Bunbury attractions - What to see and do
Bunbury Attractions – What To See And Do
It’s cosmopolitan and cutting-edge but is also deeply rooted in the history and traditions that shaped the growth of Western Australia. Its vibrant energy is a perfect foil for the restorative calm of the untouched beaches, pristine wetlands and natural bush which are right on its doorstep. Bunbury is a city on the move and with so much to see and do, it is well worth a visit.
Dolphin Discovery Centre
The newly renovated Dolphin Discovery Centre in beautiful Koombana Bay is arguably the best opportunity you’ll ever get to experience wild (but gentle and friendly) bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. There’s a touch pool and a ‘digital dolphinarium’ plus you can take an Eco Cruise around the bay or enjoy a personal encounter with these magnificent marine creatures on a ‘Swim on the Wild Side’ tour.
Waterways and walking trails
It’s easy to see why ‘the City of Three Waters’ has an international reputation as an aquatic playground. Located on a peninsula and bounded by the Indian Ocean, Koombana Bay and the pristine Leschenault Inlet, Bunbury is a watery wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts and watersports fanatics alike.
There are miles and miles of pristine beaches, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding or just soaking up the sun – and there’s plenty to do beneath the water too. The snorkelling is fantastic and there’s always the Lena dive wreck just three nautical miles offshore for scuba divers and underwater adventurers.
There are also a myriad walking trails through the wetlands, with Mangrove Cove being one of the most popular. Stroll along the boardwalk through the 25 000 year-old Leschenault mangroves or do a circular hike around Big Swamp Reserve and marvel at the diverse fauna and flora – including over 30 species of birds.
Other favourites are Wyalup-Rocky Point, a rocky stretch of coastline which offers a treasure-trove of delights for energetic explorers and Maiden’s Reserve, where you can discover natural tuart forests and the creatures that live in them including possums, bats, echidnas, bandicoots and kangaroos.
History and heritage
The port city has a rich maritime history with plenty of significant sites and interesting streetscapes to look at including the old lighthouse, the old railway station, King Cottage, the Victorian-era Rose Hotel, the courthouse and St Mark’s Anglican Church. The 12km Bunbury Heritage Trail which covers 50 important sites and heritage buildings in the city area is another of Bunbury’s most popular attractions – and depending on your stamina and thirst for knowledge, can take anything from three hours to a full day!
The Bunbury Regional Art Galleries
With an ever-changing repertoire of events and exhibitions, many of which feature local South West artists, the Bunbury Regional Art Galleries (BRAG) offers something for everyone and has become a drawcard for locals and visitors alike. And even if you’re not the arty type, the distinctive pink buildings (previously a convent and one of Bunbury’s oldest historic buildings) are well worth a visit.
Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre (BREC)
If you’re after some laughter, excitement, culture and entertainment, have a look at what’s on at the Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre. It offers a diverse calendar of performing arts events for all ages including live theatre, music, comedy, contemporary dance, ballet, film, pantomime, acrobatics, circus and more.
Marlston Hill Lookout Tower
It’s on the site of the original Bunbury lighthouse and is a great vantage point for a 3600 panoramic view over the beaches, Bunbury harbour, the breakwater and the old timber jetty. You may also be able to spot some of Bunbury’s famous bottlenose dolphins frolicking in Koombana Bay.
Bunbury Farmers Market
Willpower goes out of the window at this fabulous foodie haven and whether you’re after super-fresh farm produce, gourmet deli delights, tempting ready-made meals, meat, seafood, cheese or baked goods, you’ll find it at the Bunbury Farmers Market.
There’s much more to the coastal town of Bunbury than many people think and this is just a snippet of the many attractions and activities on offer. With its thriving art and culture scene, strong heritage focus, cosmopolitan mix of shops, cafes and bars and friendly locals who love sharing their stories, no wonder Bunbury is on the map.
It’s also known for its top quality restaurants with the perennially popular Aristos Bunbury a favourite among locals and visitors. Its seafront location with spectacular views over Koombana Bay is the perfect setting for a light lunch, a special occasion dinner, a sundowner or a casual family gathering and its reputation as the best restaurant in Bunbury for a quality meal at excellent value reaches far and wide. Pop in when you’re next in Bunbury or make a booking via their website, www.aristosbunbury.com.au or call their friendly team on 08 9791 6477.
