On the remote southern coast of Western Australia lies Mandalay Beach, located within the D'entrecasteaux National Park. This picturesque jewel, with pure white sand and the bluest ocean you will ever see, is 2 hours easy drive west of the old whaling village of Albany. The amazing rock formations and the pristine dunes make Mandalay Beach a spot you will never forget.
The boardwalk at Mandalay Beach
The beach itself was named after a Norwegian ship that got into trouble off the coast in 1911 and had to be beached on this shore. Don't worry, everyone on board made it out safely, and every decade or so you can still see the wreck as the beach erodes before the sands cover it back up again. You can find interpretive signs along the path and boardwalk detailing the area's indigenous and colonial history.
Historical information on the Mandalay Beach boardwalk
The beautifully maintained boardwalk that helps to protect the dunes also forms part of the infamous Bibbulman Track, a nearly 1000km (620 miles) track that runs from Perth, following the coast all the way to Albany. The coast is known for its fantastic whale watching opportunities; you will find signposted lookouts around the area. The fishing is also particularly good here, taking advantage of the pristine cooler waters of the Southern ocean.
The wonderful rock formations at Mandalay Beach
Facilities are limited, with just a long drop toilet block and information shelter. There is a campsite located nearby, known as Banksia Camp, that runs basic facilities. The road is unsealed but suitable for 2WD vehicles. To get here take Long Point Road off the South Western Highway, turning onto Mandalay Beach Road. There is not much information available online, the best source is the National Parks website
here.
Washed up on Mandalay Beach
