Albany, Western Australia

Brief guide for Backpackers visiting Albany

Albany is a city of approximately 30,000 people located roughly 400km south of Perth. It's the 6th largest city in Western Australia and is reasonably popular with backpackers who are well catered to with many hostel/backpacker accommodation and sight seeing opportunities.

About Albany
Photo Gallery
Accommodation in Albany
Tourist Sights in Albany
Map of Albany

About Albany & it's History

Founded 3 years before Perth was, Albany was Western Australia's only deep water port prior to Fremantle being constructed in 1897. Albany played a role during World World I as Australian & NZ forces gathered here before being dispatched to Egypt. Until 1978, whaling was a major part of the local industry.

Photo Gallery of Albany, Western Australia

Backpacker Accommodation in Albany

For young travellers on a budget, we recommend staying at 1849 Backpackers. Centrally located with good rates and great relaxing atmosphere, this family operated hostel is worth of the awards it has received. You can book directly via their website.

Tourist Sights in Albany

Tourism is a major industry for Albany with many sights & attractions. In town itself, there is not all that much to see, however with transport, there is many sights surrounding Albany.

Albany Tourist Information Centre - A great place to start as it is well located in town and has all the information you need to plan your stay in Albany. The friendly staff are happy to assist Backpackers with information.
The Gap & Natural Bridge (Torndirrup National Park) - The coastal granite here has been sculpted by the southern ocean & wind to become a spectacular natural attraction. The area is about a 20 minute drive from town centre. Don't forget your camera!
The Blowholes - Also part of Torndirrup Park, the Blowholes are caused by a crackline in the granite where wind & spray blow through in spectacular fashion.
Albany Wind Farm - Not as boring as it sounds, this is a good place to stretch your legs and take a quick walk underneath the massive turbines that dominate the skyline in this area. Great views of the coastline can also be seen from here.
Middleton Beach - Only a few minutes drive from town centre, this is Albany's smaller version of Bondi. Great on a sunny day when the wind is calm. Emu Point beach is also worth visiting.
Brig Amity Replica - No need to drive to visit this one, it is in easy walking distance of town and you may have passed it on the way in. A replica of the boat that brang Albany's first settlers in 1826, it is open daily to explore inside & out.
Whale World - A popular museum relating to whales & the whaling history of Albany. Whale World has many displays including massive whale skeletons. It is located past The Gap, a further 5-10 minutes down the road.

Map of Albany, Western Australia