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King George Sound

Natural Attractions

King George Sound

One of Western Australia’s most spectacular harbours, King George Sound protects the historic city of Albany. This large bay with sandy beaches, cliffs and granite outcrops offers excellent whale watching and diving. Between July and October Southern right and Humpback whales are often spotted. Take a whale watching cruise to get up close to these giants of the ocean, and you might also see dolphins and seals. King George Sound is a popular dive location. There are several interesting shipwrecks to explore including the former Australian navy warship HMAS Perth. The 133 metre long former guided missile destroyer was scuttled and now sits on the bottom of King George Sound, creating one of the state’s premier artificial reefs. Dive tours operate to the site or you can dive from a private boat with a permit. The fishing is top rate in King George Sound. Sign up for a fishing charter and you might catch Salmon, Herring, King George whiting, Pilchard, Leatherjacket, Tuna, Snapper and Shark. King George Sound stretches between Flinders Peninsula and Bald Head and harbours a number of small islands including Michaelmas, Breaksea, Seal and Mistaken Island. Albany is a 4.5 hours drive from Perth.

Albany WA

0.1 km away

Old Post Office

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Old Post Office

The Old Post Office is a distinctive historic building in the centre of Albany. The restored 1869 building has a twenty-five-metre clock tower that is visible from the Princess Royal Harbour. Be sure to photograph the oldest post office in Western Australia and enjoy checking out the heritage character of this unique building. While the inside of the building is not open to the public, the outside offers a great view of an intriguing structure worthy of stopping past. Discover more about the appealing town of Albany by participating in the Town Walk Heritage Trail, which commences on Stirling Terrace near the Old Post Office. Visit the old Albany Courthouse, the Royal George Hotel and the Argyle Buildings which are all well over 100 years old. Albany is a four-and-a-half-hour drive south of Perth and is the gateway to the southern region.

Albany WA

0.2 km away

Albany Courthouse

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Albany Courthouse

The foundation stone of the Albany Courthouse was laid on 29 December 1896. The Court House is a unique example of the work of that period, exhibiting masonry at its best. The two arched entrances and doorways are a lasting memorial to Mr Trott, who was responsible for their creation. The building continues to be the centre of justice within the Albany Region.

Albany WA

0.2 km away

Boatshed Sunday Markets, Albany — Image credit: Tourism WA

Agritourism

Albany Picnic Provisions Trail

Albany Picnic Provisions Trail is a self-drive journey providing access to your choice of locally grown seasonal produce for your picnic basket. Along this trail, you will meet the growers of fruit, vegetables, meat and seafood as well as wine and beer producers. You can start filling your picnic basket by visiting the town centre-based markets and gourmet retail outlets and then add to your provisions from the growers you meet along the way. The trail can be experienced in half a day, a whole day or be enjoyed over several days - the choice is yours! Fancy a riverside picnic or one by the beach? Maybe you would prefer to picnic on a grassy knoll with a rural outlook? This trail provides the opportunity to explore our Amazing South Coast and savour our bountiful produce at the same time. Enjoy!

Albany WA

0.3 km away

St Johns Church of England

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

St John's Anglican Church Albany

St John's Anglican Church was the first church consecrated in Western Australia. The consecration was performed by Bishop Short of Adelaide in 1848. In the aisle of the church are 22 centimetre thick blocks which were made in England. The church is surrounded by well kept lawns and gardens and holds regular services.

Albany WA

0.4 km away

a large light for lighthouse use on display — Image credit: WA Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Museum of the Great Southern

Museum of the Great Southern in Albany, Western Australia, offers tourists an immersive journey through the region's natural, social and cultural heritage, set against the stunning backdrop of Mamang Koort / Princess Royal Harbour. It showcases permanent and travelling exhibitions, a full-scale replica of the Brig Amity and engaging displays on Menang Noongar stories and the journeys of early European settlers. Visitors will find a blend of maritime history, indigenous culture and natural wonders that truly sets the museum apart. A replica of the Brig Amity brings 1826 settlement stories to life, while immersive exhibitions recount the role of Mokare, an intermediate between Noongar people and European explorers. The Eclipse gallery hosts rotating pop-up artworks and educational events that deepen meaning and inspire curiosity. The museum's prime harbour-side location places it near popular attractions such as the Albany Wind Farm, The Gap and Torndirrup National Park, offering a perfect cultural and natural exploring combination. Most spaces are wheelchair accessible, and a lift services the mezzanine gallery. The precinct is committed to preserving local heritage and offers curated programming that honours past and present. Housed within significant structures, including the original Residency and schoolroom, the venue weaves together stories across time. Discover more and plan a memorable visit today.

Albany WA

0.4 km away

Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum — Image credit: http://www.albany.asn.au/patricktaylorcottage.html

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum

Built prior to 1832, the Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum stands on the original Lot Two, of the first survey of the Albany town site and is shown on a map dated 1832. Now a museum, the cottage is one of the few examples of architecture of the military regime, two years prior to the establishment of the Swan River colony. One of the oldest buildings remaining in Albany, a section of the wattle and daub construction is exposed in one of the rooms and oak shingles are still visible under the corrugated iron roof. Over 2,000 items are on display, including furniture, glassware, china, clothing, utensils and photos from the Albany district.

Albany WA

0.5 km away

Albany Old Gaol Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Albany Convict Gaol and Museum

Albany Convict Gaol and Museum offers a fascinating look back to the era of convicts in the mid-1800s. Wander through the cell blocks reading the plaques about the colourful history of the gaol and gain an understanding of the difficulties experienced by the early settlers. Pay attention to the timber-lined cells which were used to house Aboriginal prisoners in the 1870s. They contain various carvings which are said to be Australia's oldest Aboriginal cell art. For the courageous, book yourself onto the night tour and keep an eye out for a ghost or two, who are said to haunt the gaol. The Albany Convict Gaol and Museum underwent an extensive restoration to return the buildings to their original appearance. It is now home to artefacts from the original settlers of Albany and the region's Aboriginal people, as well as relics from the First and Second World Wars. The museum is located in Albany, a 4.5-hour drive south of Perth. The historic coastal town offers a multitude of attractions, historical sites and a spectacular coastline to explore.

Albany WA

0.5 km away

The Albany Town Hall

Entertainment Venues

The Albany Town Hall

The Albany Town Hall is one of Western Australia's oldest and grandest historic buildings. Converted into a charming 310-seat regional theatre in 1983, it hosts a number of performances throughout the year. Located on the main street of Albany, four-and-a-half hours southeast of Perth, the theatre is renowned as the best venue of its type in Western Australia Be sure to check out the upcoming performances before arriving in Albany. The theatre offers an extremely enjoyable experience thanks to the comfortable plush velvet seating, state-of-the-art sound and the closeness to the stage. Watch out for the theatre's resident ghost! The coastal town of Albany offers a great selection of attractions for all tastes. Catch a glimpse of the humpback whales passing by on their migration south or visit the Brig Amity replica ship. If you have time, take a drive to the Stirling Ranges and climb Bluff Knoll or join one of the numerous walking trails in and around Albany including the Bibbulmun Track which travels 900 kilometres north to Kalamunda in the Perth foothills.

Albany WA

0.7 km away

Convoy Walk and Lookout

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Convoy Walk and Lookout

The Convoy Walk and Lookout on Mount Adelaide was officially opened on 1 November 2014. Generously funded by Wesfarmers, and secured by the RSL, the Convoy Walk leads to the Convoy Lookout with a view over King George Sound where troops gathered on ships before departing for the First World War. The walk contains 21 markers containing information about the ships in the First and Second Convoys, including the names and images of the troopships and escorts, and where they embarked troops. The lookout will include a shelter and interpretive material relating to the vessels in the convoy. An artwork titled Longing, Memory, Sight -by Arif Satar and Audrey Fernandes-Satar will mark the beginning of Convoy Walk. Inspired by a fragment of a letter a soldier sent to his loved one, it will consist of an aluminium sculpture placed on top of a granite plinth. The plinth will contain inscribed text obtained from original letters and postcards sent by Australian soldiers who departed in the 1914 Albany convoy to their loved ones during their deployment in the First World War. The Convoy Walk and Convoy Lookout are situated within the Albany Heritage Park.

Albany WA

0.9 km away

Walkway to Padre White Lookout

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Padre White Lookout

Padre White is a revered character in Albany's history. From 1916 to 1918, he served as an army chaplain with the 44th Battalion and, upon his return to Australia, delivered sermons in remembrance of locals who died in the First World War. In 1932, at dawn on 25 April, he led parishioners from St John's Church to the summit of Mount Clarence, the very site where so many gathered to watch the convoys depart in 1914. He also arranged a wreath to be cast into the sea to coincide with the ceremony. Today the Padre White Lookout is the region's most visited lookout and serves as an enduring place of reflection: a lasting monument to Ernest White and Australia's first dawn service.

Albany WA

0.9 km away

Point King Lighthouse and Cottage Ruins

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Point King Lighthouse and Cottage Ruins

Point King Lighthouse, located on the north shore entrance to Princess Royal Harbour, was the first navigational light for the port of Albany and the second lighthouse built on Western Australia's coastline. In 1857 the British Government offered to erect two lighthouses in Albany, one on Breaksea Island and the other on Point King, if the local government agreed to meet the running costs. The P&O Steamship company and other passenger ships greatly appreciated the idea of these new lighthouses and so the construction went ahead. The prefabricated lights arrived on 9 June and the building started later that year. The lights shone for the first time on 1 January 1858, with William Hill as the light keeper. These positions changed hands quickly, and with inexperienced light keepers, fell into disrepair. This was soon remedied when Samuel Mitchell was appointed to the position in 1867 and held it until 1903 when he was replaced by John Reddin. Reddin was the last resident light keeper because from July 1911 the Port Pilot Crew went and trimmed the light each night. In 1913 power was installed so it became automatic. It deteriorated rapidly until finally, it ceased to work.

Albany WA

0.9 km away

Rotary Lookout

Natural Attractions

Rotary Lookout - Albany

Rotary Lookout overlooks the picturesque King George Sound. The elevated site offers uninterrupted panoramic views of the Sound, and is a popular whale-watching spot from May to November. Both humpback and southern right whales are often spotted close to the rocky shoreline directly below the lookout. Rotary Lookout is located within the Albany Heritage Park precinct.

Albany WA

0.9 km away

Desert Corps Memorial

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Desert Corps Memorial

The Desert Corps Memorial near the top of Mount Clarence is an impressive war memorial commemorating those who fought at Gallipoli during World War One. Pose for a photo in front of the horsemen and their horses, read about the colourful history of the memorial and understand the significance behind its position at Mount Clarence. Look out for the bullet marks on the stonework which were attained during the Suez Riots of 1956. Situated near the summit of Mount Clarence, the site provides spectacular panoramic views across Princess Royal Harbour, King George Sound and Middleton Bay. The harbour is said to be one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world. If you are lucky you may catch a glimpse of the humpback whales on their migration to warmer waters. Mount Clarence is located in Albany, four and a half hour's drive south of Perth. Stay for at least a few days and explore Albany and the stunning Great Southern region.

Mount Clarence WA

0.9 km away

Dog Rock

Natural Attractions

Dog Rock

Named Dog Rock, this huge granite outcrop near the town centre of Albany has an unmistakable likeness to the head of a bloodhound sniffing the air. Dog Rock is a must-do stop on any trip to Albany and is a popular place for that great holiday photograph. There’s even a dog collar painted around this iconic Albany tourism attraction. Dock Rock is located on Middleton Beach Road, and a two-minute walk from the town centre. Albany is a four and a half hour drive from Perth or you can fly there in an hour and a half.

Albany WA

1.2 km away

Fitzgerald Biosphere

Natural Attractions

Fitzgerald Biosphere

Almost a fifth of all Western Australia's plant species thrive in the diverse landscapes of the Fitzgerald Biosphere, many of these are found nowhere else on Earth. Little wonder this flora hotspot is internationally recognised as one of the world's most botanically significant regions, with a listing in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Fitzgerald River National Park is the centre of the Biosphere and covers more than 300,000 hectares on the south coast of Western Australia, between Bremer Bay and Hopetoun. Only a two-hour drive east of Albany, a 4.5-hour drive west of Esperance, or a 6.5-hour drive southeast of Perth. Take the unsealed road (suitable for two-wheel drives) and walk trails into the heart of the southern wilderness, exploring dramatic peaks, breakaways and plains. Or follow the sealed coastal road, passing a string of untouched beaches to Point Ann - one of just three special locations in Australia where southern right whales calve in large numbers. Between July and October, you can get a front-row seat at this spectacular show. Two camping grounds in the park offer the full wilderness experience.

Centennial Park WA

1.3 km away

PUBLIC Silo Trail Albany, 2018 — Image credit: Photograph by Bewley Shaylor

Landmarks and Buildings

FORM's PUBLIC Silo Trail: Albany

In 2018, the dynamic duo The Yok and Sheryo took on the CBH Group grain silos and referenced Albany’s pristine environment and sea life with one very happy-looking marine creature (and local resident), the ruby sea dragon. The artwork is a playful representation of the real animal, in keeping with the urban aesthetic of both artists, which has been honed across a number of high-profile commissions around the world and countless walls sprayed for street art’s sake. But the ruby sea dragon is one of many art stops in Western Australia’s southernmost port city. A cultural takeover began in April 2016 with urban artists from Europe, Tunisia, Australia and the States getting together with local talent to give buildings and alleyways around York Street a makeover as part of FORM’s annual PUBLIC festival of urban art. Don't miss these out as you explore the historic streets of Albany.

Mount Melville WA

1.5 km away

Avenue of Honour

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Avenue of Honour

The Albany Avenue of Honour in Apex Drive was planted in 1955 to 1956 and replaced the original avenue planted in 1921 in Middleton Road. It honours those who fell in World War One, World War Two and the Korean War. Large gum trees line the Avenue of Honour on Apex Drive - the road to the top of Mount Clarence. At the base of each tree is the name of a soldier lost at war.

Albany WA

1.5 km away

Mount Clarence

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Mount Clarence

Mount Clarence provides spectacular views out across the town of Albany and the surrounding bays. Walk along the heritage trail which starts at the memorial and winds around the edges of Mount Clarence. Appreciate the panoramic views of Princess Royal Harbour, King George Sound and Middleton Bay. Make sure you keep a lookout for signs of humpback whales and dolphins that visit these waters. Climb the mountain to see the Desert Mounted Corps Memorial, a tribute to the soldiers who fought at Gallipoli in World War One. It stands near the peak of Mount Clarence as a tribute to the soldiers whose last view of Australia would have been of Mount Clarence. The Memorial is also the site of Albany's annual Anzac Dawn Service. Situated in Albany, four and a half hour's drive south of Perth, Mount Clarence offers views of the region unsurpassed by any other lookout. Albany is the gateway to the southern region's natural highlights including the Stirling Ranges and neighbouring Porongurup Ranges. Mount Clarence is located within the Albany Heritage Park.

Albany WA

1.6 km away

Visitor Hub — Image credit: The National Trust of Western Australia

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Strawberry Hill at Barmup

Strawberry Hill at Barmup sits on Menang Noongar Country at a place called Barmup, meaning ‘place of tall trees’. For many thousands of years, Barmup was an important campsite and place of shelter for Menang people, situated along a well-worn walking track with a ready supply of fresh water. It was on this site in 1826 when the British established a military outpost at King George Sound (later Albany) that the first farm in Western Australia was established, and likely the state’s first fences. In 1833 the new Government Resident at King George Sound, Sir Richard Spencer, purchased the Government Farm, then known as Strawberry Hill. He lived here with his wife, Lady Anne, and their ten children. After a period of neglect, in 1889 Francis and Augusta Maud Bird purchased and restored the house and farmed the land. Transferred to the National Trust in 1964, the place is being conserved to appropriately reflect its significance. The owners have been working hard over recent years to undertake consultation with the Menang people to tell the shared history of this cultural landscape. Start your visit in the award-winning Visitor Hub, explore the new interpretation in the 1836 house and take one of the self-guided tours of the grounds to appreciate the surrounding cultural landscape.

Albany WA

1.8 km away

National Anzac Centre

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Mount Adelaide

Mount Adelaide is the site of the National Anzac Centre and the Princess Royal Fortress Military Museum. The Princess Royal Fortress is a treasure trove of military history, with a focus on the 10th Lighthorse Regiment. The National Anzac Centre will be a commemorative and beautiful place where visitors can reflect on the history and sacrifices of World War I. Mount Adelaide is overlooked by Mount Clarence, home to the Desert Mounted Corps Memorial and the Padre White Lookout. Both Mount Adelaide and Mount Clarence overlook the Ataturk Channel and offer a breathtaking view of King George Sound, where the original Convoy ships were anchored before departing Albany and eventually arriving in Gallipoli.

Albany WA

2.2 km away

Ataturk Channel and Memorial

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Ataturk Channel and Memorial

In a reciprocal agreement in 1985, the channel leading into Princess Harbour was officially named Ataturk Channel whilst the Turkish Government officially named the beach at Gallipoli where the Australian and New Zealand troops landed Anzac Cove. In 2002 a statue of Mustafa Kamal Atatürk was erected overlooking the Channel. Overlooking the Channel also bearing his name, the scenic boardwalk that leads from Albany to Middleton Beach is home to a life-sized statue of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the President of Turkey from 1923 to 1938. Access to the memorial is from the beachside at Ellen Cove Boardwalk at Middleton or by walking along Stirling Terrace from the central business district (a three-kilometre trip one way).

Albany WA

2.2 km away

National Anzac Centre

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Albany Heritage Park

Albany Heritage Park is a 260-hectare parkland reserve in the heart of Albany, Western Australia. It surrounds the summits of Mount Clarence and Mount Adelaide and reaches the shores of Middleton Beach. The Park is the ultimate heritage destination, offering a unique blend of natural, cultural and historical attractions from the wonder of wildflowers to Aboriginal and European cultural sites including pre-federation military installations at Princess Royal Fortress and the National Anzac Centre. It also boasts a number of lookouts providing breathtaking views of the Stirling Ranges and King George Sound. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, Albany Heritage Park has a range of activities for all ages and fitness levels. Explore the trails on foot or by mountain bike. Discover the historic barracks and gun emplacements at Princess Royal Fortress. Take in the views from the Apex, Convoy and Padre White Lookouts. Enjoy picnic and barbecue areas, set in landscaped gardens. Visit the National Anzac or shop for a unique gift or souvenir. Dine at Garrison's restaurant with panoramic views of Princess Royal Harbour.

Albany WA

2.2 km away

9 Pound Gun Firing — Image credit: City of Albany

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Princess Royal Fortress Military Museum

Princess Royal Fortress Military Museum is Australia's first federal fortress and has a range of attractions to entertain you. The views of King George Sound and Princess Royal Harbour are a highlight. Explore the restored 1893 fortress on foot. Discover how the soldiers kept the enemy out of the port. Visit the commanding officer's house for views across the bays and up to the Porongurup Ranges. Be amazed by the anti-submarine weapon system and the torpedoes used by submarines. Visit the kitchen site, quarter masters, officer's residence and married quarters to imagine how soldiers lived. The history buff will enjoy the impressive museums on offer at the fortress, including HMAS Perth Interpretive Centre, the Australian Light Horses Museum and the Australian War Memorial Gallery. Situated four and a half hours drive south of Perth, the fortress is well worth a visit. Entry to the facility is free with gold coin donations encouraged, however, please note that the buildings are not accessible unless guests visit the National Anzac Centre. Visitation to the buildings at Princess Royal Fortress is included in the National Anzac Centre ticket price.

Albany WA

2.2 km away

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