The Whale Lookout Walk is a short but rewarding trail that showcases the rugged beauty of Cape Naturaliste’s coastline. Stretching 2.5 kilometres, this well-formed track is the most popular walk departing from the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, offering a relatively easy grade 2 route that takes around an hour to complete. Following the gently winding path through low coastal heath, walkers are soon met with sweeping ocean views, where the land drops away to reveal steep cliffs and the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean. A spur boardwalk leads further down to a secondary lookout, perched on the outer cliff top, where the sense of space and isolation is even more striking.
From September to November, this trail becomes one of the best places in the region to spot whales as they migrate along the coastline. The lookouts provide an excellent vantage point to witness these majestic creatures as they breach and play in the water below. A sheltered area at the main lookout offers interpretive signs with fascinating insights into the different whale species that frequent these waters. Even outside of whale season, the walk is well worth doing, with uninterrupted coastal views and the chance to observe an array of birdlife flitting among the windswept vegetation. The track can also be combined with the Cape Naturaliste Track or the Bunker Bay Loop for those looking to extend their walk.
Back at the lighthouse, visitors can explore the small museum, which provides a glimpse into the area’s maritime history. The on-site tearooms offer a pleasant spot to sit and take in the surroundings over lunch or a snack, making this an ideal place to pause and appreciate the wild beauty of Cape Naturaliste.
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Total distance: 2462 m
Max elevation: 98 m
Min elevation: 59 m
Total climbing: 58 m
Total descent: -58 m
Getting to the trailhead: Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.
The trailhead for the Whale Lookout Walk begins at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, which is a 15-minute drive north of Dunsborough via Cape Naturaliste Road. The lighthouse is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with guided tours running every hour between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm. As tour group sizes are limited to 10 people, it’s best to book online in advance to secure your spot. There is ample parking at the lighthouse, making it a convenient starting point for the walk.
Closest towns to this walk: Augusta, Busselton, Cowaramup, Dunsborough, Margaret River, Yallingup
Cape Naturaliste is the northernmost point of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge and separates the relatively sheltered waters of Geographe Bay from the southern Indian Ocean. Tour the lighthouse and explore coastal scenery around the cape on a network of short walks and lookouts.
Nestled along the striking turquoise waters of Geographe Bay, Dunsborough offers some of the most picturesque coastal walks and bushwalks in Western Australia. Located approximately 251 kilometres—or a 2.5- to 3-hour drive—from Perth, this vibrant town blends natural beauty with a relaxed atmosphere. The sheltered bay, with its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, is linked to the town centre by leafy paths and grassy picnic areas, making it an inviting place for both locals and visitors. The town itself has a lively café culture, boutique shops, and a buzzing evening scene, with brew houses, wine bars, and restaurants offering live music and locally sourced produce.
Walking and hiking trails weave through the landscape, from gentle beachfront paths to more rugged bushwalks that take in the rocky coastline and dense coastal vegetation. The trails within Meelup Regional Park and Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park offer stunning views of the bay, passing through sheltered coves and pristine bushland. Many of these walks connect to some of the region’s best swimming beaches, while small reefs and rocky outcrops provide excellent spots for snorkelling and kayaking. For those looking to explore further, the Cape to Cape Track begins near the historic Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, stretching along the dramatic coastline between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin.
Dunsborough has long been a favourite holiday destination, originally known for its surf culture and relaxed beachside escapes. Today, it offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, appealing to families, couples, and backpackers alike. Whether you're setting off on a challenging hike, enjoying a casual coastal walk, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of this seaside town, there's something for every traveller.
Looking for more walks in or near Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
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