The Best Things to Do in Esperance: A Slice of Coastal Paradise

There's no denying Esperance is the ultimate beachside getaway. Its remoteness and pristine conditions are the very drawcards that have preserved the landscape, including the whitest beach on earth in Lucky Bay - no really, it's even been scientifically proven.

4WDs are the vehicle of choice in this part of the world for exploring natural wonders such as Observatory Point, Ten Mile Lagoon, Eleven Mile Beach, Rotary Lookout, Blue Haven and Cape Le Grande National Park, where you will find Hellfire Bay.

The coast of Esperance was named after the French ship that sought shelter during a storm in 1792, and with the Wudjari translation to 'where the waters lie like boomerangs,' just like a boomerang, visions of this spectacular region will return long after the journey home. 

There's certainly no shortage of staggering natural beauty, and we hope our guide to the best things to do in Esperance provides plenty of inspiration for an epic journey.

Visit Cape Le Grande National Park

Home to the whitest beach on earth, Lucky Bay cradles the coast for 21 kilometres as kangaroos languidly pose for photos in Cape Le Grand National Park. Once you've felt the sand translucent from its quartz-based silica, you'll agree this is one of those destinations where reality lives up to the fantasy.

You may be lucky to see galloping wild brumbies and Southern Right Whales escorting their calves through the archipelago to Antarctica from July to October.

Find Frenchman Peak, rising for 262 metres resembling an eagle with an eye socket, gooey yolk appears to run down its crescent. According to legend, kids stole and smashed the eggs that eagles laid on the peak until the eagles carried the cheeky culprits out to sea. Something to ponder as you make the steep trek.

Go Sandboarding

Impossibly white dunes invite the child in all of us to grab a sandboard and hurtle ourselves down the powdery slopes. You could experience this joy independently or join a tour like Tour Esperance for a 4WD tour along Lucky Bay.

From there, you will venture into the expansive sand-dune system for a gravity-defying climb at a 40-degree angle to the highest dunes in the region. Although you'll be tempted to scream while flying down the dunes, don't forget to keep your mouth closed!

Fly Over Pink Lakes

You've undoubtedly seen the photos of the pink Lake Hillier, but did you know the region is home to several more colourful lakes? Taking a scenic flight is the best way to admire the pink lakes with aerial vistas of Lucky Bay, Woody Island and the township.

The vibrancy of the lakes is subject to the high levels of salt ingested by the organisms living in the lake and the seasons, so the best times to visit are between April and January with HeliSpirit and Fly Esperance Scenic Flights.

Climb Atop Wylie Bay Rock

One of the best beaches in WA, Wylie Bay Beach is just a 30-minute drive from Esperance, and it's all turquoise waters, long stretches of pristine white sand and landscapes to die for. Climb atop Wylie Bay Rock to experience some of the most impressive views you'll need to see to believe. 

Sitchu Tip: Wylie Bay is recommended for those with a 4WD, as the beach can be soft and boggy. The beach also provides access to the dunes for sandboarding, motorbiking and 4WD thrill seekers. Wylie Bay also has a surf zone, for anyone seeking adventure in the water.

Marvel at Esperance Stonehenge

The randomness of Esperance Stonehenge should be enough to draw anyone to the region. Kilned from locally quarried pink granite less than one kilometre away, all 137 stones are arranged in an identical formation as the original in the UK, aligning with the winter and summer solstices as the sun shines through to the altar stone.

An outer-worldliness is immediately apparent upon arrival, and the acoustics are perfect for the events and concerts held within its eerie walls.

Taylor Street Quarters

Overlooking Esperance Bay, you're primed for the sunset, cocktails and a food menu showcasing produce sourced from the local pristine environment. Housed in a former hospital and set on the foreshore home to Adventureland Park and the Esperance Bay Yacht Club, all your bases are covered for a day out, especially if you've booked ahead for one of their culinary events at the Taylor Street Quarters.

Sitchu Tip: They are currently closed due to a kitchen makeover, check out their socials for their reopening date!

Taylor Street Jetty, Esperance

Downtown Espresso Bar 

One of the best ways to start the day, Downtown Espresso Bar is serving organic coffee, matcha lattes, toasties, bagels and freshly-baked pastries.

The menu might be small and simple, but that doesn't mean you need to order to go. If you're lucky enough to nab a table inside the cosy space, it's the perfect spot to strike up a conversation with a local and grab a few insider tips about the area.

94C Dempster Street, Esperance

Food Trucks (The Esplanade)

Food truck mania has come to town, more specifically along The Esplanade. Follow your favourite food truck on Facebook to find out where and when Beach'n Bitez, New Moon Van, Sir Juice, BeanBreak and Coffee Cat serve coffee, juice, jaffles and plenty of other tasty treats along the picturesque esplanade.

Lucky Bay Brewing

Brewed from barley grown by local farmers and fresh rainwater, Lucky Bay Brewing is as unique as the landscape in this remote pocket of the state.

This family-run business is built on the community it supports, including local musicians performing weekly and a tasty menu featuring wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes. Each of their award-winning beers tells a story revealed on the brewery tours or shared by the staff, who are only too eager for a chat.

63 Bandy Creek Road, Esperance (Bandy Creek)

Bistro Louis

Comfort food and coffee are the plats du jour at this French bistro within the historic Museum Village. Open for breakfast and lunch, get your fix of all the French classics like croque monsieur, croissants and quiche at Bistro Louis.

Time your visit with the Museum Village Markets every Sunday and delve into Esperance's community spirit with French food and stalls of goodies.

48 Dempster Street, Esperance

33 Degrees

Pub fare always tastes better by the ocean, especially overlooking The Esplanade and the Bay of Isles. Snag a spot on the balcony or top bar for the best views over a beer and pub classics like ribs, burgers, parmis and a splattering of healthy options. Open daily, follow their socials for the nightly specials, happy hours and live entertainment at 33 Degrees.

51 The Esplanade, Esperance

Esperance Distillery Co

From bush to bottle, locally produced native botanicals don't come purer than those in this region. Proud of their sustainable philosophy, from the corks used to its premises and ingredients, the Esperance Distillery Co. continue to work toward carbon neutrality.

Their approach shows in the quality of their range of spirits inspired by the landscape, such as the Middle Island Pink Gin, Blue Haven Sunset Gin and hampers. 

77 Norseman Road, Esperance

Esperance Chalet Village

For those seeking somewhere unique, Esperance Chalet Villages offers accommodation options set within the natural beauty of Bandy Creek.

The peaceful coastal setting and the comfortably appointed self-contained chalets are the ideal base for adventures to the region. Choose from A-frame chalets, shacks and cabins oozing boho beach vibes for families, friends, girls' getaways, corporate retreats and wedding parties.

29 Frank Freeman Drive, Esperance

Uncle Ron's 

With a blend of luxury, convenience, and local experiences right on your doorstep, Uncle Ron's is one of the best stays in Esperance for sheer holiday bliss. 

This exquisitely designed Airbnb retreat offers both tranquillity and beauty. Upstairs, a serene haven awaits, adorned with carefully curated ambience. You'll love stepping onto the balcony for breathtaking glimpses of the coastline, Wireless Hill, and stunning sunrises and sunsets paired with coffee or a glass of Margaret River wine.

Downstairs features spacious living areas with modern, yet elegant touches. Retro vibes run throughout, making it fun and comfortable for all. 

Luxurious bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a private patio with BBQ, a dining area, and a lounge round out the experience - making this one of the best things to do in Esperance if you're visiting with the whole family. Did we mention there's a table tennis table in the garage?!

Address available upon booking.

RAC Esperance Holiday Park

Located directly across the road from Esperance Bay, the RAC Esperance Holiday Park has been the makings of many a beachside holiday memory.

Two and three-bedroom fully self-contained villas offer a range of configurations ideal for families and groups with well-equipped kitchens, washing machines, wifi and indoor and outdoor living areas.

Goldfields Road, Castletown

Twilight Studio

A luxury apartment for two, Twilight Studio is a gorgeous escape for couples seeking solitude in Esperance.

Part of a historic 1969 home, this fully self-contained studio is perfect for those who love nature but relish luxurious comforts. The epitome of urban luxury, it blends modern minimalism with a touch of elegance. 

Rest peacefully on a plush queen bed, offering a choice of hard or soft pillows, complemented by high-quality bedding. Step outside to savour meals in the outdoor dining area or rejuvenate under the outdoor shower. 

Located near beautiful beaches and the lively town centre, the studio promises the perfect urban retreat, combining the thrill of exploration with the allure of comfortable living. 

Address available upon booking. 

Explored all the best things to do in Esperance and fancy extending your trip for an even bigger adventure? Check out our Adelaide to Perth road trip, and once you arrive, add these South Australian bucket list experiences to the itinerary.