Remember those fun family holidays where you and your siblings hung beachside for days on end, toes sandy and hair crisp from salt? While some holiday destinations have changed a little since your childhood, there are still a few quaint coastal hamlets in the south west that will deliver a dose of nostalgia. Not quite meriting the statement of 'town', these beachside locations offer abundant fishing, secluded accommodation and the feeling of being away from it all. Don’t forget to pack the cards!
Capel and Peppermint Grove
The majestic tuart trees surrounding Capel are part of the last remaining naturally occurring tuart forest in the world. Enjoy the serenity of the short drive through the forest to Peppermint Grove Beach, a quiet seaside hamlet ideal for a secluded getaway. The clear waters of Geographe Bay are perfect for swimming, diving and fishing. Nearby Capel is known for its high quality production of wine and dairy products. Visit a cellar door or enjoy the local produce at a winery restaurant.
Myalup and Binningup
The golden beaches of the small towns of m and Binningup offer a secluded beach escape. Myalup lies at the southern end of Yalgorup National Park and its long sandy beach is accessible to four-wheel-drives. The park is known for its elongated lakes, beautiful tuart and peppermint woodlands and, above all, for the microscopic communities that reside in Lake Clifton and form thrombolites; some of the earth’s earliest life forms. Binningup beach is protected by an offshore reef and provides swimming, fishing and snorkelling, plus the opportunity to four-wheel drive on the beach.
Hamelin Bay
This caravan park and boat ramp right on the beach are straight out of your memories. Campers set up under the shady Peppermint trees, just a minute’s walk from the clear, cool ocean, while some of the cabins have ocean views. The beach is one of the prettiest in the south west, and the resident stingrays that swim over the toes of wading visitors are a daily activity.
Peaceful Bay
Located just 30 kilometres east of Walpole, the ocean water here is perfect for swimming and snorkelling and a fantastic spot to do some fishing. This area is bordered by the Bibbulmun Track, ideal for those wanting to take a hike or a leisurely walk, and during spring the sand dunes are carpeted with stunning coloured wildflowers. Four wheel drive tracks grant access to nearby national parks. Campsites and chalets are perfect for family holidays.
Windy Harbour
Wind harbour gets its name due to being one of the only safe, protected areas along an otherwise rugged stretch of coast. The settlement is nestled at the base of large cliffs. Families usually spend school holidays here, fishing, hiking, swimming and boating.