Busselton Hotels - things to do and attractions
Things to Do in Busselton: Busselton Hotels travel guide on the best things to do in Busselton.
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Top things to do and Attractions in Busselton:
Here at Busselton Hotels we’ve put together a list of great things to do in Busselton. Being voted as Western Australia’s top tourist town three times in a row, means that this town has much to offer. Below are just some things you can expect to see and do in Busselton. Best of all this great town is only about a 3 hour drive south of the Western Australian capital – Perth and on the way to the famous town and surf beach of Margaret River.
Top things to do in Busselton:
Busselton Hotels - Busselton Jetty
Busselton is home to the longest wooden jetty (pier) in the southern hemisphere stretching almost 2 km out to sea. Construction of the jetty began in 1853 and was continually extended until the 1960s when it reached its current length of 1841 metres.
It was closed to shipping in 1972, and maintenance was discontinued for a time.
It has since been restored, and is now the site of an underwater observatory and an interpretive centre.
The current Wonnerup House was built in 1859 by the Layman family (original settlers). The original building built between 1837-1841 was destroyed by fire in 1858. The complex also includes the Dairy and Kitchen which predate the main house (and survived the fire of 1858 because they were separate buildings). Over the road are the Teacher’s House (1885) and School (1873). In 1837 the Laymen family were afraid to leave the house because of the danger of being attacked by the local Aboriginal people. George Layman left the house on 22 February 1841 and was speared to death by Aboriginals.
St Marys Church of England
St Marys Church of England was built in 1844–1845 and claims to be the oldest stone church in Western Australia. John Molloy and John Garrett Bussell were the main forces behind the construction of the church. The church was not consecrated until 1848 and it was another decade before a clergyman could be attracted to the region.Alongside the church is a graveyard; some of the graves date back to 1841 – before the church was built.
Weld Hall located on the corner of Queen and Adelaide St was built in 1881. In August 2001, the Western Australian government announced that Weld Hall had been listed on the State’s Register of Heritage Places in recognition of its significant historical and cultural value to the local community.
Augusta-Busselton Heritage Trail Retraces the Pioneer Route from Augusta to the Vasse taken by the original settlers in the 1800s. The trail is over 100 km long, starting at the jetty and finishing in Augusta.
Here’s the full list of things to do in Busselton:
Artgeo Cultural Complex – Old Courthouse
Artgeo Cultural Complex – Old Courthouse is situated at the northern end of Queen Street in Busselton, a stones throw from the famous Busselton Jetty. It is housed in one of the oldest buildings in Western Australia. Built in 1856 and comprising of gaol cells, stables, sergeants quarters and courtroom it has been an arts centre since 1975.
The South West Art Gallery operates as both a public gallery exhibiting touring exhibitions of Western Australian contemporary art and also as a commercial gallery showcasing the work of South West artists and artisans.
The Courthouse Arts Complex offers studio space, exhibitions of community arts, outdoor performances and workshops. A number of community arts organisations also operate from the complex. The building is on the State Heritage listing as a significant site in Western Australian history.
Ballarat Engine
The Ballarat Engine was Western Australia’s first steam locomotive which now sits proudly on display in Victoria Square, Busselton. Train enthusiasts will enjoy reading about the history of the engine, which played a significant role in the town’s thriving timber industry in the late 1800s.
Children will be impressed by the vintage train that is housed under a wooden gazebo. Spend some time in Victoria Square relaxing under the giant native trees. Pay your respects at the Anzac War Memorial, built to commemorate the servicemen and women who lost their lives in the World Wars.
See the Ballarat Engine in conjunction with a visit to the Busselton Heritage Park and Trail which includes various other points of interest along the way. The Ballarat Engine is located opposite the Busselton Visitor Centre. Busselton is a two and a half hour drive south of Perth.
Busselton Beachfront
The picturesque Busselton Beachfront is home to the longest timber pier in the Southern Hemisphere, Busselton Jetty. The beachfront has a vast array of attractions to keep you entertained. Visit the Interpretive Centre at the shore end of the jetty for an insight into Busselton Jetty’s history or make the 1.8 kilometre walk down the jetty to the spectacular underwater observatory. It is a unique experience not to be missed.
For scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, the Busselton Jetty is regarded as Australia’s best artificial reef and is an impressive sight to see. Fishermen will love the novelty of being able to fish 1,800 metres out to sea without having to take out a boat.
If time permits let your hair down at the entertainment park and waterslide next to the jetty, take a dip in the crystal blue calm ocean and enjoy a meal or snack at one of the highly regarded restaurants on the beachfront.
Busselton is located just two and a half hours drive south of Perth.
Busselton Jetty Experience
Extending almost two kilometres out over Geographe Bay, the heritage listed Busselton Jetty Experience is the longest timber-piled jetty (pier) in the Southern Hemisphere, situated in the seaside resort town of Busselton.
The 145 year old jetty has been ravaged by both fire and cyclone. It exists today thanks to the support of the local community and the thousands of visitors who choose to stroll its length.
The boatshed style Interpretive Centre, 50 metres offshore, allows you to glimpse the jetty’s rich past and exciting future in the Heritage Museum. Entry is free, and along with exhibits of history, the marine environment and art, the centre houses a unique range of giftware and souvenirs.
The Underwater Observatory is quickly becoming one of Western Australia’s major eco tourism attractions. Located 1.8 kilometres towards the end of the jetty, the Underwater Observatory has been designed to accommodate up to 40 people at one time. Descending 12 metres to the ocean floor, you can view the vividly-coloured tropical and sub-tropical corals and marine life through 11 viewing windows, located at various levels within the observation chamber. Tours operate hourly, every day of the year (except Christmas Day) – weather permitting. Bookings are essential.
Heritage Park and Trail
Busselton Hotels - Heritage Park and Trail
The Heritage Park and Trail in Busselton is a self guided easy walk through the charming coastal town providing information about the town’s rich and colourful heritage. Visit significant landmarks such as the Ballarat Steam Engine, the first steam locomotive used in Western Australia, St Mary’s Church which is the oldest stone church in the state and Pioneer Cemetery, the final resting place of many of the regions early settlers.
Commence your tour at the Busselton Visitor Centre where you can collect the free trail map and brochure, before crossing the road to begin your walk. The brochure provides fascinating information about the relevant landmarks along the trail.
Choose from a number of cafes and restaurants along the walk to enjoy a bite to eat or refreshing drink.
The trail passes a number of artistic sculptures displayed throughout the town along with the Aboriginal Interpretive Garden. Make sure you bring a camera as there are countless photo opportunities along the walk.
Busselton is a two and a half hour drive south of Perth.
Ludlow Tuart Forest
The Ludlow Tuart Forest provides a unique opportunity to enjoy a leisurely drive through the last remaining natural tall tuart forest in the world. Marvel at the beauty of these rare ancient giants that are estimated to be over 300 years old.
Take a pleasant walk along one of several walk trails within the forest to experience the peaceful harmony of the natural environment. Look out for the intriguing native animals and bird life that have made the forest their home.
Enjoy lunch at the picnic facilities set against a picturesque backdrop of the magnificent giant Tuarts. You will be fascinated by one of the rarest ecosystems left on earth that has so far survived the test of time, and the threats of mining.
The forest is located three hours drive south of Perth and just a short 10 minute drive to the charming coastal town of Busselton.
Nautical Lady Entertainment World
The Nautical Lady Entertainment World is an outdoor recreation complex situated at the base of the Historic Railway Jetty at Busselton’s central beachfront. The site was formerly used as Timber Marshalling yards from 1910 to 1966, and since then had fallen into a poor state of disrepair.
The Nautical Lady opened at Christmas in 1981 and in 1983 the complex doubled in size and now offers eight in-ground, full size trampolines and six exciting ‘Le Mans’ racing cars on a cambered track. Because the cars are so fast, age and size limit applies.
The complex also features seawater fed giant and mini waterslides, 18 holes of mini-golf, an indoor playground, a lookout tower offering great views of the new Busselton Jetty, a spook room and fantasy castle, mini-jeeps and a kiosk for coffee, snacks and the deliciously famous Simmo’s ice-creams. Spectators are encouraged and admitted free.
The Nautical Lady was designed with the family in mind, a great place to spend time by the sea.
Old Court House Complex
Examine the extensive selection of local arts and craft at the Old Court House Complex whilst exploring the oldest building in Busselton. Wander around the 1854 Courthouse and Gaol to see how the early settlers were incarcerated. Take your time checking out the courtroom, gaol cells, stable and sergeant’s quarters, where you can learn all about the history of the early legal system and the punishments imposed.
The courthouse is now also home to the Arts Complex and ArtGeo Gallery which exhibits the talented work of artists in the region. View the extensive permanent collection and visiting exhibitions before paying a visit to the Gallery shop to look at the arts and crafts on sale from these gifted artists. Check out the events schedule to see if there is a performance or art workshop of interest on show whilst you are in Busselton.
The Centre is open daily between 10am and 4pm; however, it is worth noting that the ArtGeo Gallery is closed on Wednesdays. The Old Courthouse Complex is located in Busselton three hours drive south of Perth.
St Mary’s Anglican Church
St Mary’s Anglican Church in Busselton is the oldest stone church in the state. Built by the early settlers in the 1840s this beautiful historic building was the primary place of worship for the Vasse community. A visit to the charming old church is a must. Take your time to truly capture the beauty of this renovated building.
Wander around the graveyard and read the inscriptions on many of the settlers’ tombstones which are still in their original state. If your visit falls on a day of worship the congregation welcomes you to attend their church service.
The church played an important role in the development of the town of Busselton. Learn more about its significance as you explore and read up on its history.
Take a walk along the Vasse River starting at church and take in some of the most interesting attractions Busselton has to offer. A walk to the famous Busselton Jetty and a swim at one of the white sandy beaches is highly recommended. Busselton is a three hour drive south of Perth.
The Busselton Museum
The Busselton Museum is housed in the town’s Old Butter Factory and is the largest museum outside of the Perth metropolitan area. Allow as much time as possible to meander through the buildings of the museum to examine the vast array of historical collections on offer.
The museum provides an insight into the history of Busselton and significant events that helped shape the town. Walk through the old group settlement home and school to get an idea of how life would have been for settlers in the 19th century. Examine the antiques, photographs and furniture from that era. Listen to old records on the gramophone and marvel at the beautiful garments worn over 100 years ago.
Visit the boiler room and creamery to see machinery used to produce butter and cheese. Time your visit during Historic Weekend in January and you can experience live butter making demonstrations and sheep shearing.
The museum is open every day of the week except for Tuesdays, and can be found in the heart of Busselton, a charming coastal town just two and a half hours south of Perth.
Vasse River and Rotary Park
Vasse River and Rotary Park is a picturesque setting for a picnic. Situated on the banks of the Vasse River, it’s easy to forget you are in the heart of Busselton as you relax in the tranquil surroundings.
Relax under the shade of the trees on a rug or sit at the tables and chairs provided. Enjoy a picnic lunch or barbeque, while the children are kept entertained in the large playground.
Read the interesting historic information displayed in the park and study the interactive art pieces on display. Standing on the wooden jetty protruding into the river is a great vantage point from which to watch the multitude of bird life.
There is a lovely walk and cycle track from Rotary Park, which follows the river as it winds through the town of Busselton to the ocean.
The coastal town of Busselton is a three and a half hour drive south of Perth.
Wonnerup Scenic Drive – Busselton
The scenic drive is approximately 22 kilometres and takes from one and a half to three hours.
First settled by the Layman family in 1834 it is an important surviving example of early farm pioneering. There is a magnificent homestead (1859) and earlier house (1837) which was later converted into a dairy, plus a kitchen, stables and blacksmiths, teacher house and school. These buildings have all been restored with many original items and furniture on display. Don’t miss this National Trust property with its beautiful gardens. Open daily from 1000 – 1600 hours (except Christmas Day and Good Friday). Entry fee applies.
Nearby is the Layman picnic area where a walk trail will take you on a short walk into the forest to see a recently re-constructed old saw pit, from where the oldest Tuart trees (about 500 years old) can be seen.
The Tuart forest extends several kilometres along Tuart Drive beyond the Wonnerup cross roads towards Bunbury. Take a leisurely drive through the Ludlow Tuart Forest and capture the beauty of these rare giants of the forest. This is the only natural stand of tuart left in the world, so enjoy the many picnic areas and forest walk trails and give yourself the opportunity to soak up the relaxing and peaceful setting.
On reaching the end of the tourist drive, double back and return via the coast road (Layman Road) which passes Wonnerup House and historic Lockville House (private home). Layman Road provides an excellent view of the Wonnerup wetlands. The wetlands have been listed by the Ramsar Convention as “Wetlands of International Importance” and offer views of prolific birdlife. The road continues past Wonnerup Beach where sightings of wild dolphins are common and ends at the Port Geographe marina and canal development before returning to central Busselton.
Yoganup Playground
Yoganup Playground is an award winning adventure playground for children of all ages on the foreshore of Busselton. Children will be eager to try out the climbing tower and curly slide. Combining imaginative play with old fashioned fun, the playground will keep children entertained for hours.
Situated on a large expanse of grass there is plenty of room to kick a football around or fly a kite when the wind is suitable. Prepare a barbeque while the children play and eat under one of the shaded gazebos in the park. Whilst the playground will entertain for hours, it is not shaded, so ensure you bring along plenty of sunscreen for the children.
Take a short walk to one of several coffee shops along the foreshore for a well deserved coffee and ice cream for the children. The cafes also offer a selection of takeaway food that you can take back to the playground.
Yognanup Playground is a two minute walk to the Busselton Jetty. Busselton is a two and a half hour drive south of Perth.
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