Discover the charming Augusta: a coastal paradise in Western Australia’s southwest. Nestled at the very southwestern tip of Western Australia, Augusta is a coastal gem waiting to be discovered.
This enchanting town boasts a mild temperate climate with a unique seasonal rhythm, with stunning ocean and river views and a relaxed coastal country vibe, making Augusta a delightful destination year-round.
A Climate That Welcomes You Year-Round
Augusta’s weather, influenced by where two majestic oceans meet, creates a mostly mild climate and an inviting atmosphere all year round. Winters bring refreshing rains and brisk, wintry days, while summers offer perfect conditions for water sports although with its capes position it can be somewhat windy from time to time. By autumn the next best time to visit, the winds have finally calmed and there are still warm days and the nights are cool. Augusta’s coastal proximity means you can enjoy the natural beauty of the township and its surrounds and continue to enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year.
Things To See and Do in Augusta and Surrounds
For water sports enthusiasts, summer in Augusta is a dream come true. Whether you love surfing, kayaking, fishing, or simply basking in the sun on pristine beaches, the summer and autumn months provide endless opportunities for adventure.
If you prefer cooler climates, visit Augusta in winter and spring. The crisp air is perfect for serene walks along the coast or through the majestic forests and caves and the evenings invite you to unwind by cosy fires or enjoy a dining experience at a winery or restaurant.
Augusta has a great range of food and drinking options to keep you satisfied during your trip. Explore the options below and start planning your trip.
Light Meals & Takeaway
No matter when you visit, Augusta offers a variety of attractions and dining options to suit all tastes. For lighter meals such as morning and afternoon tea, there is a range of venues you can choose from including cafes, bakeries, and popular fish and chips spots. Some of the great cafes include:
- Deckchair
- The Ragged Robin
- Colourpatch
- A Thousand Suns and Two Seas Collective
- Augusta Bakery
- View Cafe
If you’re looking for a more hearty meal, a few other options include:
- Blue Ocean Fish and Chips: Serves freshly caught seafood
- Augusta Moon Chinese Restaurant: Enjoy delicious Chinese food in the heart of Augusta
- The Augusta Hotel: For great pub food with gorgeous ocean and river views
- Colourpatch: Offers an excellent full breakfast and all-day menu, as well as a comprehensive wine list
Out of Town
Out of town to the south Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse offers lunch or tea with scones and you can enjoy alongside a tour of the historic settlement and lighthouse.
This is a relaxing and charming way to satisfy your hunger whilst sightseeing!
North of the small town you can head to Karridale where the local tavern does a great cook-up, popular with both visitors and locals.
Wineries, Restaurants, and Cellar Door Experiences
For visitors looking for a wine experience, there are several fantastic wineries and restaurants in the area. Some of the highlights include:
- Hamelin Bay Wines, a cellar door and restaurant in nearby Karridale
- Glenarty Road, featuring a cellar door and Gate to Plate experience, as well as a winery vineyard. This venue is also the home of “Fathoms” Ocean Cuvee’ an ocean-brewed sparkling wine.
- Henry McHonen, a wine bar and cellar door in the town of Witchcliffe
- Devils Lair Winery in Forest Grove
- Flowstone Wines in Forest Grove. 2021 Top 10 Halliday Best Value Winery.
- The Valley Margaret River, offers a cellar door, microbrewery, and grazing food. This venue also acts as a micro wedding and elopement venue.
- Arlewood Estate in Forest Grove, with a cellar door and chocolates to enjoy
- Leeuwin Estate in Witchcliffe, enjoy fine wines in an award-winning restaurant with a cellar door
Accommodation
There is a myriad of choices available in the Augusta coastal area or west out of town towards Hamelin Bay to choose from. Explore like camping, glamping, farm stays, ocean views, hotels, house apartments and caravan parks. There are even houseboats on the Blackwood River to enjoy.
With so many choices on offer, here is a quick overview of where to explore the accommodation to find out which suits you best:
What to Do
Starting in the township of Augusta, you can stroll or bike along Blackwood Avenue exploring the shops and cafes on offer. A wander down to the Blackwood River edge with a fishing rod or across to Colourpatch to picnic and relax on the grassy edge of the river whilst the kids play in the park. Take a coastal walk south to Granny’s Pool and the stunning area of Flinders, with its meandering streets looping in and out of holiday cottages and historical homes. There is also a great kids’ park here to visit with the family.
Augusta Harbour is a recent addition to the area. The purpose-built harbour is carved from the very cool grey and white granite cliff alongside the harbour. From here you can park and board a Naturaliste Charters Augusta Whale Watching tour at 10 am or 2 pm during the humpback whale season of late May until August.
Take a scenic drive to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, stop at the cafe or continue onto a fully guided tour of the historic settlement and Lighthouse.
Those fortunate enough to have a boat can take in river fishing or exit the river mouth into Flinders Bay for deep sea fishing. A beach jetty is also available on the west coast side of Hamelin where fishing at the back of the islands can be pretty good.
Explore the stunning Jewel and Mammoth Caves, or head west to the coast for some of the best surfing spots in Western Australia. This is also a coastline worthy of exploring and many coastal lookouts can now be reached by car. Although, four-wheel driving is still a popular way to get to solitary beaches and surf spots. Sunsets are best viewed from the west coast vantage point and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. Watching the sunrise from Augusta and its lighthouse is a must-experience activity to put on your itinerary.
Why visit Augusta in Winter?
Winter in Augusta invites relaxed travel and cooler climate experiences. The crowds of summer have dissipated and you can usually visit restaurants and hotels without a booking.
We all love a wood fire and this time of the year most accommodation providers will have supplied you with a ration of wood to fill your wood heater, campsite or firepit. Select a great local white or red wine, wrap yourself in a cosy jacket and breathe in the salty air. Augusta will enliven the senses and relax your soul.
Nature
The caves north of Augusta will have received their share of rainfall, creating a beautiful reflective oasis in locations like Lake Cave.
Boranup Karri Forest is unique for its proximity to the coast. This is the furthest west that the tall pale-barked karri trees grow. Karris can reach 60 metres or more in height and cover the hilly slopes and valleys of the forest. This is a beautiful drive with places to stop and stretch your legs, taking in the forest vista and sweet-smelling air. This is a beautiful place to photograph. Close to here is the Boranup Glass Gallery, a worthy foray into the arts.
The Scott River National Park is known for its wildflowers and copious water birds. The settlement makes for an interesting visit and Swan Lake is a haven for all types of water birds. For the bird spotters and wildflower enthusiasts it would be well worthwhile visiting from September to October and be aware, that there are no facilities available here.
History
For those interested in the history of Augusta and its surrounding settlements, visit the historical sites of Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, Cape Leeuwin Water Wheel or Augusta’s Historical Museum.
Whale watching
One of the key highlights in the winter months is the spectacular whales! The whale season occurs between May and August in Augusta Harbour every year. Taking advantage of this, we offer two whale watching sessions at 10 am and 2 pm seven days a week, weather permitting, to share the beauty of our whales.
With Naturaliste Charters, we pride ourselves on a 99% whale sighting success rate. If you miss out on your trip, we will invite you back, for free, so that you get another chance to witness the whales of Augusta!
On a Naturaliste Charters tour, you will predominantly see Humpback whales. However, other sightings include Southern Right and the rare Blue and Minke whales. Dolphins, sharks and pelagic birds are also commonly viewed from the decks of the Alison Maree, our 23-metre catamaran.
Why visit Augusta in the summer?
Augusta has so many water-based activities on offer. Fishing is on top of the list and with a variety of river and ocean fishing spots to explore you won’t get tired of it too quickly. Seasonally you can hire a boat or canoe at the Ellis Street Jetty. Call 0499 600 401 to book.
Boating, Swimming and Surfing
Stand-up paddle boarding around the Blackwood River Foreshore (or the Colourpatch as the locals call it) to the river mouth is popular here during summer although on a wind-free day, people are seen throughout all seasons here too.
Swimming, diving, surfing, and boogie boarding are always going to be popular choices from Augusta. We recommend you take a half-day trip and pack a picnic so that you can explore the southwest coast.
Lovers of the beach will always find much to do, Augusta being a coastal town means plenty of beach walks, swims and moments of exploration. Enjoy sunrises and sunsets at beautiful beaches and coastal vistas.
Camping and Caravaning
Camping and caravanning are accommodated in and close to Augusta with four parks available for all types of camping. These well-facilitated accommodations provide for singles, couples, families and seniors. Glamping is also available north of Augusta.
Food and Wine
Great food and even greater wine – Augusta is a part of the Margaret River Region, a renowned wine region of Australia. Check out our guide to the best wineries in the Margaret River region to start adding to your itinerary.
A year-round must-visit destination
Whether you’re seeking summer thrills or winter relaxation, Augusta is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences. Plan your visit today and discover why this coastal town is a favourite among travellers in Western Australia’s southwest.
Augusta invites you to explore its natural coastal beauty, rich maritime and whaling history, and welcoming community. You will make memories that will last a lifetime in this charming coastal paradise
