Meelup Reserve Trail is a 7.4km, grade 1 hike located in Dunsborough, Western Australia. The hike should take around 2.5 hours to complete.
Hike overview
This coastal walk weaves along the tranquil waters of Geographe Bay from Dunsborough to Meelup. Highlights include whale watching lookouts, various ecosystems, small bay communities and some of the best beaches in Western Australia.
Specific trail features the vast array of sea life including seals and dolphins, wildlife including kangaroos, snakes, Birds (including New Holland Honey Eaters and Commorants), the beautiful coastal flora (including peppermint forest), the beautiful views and good swimming at the unpatrolled beaches (Bunker Bay, Eagle Bay and Meelup). Heading off from the beach in Old Dunsborough, the well maintained trail winds its way past beach shacks before reaching the coastal scrub en-route to Meelup beach. Meelup is an iconic Australian beach with white sand and crystal clear waters. Protected from prevailing south west winds and swells it provides a safe swimming haven for the whole family. Stop here during peak season for an ice cream, picnic and a swim. Meelup to Eagle Bay is a little more rugged ascending the hill to higher views of the beautiful water. After a downhill wander, stunning Eagle Bay (and its café) looms in the distance. The trail continues down to the beach. The trail commences two kilometres from the centre of Dunsborough. Dunsborough is located approximately 255 kilometres, or a 2.5-3 hour drive from Perth. You can catch a public transport bus from Perth to Dunsborough (which will take approximately 4.5 hours), visit www.transwa.wa.gov.au for timetables and fares. Other sealed trail access points exist at Meelup, Point Picquet and Eagle Bay providing an opportunity to shorten the length of the walk.
Route and GPX file
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Tips
Start Point: Old Dunsborough, Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, 255km (2.5 - 3 hours) south of Perth
End Point: Meelup
Region: Dunsborough, South West
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
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Gallery
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About the region
Located on the stunning turquoise banks of Geographe Bay, Dunsborough would have to have one of the most tranquil and magnificent locations in the world.
Sparkling calm clear water and white sandy Dunsborough beaches are linked to town by lush green grass and shady paths. There is a bustling café atmosphere and plenty of gorgeous boutique shops. At night there's a great vibe with brew houses, wine bars and pubs with a live music scene, restaurants and cafes.
Beachfront cycle ways and walking paths turn into a hiking trail through the regional park along the bay. With ideal beaches for swimming it is also a great location for diving, snorkelling, kayaking and other water sports. There are even two golf courses!
Out on the most north-western point is the top end of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, which is one of the many Dunsborough attractions. This precinct is home to Dunsborough's working lighthouse, Cape Naturaliste and the starting point of the Cape to Cape Track.
Built on the foundation of surfing and family holidays, this resort town has grown into a holiday spot rich in luxury and fun, ideal for family, friends, couples and backpackers.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.