About Augusta
Augusta is a charming coastal town at the southwestern tip of Australia, where the Indian Ocean meets the Southern Ocean. The town is dominated by the magnificent Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, the tallest on mainland Australia, and offers some of the state's best whale watching from June to September.
Located 40km south of Margaret River, Augusta marks the southern end of the Cape to Cape Track and provides easy access to the spectacular Jewel Cave and the ancient Boranup Forest. The quieter pace and dramatic landscapes make it a favourite for those seeking to escape the crowds.
Augusta Quick Facts
- Population: ~1,500
- Distance from Perth: 320 km (3.5 hours)
- Distance from Margaret River: 40 km (35 min)
- Best For: Lighthouse, whale watching, nature
- Famous For: Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
- Whale Season: June - September
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
The Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is Augusta's star attraction and one of Western Australia's most iconic landmarks. Standing 39 metres tall, it marks the point where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet – you can often see the different coloured waters colliding.
Lighthouse Visit Information
- Tower tours: Guided tours to the top available
- Ground entry: Self-guided, access to water wheel ruins
- Best time: Sunset for spectacular photos
- Wildlife: Look for seals on the rocks below
- Opening hours: 9am - 5pm daily
Whale Watching
Augusta is Western Australia's premier whale watching destination. From June to September, humpback and southern right whales migrate past Cape Leeuwin and into Flinders Bay. The whales often come remarkably close to shore, and boat tours offer even more intimate encounters.
| Month | Whale Activity | Species |
|---|---|---|
| June | Season begins, whales migrating north | Humpback, Southern Right |
| July-August | Peak season, mothers with calves | Humpback, Southern Right |
| September | Return migration south | Humpback |
🐋 Whale Watching Tips
For land-based watching, the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse car park and Matthew Flinders Bay lookout offer excellent vantage points. Boat tours depart from Augusta Boat Harbour and offer the closest encounters. Bring binoculars and warm layers – it can be windy!
Things to Do in Augusta
Nature & Wildlife
- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse: Iconic lighthouse with ocean views
- Whale watching: June-September, boat tours and land-based
- Jewel Cave: Largest show cave in WA, stunning formations
- Boranup Forest: Towering karri trees, scenic drives
- Hamelin Bay: Famous for friendly stingrays
Beaches & Water
- Flinders Bay: Protected bay, calm swimming
- Hamelin Bay: Stingrays in the shallows, jetty ruins
- Cosy Corner: Secluded beach, 4WD access
- Fishing: Excellent shore and boat fishing
Walking & Hiking
- Cape to Cape Track: Southern trailhead at Cape Leeuwin
- Lighthouse walks: Short trails around the cape
- Water Wheel: Historic ruins near lighthouse
Where to Eat
Augusta has a small selection of cafes and restaurants offering fresh local seafood and relaxed dining.
- Colourpatch Cafe: Local favourite for fish and chips
- Augusta Hotel: Classic pub meals with views
- Blue Ocean Fish & Chips: Fresh catch, waterfront
- Augusta Bakery: Pies, pastries, coffee
Where to Stay
| Type | Options | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Holiday Rentals | Coastal cottages, beach houses | $150-350/night |
| Hotels/Motels | Augusta Hotel Motel, Georgiana Molloy Motel | $120-200/night |
| Caravan Parks | Turner Caravan Park, Flinders Bay | $35-80/night |
Getting to Augusta
- From Perth: 320 km via Bussell Highway (3.5 hours)
- From Margaret River: 40 km south on Bussell Highway (35 min)
- From Busselton: 90 km (1 hour 15 min)
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore More of the Region
Combine Augusta with nearby caves, forests, and beaches.
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