Augusta

Location: 321 km south of Perth.
Population: 1000
Attractions: Swimming, fishing, diving, wineries, galleries, Blackwood River, whale watching (May - October).
Accommodation: A wide variety of accommodation is available.
Visitor Centre: Blackwood Avenue, Augusta.Tel: 08 9758 0166.

Located at the mouth of the Blackwood River, Augusta has some of the most pristine beaches in south Western Australia and the world. From here also, you can visit world-class wineries, incredible limestone caves and majestic karri forests.

See the historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse which, between July and October, provides travellers with excellent whale watching. Each year from May through to October, the Southern Right and Humpback Whales can be seen off the coast of Augusta. Whale watching charters are available providing those who partake with truly memorable encounters.

Stingrays swim up and down Augusta's Blackwood river daily and very often come right into the shallows. There are several bush walks around Augusta on offer, as well as great fishing, surfing, windsurfing, diving, sailing and canoeing.

Augusta provides some great accommodation for budget travelers – highly rated is Baywatch Manor Augusta YHA and the Augusta Bakery really does make the yummiest bread you'll have tasted.

Visit the Augusta Visitor Centre Blackwood Avenue, Augusta, call them on (08) 9758 0166 or visit www.margaretriver.com.au