Waroona
Nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Darling Range, the Shire of Waroona is a captivating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're drawn to the pristine beaches, lush forests, or charming rural landscapes, Waroona and its surrounding localities - Nanga, Hamel, Preston Beach, and Lake Clifton - are well worth a visit.
Escape the city and experience the beauty of Waroona for the day or a weekend getaway. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of country life, the Shire of Waroona welcomes you. Drop into the Waroona Visitor Centre which is home to an art gallery as well as visitor information for the region.
Top Things To Do
- Experience the charm of Waroona's town centre.
- Explore the stunning landscapes and old-growth forests along the Nanga Brook Road loop.
- Enjoy water sports like water-skiing, canoeing, and fishing at Waroona Dam.
- Relax at Drakesbrook Weir, with its nature playground, picnic areas, and marron-catching opportunities.
- Hike the 18km King Jarrah Track in Lane Poole Reserve.
- Discover the rare Tuart trees and Thrombolite fossils in Yalgorup National Park.
- Explore Preston Beach for four-wheel driving, swimming, and fishing.
- Walk the Heathlands Trail, offering stunning views over Lake Preston.
- Observe migratory birds and native wildlife on the Lake Preston Walking Trail.
- Take a scenic drive or hike along the Munda Biddi Trail - Waterous Loop through Waroona's natural beauty.
Waroona Town Centre
Located on the South Western Highway, the charming township of Waroona lies between forest, farmland, lakes, and sea. It offers a variety of options for dining, including cafes, a bakery, and hotel dining. With a town centre revitalisation, it boasts a beautiful six-season garden, a pump track, skate park, sculptures, indigenous art, abstract art, and mosaics.
Waroona is particularly well known for its fertile soils. Selected as the site for the first permanent state nursery, it continues as a food bowl producing flowers, table grapes, melons, native bush foods, and dairy products. The stunning natural water features running from the sea to the scarp further enhance the town’s appeal.
Nature & Outdoor Activities
Nanga Bush Camp and Lane Poole Reserve, accessible from Waroona along Nanga Brook Road, form a scenic loop that includes Waroona Dam (Lake Navarino) and old-growth forests, leading to Dwellingup in the Shire of Murray.
Waroona Dam is a hub for water-skiing, canoeing, and fishing. The Lake Navarino Holiday Park is located nearby, and a short drive away is Drakesbrook Fine Wines for a relaxing stopover.
Drakesbrook Weir (Lake Moyanup) has been revitalised with a nature playground, indigenous six-season art, and upgraded picnic facilities. It’s ideal for barbecues, picnics, and swimming, with shady parking, beach sand, solar lighting, electric barbecues, and shelters. A pontoon entertains children, while freshwater fishing and marron catching (seasonal) offer unique experiences.
Walks, Trails & Drives
Explore Waroona's stunning landscapes through its many trails and scenic routes.
- Waroona Heritage Trail (walk or drive)
- King Jarrah Track, Lane Poole Reserve (18km loop)
- Island Poole Walk Trail, Lane Poole Reserve (1.5km loop)
- 4x4 Nanga Heritage Circuit, Lane Poole Reserve (51.3km loop)
- Munda Biddi Trail - Waterous Loop
- Noise Scrub Bird Trail - Drakesbrook Weir
- Harvey River Walk Trail - John Tognela Rest Area, Forrest Highway
- Hamel Nursery Walk Trails
Coastal Adventures
Yalgorup National Park and its surrounding lakes attract native animals and birdlife. The park features hides, viewing platforms, a boardwalk, and several walking trails. Spanning over 12,000 hectares, the park is home to 11 coastal lakes and wetlands, vital habitats for migrating birds. It also hosts rare Tuart trees and the fascinating Thrombolite living fossils.
At the park’s southern end, Preston Beach offers four-wheel driving, swimming, picnicking, and fishing along pristine white sandy shores. Upgraded facilities include barbecues, a children's playground, and a 48-hour free RV camp for visitors.