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Western Australia is a land of contrasts, from the rugged Kimberley coastline to the green forests of the southwest. With its dramatic landscapes, it’s no wonder the state is a popular destination for photographers. In this blog post, I’ll share some of my favorite Instagrammable spots in Western Australia. These are all places that I’ve photographed myself, and I can guarantee they’ll make your feed look amazing.
So, whether you’re planning a trip to Western Australia or just looking for inspiration, read on for my top picks of endless opportunities for your Instagram feed!
1. Shark Bay
Where: Francois Peron National Park & Shell Beach
When: April to September
Shark Bay is a stunning coastal area in Western Australia and an excellent stop on a Perth to Exmouth road trip.
Explore the pristine beauty of Shell Beach, where billions of tiny shells create a surreal landscape of shimmering white sands and crystal-clear waters. As you stroll along this unique beach, you’ll feel like you’re walking on a bed of pearls.
Francois Peron National Park has a rugged wilderness where red sand dunes meet turquoise bays. Relax in the natural hot tubs at Peron Homestead and get that great shot!
Insider Tip: Avoid October to March as it’s hot and windy, although perfect for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
2. Cape Le Grand National Park
Where: Lucky Bay & Hellfire Bay
When: Summer
Lucky Bay and Hellfire Bay are two of the most beautiful beaches in Western Australia. They are both in Cape Le Grand National Park, near Esperance, about 750km southeast of Perth.
Lucky Bay has squeaky white sand, turquoise water, and friendly kangaroos. These furry friends are often seen sunbathing on the beach and are tame and approachable.
Hellfire Bay is a more secluded beach but it is just as beautiful as Lucky Bay. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is soft and white. There are also some great rock formations to explore.
Insider Tip: Arrive as early as possible for the best chance to see the kangaroos on the beach at Lucky Bay.
3. Collie
Where: Black Diamond Lake & Honeymoon Pool
When: Sunny Day
Honeymoon Pool and Black Diamond Lake are two of the most popular Instagram locations in the Collie River region of Western Australia. Honeymoon Pool is a swimming hole in Wellington National Park, with crystal-clear water surrounded by native trees.
Black Diamond Lake, a disused coal mine site near the town of Collie, has been filled with water, creating a pit lake. The draw is the stunning green water and incredible reflections.
Insider Tip: The green color at Black Diamond Lake is only visible on sunny days.
4. Broome
Where: Roebuck Bay & Cable Beach
When: Dry Season (May to October)
With its expansive tidal flats and rich birdlife, Roebuck Bay is a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Witness the incredible Staircase to the Moon phenomenon, where the moon’s reflection creates an ethereal “staircase” across the tidal flats during certain lunar cycles.
Also in Broome, Cable Beach beckons with its iconic beauty. Stretching for over 22 kilometers, this beach is a paradise for beach goers and sunset chasers.
The fiery sunsets painting the skies over Western Australia’s Cable Beach are legendary, casting a warm glow over the Indian Ocean.
Insider Tip: Enjoy the sunset with a camel ride along Cable Beach.
5. Karijini National Park
Where: Joffre Gorge & Hamersley Gorge
When: Dry Season
Joffre Gorge and Hamersley Gorge in Karijini National Park are two of the most beautiful gorges in Western Australia. They have stunning scenery, including towering cliffs, waterfalls, and rock pools.
Joffre Gorge is a curved seasonal waterfall forming a natural amphitheater. The lookout has views over the gorge, or take the walking trail to the base of the falls.
Hamersley Gorge is spectacular, with striped bands of colored rock reaching into the “spa pool.” This gorge is the most remote in the park, but a newly sealed access road to the lower car park and lookout makes access easier. Take the 400m trail down to the gorge floor to cool off in the beautiful water hole.
Insider Tip: The road into Karijini National Park via Bunjima Drive (West) is now sealed.
6. Walpole
Where: Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk
When: Year-round
The Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk provides the chance to walk through the treetops of some of the tallest trees in the world. The walk is 600 meters long and is suspended 40 meters above the ground, with stunning views of giant trees and the surrounding forest.
Insider Tip: Take photos from different angles, including looking up at the trees from the forest floor (on the free Ancient Empire Walk).
7. Denmark
Where: Elephant Rocks & Greens Pool
When: Summer (if you want to swim)
Elephant Rocks and Greens Pool are Denmark’s most popular Instagram locations. Elephant Rocks is a group of large granite boulders that resemble elephants looking out to sea. Greens Pool is a beautiful, calm swimming spot with turquoise water and white sand surrounded by huge granite boulders.
Elephant Rocks and Greens Pool are in William Bay National Park, one of the few parks where entry is free.
Insider Tip: Walk down the stairs and through the narrow split in the rocks to Elephant Cove, an unspoiled beautiful beach.
8. Albany
Where: The Gap & Natural Bridge
When: Year-round
The Natural Bridge and The Gap are two coastal formations in Torndirrup National Park near Albany, Western Australia.
The Natural Bridge has been carved by the powerful waves of the Southern Ocean over countless years.
The Gap is a deep, rugged cliff face eroded by the same relentless waves. Visitors can witness the ocean’s raw power as it surges and crashes against the cliffs, sending plumes of spray into the air.
Insider Tip: While in Torndirrup National Park, visit other stunning Instagram locations like Salmon Beach.
9. Kalbarri
Where: Kalbarri National Park
When: April to November
Kalbarri National Park is an Instagrammers paradise. Every turn offers a stunning snapshot waiting to be captured and shared on the gram. The vibrant red cliffs contrasted against the waters of the Murchison River create a palette of colors that’s simply stunning.
The iconic Nature’s Window, a natural rock arch framing the breathtaking river, is popular with photographers along with the Kalbarri Skywalk.
Insider Tip: Visit June to August for wildflowers and September and October for humpback whales.
10. Purnululu National Park
Where: Bungle Bungle Range
When: May to August (May is the quietest)
The Bungle Bungle Range within Purnululu National Park in Western Australia has endless photo opportunities. Its unique beehive-shaped sandstone formations, with intricate orange and black stripes, create a spectacular landscape that beckons to be captured from every angle.
In this UNESCO World Heritage site, you can hike through narrow gorges and stand in awe beneath towering cliffs. The park’s remote location adds to its allure, creating a sense of adventure as you admire the incredible geological formations shaped over millions of years.
Insider Tip: Access in the wet season is only available by air.
11. Pink Lake (Hutt Lagoon)
Where: Near Port Gregory
When: Any sunny day
Pink Lake is a saltwater lagoon famous for its unique pink color caused by microorganisms like Dunaliella salina that thrive in the salty conditions of the lake. These microorganisms produce carotenoid pigments, including beta-carotene, which give the water its pink hue, especially when the conditions are just right.
The vibrant pink color of the lake contrasts beautifully with blue skies and the natural landscape, creating visually stunning photo opportunities.
Pink Lake is one of the most popular Instagram locations in Western Australia.
Insider Tip: Visit in the middle of the day for the brightest pink color.
12. Ningaloo Reef
Where: Coral Bay
When: March to October
Coral Bay is a bucket list destination on Western Australia’s Coral Coast, known for its stunning natural beauty and abundant marine life. The clear turquoise water provides a beautiful backdrop with the vibrant colors of the ocean and the white sandy beaches.
The Ningaloo Reef, accessible from the beach at Coral Bay, is a World Heritage-listed site and one of the best places in the world for snorkeling and diving. Capture underwater shots of colorful coral reefs, diverse marine life, and interactions with marine creatures like whale sharks and manta rays.
This small town is one of our favorite road trips.
Insider Tip: If you want to add hikes and gorges, visit Exmouth instead.
13. Hamelin Bay
Where: Near Augusta
When: Early morning
Hamelin Bay is on the southwest coast near Margaret River. The bay is renowned for its resident population of graceful stingrays. These gentle creatures frequently glide through the shallows, creating a remarkable photo opportunity for visitors to interact with them in their natural habitat.
The best time to see the stingrays at Hamelin Bay is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (roughly November to April). Arrive early – before 9am is best when the water is calm (an easterly wind).
While stingrays are accustomed to human presence, it’s important to treat them and their environment respectfully by not touching or disturbing them.
Insider Tip: Stay at the caravan park opposite so you don’t have an early morning drive.
14. Yallingup
Where: Injidup Natural Spa
When: Summer
Injidup Natural Spa near Yallingup (in the Margaret River region) promises an Instagram-worthy photo with turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean cascading over ancient rock formations, creating a picturesque natural spa.
The spa is accessible via a short walk from the car park near Injidup Beach. Aside from the spa, the surrounding coastline has breathtaking views of rugged cliffs and the Indian Ocean.
Check the tide timings before heading to the spa to make the most of your visit. Low tide is generally the best time to experience the natural pools comfortably, as high tide can be dangerous.
Insider Tip: Another perfect spot for Instagram photos is the Aquarium, a swimming spot between Smiths Beach and Canal Rocks.
15. Rottnest Island
Where: Off the Coast of Perth
When: Summer
One of Rottnest Island’s main draws is the endearing quokkas, adorable marsupials that make delightful Instagram-worthy subjects. As you explore further, the island unveils stunning beaches with turquoise waters, historic buildings, and lighthouses that add a touch of charm.
Taking a quokka selfie involves capturing a moment of connection with these friendly creatures, showcasing their charming smiles and inquisitive nature. However, remember that while these encounters can be fun, respecting the quokkas and their natural behavior is paramount.
Insider Tip: Take a day trip from Perth in summer to snorkel in some of the clearest waters in WA.
16. Nambung National Park
Where: The Pinnacles
When: Year-round
The Pinnacles are scattered limestone formations rising from the golden sands, offering a surreal and photogenic experience. As you explore this ancient desert wonder, you feel like it belongs to another planet.
A short drive to the coastal town of Lancelin presents another striking contrast – the rolling Lancelin sand dunes. These colossal dunes, towering against the blue sky, invite thrill-seekers to try sandboarding adventures.
Carry on to the nearby town of Jurien Bay to have photo opportunities with the rare sea lions that live off the coast.
Insider Tip: The golden hues of sunset or sunrise create the most captivating photos.
17. Busselton
Where: Busselton Jetty
When: Year-round
Stretching into the clear waters of Geographe Bay, Busselton Jetty is the Southern Hemisphere’s longest wooden pier, a testament to engineering ingenuity and preservation. At the jetty’s end, the Underwater Observatory offers a glimpse into the underwater world.
The red passenger train and the beautiful blue visitor center provide stunning backdrops.
Insider Tip: Have a beer at Shelter Brewing Co. before or after visiting the jetty.
18. Hyden
Where: Wave Rock
When: Year-round
In the Wheatbelt region, Wave Rock is one of Australia’s most striking natural landmarks.
This iconic rock formation is shaped like a tall, breaking ocean wave and is approximately 15 meters high and 110 meters long. Wave Rock’s color patterns, which result from chemical weathering, enhance the wave illusion, presenting a visual treat.
Insider Tip: Wear insect repellent in spring and summer, as flies are awful.
19. El Questro Wilderness Park
Where: Emma Gorge
When: Dry Season (May to September)
Emma Gorge in El Questro Wilderness Park in the Kimberley is a destination that offers a unique experience.
The gorge has stunning natural beauty, with towering cliffs, crystal-clear rock pools, and cascading waterfalls creating a picturesque backdrop.
As you walk along the hiking trails, you’ll discover countless photo opportunities, from the vibrant hues of the flora and fauna to the majestic views of the surrounding landscape.
Insider Tip: Visit early morning.
20. Avon Valley
Where: Northam
When: April to November
Book a hot air balloon ride from Northam for a spectacular experience. Floating gently above the picturesque countryside, you will be treated to panoramic views of rolling hills, lush greenery, and meandering rivers.
The peacefulness of the early morning ascent and the breathtaking beauty of the valley below create a truly magical and unforgettable experience (and photos!).
Insider Tip: The least chance of your flight being canceled due to weather is mid-April to late May.
21. John Forrest National Park
Where: Swan View Tunnel
When: Year-round
Visiting the historic Swan View Tunnel in John Forrest National Park is an experience that will transport you back in time.
This tunnel is a testament to the region’s rich history and pioneering spirit. As you enter the tunnel’s darkness, you can almost hear the echoes of the trains that once passed through, carrying goods and connecting communities.
Insider Tip: After capturing the moment, walk further along the trail for stunning views over the city and another Instagram-worthy shot.
22. Perth
Where: Kings Park
When: Year-round
Kings Park is one of the best Instagram spots in Perth with panoramic views of the city skyline, Elizabeth Quay, the Swan River, and South Perth.
Insider Tip: It’s the perfect spot for a sunset picnic and photo opportunity.
23. Blue Boat Shed
Where: Crawley, Perth
When: Year-round
The iconic Kings Park, built in the 1930s, is a Perth icon and adorns many Instagram feeds. It is just below Kings Park on the Swan River along Mounts Bay Road.
Insider Tip: Catch the bus, take an Uber, or park in a designated car park only. Do not attempt to cross the busy road.
24. Perth Street Art
Where: Perth, Freemantle & Leederville
When: Year-round
Perth is not only known for its stunning landscapes but also for its flourishing street art scene. As you wander through the city’s streets, you’ll find a kaleidoscope of colors and creativity adorning building walls, lane ways, and public spaces.
Take photos of the iconic “Wolf Lane,” where captivating artworks intertwine with charming cafes and bars. Or if you find yourself in Leederville, find the lady with the pink hair!
Insider Tip: Some of the best locations are in the lane ways.
25. City Skyline
Where: South Perth
When: Year-round
For a picture-perfect selfie with Perth’s city skyline in the background, head across the river to South Perth. From here, the views across the river to Elizabeth Quay are beautiful.
Insider Tip: Have dinner at one of the restaurants in South Perth, then take a photo of the city lights shimmering on the water.
26. East Perth
Where: Optus Stadium & Matagarup Bridge
When: Year-round
Visiting Optus Stadium and the nearby Matagarup Bridge is a must for those wanting to capture the city’s modern attractions.
Optus Stadium, a state-of-the-art multipurpose venue, hosts various events, from football matches to concerts.
Close to the stadium lies the iconic Matagarup Bridge, an architectural marvel connecting East Perth to the stadium precinct.
Insider Tip: Visit the nearby Crown complex for more Instagram locations.
27. Instagram Spots for Flowers
To pretty up your feed, add some flowers! If you’re in Perth around October/ November, the Jacaranda trees in South Perth and Applecross will be in bloom.
Spring is a beautiful time in Perth, with displays of hundreds of tulips at Araluen Botanical Park (visit Serpentine Falls at the same time). Or head to one of the orchards in the Perth Hills, like S&R Orchard.
Best Photo Spots in Western Australia
Western Australia is vast and has hundreds of stunning Instagram spots waiting to be snapped. These are some of my favorite locations, but there are plenty more to explore. So, head out of Perth on a bucket list road trip and get your Instagram game on.
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Wendy White
Wendy White is the founder of Western Australia Expert and lives in WA with her family. She started the site to promote the beauty of Western Australia and works directly with numerous WA Tour Operators, supporting small businesses.
