What to expect in Torndirrup National Park
Torndirrup National Park is a 3,906-hectare coastal park located 10 kilometres south of Albany in Western Australia‘s Great Southern region. It’s one of the most visited national parks in WA, attracting approximately 250,000 visitors annually who come to see its spectacular granite formations, rugged coastline, white sandy beaches, and the raw power of the Southern Ocean.
The park was gazetted in 1918 — one of the first in Western Australia — and later named in 1969 after the Menang (also known as Minang) people, the Traditional Owners of this land. The name “Torndirrup” (or Torgadirrup in the local Aboriginal language) refers to the Indigenous Australian clan that lived on the peninsula.
These granite outcroppings have been slowly worn away by the Southern Ocean since Australia broke away from Antarctica when it was part of the supercontinent Gondwana. The rocks here are truly ancient — many were formed between 1,300 and 1,800 million years ago. The granite boulders visible atop Stony Hill were formed 1,160 million years ago when the Australian Plate collided with the Antarctic Plate and molten rock rose to the surface.
What to see at Torndirrup National Park
The Gap and Natural Bridge at Torndirrup
The park’s most famous attractions are The Gap and Natural Bridge — spectacular granite formations carved by centuries of Southern Ocean waves. The Gap is a dramatic 24-metre-deep channel in 40-metre-high coastal granite where waves surge and crash with tremendous power. The viewing platform allows you to safely witness this natural spectacle whilst feeling the spray and hearing the roar.
Natural Bridge is a large natural arch of granite rock under which ocean waves break. Both attractions feature state-of-the-art accessible platforms with interpretive signage. A A$6.1 million upgrade completed in 2016 created universally accessible lookout structures, connecting paths, a picnic area, and expanded car parking.
These formations are formidably impressive — worth the drive from Albany on their own, even if you don’t visit other parts of the park.
The Blowholes at Torndirrup National Park
The Blowholes are crevasses in the granite stretching down to sea level. With each wave, air and water are forced up the channels, creating spectacular sprays — though the display depends entirely on swell conditions. On days with big swells, water can spray well above sea level. On calm days, you might just hear the rock “breathing” as air moves through.
The walk to the Blowholes is relatively short — 1.6km return, taking about 45 minutes. The location offers brilliant coastal views even if the blowholes aren’t performing dramatically.
Stony Hill at Torndirrup National Park
Stony Hill features a delightful 500-metre fairly level circular walk offering spectacular 360-degree views. From the top, you can see most of the Torndirrup Peninsula, West Cape Howe (the southernmost point of WA), the western-most point of the Great Australian Bight, and far north to the Stirling Ranges. The upgraded trail includes a fairly new 72-metre all-access concrete walkway.
The granite tors (boulders) atop Stony Hill are excellent for scrambling if you want different vantage points. It’s one of the park’s most rewarding short walks.
Bald Head Walk Trail at Torndirrup
The Bald Head Walk Trail is the park’s signature hike — a challenging 12.5km return traverse of the Flinders Peninsula providing stunning views of the Southern Ocean and King George Sound. This is repeatedly described as one of Western Australia’s most picturesque walking tracks.
The trail follows the headland ridge through Australian bush with lots of different native plants. You’ll likely spot sea birds and other wildlife. New boardwalks and steps have been added to stabilise eroded dunes and prevent further damage.
The good news: the best view is only 20 minutes from the car park. So if you don’t fancy 12.5km with steep sections, you can do a short stroll and still enjoy spectacular scenery. The walk finishes at Bald Head at the eastern edge of the park.
Salmon Holes at Torndirrup National Park
Salmon Holes offers incredible views from the lookout, or you can descend via stairs to the white sandy beach below. This sheltered cove is a popular location for beach and rock fishing (Australian salmon come to the bay to rest), though rock fishing here requires experience and extreme caution. The view from the lookout is one of the most photographed on the Torndirrup Peninsula.
Misery Beach at Torndirrup National Park
Despite its unfortunate name, Misery Beach is an underrated hangout swathed in stunning natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere. This white sandy beach is particularly beautiful and often less crowded than other park locations. Recent upgrades include new picnic facilities and interpretation panels.
Peak Head Track and other walks at Torndirrup
Peak Head Track is a 4.3km return walk (almost 5km in some sources) following a sandy track through thick coastal scrub and granite walls to the southernmost point in Torndirrup National Park. It’s rugged with some steep sections, but rewards you with spectacular Southern Ocean views.
The park also features Jimmy Newells Harbour lookout (breathtaking views), Sharp Point Walk Trail (250m loop with coastal views), and Cable Beach (known for rough, treacherous waves and a giant boulder placed on the beach by the sea’s force).
Wildlife and flora at Torndirrup National Park
The park’s wind-pruned coastal heathlands put on a colourful wildflower display in spring. You’ll find woolly-bush, peppermint tree, swamp yate, various banksias, karri forest, native rosemary, banjine, and thick-leafed fanflower.
Wildlife includes kangaroos, bush rats, pygmy possums, short-nosed bandicoots, honey possums, dunnarts, mardos, and quendas (though many are nocturnal). Reptiles are common, including tiger snakes, dugites, and carpet snakes. Birds include honeyeaters, wattlebirds, button quail, western rosellas, and various seabirds. During winter months (June to August), you may see migrating whales from the cliffs.
The rare dibbler was found in the park in 1876, and the threatened Main’s assassin spider (a rare, ancient species) was discovered during a 2008 survey.
Visiting Torndirrup National Park: practical information
Torndirrup National Park opening hours and admission
Opening hours: The park is open 24/7, though facilities have standard daylight hours.
Park entry fees: Standard park entry fees apply. Day entry is $17 per vehicle. Payment is at the entrance station.
Park passes: A valid WA park pass covers entry fees. Annual and holiday park passes are available and represent excellent value if you’re visiting multiple WA national parks.
Important: Display your pass or entry receipt on your dashboard at all times whilst in the park.
Getting to Torndirrup National Park
Access is via Frenchman Bay Road south of Albany — approximately 15 minutes’ drive from Albany city centre, which is 450 kilometres southeast of Perth (4.5-hour drive).
Road conditions: All park roads are sealed and suitable for 2WD vehicles. No 4WD required.
Parking: Recent upgrades added 76 parking bays, 9 long-vehicle bays, and 5 accessible bays at various locations including The Gap, Bald Head, Misery Beach, and Stony Hill.
En route: Stop at Albany Wind Farm on the peninsula just north of the park entrance.
Torndirrup National Park accessibility
The Gap and Natural Bridge feature universally accessible lookout structures, connecting paths, and facilities. The platforms are wheelchair-accessible with barrier-free access. Stony Hill’s 500-metre walk includes a 72-metre all-access concrete walkway.
Other areas of the park have varying accessibility due to natural terrain. Contact Parks and Wildlife Service for specific accessibility information.
Facilities at Torndirrup National Park
Camping: No campgrounds, and camping is not permitted in Torndirrup National Park. Accommodation is available in Albany, 15 to 20 minutes’ drive away.
Visitor information: There’s no visitor centre in the park. Stop at Albany Visitor Centre at 221 York Street (Monday to Friday 10.00am to 4.00pm, Saturday to Sunday 10.00am to 2.00pm) for information, maps, and local attractions guidance.
Mobile coverage: Download geo-referenced maps via the free Avenza Maps app before visiting, as you can navigate without internet connection.
How long to spend at Torndirrup National Park
Quick visit: 2 to 3 hours to see The Gap, Natural Bridge, and Blowholes. Half day: 4 to 5 hours including Stony Hill and Salmon Holes. Full day: Allows time for the Bald Head Walk Trail and exploring multiple beaches. Two days: Ideal for thoroughly exploring all attractions, walks, and beaches.
Most visitors spend a morning or afternoon, though hiking enthusiasts often dedicate a full day to the Bald Head Walk.
Best time to visit Torndirrup National Park
The park is excellent year-round, though each season offers different experiences:
Summer (December to February): Best for beach activities and swimming. Average temperatures around 20 to 25°C. Longer daylight hours.
Winter (June to August): Best for whale watching from the cliffs. Average daytime temperature around 15°C — perfect for hiking. Shorter days and cooler nights. The Gap is particularly dramatic during winter storms (though approach with extreme caution).
Spring: Wildflower displays in the coastal heathlands.
Safety warnings at Torndirrup National Park
CRITICAL SAFETY INFORMATION: The Torndirrup coast has a notorious record for accidents and deaths due to people slipping or being washed into the ocean by large waves, gusting winds, or extra-large swells. Lives have been lost along this peninsula.
Ocean surges: The ocean is unpredictable, sending surges even during apparently calm conditions. Always be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to visitor risk warning signs. Never turn your back on the ocean.
Rock fishing: Extremely dangerous on this coastline and not recommended. If you must fish from rocks, wear a Personal Flotation Device (life vest). Consider beach fishing instead — it’s much safer.
Poisonous snakes: Tiger snakes and dugites are frequently seen. If a snake blocks your path, turn around and return later.
General: Exercise extreme caution near cliff edges and water. Obey all hazard warning signs — they’re placed for your protection.
Nearby attractions to Torndirrup National Park
Torndirrup is located on the south coast near Albany, WA’s oldest colonial settlement and a popular holiday destination:
- Albany Historic Whaling Station: Fascinating museum about the area’s long whaling history. The old whaling station is worth visiting to understand the region’s past.
- Albany Wind Farm: Beautiful and productive green energy installation on the Torndirrup Peninsula, just outside Albany towards Frenchman Bay.
- West Cape Howe National Park: Adjacent park containing the southernmost point of Western Australia.
- Frenchman Bay: Located on the southern side of King George Sound with grassy picnic area, barbecues, and boat launch.
- Former HMAS Perth Dive Wreck: Scuba diving site for experienced divers.
- Albany Heritage Park: Town attractions including the ANZAC Desert Mounted Corps Memorial atop Mount Clarence.
- Museum of the Great Southern: Exhibitions about natural and social history of the region.
- Middleton Beach and Ellen Cove: Popular swimming beaches with boardwalk, pier, and calm waters.
- Australian Wildlife Park Albany: Family-friendly wildlife park.
- Princess Royal Harbour and King George Sound: Sheltered waters for boat trips and whale-watching cruises during winter months.
Tips for visiting Torndirrup National Park
- Download park maps via Avenza Maps before visiting — mobile coverage can be patchy.
- Start early to avoid crowds, especially at The Gap and Natural Bridge during peak season.
- Bring appropriate clothing — this coastline is notoriously windy. Layers are essential.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip, even for short walks.
- Allow extra time beyond what you think you’ll need — the views encourage lingering.
- Check swell conditions if you want to see the Blowholes performing dramatically.
- Don’t attempt the full Bald Head Walk unless you’re reasonably fit — but do walk the first 20 minutes for spectacular views.
- Pay your park entry fee — rangers aren’t always visible, but it’s required and supports park maintenance.
- Never turn your back on the ocean, particularly at The Gap during big swells.
- Take rubbish with you — help keep this pristine environment clean.
- Visit during winter (June to August) for whale watching opportunities from cliff tops.
- Stop at Albany Visitor Centre before entering the park for maps and current conditions.
- Combine with other Rainbow Coast attractions if you’re road-tripping the south coast.
Why visit Torndirrup National Park?
Torndirrup offers some of Western Australia’s most dramatic coastal scenery — and given WA’s spectacular coastline, that’s saying something. The combination of ancient granite formations, the raw power of the Southern Ocean, pristine beaches, and accessible viewing platforms makes it genuinely special.
What sets Torndirrup apart is the sheer geological age of what you’re seeing. These rocks were formed up to 1,800 million years ago, shaped by the collision of continental plates, and slowly carved by the ocean since Australia separated from Antarctica. Standing at The Gap whilst waves thunder into the granite channel gives you a visceral sense of deep time and natural forces.
The park successfully caters to everyone: families can enjoy short, accessible walks to spectacular viewpoints at The Gap and Stony Hill; hikers get the challenging and reportedly magnificent Bald Head Walk; photographers find endless subjects from dramatic seascapes to spring wildflowers; and wildlife enthusiasts can spot whales during winter months.
The recent upgrades demonstrate genuine commitment to accessibility — the viewing platforms at The Gap and Natural Bridge are world-class, allowing everyone to safely experience these natural wonders. Yet the park retains its wild character in less-developed areas.
Being one of WA’s first national parks (gazetted 1918) and the state’s most visited park says volumes about its appeal. The combination of ancient geology, dramatic coastal formations, diverse flora and fauna, and sheer scenic beauty makes it essential for anyone visiting the south coast.
Just remember: respect the ocean’s power, obey warning signs, and never turn your back on the waves. The beauty here is real, but so are the dangers. Visit with appropriate caution, and Torndirrup will reward you with some of Australia’s most spectacular coastal scenery.
More Western Australia travel
Other Western Australia travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- A practical guide to the Museum of the Goldfields in Kalgoorlie.
- An eye-opening drive along Western Australia’s Golden Pipeline.
- Tips for visiting Jewel Cave near Margaret River.
- How to climb the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse near Augusta.
- Guide to visiting the Dolphin Discovery Centre in Bunbury.
