Things To Do
in Albany

Albany, Australia sits on the southern coast of Western Australia where the Great Southern meets the Southern Ocean. The town blends maritime heritage with dramatic coastal scenery and forested hinterlands. Historic streets, markets, and galleries give a welcoming vibe for first-time visitors.

Its sunlit beaches, national parks, and easy access to nature make Albany ideal for relaxed adventures.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Albany
morning
:

You arrive at Albany under crisp morning skies and feel the salty breeze of King George Sound. You check into a charming boutique hotel overlooking Middleton Beach. You stroll along the shoreline collecting seashells and watch seabirds dance across the waves.

afternoon
:

You head to the Albany Visitor Centre to gather maps and insider tips from friendly local guides. You wander through the historic town centre, admiring heritage buildings and sampling artisanal treats at boutique shops. You pause at a waterfront café for a latte and locally baked scone.

evening
:

You savor a fresh seafood dinner at a restaurant perched on Princess Royal Harbour. You enjoy the glow of the sunset reflecting off the water as you sip a glass of regional wine. You return to your hotel for a peaceful night listening to the distant call of sea birds.

day 2
Emu Point and Middleton Beach
morning
:

You launch a kayak from Emu Point and glide across crystal-clear water to Salmon Holes snorkel site. You peer beneath the surface to spot colorful reef fish and gentle stingrays. You feel the warmth of the morning sun on your skin as you paddle past rocky outcrops.

afternoon
:

You settle on Middleton Beach for a light picnic of local cheese, fresh bread and juicy grapes. You lie back on the soft sand and listen to the rhythmic crash of gentle waves. You take a refreshing swim in the calm, turquoise shallows and float under a powder-blue sky.

evening
:

You wander along Middleton Beach boardwalk as the sun dips low, painting the horizon in shades of pink and gold. You indulge in fish and chips from a nearby takeaway and dine alfresco while watching pelicans dive for dinner. You end the evening with a moonlit stroll, footprints trailing behind you in the damp sand.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-20
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$45-70
Coffee$3-5
🍷Bottle of wine$25-40
🛒Groceries for a week$120-180

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and access to national parks
  • Relaxed, friendly atmosphere with strong seafood and produce culture
  • Compact CBD with walkable streets and oceanfront views
  • Good base for day trips to Porongurup and Torndirrup areas
  • Smaller nightlife scene compared with larger cities
  • Some attractions require driving outside the town for full access
  • Limited high-end dining options compared to bigger metros
  • Can be windy along coastlines in certain seasons

Places to Visit in Albany

Visit one of these nice places.

The Gap, Torndirrup National Park

Towering sea cliffs and crashing waves framed by dramatic skies – ideal for wide-angle ocean photography.

Natural Bridge, Torndirrup National Park

A natural rock arch carved by the ocean, best captured at golden hour with blue water through the arch.

Mt Clarence Lookout

Panoramic views over Albany, the harbour, and the coastline—great for sunset shots.

Emu Point and Middleton Beach boardwalks

Long sandy beaches and calm bays for reflection shots, silhouettes at sunrise, and family moments.

Porongurup Range viewpoints

Granite summits and sweeping landscapes from various lookout trails, especially during the morning haze.

Culinary Guide

Food in Albany

Albany’s cuisine emphasizes fresh seafood, farm-to-table produce, and locally produced wines, with a laid-back coastal vibe that highlights seasonal flavors.

Albany Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Marron with lemon butter

A Western Australian freshwater crayfish often featured in local menus, typically pan-seared and finished with a bright lemon butter sauce.

Must-Try!

Seafood platter

A mix of local catches such as fish, prawns, and mussels showcasing the region’s seafood bounty.

Barramundi with greens

Flaky local white fish served with seasonal greens and a light sauce to let the fish shine.

Kangaroo steak

Herb-crusted or lightly grilled kangaroo, a lean option reflecting Aussie produce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Albany Farmers Market

Weekly market offering fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, bread, and prepared foods from local producers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Albany has a Mediterranean-like climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Sea breezes moderate temperatures on the coast, while inland areas can feel hotter in summer. Rain is most common in winter and spring, with plenty of sunny days year-round for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

G’day or hello is common; a casual, friendly approach is appreciated in both urban and rural areas.

Respect for space

Be polite in queues and quiet in residential areas; photography of people requires a quick consent check.

Safety Guide

Safety

Albany is generally safe for visitors. Standard precautions apply: watch for coastal cliffs and strong waves, protect yourself from sun exposure, and be aware of wildlife crossing roads in rural areas. Stay hydrated and secure valuables in crowded areas.

Tipping in Albany

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is common but not required.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cards and contactless payments; cash is also widely accepted, though some small venues may be card-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot days with sea breezes; pack sunscreen, hats, and water. Coastal walks are pleasant, but afternoons can be windy.

Autumn

Mild temperatures and fewer crowds; perfect for hiking and coastal photography as light softens.

Winter

Cool to mild with occasional rain; layered clothing and a rain jacket are useful for outdoor adventures.

Spring

Flowers and wildlife activity peak; comfortable temps and vibrant colors along trails and coastlines.

Nightlife Guide

Albany at Night

Albany’s nightlife is relaxed and family-friendly, with pubs, wine bars, and casual eateries near the waterfront. Live music and trivia nights are common at local venues, and there are occasional seasonal events and markets that spill into the evening. Expect a laid-back vibe rather than a party scene, with most venues closing around midnight or earlier on weeknights.

Hiking in Albany

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Porongurup Range National Park Trails

Varied hikes through ancient granite and forest with rewarding views from Castle Rock and granite outcrops.

The Gap and Natural Bridge Trails

Coastal trails around Torndirrup National Park offering dramatic ocean scenery and photo opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Albany by plane.

Albany Regional Airport

Local airport serving domestic flights and connections to Perth; a short drive from the city center.

Perth International Airport

Major international and domestic hub with frequent connections to Albany via air and land options; useful for longer trips or international travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Albany’s central area is fairly walkable with a pleasant coastal route. The waterfront and CBD are easy to navigate on foot, though some scenic viewpoints and parks require short drives or longer hikes. Expect gentle hills in parts and longer distances when moving between outer beaches and nature reserves.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families settle in Albany due to good schools, beaches, and outdoor amenities.

Retirees

A comfortable, slower pace with access to healthcare and coastal living attracts retirees.

Tourists

Visitors seek coastal scenery, wildlife, and nature-based activities throughout the year.

Indigenous Communities

Albany is part of a region with rich Aboriginal history and ongoing cultural heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Common in parks and oval grounds during season; many locals participate in casual games.

Surfing

Coastal spots offer surfing opportunities for various levels, especially near better wave breaks.

Australian Rules Football

A popular local pastime with community clubs and matches on weekends.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate in the town center, with occasional congestion near peak travel times. Public transport is limited, so many visitors rely on a car or rideshare for day trips to national parks and beaches.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Albany.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many venues offer vegetarian mains or sides; ask for veggie-focused dishes or substitutions using local produce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Albany has a regional hospital and several medical centers with GP and specialist services. For major emergencies, there are transfer routes to Perth or other larger hubs, but routine care is widely available locally. Pharmacists are plentiful and can assist with common ailments.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide