiday.
Local tip: Arrive before sunset so you have time to explore and find the perfect viewing spot. Summer evenings can be especially popular.
6. Discover Canal Rocks
Canal Rocks is one of the South West's most unique natural attractions.
Located near Yallingup, this incredible coastal landscape features dramatic granite formations surrounded by powerful ocean waves. A wooden boardwalk allows visitors to walk across the rocks and experience the beauty of this special location safely.
Children love watching the waves crash through the channels below and exploring the different viewpoints.
It's a great stop to include as part of a day exploring Yallingup, Cape Naturaliste and the surrounding coastline.
The rugged scenery is a perfect reminder of just how diverse the South West landscape is—from calm beaches to wild coastal cliffs.
Part 2 will continue with:
- Sugarloaf Rock
- Boranup Forest
- Margaret River Chocolate Company
- Ngilgi Cave
- Family-friendly wineries
- Augusta day trip
- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
- Markets
- Family photography section
- FAQs
- SEO ending
7. Visit Sugarloaf Rock
No South West adventure is complete without visiting one of Western Australia's most iconic coastal landmarks—Sugarloaf Rock.
Located near Cape Naturaliste, just north of Yallingup, Sugarloaf Rock is a dramatic granite island rising from the Indian Ocean. Surrounded by rugged coastline and crashing waves, it showcases the wild and beautiful side of the South West.
For families, it’s a wonderful place to stop while exploring the Cape Naturaliste coastline. Children love watching the waves roll in, spotting seabirds and taking in the incredible scenery.
Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical here, when the changing light creates beautiful colours across the ocean and rocks.
While the viewing areas are designed for enjoying the scenery safely, it’s important to supervise children closely as the coastline can be rugged and conditions can change quickly.
Local tip: Pair your Sugarloaf Rock visit with a trip to Canal Rocks, Yallingup Beach or one of the nearby wineries for a beautiful day exploring the region.
8. Wander Through Boranup Forest
If you’re looking for a completely different South West experience, make sure Boranup Forest is on your itinerary.
Located south of Margaret River, Boranup Forest is home to towering karri trees that create one of the most magical natural landscapes in Western Australia.
Driving through the forest feels like entering another world, with enormous trees rising high above the road and sunlight filtering through the canopy.
Families love exploring the peaceful surroundings, taking a scenic drive and experiencing the quieter side of the South West away from the coastline.
The forest is also one of the most breathtaking locations for photography, with soft natural light, earthy colours and a beautiful sense of adventure.
Please note: Boranup Forest is part of Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, and dogs are not permitted due to conservation requirements.
9. Visit the Margaret River Chocolate Company
A South West holiday wouldn’t feel complete without a stop at the Margaret River Chocolate Company.
This family favourite is always a hit with children (and adults!) thanks to its delicious chocolate tastings, desserts and beautiful setting.
It’s a great place to take a break during a day exploring Margaret River, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy a sweet treat.
For Perth families travelling with children, it’s an easy activity to add into your itinerary and a wonderful way to experience some of the region’s famous local produce.
10. Explore Ngilgi Cave
For families looking for an adventure beyond the beach, Ngilgi Cave near Yallingup is a must-visit.
Step underground and discover incredible limestone formations that have been created over thousands of years. Children are often fascinated by the caves, with their unique shapes, textures and fascinating history.
It’s also a great option during cooler weather or rainy days when you’re looking for something different to do.
The South West is known for its natural beauty above ground, but places like Ngilgi Cave show just how incredible the landscape is beneath the surface too.
11. Enjoy a Family-Friendly Winery Experience
Many Perth families are surprised to discover how family-friendly the South West wine region can be.
While Margaret River is world-renowned for its wineries, many venues welcome families with beautiful outdoor spaces, lawns, gardens and relaxed dining areas.
A winery lunch can be the perfect way to slow down and enjoy your holiday while children have space to play.
Some popular family-friendly wineries and venues include:
- Aravina Estate
- Amelia Park Wines
- Wise Wine
- Hay Shed Hill
- Clairault Streicker
Always check individual venues before visiting, as facilities and opening hours can change seasonally.
12. Take a Day Trip to Augusta
If you’re staying in Busselton for several days, a day trip to Augusta is well worth adding to your itinerary.
Located at the southernmost point of Western Australia’s South West, Augusta offers a quieter coastal experience with beautiful scenery, wildlife and incredible ocean views.
Families can explore the Blackwood River, enjoy the relaxed township, visit local cafes and take in the stunning coastline.
The drive itself is part of the experience, with beautiful forests, vineyards and changing landscapes along the way.
It’s a wonderful reminder that the South West has so much more to offer beyond the popular coastal towns.
13. Visit Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
While in Augusta, make sure you visit the iconic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.
Standing at the point where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet, it is the tallest lighthouse on mainland Australia and one of the region’s most impressive landmarks.
Families can learn about the history of the lighthouse, enjoy spectacular ocean views and, during whale season, may even spot whales passing through the coastline.
The surrounding landscape is breathtaking, making it a memorable stop for visitors of all ages.
14. Explore Local Markets
The South West is home to incredible local markets showcasing the region’s creativity, produce and relaxed lifestyle.
Depending on when you visit, you may find markets featuring:
- Fresh local produce
- Handmade crafts
- Artisan products
- Local food
- Gifts and souvenirs
Markets are a beautiful way to experience the community and discover something unique to take home from your holiday.
15. Book a Family Photography Session During Your Holiday
Your South West holiday will pass quickly, but photographs allow you to hold onto those memories for years to come.
Many Perth families choose to book a professional family photography session while visiting Busselton, Dunsborough, Yallingup or Margaret River because everyone is already together and enjoying quality time away from everyday routines.
A holiday photography session is relaxed, natural and focused on capturing the real moments:
- Your children running barefoot along the beach
- Siblings laughing together
- Cuddles with Mum and Dad
- Exploring new places together
- The little moments that make your family unique
As a South West family photographer, I love helping families create beautiful memories against the incredible backdrops this region offers.
Whether you prefer the coastline of Busselton, the beaches around Dunsborough, the forests near Margaret River or somewhere unique to your family, we can choose a location that tells your story.
16. Slow Down and Simply Enjoy Being Together
Perhaps the greatest gift of a South West holiday is time.
Time to put down the phones.
Time to explore.
Time to swim.
Time to laugh.
Time to enjoy simple moments together.
Children grow quickly, and the everyday moments that feel ordinary today often become the memories we treasure most in the future.
A South West holiday is about more than the places you visit—it’s about the connection you create along the way.
Planning Your Next South West Family Holiday?
Whether you’re staying in Busselton, Bunbury, Dunsborough, Yallingup, Eagle Bay or Margaret River, the South West offers endless opportunities for family adventures.
From beautiful beaches and ancient forests to incredible food experiences and unforgettable sunsets, it’s easy to see why so many Perth families return year after year.
If you’re planning a South West getaway and would love to capture your family during this special season of life, I’d love to help.
A family photography session is the perfect way to turn your holiday memories into beautiful artwork you can treasure forever.
Emma Marie Photography specialises in relaxed, natural family photography, maternity photography and newborn photography across Busselton, Bunbury, Margaret River and the wider South West WA region.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Busselton from Perth?
Busselton is approximately a 2.5–3 hour drive south of Perth, making it one of Western Australia’s favourite destinations for weekend escapes and family holidays.
What is the best time of year to visit Busselton?
Every season offers something special. Summer is perfect for beach days, autumn offers beautiful mild weather, winter brings whale watching and cosy winery experiences, while spring showcases wildflowers and fresh landscapes.
What are the best family photo locations in the South West?
Some favourite locations include Busselton Foreshore, Eagle Bay, Yallingup Beach, local bush settings and the beautiful coastal landscapes throughout the region.
Can we bring our dog to our family photoshoot?
Yes, depending on the location. Some South West beaches and National Parks do not allow dogs, but there are dog-friendly locations available. Always check local regulations before planning your session.
How far in advance should Perth families book holiday photography?
School holidays and summer dates are very popular, so booking several weeks or months ahead is recommended if you have a specific date in mind.
