Day 13 · Sep 19
Busselton Jetty
Busselton, Western Australia
1.8 km of timber stretching into the calm, dolphin-rich waters of Geographe Bay.
The story
Why it's special
Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere — a 1.8 kilometre walk above clear, calm water. At the end, an underwater observatory descends 8 metres into Geographe Bay to reveal a thriving artificial reef of corals, sponges and fish.
History & background
Built in 1865 to allow deep-water shipping access to the small port town, the jetty was extended repeatedly over the next century. It survived cyclones, a major fire in 1999 and a near-demolition campaign before being restored as a heritage and tourism icon in the 2000s.
What to expect
Walk, cycle or take the little Jetty Train to the end. The Underwater Observatory tour books in advance and is genuinely unique — it's one of only six such observatories in the world.
Wildlife & nature
Bottlenose dolphins frequently follow the jetty. Below the surface: weedy seadragons, leatherjackets, soft corals and the occasional cuttlefish.
Cultural significance
Geographe Bay is part of Wadandi Noongar sea country. The town hosts a strong arts and festivals scene around the jetty year-round.
Gallery
Through the lens
Best experiences
What you came for
Photographer's guide
Best photography spots
East side of the jetty at low tide for mirror reflections.
The end of the jetty looking west — silhouettes and pink water.
Travel tips
Travel tips
- Book the Underwater Observatory in advance.
- Take a hat — there is zero shade on the walk out.
- The train is worth it for kids or in the heat; otherwise walk.
- Pay the small entry fee — it funds the jetty's ongoing restoration.
Fun facts
Fun facts
- It's the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere.
- Over 300 marine species have been recorded on its piles.
- More than 100,000 people walked the jetty in the year it nearly closed — sparking its preservation.
On the map
Busselton Jetty · Busselton, Western Australia
On the journey
Where it sits in the road trip
The final coastal moment before Perth — a long walk over calm water to mark the end of the trip.