Career

12 Iconic Destinations to Explore in WA

Posted on by Helen Taylor
21
Jan

It’s no secret that Western Australia (WA) is home to some of the most breathtakingly diverse and rugged travel destinations in the world. 

With turquoise coastlines, the red-earth outback, vibrant regional towns, and ancient and culturally rich landscapes, this incredible state has been booming in popularity – particularly for travel nurses and midwives on WA contracts. 

If you have been thinking about working in Western Australia, we’ve curated 12 unmissable destinations to have on your radar. 

Pack up the car and bring your sense of adventure – whether you’re a foodie, adventurer, or nature love, there’s something here for everyone while on contract! 

1. Wave Rock

Wheatbelt & Golden Outback Region

One of Western Australia’s most recognisable natural landmarks, Wave Rock is a 15 metre high granite formation shaped like an ocean wave. Estimated to be more than 2.7 billion years old, it’s a must-see for anyone exploring the Golden Outback of WA. 

Where is Wave Rock?

340 km south–east of Perth 

Best time to visit Wave Rock?

Spring (September-November) and Autumn (March-May)

Top 5 things to see and do at Wave Rock
  1. Walk the full Wave Rock and Hippo’s Yawn loop.  
  2. Visit the nearby Mulka’s Cave Aboriginal rock art. 
  3. Spot native wildlife like echidnas and kangaroos. 
  4. Immerse yourself in the magic of Lake Magic. 
  5. Enjoy sunset photography over the Wheatbelt plains. 

2. Rottnest Island

Perth Region 

Just a short ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island feels like a world away. Famous for its friendly quokkas and car-free environment, the island offers crystal-clear bays, relaxed coastal vibes and rich cultural history. Spend your time here cycling between beaches, snorkeling in turquoise waters or simply unwinding.  

Where is Rottnest Island?

19 km off the coast of Perth

Best time to visit Rottnest Island?

Spring (September–November) and Summer (December–February)

Top 5 things to see and do at Rottnest Island
  1. Walk the full Wave Rock and Hippo’s Yawn loop.  
  2. Visit the nearby Mulka’s Cave Aboriginal rock art. 
  3. Spot the locals, Rottnest island holds the world’s largest population of quokka’s.
  4. Bring your snorkel, with reefs just of the beach full of marine life.
  5. Immerse yourself in the magic of Lake Magic. 
  6. Enjoy sunset photography over the Wheatbelt plains. 

3. Shark Bay

Coral Coast Region

Shark Bay is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site. If you have a drone, you’re in for an absolute treat – make sure your spare batteries are charged!  

A world-class destination, Shark Bay is famous for its crystal-clear waters, stromatolites, and abundant marine life. Bring your drone, camera, or snorkel – this place is unforgettable.

Where is Shark Bay?

800 km north of Perth

Best time to visit Shark Bay?

Spring (September–November) and Autumn (March–May)

Top 5 things to see and do at Shark Bay
  1. Get up close and personal with the dolphins at Monkey Mia. 
  2. Go for a hike on one of the park’s trails. 
  3. Walk among ancient stromatolites at Hamelin Pool. 
  4. Swim at the pristine Shell Beach. 
  5. Kayak or snorkel in turquoise bays. 
  6. 4WD through Francois Peron National Park. 

4. Esperance

South Coast Region 

Esperance is home to some of the whitest sand and bluest water in Australia, making it a favourite among WA locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re chasing coastal walks, wildlife encounters or postcard-perfect swims, Esperance is a dream destination for lovers of the outdoors. 

Where is Esperance?

725 km southeast of Perth

Best time to visit Esperance?

Summer (December to February) and Autumn (March to May)

Top 5 things to see and do at Esperance
  1. Take Insta-worthy photos of kangaroos on the beach at Lucky Bay. 
  2. Explore the white sands of Cape Le Grand National Park. 
  3. Enjoy a swim or surf at Twilight Beach. 
  4. Cruise along the Great Ocean Drive scenic loop. 
  5. Island hop to Woody Island, nicknamed ‘the Rottnest of Esperance’. 

5. Albany

Great Southern Region 

Albany is this state’s oldest European settlement, and offers a fascinating blend of heritage sites, powerful coastal scenery and cool-climate food and wine experiences. For travel nurses and midwives, it provides the perfect balance of meaningful history, natural beauty and a slower, community-focused pace of life. 

Where is Albany?

420 km south of Perth

Best time to visit Albany?

Spring (September–November) and Autumn (March–May)

Top 5 things to see and do at Albany
  1. Visit The Gap and Natural Bridge. 
  2. Whale watching (June–October). 
  3. Explore ANZAC history. 
  4. Walk Bluff Knoll nearby. 
  5. Taste local wines. 

6. Broome

Kimberley Region 

Where the outback meets the Indian Ocean, Broome is known for its tropical climate, pearling history and legendary sunsets over Cable Beach. Having a rhythm of its own, this coastal city is a popular base for remote nursing and midwifery contracts, offering both adventure and relaxation in one unforgettable Kimberley setting. 

Where is Broome?

2,200 km north of Perth

Best time to visit Broome?

Dry season (May–October)

Top 5 things to see and do in Broome 
  1. Watch sunset at Cable Beach. 
  2. Take a camel ride along the shore. 
  3. Learn about pearling history. 
  4. Explore Gantheaume Point. 
  5. Visit during Staircase to the Moon. 

7. Denmark 

Great Southern Region

Nestled between towering karri forests and a rugged southern coastline of Western Australia is Denmark. Unlike its European counterpart, this peaceful coastal town is known for its natural beauty, artisan food scene and relaxed lifestyle. It’s an ideal stop for travel nurses and midwives seeking a slower pace while still enjoying outdoor adventure. 

Where is Denmark?

420 km south of Perth

Best time to visit Denmark?

Spring (September–November) for wildflowers and Autumn (March–May)

Top 5 things to see and do in Denmark
  1. Take in the breath-taking views of Ocean Beach coastline. 
  2. Whip out your camera or drone at Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks. 
  3. Taste some of the region’s finest local wines, ciders, and cheese. 
  4. Take friends or family hiking through William Bay National Park. 
  5. Go for a paddle along the Denmark River. 

8. Horizontal Falls

Kimberley Region

Described by as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world” by David Attenborough, Horizontal Falls is a spectacular natural phenomenon created by powerful tidal currents rushing through narrow gorges. This remote experience is ideal for the adventurous who want to witness something truly unique.

Where is Horizontal Falls?

1000 km east of Broome

Best time to visit Horizontal Falls? 

Dry season (May–September)

Top 5 things to see and do in Horizontal Falls
  1. Take a thrilling fast boat ride through the tidal gaps. 
  2. Enjoy a scenic flight over the Buccaneer Archipelago. 
  3. Spot crocodiles, sharks and marine life in Talbot Bay. 
  4. Stay overnight on a floating pontoon for sunset and stargazing. 
  5. Learn about the region’s Aboriginal and geological significance. 

9. Greens Pool 

Great Southern Region 

Tucked within William Bay National Park, Greens Pool is one of Western Australia’s most photographed beaches (and for good reason). Protected by granite boulders, the calm, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming year-round. It’s an easy day trip for those on contract in Albany, and a must-see for anyone exploring the Great Southern coastline.

Where is Greens Pool?

420 km south of Perth

Best time to visit Greens Pool? 

Summer (December–February) and Autumn (March–May)

Top 5 things to see and do at Greens Pool 
  1. Swim in the calm, turquoise waters. 
  2. Snorkel along the rocky edges. 
  3. Walk to nearby Elephant Rocks. 
  4. Enjoy a beach picnic with ocean views. 
  5. Capture drone or photography shots of the granite formations. 

10. Karijini National Park

Pilbara Region

Tucked within William Bay National Park, Greens Pool is one of Western Australia’s most photographed beaches (and for good reason). Protected by granite boulders, the calm, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming year-round. It’s an easy day trip for those on contract in Albany, and a must-see for anyone exploring the Great Southern coastline.

Where is Karijini National Park?

850 km south of Broome 

Best time to visit Karijini National Park?

Dry season (May–September) 

Top 5 things to see and do Karijini National Park
  1. Take a dip in the Fern Pool located near Fortescue Falls. 
  2. Enjoy a hike through one of the many nature trails, home to stunning gorges and waterfalls. 
  3. Relax and unwind beneath a sky full of stars at Karijini Eco Retreat. 
  4. Watch for wildlife, such as wallabies, echidnas and various bird species. 
  5. Admire the stunning native wildflowers that bloom in spring. 

11. Exmouth & Ningaloo Reef

Coral Coast Region 

Say hello to Exmouth – your gateway to Ningaloo Reef, one of the world’s most accessible and biodiverse coral reef systems. Unlike many reef destinations, here you can snorkel straight from the beach, swimming alongside vibrant marine life. From whale sharks and humpback whales to stunning coastal landscapes, here is a bucket-list destination you’ll want to both rave about and keep a secret.

Where is Exmouth?

1,250 km north of Perth

Best time to visit Exmouth? 

March to August for whale sharks and humpbacks

Top 5 things to see and do in Exmouth & Ningaloo Reef
  1. Go snorkelling at Turquoise Bay. 
  2. Swim with the whale sharks. 
  3. Explore Cape Range National Park. 
  4. Kayak through the beautiful Yardie Creek. 
  5. Enjoy the afternoon sunset at Vlamingh Head.

12.Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles)

Kimberley Region

A true bucket-list destination, Purnululu National Park is home to the iconic Bungle Bungle Range. Famous for its striking beehive-shaped sandstone domes, this remote Kimberley landscape is an extraordinary natural Australian gem and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Where is Purnululu National Park?

300 km south–east of Broome (access via 4WD along Spring Creek Track) 

Best time to visit Purnululu National Park?

Dry season (May–September)

Top 5 things to see and do in Purnululu National Park 
  1. Enjoy a walk-through Cathedral Gorge and Piccaninny Creek. 
  2. Watch the sunrise or sunset over the iconic Bungle Bungles. 
  3. Treat yourself to a scenic helicopter or fixed-wing flight. 
  4. Camp under the stars in the Kimberley outback. 
  5. Learn about the park’s deep Aboriginal cultural significance. 

Get more out of travel nursing, with Affinity Nursing 

Want to see all of these iconic destinations and more on the road for work? If you’re an experienced nurse or midwife, the world is your oyster. 

As an Affinity Nursing travel nurse or midwife, you can get a lot more out of your contract. We’re talking… 

  • Access to nursing and midwifery roles nation-wide in all states and territories 
  • More back-to-back contracts 
  • More consistent, quality opportunities 
  • A full contract package with higher earnings overall (think more money in your pocket, before and after tax) 
  • Smooth onboarding and credentials process 
  • A dedicated team of specialists who will be with you every step of the way 

Want to work with a preferred nursing recruitment agency who will help you unlock your 2026 goals? Register now to experience the Affinity difference. 

Mention these wish-list locations to your dedicated recruitment specialist to get the most out of Western Australia! 

You might also like: