Northam Caravan Park

For those self-catering the Park offers a communal outdoor kitchen and BBQ area but we headed into town more often than not as Northam’s food scene is a pleasant surprise in terms of options and variety.

For coffee and a light bite, Zax & Co quickly became our go-to. The staff know their beans, and the flat white we had there was one of the better ones I’ve found outside Perth. They’ve also got a good mix of pastries and simple breakfast options, so it’s an easy choice if you’re after a quick start to the day. For the shopaholics this place is part-cafe, part-gift shop.

Dinner at Terre Mare was a real highlight. The menu is Mediterranean and a little more refined than you might expect in a country town. We tried both the house-made pasta and a wood-fired pizza — both were excellent, and paired nicely with a glass of WA wine. The atmosphere was relaxed but polished, the sort of spot you’d happily linger at for a few hours.

For something different, Macau Cuisine is a Chinese restaurant that, despite its dated exterior and decor, serves up delicious fresh food. Locals flock to this family-run restaurant and it can be praised for its large serves and reasonable prices.

The Park is located perfectly to dive into the best of the Avon Valley.

Right in town, I enjoyed a slow wander down Fitzgerald Street, Northam’s main strip, where heritage buildings sit alongside cafés and boutiques. It’s a great place to grab a coffee, browse local shops, and take in the character of the town.

For something more immersive, the Bilya Koort Boodja Centre is a must. Set on the Avon River foreshore, it offers a powerful look at Noongar culture and history through interactive exhibits. It felt less like a museum and more like a living story of the land and its people.

Families will appreciate the Northam Aquatic Facility, especially on warmer days. With pools, slides and shaded seating, it’s a good balance of fun for the kids and a proper cool-off for adults.

For something you’ll never forget, book with Windward Balloon Adventures and drift over the Avon Valley at sunrise. The sight of rolling green hills (and in season, bursts of yellow canola) from above is breathtaking — one of those experiences that stays with you for life.

Tucked inside the park are a couple of small ponds where you’ll often spot fish and birdlife. Families love them — they give the park a peaceful, garden-like feel that’s perfect for a stroll.