6 Ways to Explore Waroona – From Water to Wilderness

Driving down South Western Highway, you’ve likely noticed the timber heritage bush poles that stand proudly outside the Waroona Visitor Centre.

Carved with marron, cows, indigenous landscapes, red-tailed black cockatoos and more, they hint at what lies in this country town and the diverse Peel region that surrounds it: culture, creativity, nature and a few surprises along the way.

Just 90 minutes south of Perth, Waroona is a farming town with an ever-growing mix of experiences for outdoor adventurers, art lovers and families alike. From beaches and internationally significant Ramsar-listed wetlands to freshwater lakes, jarrah forests and warm country hospitality - Waroona rewards those who take the time to venture beyond the highway.

Whatever your travel style, there’s a Waroona overnight escape to match.

A Coastal Escape Through the Peel Region

2 Day Itinerary - Lake Clifton, Preston Beach & Waroona

This two-day journey through the Peel region weaves together wetlands, wild coastline and peaceful forest-fringed waterholes. In Yalgorup National Park, Lake Clifton’s wetlands are home to the largest living thrombolite reef in the Southern Hemisphere. A wooden boardwalk stretches over the water, revealing sweeping lake views and a close-up look at the ancient living rocks.

Further south, Preston Beach is a coastal hamlet made for fishing, swimming and walking the heathland trails. Its uncrowded shores, playground, picnic spots and BBQs make it an easy afternoon by the sea. An overnight stay at Footprints at Preston Beach in an architect-designed beach shack or townhouse is a stylish base by the beach. Dine poolside at Footprints Hotel Café, before a barefoot beach wander to soak up a sunset over the Indian Ocean.

The escape turns inland to Drakesbrook Weir, near Waroona. Framed by bushland, the freshwater lake is perfect for a dip, fishing for trout, kayaking, birdwatching or simply stretching out under shady paperbark trees with a picnic. Recent additions, including the 6-Season Artworks and a marron-themed nature playground, giving visitors even more reason to linger.

Waroona Freshwater Adventure Loop

2 Day Itinerary – Waroona Dam & Forest Trails

Love adrenaline-pumping water sports? Waroona Dam is the go-to destination for freshwater skiing and boating close to Perth. Also known as Lake Navarino, the dam is found just a short 10-minute drive from town, hidden in the forest-covered hills. Here, adventure lovers can spend the day water skiing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking and freshwater fishing – simply BYO boat.

Back in town, Waroona’s laid-back country hospitality shines at local favourites The Rec Hotel (Waroona Hotel) or Drakesbrook Hotel Motel. Stay in the town overnight, or settle in at a local farm stay, cosy cottage or budget-friendly holiday park.

The following day, soak up nature with a wander on a forest trail around Waroona Dam, or explore on horseback with a trot through the jarrah forest with Langford Hill Riding Farm. 

Waroona Scarp 4WD Adventure Loop

2 Day Itinerary – Nanga, Lane Poole Reserve & Preston Beach

Hop in the 4WD to explore the highlights of the Waroona region via a challenging off-road track. Head east towards Nanga for bushland thrills at Treetops Adventure. 

Tackle the famous 40km Captain Fawcett Track. The rugged track winds along old train embankments, through lush forest, over river crossings and challenging rocky terrain. Along the way, there are plenty of reasons to pause: take a swim in the Murray River, enjoy a shady picnic or wander along the walking trails.

Loop back towards Waroona through the rolling farmland of Harvey and Wokalup. Spend the evening fishing at Waroona Dam or head into town for dinner at The Rec Hotel or Drakesbrook Hotel Motel before settling in for the night at a holiday park or cosy country cottage.

The following morning, make the 30-minute drive across to Preston Beach for a coastal 4WD experience and another taste of adventure before returning home.

Waroona Family Play & Festival Loop

2 Day Itinerary – Parks, Nature & Events

For a family getaway close to Perth, Waroona makes an easy escape. The town has plenty to keep the kids happy, from freshly baked treats at the famous Pinjarra Bakery in Waroona, to quality time at the family-friendly award winning "Great Place" Railside Park – just look for the giant windmill! Designed for all ages, the park features a tall tube slide, Dethridge wheel water-play, Noongar six seasons garden, a fenced and gated toddler area complete with a beautiful timber truck, plus the Waroona pump track and skate park for bigger kids. With a shady picnic area, it’s easy to spend a fun few hours here.

Time your visit with one of Waroona's spring events and turn your family getaway into a weekend to remember. Celebrate 10 years of Waroona Troutfest, enjoy all the colour and entertainment of the Waroona Agricultural Show, discover Waroona's spectacular night skies at the Star Tracks Astrotourism Event, or experience the inaugural Charla Downs Waroona Rodeo, with rodeo action followed by live music and country entertainment into the night.

Waroona Art, Heritage & Wine Loop

2 Day Itinerary – Art, Heritage & Local Flavours

For lovers of art, heritage and local stories, Waroona makes an easy overnight escape. Follow the region’s 26 distinctive Heritage Bush Poles across the Shire, with hand-carved poles found in Waroona, Hamel, Lake Navarino, Lake Clifton and Preston Beach – each reflecting the character and stories of its community.

Start at the Waroona Visitor Centre for local information and discover the original Heritage Bush Poles before exploring the self-guided 5km Waroona Art and Mural Trail. Colourful murals, sculptures and mosaics celebrate local farming, wildlife and community life, with time to browse Drakesbrook Antiques & Collectables. Continue to Hamel to find more Heritage Bush Poles before enjoying a country lunch.

Spend the afternoon heading towards Lake Navarino in search of its Heritage Bush Poles, stopping at Drakesbrook Wines for a tasting and grazing platter. Stay overnight at Lake Navarino Holiday Park or in Waroona, then on day two journey west to discover the Heritage Bush Poles at Preston Beach and Lake Clifton – completing a unique journey across Waroona, from scarp to sea.

Peel Landscapes Loop

2 Day Itinerary – Peel Region Highlights

To explore the best of the entire Peel region, including Waroona, pack the bags for the coast, country towns and bushland adventures. From Mandurah’s foreshore, where dolphins are often spotted in the estuary, the route follows the coast to the ancient wonders of Yalgorup National Park... the Lake Clifton Thrombolites.

Stop at Preston Beach for a relaxed lunch by the sea, then swap the coast for country roads leading to Waroona. Explore the town, and spend an afternoon at Drakesbrook Weir, a local favourite for swimming, fishing and picnicking. Dine in town with a side of country hospitality, and book an overnight stay at a nearby cottage, hotel, or lakeside cabins at Lake Navarino Holiday Park.

Devour breakfast at one of the eateries, then drive through dense forest to trail town Dwellingup – where adventures by bike, canoe, zip line or two feet await. Continue west to Pinjarra to soak up heritage charm and local crafts at the Edenvale Heritage Precinct, and take a stroll over the Pinjarra Suspension Bridge, before heading back to Perth. It’s a varied and vibrant escape that shows just how much this region has to offer.

Waroona is well worth a detour to explore more.

Waroona - From Water to Wilderness Map