Two Peoples Bay: Everything you need to know

Albany is home to some of the best beaches in Western Australia, plenty of granite headlands and some amazing hiking spots.

When they all combine in one location then the outcome is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Luckily there is one spot near Albany that has all these elements and it’s fast becoming a must-visit destination for holiday-makers.

What is it?

Two Peoples Bay is a secluded nature reserve located east of Albany sporting some postcard perfect beaches, hilly granite formations and some wild coastline to explore. The name Two Peoples Bay comes from a chance meeting between French and American vessels in 1802 and thus it was named Baie des Duex Nations (Bay of Two Nations or People).

Previous to colonial occupation the area was home to the Minang people who called it Yilbering. It was their home during the warmer months as during the cold winters they headed inland to hunt kangaroos. Today it has been protected as a nature reserve thanks to the discovery of the Noisy Scrub-Bird and a colony of Gilberts Potoroo, saving it from becoming another coastal townsite.

Where is Two Peoples Bay?

Located a 45-minute drive east of Albany, head out on Lower King Road which eventually becomes Nanarup Road and then Two Peoples Bay Road until you reach the entrance to the nature reserve. Pay the entry fee at the station on the side of the road before making your way to either the car park for the Visitor Centre and picnic area or continue towards the car park for Little Beach.

What to do?

Two Peoples Bay has been made famous for the Instagram friendly Little Beach but there is so much more to explore if you have the time. One of the best hikes in the area around Albany is the Baie des Deux Peuples Heritage Trail, a 6km return hike starting at the Visitor Centre and taking you out along the coastline to the twin beaches of Little Beach and Waterfall Beach. Along the way you’ll see the impressive structure of Fairy Rocks, see a myriad of wildflowers from winter through late spring and then explore two stunning little coves complete with white sands and turquoise waters.

If you’re just after a relaxing time stretched out on a towel or having a swim in the azure waters then Little Beach and Waterfall Beach are perfect for that. Protected from the south westerlies that usually batter the coast, these secluded bays are ideal for setting up for a few hours and having yourself an idyllic beach holiday. Little Beach is the main spot but up the path and over a small headland you’ll find Waterfall Beach and maybe a quieter stretch of beach if Little Beach isn’t to your liking.

What not to do:

As always, be a good human and adhere to the Leave No Trace Principles, taking all rubbish with you and not damaging the fragile coastal landscape. Parts of Two Peoples Bay are closed off to the public for conservation purposes so stick to the marked paths and don’t go wandering off into the bush.

Anything else?

Another great experience is to head to the Visitor Centre and learn all about the area from its history to its flora and fauna. The centre is open from 10am-4pm over the summer months and school holidays with various displays providing some excellent information on what makes this area so special. There are BBQ facilities among the Peppermint trees just a short walk from the Visitor Centre and a grassed area to enjoy a picnic.

About the author:
Mark (The Life of Py) is a Perth based outdoor enthusiast that loves exploring the trails of Western Australia in his free time. When he isn’t out taking photos he is busy planning the next adventure. See more of his content here.