February – March
As the sun shines brighter and the air heats up, the South West (Noongar Boodja) welcomes Bunuru, the hottest time of the year. While the coast calls, this season also invites exploration of the region’s serene rivers, creeks, and estuaries.
Bunuru brings long, sunny days and a burst of white flowering gums—jarrah, marri, and ghost gums—at full bloom. Marri flowers and emerging Zamia cones signal the arrival of ‘second summer.’
With short nights and the warmest days, this is traditionally the best time to live by and fish inland waters. The air hums with frogs in creeks, cicadas, and gentle breezes. With little rain and hot easterly winds, it’s the perfect time to explore the tranquility of lazy waterways.
Read on to find out the top tips for navigating Bunuru season in the South West.

Spotlight On… Inland Waterways
Bunbury Geographe
Bunbury Geographe boasts some of the region’s most stunning inland waterways, ideal for a cool dip or relaxing by the water this Bunuru season. Lake Kepwari in Collie offers calm waters perfect for swimming or kayaking, with plenty of space to relax under the trees. Lake Brockman in Harvey is another popular spot for water sports and picnics, while Stockton Lake in Collie is famous for its striking blue waters – ideal for bringing a floatie to escape the heat. For a more relaxing experience, visit Black Diamond Lake in Collie, Honeymoon Pool along the Collie River, or Wellington Dam, where you can swim, picnic, or simply enjoy the surroundings.
Southern Forests and Valleys
The Southern Forests and Valleys region offers plenty of places to cool off during Bunuru with its serene pools and shaded retreats. Fonty’s Pool in Manjimup is a favourite for a refreshing swim, nestled in lush surroundings ideal for February and March. Pemberton Pool is another popular spot, where visitors can take a dip in calm waters, framed by towering karri forests. Barrabup Pool near Nannup is a peaceful, secluded destination for those seeking a quiet escape and is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.








Great Southern
In the Great Southern, Lake Poorrarecup near Cranbrook offers a peaceful place to enjoy the calm waters and surrounding bushland during Bunuru. This lesser-known spot offers a tranquil escape from the busier coastlines during February and March, ideal for those looking to connect with nature in a more serene setting.
Margaret River Region
Bunuru in the Margaret River region brings warm, dry conditions, meaning waterfalls won’t be flowing. However, the trails around Quinninup Falls still make for rewarding hikes, offering beautiful views of the surrounding bushland. Though the falls may not be as dramatic, the hikes are a great way to experience the region’s natural beauty. Just be cautious as snakes are more active during the warmer months.
To help preserve these unique natural environments, please stick to the walking trails and take all rubbish away with you. Please respect special sites by only taking photos and not altering the landscape. When travelling through remote areas, advise local park rangers, check information about closures, and pay close attention to road and weather conditions, as well as safety rules.
ACTIVITIES
Nature & Wildlife
As Bunuru wraps up, it’s your last chance to catch the incredible Orcas in Bremer Bay before they journey into the deep seas in April. For an unforgettable experience, hop on a tour with Naturaliste Charters or Whale Watch WA and witness these majestic giants in their natural habitat.
If dolphins are more your vibe, head to the Dolphin Discovery Centre in Bunbury, where sightings are guaranteed on boat tours. Open seven days a week, you can choose between a dolphin cruise or a swim tour to get up close with these friendly creatures. Just remember, all tours are weather dependent!

Adventure
Soak up the warm Bunuru weather with a visit to Busselton Jetty! Walk the iconic structure, ride the Jetty Train, or explore the Underwater Observatory, descending 8m to the ocean floor without getting wet. Dive into adventure at the Marine Discovery Centre or bring your gear to snorkel through the stunning Underwater Sculpture Park featuring 13 jaw-dropping artworks.
With rich history, breathtaking beauty, and activities for everyone, it’s the perfect way to embrace the season!

Wine, Food & Produce
Bunuru brings a bounty of seasonal produce! Enjoy melons, passionfruit, grapes, and pears (from February), with pumpkins and crisp apples arriving in March. Head to Donnybrook Station Markets for fresh apples or visit the newly opened Bunbury Farmers Market in Vasse Village for some of the South West’s finest produce.
Seafood is still at its best, with abalone, akoya, blue swimmer crab, King George whiting, rock lobster, South West marron, and squid in season. Take our Foodies Road Trip to savour these local delights!

Wellness
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Passel Estate, where wine, nature, and conservation come together in perfect harmony. This unique destination is not only a winery but also a sanctuary, featuring a stunning bushland reserve dedicated to preserving local wildlife.
On the Nature and Wine Walk Tour, explore two soft-release enclosures designed to rehabilitate Western Ringtail Possums. Nestled along the creekline, they help young possums safely transition to release. After your tour, enjoy award-winning wines in situ, tasting them right beside the vines that brought them to life.

EVENTS
Busselton Jetty Swim
Bunbury Geographe
Dive into the excitement of the iconic Busselton Jetty Swim! While registrations are closed, spectators can enjoy the 3.6km race around the Jetty. Highlights include the “One Mile – Swim to Shore” and Simon’s Shortcut, a 500m dash under the Jetty. Young swimmers aged 8-12 can join the 222m Busselton Jetty Kids Swim.
For those staying dry, the weekend offers family-friendly activities, including the free Busselton Jetty Swim Sunset Concert on Saturday, 8 February 2025. Whether cheering from the sidelines or enjoying the onshore entertainment, this event promises an ocean of fun!

Katanning Harmony Festival
Great Southern
Celebrate culture, connection, and community this Bunuru season at the Katanning Harmony Festival, a vibrant two-day event in the heart of Katanning! Enjoy the lively Friday Food Night and grand Saturday Street Festival, featuring cultural dances, music, kids’ activities, youth events, market stalls, and a global food village.
Just three hours from Perth, this standout Great Southern event promises rich cultural diversity. Don’t miss out!
For more events during Bunuru visit our Events page.

ACCOMODATION
The Timothée Resort
Margaret River Region
Soak up the Bunuru vibes at The Timothée Resort, where 80s nostalgia meets modern luxury. This reimagined motel features a heated pool, tennis court, and riverside BBQ areas, perfect for laid-back summer days. Relax with a drink by the pool or enjoy classic Indian cuisine at the on-site restaurant.

Premier Mill Hotel
Great Southern
The Premier Roller Flour Mill, a landmark of Katanning since 1891, offers a unique stay in the heart of town. Once a thriving flour mill, it now stands as a symbol of adaptation and industry, making it the perfect base for your Bunuru adventures.

RAC Karri Valley Resort
Southern Forests and Valleys
Discover the tranquil beauty of Lake Beedelup at RAC Karri Valley Resort, nestled in the heart of the majestic Karri Forest. Perfect for families, couples, and groups, the resort offers a range of accommodation and activities, from fishing in the trout-filled lake to exploring seasonal wildflowers.

Harris River Estate
Bunbury Geographe
Harris River Estate offers a secluded summer retreat with self-contained chalets overlooking vines and waterways, perfect for families or couples. Located near the Collie water bodies, enjoy scenic bike and walking trails or relax with award-winning wines and local brews.
