The best things to do in Bremer Bay
Known and adored for its white squeaky sand, crystal-clear waters and rugged landscapes, Bremer Bay is one of Western Australia’s most isolated, yet scenic holiday destinations.
The destination is the ideal place to enjoy a little oceanside rest and recovery, or a healthy dose of exploration and adventure.
Perched between Albany and Esperance, the coastal town in Western Australia’s south, lies 500km south west of Perth – a 5-hour and 15-minute drive.
Whether you’re partial to cruising coastlines in search of the perfect break, fiend for a local brewery, a wildlife enthusiast or lover of all thing’s nature, Bremer Bay has it all:
SEE & DO
Beach Hopping
Bremer Bay is a haven of white sand and turquoise water. From protected coves to sweeping coastlines, the destination a paradise for any lover of the sea. Blossoms Beach is wildly popular with families for its super shallow water, while Native Dog Beach is a great option for anyone looking to tackle the tides on a surfboard. Back Beach is 4WD only and another spot worth a gander.
Whale Watching
If you’re interested in whale watching, you’ll probably know that the Bremer Canyon is one of WA’s most
celebrated locations. While sperm, pilot and beaked whales are common, orcas AKA killer whales are
the species that have the crowds flocking. The destination is home to the largest congregation of orcas in the southern hemisphere and is the only place in Australia where you are guaranteed to meet the apex predator of the sea.
Between January and April, more than 150 orcas traverse the area approximately 50km offshore from
Bremer Bay. If you’re partial to a little deep-sea adventure, local, family-owned business Naturaliste Charters, offer eight-hour exhibitions through the Bremer Canyon. Or if you’d rather watch from the comfort of the shore, try Bremer Bay Beach, the platform at Point Ann or the Doubtful Islands.
Walking Trails in Fitzgerald River National Park
Fitzgerald National Park is home to a rich abundance of native and rare flora species, 75 of which are only found here! Bushwalking and treading the trails is the best way to immerse yourself in the rugged landscape. Bring a pair of binoculars if you’re keen to spot some of the 200 bird species that reside in the area. There’s also lots on offer in terms of canoeing, fishing, snorkelling, surfing, swimming and whale watching during the winter months, so you won’t be scrambling to fill your time.
Underwater Exploration, Snorkelling and Diving
Known as a whale hotspot and gateway to the Bremer Canyon, the town’s pristine waters, fine sand and colourful marine life make for a cornucopia of coastline worthy of exploration. For underwater vistas of stingrays, neon slugs, leafy sea dragons, colourful sponges, hard and soft coral and more, try the Little Boat Harbour dive trail. And if you’re a little more snorkelling inclined, head to the sheltered Barrens Beach in the Fitzgerald River National Park. Think redlip morwongs, blue devils and zebra fish, oh my!
Wildflowers
Bremer is home to an extensive wildflower season with some species flowering year-round – and the Fitzgerald River National Park is the best place to spot them. The national park displays almost 20 per cent of the state’s flora and is one of the South West’s largest biodiversity hotspots. The park’s most common species is the hakea which blooms year-round, while orchids are seen during spring and qualup bells can be found from June to October.
Beach 4WDing
For a journey equal in beauty and adventure, one of the musts of Bremer is 4WDing on the beach! And there are loads of legal beach four-wheel drive tracks and dunes to tackle in and around town. Be sure to add Blossoms Beach, Peppermint Beach, Whalebone Beach and Stream Beach to your hit list.
Beach Fishing
From snapper, to salmon and black bream, Bremer Bay is home to some of the South West’s best fishing – whether you fancy beach, rock or estuary fishing. If you’re keen to swing your line from the snowy banks, try Short Beach which is easily accessible via a sealed road. Or if you’ve got all the gear, Reef Beach and Fosters Beach is 4WD only.
Bird Watching
Whether you’re an amateur or an enthusiast, bird watching is another way to whittle away the hours in the southern seaside town. Pelicans are estuary locals, as well as a collection of other birds including grebes, cormorants, egrets, sandpipers and even black swans. And you’ll likely come across pied oyster catchers, red capped plovers, sea eagles, and crested terns, if you’re the long romantic beach walk type.
EAT & DRINK
Wellstead Museum Café
Drop in for one of the famous wood-fired pizzas on a Friday night at Wellstead Museum Café, which is located on the town’s first farming settlement and the property of the Wellstead Museum (which features an eclectic collection of over 6,000 exhibits). The pizzas are baked in the woodfire oven from the original Albany bakery, while the menu boasts a bounty of breakfast and lunch options, including freshly caught Bremer Bay seafood, as well as gluten free and vegan offerings. The recently restored original homestead cottages, which were built in the 1850s and 60s are also available to be rented as holiday accommodation.
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Bremer Bay Brewing Company
When it comes to craft beer, Bremer Bay Brewing is where you’re headed! Owned by husband-and-wife duo, Zane and Simone Mitchell, an ocean theme is evident throughout every nook and cranny of the brewery. The logo depicts a giant squid fighting an orca, – both animals which can be found in the Bremer Canyon – while the beer names include the likes of Squirting Squid, Crazy Crab and Bloated Blowfish. All beers are brewed on site, with pure rainwater, while the food menu takes the form of burgers, pizza and fish and chips.
The Telegraph on Bremer
Nestled inside the Telegraph Station, one of the most historically significant architectural structures in Bremer Bay, The Telegraph Café is a fantastic spot for breakfast and lunch. The Station was built in 1896, after the original, which was constructed 20 years prior, burnt down. Visitors can expect hearty serves of smashed avocado toast, eggs benny, pancakes, Turkish eggs, baked treats and killer coffee.
Mount Barren Restaurant – Bremer Bay Resort
Located in the heart of Bremer, overlooking the estuary, Mount Barren Restaurant offers quality Australian cuisine, a step up from the standard pub grub. Expect iconic country favourites like the chicken burger, steak sandwich, pizza and fish and chips. Or settle in for something a little extra, with a seafood board, tofu laksa, barbeque pork ribs or Thai beef salad.
Header Image Credit: Alexandra Casey
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