Busselton

Introducing Busselton

Busselton is a small coastal town south of Perth, Western Australia, famous for its long bridge at the pier.

The Busselton Boardwalk is Busselton's most famous attraction, the second longest wooden trestle in the world and the longest in the Southern Hemisphere. A narrow-gauge train runs daily along the 1.7-kilometer-long trestle, taking visitors to the other side, deep into the ocean. At the end of the boardwalk is the aquarium, once voted the best in the South Pacific. Inside the 9.5-meter-long underwater tunnel, 8 meters underwater, visitors can witness life in its most natural state.

It is worth mentioning that the wedding photos of Taiwanese artist Vivian Hsu were taken here.

Climate and best time to travel

Mediterranean climate, suitable for travel all year round

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Busselton Jetty

The longest wooden pier in the Southern Hemisphere, stretching from the coast into the sea, is 1,841 feet long and has train tracks on it.

Opening hours: All day

2 hours

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Most Popular FAQs for Busselton

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Busselton is a coastal town with a rich history, dating back to 1834 when it was established as a timber town. Its most notable feature, the Busselton Jetty, was originally built in the 1860s to serve the timber industry and is now one of Western Australia’s most iconic landmarks. Busselton is also known for its thriving tourism and wine regions, especially with nearby Margaret River.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Busselton is located approximately 220 kilometers south of Perth. You can reach Busselton by car, bus, or taxi. If traveling by bus, there are regular services from Perth. The town is also accessible by the Busselton-Margaret River Airport, which offers domestic flights.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Busselton Jetty is open year-round, but it is recommended to visit during the warmer months (October to April) for the best weather. The Underwater Observatory is open daily, though hours may vary depending on the season. The best time to visit is during spring and summer, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees for the Busselton Jetty vary: it's free to walk along the jetty, but the Underwater Observatory and jetty train have ticket prices (around AUD 40 for adults). Tickets can be purchased online through the official Busselton Jetty website or at the Visitor Centre.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is advisable to book tickets in advance for the Underwater Observatory and jetty train, especially during peak tourist seasons. Bookings can be made up to a few weeks in advance through the official website.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the Busselton Jetty and the surrounding area, allow around 3–4 hours. If you plan to visit nearby attractions like Geographe Bay or the Margaret River wineries, you might want to spend the whole day.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Busselton Jetty, especially the Underwater Observatory at the end of the jetty.
• Geographe Bay for its tranquil beaches and watersports.
• The Busselton Foreshore, perfect for picnics and relaxing walks.
• The Cape to Cape Track, for coastal hiking and scenic views.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for the Busselton Jetty and its surroundings, including the Underwater Observatory. The tours are typically in English, but some may offer other languages depending on the demand. Audio guides are available for self-guided exploration.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The end of the Busselton Jetty, with panoramic views of the coastline.
• Geographe Bay’s beaches, offering beautiful sunset views.
• The Busselton Foreshore and surrounding parks for scenic photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended route is to start at the Busselton Visitor Centre, then walk along the jetty, visit the Underwater Observatory, and enjoy the coastal views. Afterward, explore the Busselton Foreshore and, if time permits, visit nearby Geographe Bay or take a short drive to Margaret River.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits to the jetty are not typically available, but the area is known for beautiful evening sunsets. Special tours are available for the jetty and Underwater Observatory, and some seasonal events might include light shows or themed tours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Busselton can get crowded during peak tourist seasons (December to February). To avoid the crowds, visit in the shoulder seasons (March to May or September to November), especially during weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The Busselton Jetty has toilets, cafes, water stations, and rest areas along the foreshore. The Visitor Centre offers information, maps, and souvenirs, while several restaurants and shops are nearby in the town.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, the Busselton Jetty is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. The jetty train offers an easy way to travel along the jetty, and the Underwater Observatory is accessible for wheelchair users with prior arrangement.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted at the Busselton Jetty, restaurants, and shops. Cash is also accepted, though less common.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• The Equinox Café at the end of the Busselton Jetty offers drinks and snacks with scenic views.
• There are several restaurants and cafes along the Busselton Foreshore and in the town center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Many restaurants and cafes around Busselton offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, including local eateries and those along the foreshore.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Busselton Jetty and Foreshore area offer nearby accommodations, including resorts, hotels, and holiday parks.
• Popular options include The Sebel Busselton, Busselton Holiday Park, and various bed and breakfasts in the town center.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Margaret River wine region, known for its vineyards and cellar doors.
• Yallingup and its beaches, great for surfing and relaxation.
• The Ngilgi Cave near Yallingup for guided tours and stunning cave formations.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops around Busselton, especially near the jetty and Visitor Centre. Typical souvenirs include local art, wine, handmade crafts, and Busselton-themed merchandise.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Busselton, you can continue your journey to nearby attractions by car or bus. The Margaret River region is a popular next stop, accessible by car within 30 minutes.