Stretching almost two kilometres into Geographe Bay, the Busselton Jetty is one of the most iconic sights on the journey to Margaret River — and a favourite stop to stretch your legs and breathe the sea air.
A Record-Breaking Structure
At 1,841 metres, Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. First built in 1865 to service the region’s growing timber trade, it has been extended, weathered storms and survived fire and cyclone over more than 150 years, becoming a much-loved local landmark and a monument to the area’s maritime history.
Underwater Wonders
At the jetty’s far end, an Underwater Observatory descends eight metres below the surface, revealing one of the largest artificial reefs in Australia. Through its viewing windows you can see hundreds of species — corals, sponges, fish and other marine life — that have colonised the old timber piles, all without getting wet. A little train runs the length of the jetty for those who’d rather ride than walk.
The Gateway to Wine Country
Busselton sits on the shores of calm, swimmable Geographe Bay, marking the point where the drive south starts to feel like a holiday. It’s the classic first stop on the way from Perth — a place to shake off the road before the vineyards begin. See what else the trip holds in our guide to the Perth to Margaret River journey.
Whales in Season
Between June and December, Geographe Bay becomes a nursery and resting spot for migrating humpback whales, and the bay is renowned as one of the best whale-watching locations in the region — occasionally visible right from the jetty.
More Than a Photo Stop
Around the jetty, the town of Busselton and neighbouring Dunsborough offer relaxed cafes, swimming beaches and a stroll along the foreshore. The bay’s calm, sheltered waters are ideal for a paddle on a warm day, and the timber walk out to the observatory — nearly two kilometres each way — is a genuine leg-stretcher after time in the vehicle. Interpretive signs along the way tell the jetty’s remarkable survival story.
A Perfect Stretch Stop
On our tour, the jetty is a lovely place to pause, walk out over the turquoise water and take in the view before continuing into wine country. It’s a simple pleasure that sets the tone for the days ahead — the moment the trip stops feeling like a drive and starts feeling like a holiday. Read more about the rest of the drive in our guide to the journey south from Perth.
Ready for the real thing? Our small-group 3-day Margaret River wine tour from Perth includes six wineries, cave and wildflower tours, cheese tastings, meals and accommodation — from $850 per person. Call 1300 456 788 or book online today.
