Spring in bloom: our guide to wildflower and coastal walks near Busselton.
Hello Spring! September through to December is one of the most magical times to explore Busselton and the Geographe Bay coastline. The mornings are still crisp, but the sun warms up the air quickly and the coastline heathlands turn into a canvas of colour. The regions world famous wildflowers bloom and migrating humpback whales cruise along the bay. Whether you are looking for rare native orchids, dramatic coastal clifftops, or a peaceful trail, here is your ultimate guide to experiencing spring in bloom near Busselton.
Image: Wildflower Society of WA
Ambergate Nature Reserve
Drive from resort: 10 minutes
Hidden just inland from Busselton’s coastal strip lies Ambergate Nature Reserve, a 75-hectare haven protecting remnant jarrah, marri, and paperbark woodland. Ambergate is legendary among local naturalists for hosting over 320 native plant species, including more than 26 species of wild orchids.
What to Spot: Keep your eyes low along the clearly marked dirt track. In early-to-mid spring, you’ll spot delicate Spider Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Pink Fairies, and bright yellow Wattles lining the path.
Ludlow Tuart Forest National Park
Drive from resort: 18 minutes
A peaceful forest woodland, protecting the largest remaining pure forest of Tuart trees in the world, with the tallest and largest trees on the Swan Coastal Plain. Some trees are more than 33m high and 10m in girth!! Also home to WA’s largest remaining wild population of endangered western ringtail possums.
What to spot: Tuart Trees, yellow flowering Hibbertia, Hardenbergia, Cape Spider orchid.
Meelup Coastal Trail
Drive from resort: 30 minutes
One of WAs most iconic coastal walks, and part of the Cape to Cape track. The trail winds along the coastline from Old Dunsborough to Eagle Bay, hugging pristine granite coves and white sandy beaches. Migrating humpback whales are regularly spotted from this trail along with kangaroos and black cockatoos.
What to spot: Native Wisteria, Purple Tassels, and delicate Fan Flowers.
Image: Sailing Charters WA