D’Entrecasteaux National Park

Named for a French, 18th century explorer and blissfully, wildly empty, D’Entrecasteaux National Park is where boredom goes to die. That tends to happen on a stretch of coast that’s famously known for its offroading, where empty swaths of white sand beaches are a 4x4 drive away. With over 80 miles of isolated coastline, adventurous drivers are guaranteed to find beaches completely devoid of footprints, where wind, waves—and a surfboard or fishing pole—are your only coastal companions. Navigate your way up the Yeagarup sand dunes that stretch for over three miles, or hike to the top of Cliffy Head and watch for migrating Right Whales. Travelers who only have two wheel drive will still have plenty of options, such as canoeing the waters of Lake Jasper—the largest in southwestern Australia. Brush up on native Aboriginal history on the half mile Pupalong Loop—an easy day walk in a section of park accessible by regular cars. Soak up some rays on Mandalay Bay on an isolated section of shore, or sit and watch the sun go down on the distant southern horizon.

Practical Info

D’Entrecasteaux National Park is located four and half hours south of Perth and an hour south of Pemberton. There’s an entrance fee of $11/vehicle, and the best chance of spotting whales is from September through the end of November. Since the national park is exceptionally remote, be sure to be prepared with water and supplies if you opt to explore off road.