Waterfalls and Waterways
We naturally gravitate to the coast, particularly in warmer months but experienced South West adventurers know there's a whole other world further inland ready to explore at any time of year.
In summer, these places are great for a dip or even for canoeing and skiing. In autumn, the weather is moderate and ideal for adventure along the surrounding hiking and cycling trails. In winter, the falls, cascades and rivers rush to put on a show and spring is when wildflowers send you on a rewarding search for our regions rare and endemic orchids. Above Image, Black Diamond Lake near Collie by Stephen Norman photography.
Here’s some of the South West’s best lakes, rivers, natural pools, falls and inlets, all easily accessible with plenty of other nearby activities. Be sure to pop into a local visitor centre for more things to see and do in the area.
Waterfalls
The variety of falls hiding in the South West are little known. Visiting in winter or early spring will give you the biggest treat as they’re in full flow.
Quinninup Falls
Is quite an adventure as you need to hike to the site (2 hour return) from Moses Road Carpark, south of Yallingup.
Beedalup Falls
Is surrounded by many other natural attraction of Pemberton like climbing trees and the Cascades.
Fernhook Falls
The Walpole Wilderness is also in a hotspot for natural attractions, like the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, Giant Tingle and Mt Frankland.
Yalgardup Falls / Kevill Road Waterfall
Viewed easily from the road side in Margaret River.
Ironstone Gully Falls
A picturesque waterfall near Capel.
Pools
We’re not sure it’s possible to beat a dip in a natural pool on warm day.
Honeymoon Pool
Between Ferguson Valley and Collie is also great for canoeing and camping.
Circular Pool
Near Walpole is fondly referred to as “the Cappuccino” in winter as the water darkens to the colour of black coffee and natural foam swirls in the centre of the pool.
Barrabup Pool
In Nannup often takes on a spectacular jade shade.
Pemberton Pool
In Pemberton is always beautiful and has a truly amazing atmosphere amongst the karri trees.Â
Minninup Pool
In Collie is a lovely spot for a picnic or to watch horses being walked in the shallows.
Fonty’s Pool
In Manjimup is a long-time family favourite with chalets and caravan park onsite.
Waterfalls and waterways
Rivers
The South West is home to Western Australia’s longest continually flowing river, the Blackwood River at over 300km long. Canoeing, camping and events along the banks are very common in each town in the Southern Forests and Valleys region. Other common activities along the South West’s rivers include fishing, skiing and walking trails.
Margaret River
Isn’t just the name of an internationally acclaimed wine region. It’s also the name of the town and a river than runs through it.
The Denmark River
Is a hive of activity and runs through the townsite of Denmark.
Kalgan River
Near Albany has gentle walking trails and is home to a ski club.
Donnelley River
Near Pemberton, you can take a cruise tour down this river to arrive at the coast which is otherwise quite inaccessible
The Warren RiverLoop Trail
Nearby is a popular walk through the forest to a valley lookout.
Inlets
There are many harbours and inlets in the south west that are seldom visited compared to the beaches they break into; but are worth their own exploration.
The Irwin Inlet at Peaceful Bay
Is very secluded spot in a very secluded hamlet set between the two quiet coastal towns of Denmark and Walpole (super secluded we’re saying). It’s a popular location in school holidays but otherwise you’ll likely have it all to yourself.
The Wilson Inlet
Breaks out to the famous Ocean Beach in Denmark. In summer, the water is toasty and locals often take a pool floaty for a relaxed afternoon.
Torbay Inlet
Is a great place to explore by foot after four wheel driving along Muttonbird Beach (dog friendly) near Albany.
Broke Inlet
Is a popular camping spot and a great base to explore the Walpole Wilderness.
The Leschenault Inlet
Just north of Bunbury is an estuarine lagoon and in parts is bordered by mangroves, here you can learn about Aboriginal culture on a tour.
Stay by the water
Lakes
Nowhere does lakes like Western Australia. From pink lakes in our neighbouring regions of the Coral Coast and Golden Outback, to the surprising variety in the South West.
Lake of Many Colours
Accessible on an Aboriginal cultural tour in the Stirling Range area near Albany is the Lake of Many Colours. A culturally significant area and indeed a true sight to behold.
Black Diamond Lake and Stockton Lake
Both near Collie are renowned for their emerald hue and suitability to water sports.
Yeagarup Lake
Near Pemberton is next to the famous Yeagarup sand dunes, accessible by 4WD or on a tour.
Lake Seppings
In Albany is bordered by a walking trail fit for avid bird watchers. In spring, you may even spot the elusive Long Necked Turtles that come out of their hidey-holes for the breeding season.
Dams
The Harvey Dam
Has ample facilities for a family day out. With a lookout, playground and barbeques.
Big Brook Dam
In Pemberton, bordered by towering Karri trees this dam leaves a lasting memory of being picture-perfect with the pristine waters, picnic areas and trails.
Wellington Dam
There’s plenty to do around Wellington Dam near Collie with water sports and four wheel driving prevalent in the surrounding Wellington National Park. It’s also a relaxing visit with a lookout as well as meals and mountain bike hire available from the Kiosk.
Logue Brook Dam/Lake Brockman
Between Yarloop and Harvey offering basic bush camping in the jarrah forest.
Inspiration
Villages in the Valley Road Trip
Explore hidden gems in the heart of the South West on WA's most charming road trip.
The South West’s Wonderful Waterways
Discover some of our favourite rivers, pools, and estuaries that make their way through Australia’s South West.
