Salmon Beach

Salmon Beach is a secluded and ruggedly beautiful destination located near the cliffs of Windy Harbour in the southwestern corner of Western Australia, within the confines of the D'entrecasteaux National Park. The beach is recognized for its untouched, picturesque, and isolated attributes. It is also known for its thundering surf and towering limestone cliffs that add to its wild charm.

While the area is affected by strong winds and ocean swells, making swimming not recommended, it is a popular spot for other activities. The beach is particularly loved by adventure seekers for its surfing opportunities, and by fishing enthusiasts, especially during the salmon run. Apart from these, the beach is also an excellent place for beach walks, playing in the sand, and appreciating the natural surroundings in peace.

To get to Salmon Beach, visitors can drive along a well-paved road from Windy Harbour, leading to the cliffs that provide breathtaking coastal views. From the parking area, which includes a drop toilet for convenience, a short walk through the dunes takes visitors to the beach. The beach is easily accessible by conventional vehicles, making it a more convenient choice compared to many other untouched beaches that require a four-wheel drive.

The beach is flanked by limestone cliffs on one side, with waves often crashing against the rocks, and a stretch of sand backed by high dunes on the other. Further along, there are more cliffs. The beach remains largely untouched by man-made structures, with only natural factors like erosion, climate, and sea level changes altering its landscape.

Despite its popularity during holiday periods, Salmon Beach maintains a sense of isolation and space. It is also a great place for children to play and adults to unwind. Moreover, the beach is a great spot to witness moody sunsets and offers the opportunity for whale watching from a platform located high on the limestone cliff at Tookulup.

For those interested in exploring the area further, Point D’Entrecasteaux, where Salmon Beach is located, offers three different walk trails. The Cliff Top Walk connects Tookulup with Point D’Entrecasteaux and provides stunning views of the cliffs and the Southern Ocean. It also allows visitors to learn about the coastal plants and animals that thrive in this demanding environment.

Facilities at Salmon Beach are basic but adequate, including toilets. Visitors can also explore the diverse plant, wildlife, and fungi species in the area. Furthermore, the D'Entrecasteaux National Park, home to Salmon Beach, holds significant cultural and archaeological sites that bear testament to the area's rich indigenous history.