Esperance's Great Ocean Drive is a 40 kilometre circular loop to explore by car that features a vast range of coastal elements such as stunning beaches, rocky headlands, small bays, steep cliffs and hidden ocean pools.
There’s more than one way to experience the Great Ocean Drive. A cycle/walk path winds through the landscape, following the coast from the Esplanade all the way to Twilight Cove.
It’s more than a quick drive around the coast, with so much to experience along the way. From snorkeling, surfing, swimming, bike riding, bush walking, whale watching (in season) to just taking in the amazing view, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
Highlights
Jetty Headland - #2 With a nature playground, food and coffee vans plus beautiful walkways, there’s plenty to do at the Jetty Headland. It also offers BBQs, restrooms and showers for public use.
Southern Ports - #5 A viewing area of the Port and access to a sheltered beach. Port tours are held every Saturday at 1:30pm from the Port viewing area. (Donations appreciated)
Nine Mile Beach - #18 An explorer’s delight! Wander through the rock pools to discover a protected lagoon perfect for snorkeling.
Ten Mile Lagoon - #20 Great for swimming and fishing, this beach is also the access point to ‘Free Beach’ where clothing is optional.
Ten Mile Wind Farm - #19 Discover the history of the Esperance Wind Farm. A short walk past the first windmill will yield stunning views of the Wind Farm and ocean.
Pink Lake Lookout - #23 Our once pink, Pink Lake is a lovely place to watch the sunset. Information on the lake’s history and why it is no longer pink is available on site.
Off the beaten track
Cannery Arts Centre & Lookout - #1 A vibrant community arts centre that facilitates exhibitions and workshops. Climb the stairs at the rear of the Cannery for a view of the Esperance Bay.
Rotary Lookout & Walk trail - #6 Boasting a 360˚ view of the town and archipelago makes this a wonderful spot to watch the sunset. There are two trails winding around Dempster Head with spectacular views of the crystal blue waters.
Cindy Poole: Glass Gallery - #24 Visit the studio of one of the artisans responsible for the Whale Tail sculpture. Lot 5 Longbottom Lane. Open: Monday to Saturday 1:00pm to 4:00pm; closed Sunday and Public Holidays. Ask about the new tours!
Salmon Beach Wind Farm - #10 Discover the site of Australia’s first commercial Wind Farm on this heritage walk trail. Where six turbines once stood, one remains at site 1. Further along at site 2 a lookout tower provides elevated views of the Esperance coastline.
Walking or Cycling
Great Ocean Trail: This trail is indicated by dotted line shown on the map above. Beginning in town, you can cycle (or walk!) following the signs provided along the trail until Twilight Beach (10kms from town). At the carpark located before the Surf Life Saving Club you will see a sign directing you to cross the road and follow the track through stunning native bushland to the Pink Lake Lookout (another 5kms) with elevated limestone headlands, sheltered dunes and exposed heaths providing wonderful vistas of seasonal natural flora. At the end of that section turn right and stop at the Pink lake Lookout. The trail then continues along Pink Lake until you see the turn off for Pink Lake road on the right. Follow Pink Lake road all the way back into town (the last 8kms!) Walking takes between 6 and 8 hours, cycling between 2 and 3 hours. Remember to carry plenty of water, snacks, and apply sunscreen.
Little tackers
James Street Precinct - #3 Home to the unique Whale Tail sculpture. An all abilities playground, swimming pontoon, restrooms and BBQs make this is a fantastic picnic spot.
Taylor Street Jetty - #4 Jump in for a swim, take a walk through the Don McKenzie Gardens, meander along the Yacht Club Marina or throw a fishing line in off the Jetty.
Twilight Cove - #14 One of Esperance’s most famous beaches, Twilight is patrolled on Sundays over Summer and is a great spot to kick back and relax, enjoying the sun and surf.