Where To Stay In Albany

If you’re planning a trip to Albany and prefer things simple, scenic and just a little bit off the beaten path, Panorama Caravan Park is where you’ll want to roll in. Nestled off Frenchman Bay Road with sweeping views over King George Sound, it’s about as peaceful a base as you’ll find in this part of the world.

This is a camping-only park, so don’t come expecting jumping pillows or a long list of facilities — but that’s part of the charm. You’ll get back to basics here: fresh sea air, shady powered and unpowered sites, and the sort of low-key, nature-first setting that makes the world slow down a little.

Where To Eat & Drink In Albany

Start your morning the local way — with a coffee at Beck & Call Coffee in the town centre. It’s a favourite among Albany locals and for good reason. Whether you’re after a bold espresso, silky flat white or something cold and refreshing, the team here know their way around a coffee machine. It’s earned a reputation as one of the South Coast’s best coffee spots, and once you’ve had a sip, you’ll see why.

For lunch, make your way down to Ocean and Paddock near Middleton Beach. It’s a proper coastal gem — part classic fish and chip shop, part contemporary seafood spot. The menu leans heavily on locally caught seafood, served fresh and cooked to perfection. The fish tacos are hard to go past, but if you see the Lobster Burger on the board, order it without hesitation — it’s the stuff of legend.

When evening rolls around, there’s no better place to unwind than Garrison Restaurant & Bar. Perched overlooking King George Sound, it’s Albany’s pick for a refined meal with a view. The menu roams across modern Australian flavours, weaving in Asian and South American influences — think yuzu and honey-glazed scallops or flame-grilled meats with punchy marinades. Pair it with a local wine or cocktail and settle in for the night. Whether it’s a celebration dinner or just a well-earned evening out, Garrison hits the mark every time.

What To Do In Albany

There’s no shortage of things to see and do around Albany — from wild coastal lookouts to peaceful beaches and a strong sense of history that runs through the town. Here are a few of our favourites.

Torndirrup National Park
 Just a short drive from your campsite, Torndirrup National Park is home to some of Western Australia’s most dramatic coastal scenery. The highlights here are The Gap and Natural Bridge, two incredible rock formations shaped by the relentless power of the Southern Ocean. Stand on the viewing platforms and feel the sea spray on your face — it’s nature at its most raw and awe-inspiring. The pathways are well maintained and accessible for all ages, making it an easy half-day adventure.

Middleton Beach
 When it’s time to slow things down, head to Middleton Beach, a calm, family-friendly spot just minutes from town. The beach is protected by a shark net, so it’s perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. If you’re up for a stroll, follow the Ellen Cove Boardwalk, which winds along the coastline with beautiful views back over King George Sound — especially lovely at sunset.

National Anzac Centre
 Set high on Mount Adelaide within the Albany Heritage Park, the National Anzac Centre is one of the country’s most moving war memorials. Through interactive exhibits and personal stories, it tells the story of the Anzacs who departed from Albany’s shores in 1914. It’s a reflective, educational stop that stays with you long after you leave.

Local Wineries
 Albany sits within the Great Southern wine region, one of Australia’s best-kept secrets for cool-climate wines. Take a drive through the rolling countryside and drop into Singlefile Wines for a tasting, or head to Castle Rock Estate near Porongurup for a cellar door experience with sweeping valley views.

Albany Farmers Market
If you’re here over the weekend, make your way to the Albany Farmers Market on Saturday morning. It’s the best place to meet the locals and sample the region’s produce — think freshly baked bread, honey, cheeses, and seasonal fruit straight from the farm. Bring a tote bag and an appetite; it’s impossible to leave empty-handed.

The Essentials in Albany

You’ll find everything you need in town, with Coles, Woolworths and Aldi all close to the city centre, plus Priceline and Amcal+ pharmacies for everyday essentials. For camping and outdoor gear, BCF Albany or Mitre 10 will have you covered before you hit the road again.

The Drive To Albany

As always, we give you the rundown on the drive you’ll take from the nearby major towns and cities.

From Perth -  The drive through inland Southern WA covers roughly 420 kms and takes around 4.5-5 hours depending on stops.

If you’ve got a little extra time, we highly recommend breaking up the trip with a stop in Busselton. It’s the perfect halfway point to stretch your legs, grab a bite along the foreshore, and spend a night by the beach. Stay at BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks Busselton, a beautifully positioned beachfront park that’s ideal for caravans, campers or cabin stays before continuing your drive south.

Image credit: Tourism Australia

ParkBooker Staff Writer

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