Eight great things to do in Albany

Situated on the stunning southern coast of Western Australia, Albany offers some of the most underrated holiday destinations in the country. Overlooking a spectacular coastline with restaurants, beaches and historic buildings and museums to match, this is a coastal gem that brings adventure, wonder and discovery. You’ll even find one of Australia’s most dramatic rock formations. There’s no shortage of things to do and see in Albany.

When Europeans arrived aboard the Brig Amity in 1826, Albany became the first permanent European settlement in Western Australia - a breathtaking part of the country that the Noongar people had already been living upon for 50,000 years. So it’s no surprise that Albany packs a lot of history into a small city. The Museum of the Great Southern is a great way to dive in and immerse yourself in its wonders and stories.

Learn about Noongar traditions and discover the story of Mokare, a young Noongar warrior, amongst exhibits that showcase the region’s cultural and natural heritage. The Eclipse Building is another key attraction with long-term collections, such as the Lighthouse Exhibition and Eclipse Island Optic, which is made of three glass lenses, each three metres tall.

For the full historic experience, step aboard the replica of the Brig Amity Albany, the ship that brought the first European settlers to Western Australia in 1826. This full-scale replica allows visitors to explore the cramped conditions of early seafaring life and learn about Albany’s early days as a colonial outpost. Take a self-guided audio tour of what life was like for the early colonists.

Located on Princess Royal Harbour, the museum provides stunning coastal views and is near attractions like the National Anzac Centre and Torndirrup National Park. Open daily and one of the best free things to do in Albany (some exhibits may charge).

Nestled on Princess Royal Harbour, King George Sound and Oyster Harbour, Albany is now known for its flourishing marine life. But there was a time when whaling was a thriving industry both here and around the world. Operating from 1952 to 1978, Albany’s historic Whaling Station was the country’s last whaling operation and today offers a fascinating glimpse of a moment in time. 

Built around the remains of the original whale processing factory and includes a fully restored whaling ship (next to the glittering ocean) the museum is the only one of its kind in the world. The whale skeleton on display makes you realise the enormous size of these beautiful creatures of the sea - which are now, thankfully, largely protected. You’ll also find audio tours and whaling artefacts.

A visit to the Albany Convict Gaol Museum offers a fascinating (and slightly eerie) glimpse into the town’s penal history. Built in the 1850s, this well-preserved site tells the stories of convicts who were sent here as part of the early British settlement. Wander through the old cells, view historical artifacts, and learn about the lives of prisoners in colonial times.

The solitary confinement cell is small and dark, and it comes as no surprise to learn that many of the prisoners incarcerated there suffered incredible psychological problems. It’s an eerie feeling seeing messages and drawings left by prisoners on the walls of their cells more than a hundred years ago.

Whether you’re admiring the scenery or looking for adventure, Torndirrup National Park is a must-visit. Home to rugged coastal panoramas, windswept beaches, and incredible hiking trails, there’s no better place to connect with nature. Breathe in the fresh sea breeze as you take in the surroundings on the Bald Head walking trail (Doggerdirrup Walk Trail) or the views from every direction on Stony Hill (Kadadjini).

This is where you’ll also find one of Australia’s most dramatic natural attractions - The Gap and Natural Bridge. These geological wonders have been shaped over thousands of years by the Southern Ocean, and it’s hard not to be in awe of the dramatic rock formations as the waves crash against the cliffs. Take in the spectacular views from the viewing platform and stand right above the spectacle.

No trip to Albany is complete without a visit to its pristine white beaches. The five kilometre Middleton Beach WA is a favorite among locals and visitors, offering calm blue waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The jetty is also a great spot for fishing and watching the sun set into the ocean.

If you’re looking for something more secluded, Little Beach in Two Peoples Bay is another hidden gem. With its pure white sand, turquoise waters, and granite boulders, it’s easily one of the most picturesque spots in Western Australia. The surrounding reserve is home to several endangered animals, including the Gilbert’s potoroo, a small native marsupial.

Albany holds a special place in Australia’s military history as the departure point for the first convoy of Anzac troops during World War I. The National Anzac Centre provides a deeply moving experience, with interactive, multimedia displays and audio exhibits that tell the personal stories of soldiers who served in the First World War.

See it through their eyes as you become one of 32 Anzac characters, and take a journey that lets you experience what they experienced, from recruitment through to training and embarkation ahead of their arrival in Egypt, Gallipoli and across the Western front. When you reach the lookout it’s easy to imagine the huge fleet of ships leaving to go to war.

Accommodation in Albany 

Alongside the spectacular national parks and historic wonders such as and the Brig Amity Albany offers plenty of attractions right near Quality Apartments Banksia. From things to do in Albany to places to visit in Albany WA turns on the charm here, just a stone’s throw from Mount Melville Parklands.

_{Header image from Tourism Western Australia.}