Exploring Bunbury’s Back Beach – Coastal Walks, Wildlife & Ocean Views

If you’re planning a trip to Bunbury, Back Beach should be near the top of your “things to do” list. Just minutes from the city centre, it’s a favourite with locals and a must-visit for anyone who loves the coast.

I walk here almost every day with Meisie, our two-year-old Maremma Sheepdog. For us, it’s not just a walk — it’s a ritual. The fresh sea air, the sound of waves, and the ever-changing light make it special no matter how many times we visit.

A Beach for Every Season

Back Beach stretches along Ocean Drive, offering long open sands and rolling Indian Ocean waves. It’s perfect for walking, running, or cycling thanks to the sealed footpath that runs the entire length of the beach. You can start at one end and enjoy uninterrupted ocean views the whole way.

Dogs are allowed on certain sections of the beach year-round, and in the off-season, they can roam the full length of the sand.

Wildlife in the Waves

One of the joys of Back Beach is spotting wildlife. Dolphins are regular visitors, often seen surfing the waves alongside surfers. The beach is also dotted with cuttlefish bones — a natural part of Bunbury’s coastline and safe for dogs to chew.

It’s important to watch for dead pufferfish, which sometimes wash up and are toxic to dogs. Keeping an eye on your four-legged friends ensures everyone enjoys the outing safely.

Sunsets You’ll Never Forget

If you can, time your visit for the late afternoon. Back Beach is one of the best places in Bunbury to watch the sun dip into the Indian Ocean. The sky often turns shades of orange, pink, and gold, with the waves catching the light in the most beautiful way. Whether you’re walking the sand, sitting on a bench, or parked up in your car, it’s a sunset you won’t forget.

More Than Just Sand and Surf

Along Ocean Drive you’ll find barbecues, picnic tables, and playgrounds, making Back Beach ideal for a family day out. On windy days, you can park in one of the bays, sit in your car, and watch the waves crash — it’s surprisingly relaxing.

Whether you’re here for a casual stroll, a run, a bike ride, a picnic, or a sunset view, the combination of the coastal path and easy parking makes Back Beach one of Bunbury’s most accessible attractions.

Perfect Before or After Your Flight

If you’re visiting Bunbury for an Open Air Adventure Flight, Back Beach is only about ten minutes from Bunbury Airport. You’ll see this stunning stretch of coast from above during your flight — but it’s worth experiencing from the ground too.

Pairing a walk or picnic here with your flight makes for the perfect Bunbury day: adrenaline in the air, peace by the sea, and a front-row seat to one of WA’s most beautiful sunsets.

By Hayley Coulson