Albany Weekend Escapes

Perched on the edge of southern WA’s rugged coastline and out-of-this-world beaches, Albany makes for a fabulous weekend getaway from Perth. Placed at the southern tip of Western Australia, this quaint little city offers tranquil beach scenes and serves up fabulous food and drink. Whether it’s a romantic Albany getaway you’re after, or an action-packed weekend with the kids, this is the place for you.

To uncover more tips regarding things to do in Albany, check out our Ultimate Guide. This Ultimate Guide will help you craft your very own Albany Weekend Escape.

An Albany getaway offers much more than food and drink. As the oldest settlement in Western Australia, Albany has a rich history and bountiful heritage. At the time of this settlement, the town became home to a large convict population and then went on to host a long-lasting whaling industry. Resultantly, one of the best things to do in Albany is to take the Albany Heritage Walk Trail which points out 17 historic sites. Leading you around the colonial town, past the harbour, Old Gaol and oldest surviving dwelling, you’ll learn a great deal about Albany’s heritage.

The National Anzac Centre is also found in Albany WA. Drop by to learn a little about the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who fought in WWI. Historical artefacts and exhibits seek to tell the story of the world wars through the narratives of individual soldiers.

Nature steals the show in Albany. Captivating coastal scenery and serene beaches are not hard to come by; there’s no better place for a lazy day spent by the sea. Two People’s Bay Nature Reserve hosts one of the best beaches in Western Australia, and calm shallow waters here make for excellent kayaking and swimming. At Tornidirrup National Park, dramatic rock formations including blowholes and ‘The Gap’ are impressive sights.

For a taste of one of the word’s most famous hikes, the Bibblumun Track stretches along this part of the Western Australian coastline. Head out from your Albany accommodation in the morning and follow the track for the day, winding through natural reserves and the heart of Nyoongar country. The entirety of the track is 1000km long, but the Albany portion features some of the most striking scenery. Otherwise, marvel at nature’s power at Albany’s wind farms, where 18 wind turbines tower above the crashing waves below. Even during relatively low winds, the turbines whip up a considerable amount of electricity.

Albany WA boasts some great wineries. In many ways, the region rivals its neighbour – Margaret River. Intimate, family-owned wineries as well as those following organic practices can be found here. During your weekend in Albany, drop in to a few cellar doors and treat your tastebuds to a taste of the some high-quality wines from the Great Southern Wine Region.

There are a whole array of Albany restaurants to choose from during your weekend getaway from Perth. Anything from casual pubs serving up wholesome meals and craft beers, to Indian spots and Thai restaurants are found here. On the other hand, those seeking something special won’t be disappointed either. A handful of fine-dining restaurants in Albany, with some featuring out-of-this-world sea views, certainly won’t disappoint. Furthermore, a selection cafes in Albany, from Scandinavian themed, to those packed with baked treats, provide enough choices for you to cafe-hop your way around the town. Opt for some central Albany accommodation and stroll through the quaint town to your restaurants of choice in the evening.