Caravanning around Western Australia is one of those experiences that looks good in photos, but is even better in real life. You’ve got the freedom to stop where you want, take the long way around, and wake up somewhere completely different each day.
But once you’ve parked up, it’s not always obvious what to do next, especially if you’re travelling with kids or towing a larger van.
Here are some of the best things to do while caravanning in WA, with a bit of honest insight into what’s easy, what takes a bit more effort, and what works best for families.
Slow Down with Beach Fishing
If your idea of a good trip involves relaxing, beach fishing is hard to beat. WA has endless coastline, and you’ll find plenty of spots where you can pull up, cast a line, and settle in for a few hours.
Places like Cable Beach or Lucky Bay are favourites for a reason. They’re scenic, accessible, and give you space to spread out.
For families, this is a great option, especially with older kids. Younger ones can still enjoy it, but you’ll want to keep an eye on tides and conditions.
Good to know: Look for spots with easy access and nearby facilities if you’re not fully set up for off-grid camping.
Get Up Close with Wildlife
One of the best parts of travelling around WA is how easy it is to see wildlife in its natural environment.
Monkey Mia is a standout, where dolphins regularly come right up to the shoreline. It’s set up well for visitors, so it’s a stress-free stop if you’ve got kids with you.
Then there’s Rottnest Island, home of the quokka. You can’t take your caravan over, but it’s worth planning a day trip if you’re staying nearby.
Good to know: These spots tend to be more structured and family-friendly, which can be a nice break from more remote camping.
Beach Camping (When You’re Ready for It)
Camping right by the ocean sounds like the dream, and in WA, it often is. Locations like Coral Bay and Francois Peron National Park offer some of the best coastal camping in the country.
But it’s not always the easiest option. Some areas require 4WD access, and facilities can be limited.
If you’re new to caravanning or travelling with young kids, it might be worth easing into this with more established caravan parks first.
Snorkelling and Water Activities
If you head north, the water becomes a big part of the experience.
Ningaloo Reef is one of those places that really lives up to the hype. You can walk straight off the beach and into a reef filled with marine life.
It’s an amazing experience, but better suited to confident swimmers and older kids who are comfortable in the water.
Tip: Stay somewhere close by so you can pick the best time of day and avoid rough conditions.
Take a Break in Local Towns
Not every day has to be packed with activities. Some of the best moments happen when you slow down and explore a local town.
Margaret River is a great example. There’s plenty to do, from food and wine to family-friendly spots, and it’s a good place to reset before hitting the road again.
Even smaller towns can surprise you with great cafes, markets, and places to restock.
Stargazing at Night
One thing that doesn’t get talked about enough is how good the night sky is in WA.
Once you get away from the city lights, the stars are incredible. It’s a simple activity, but it’s one that sticks with you, especially if you’re travelling with kids.
Caravanning around Western Australia isn’t about ticking off a checklist. It’s about finding your rhythm.
Some days will be full of exploring. Others will be slow and simple. The key is choosing activities that suit your setup, your experience, and who you’re travelling with.
If you’re travelling with kids, lean towards places with easy access and facilities. If you’re more experienced, WA has plenty of off-grid spots that are well worth the effort.
Either way, there’s no shortage of things to do. You just need to decide how you want your trip to feel.