Romantic glamping near Mandurah
Welcome to the Venice of Western Australia, dolphin-filled canals and all.
- Mandurah
Romantic glamping near Mandurah guide
Overview
Sitting between the Indian Ocean and the Harvey Estuary, Western Australia’s second biggest city is just an hour south of the capital Perth. Also known as Mandjoogoordap, which means “meeting place” in the Noongar language, Mandurah has almost as many waterways as it does roads, with pods of dolphins found cruising around the canals that crisscross the city. A great jumping-off point to explore the rest of the Peel region and the southwest, Mandurah is ideally located to explore Dwellingup, see the thrombolites at Lake Clifton, head to Serpentine Falls, or visit Yalgorup National Park. There are plenty of caravan parks and campsites to choose from too, including family-friendly campgrounds right on the foreshore.
Where to go
Mandurah, Yunderup & Pinjarra
A camper’s (or glamper’s) dream, there’s no end of things to do in Mandurah, from relaxing around Dolphin Quay to kayaking up the Harvey Estuary to crabbing, hiking, or hitting up the golf course. Accommodation options are just as varied, with everything from Mandurah coastal holiday parks to country chalets and riverfront campsites with jumping pillows. A short drive southwest of Mandurah, both Yunderdup and Pinjarra also offer great campgrounds and relaxed, country-town vibes.
Herron Point, Lake Clifton & Lake Preston
Follow Old Coast Road south from Mandurah and you’ll soon come upon a series of limestone-shored lakes. Running parallel to the coastline, Lake Clifton is probably the best-known, with the funky thrombolite reef bringing visitors from miles around. If you prefer to set up camp around Old Coast Road there are plenty of options, too, including campsites on Lake Preston (suitable for motorhomes, campervans, and camper trailers), and a bush campground in Yalgorup National Park.
Dwellingup
Just over half an hour east of Mandurah, Dwellingup is both the Peel Region and Western Australia’s outdoor adventure capital, with world-class mountain bike tracks, rafting, hiking, and Lane Poole Reserve and the Hotham Valley Railway right on its doorstep. A popular getaway spot, accommodation options range from family-friendly caravan parks to campsites in the national park and luxury hideaways just a short stroll from town.
When to go
A popular destination year-round, Mandurah has plenty to offer, whatever the weather. While summer is the most popular month for campers, who come in hoards to check out the canal Christmas lights and stay for the beaches, it can get a little toasty. If the heat isn’t your thing then spring and autumn are great times to visit—with the flowers and the leaves both putting on seasonal shows in neighboring Dwellingup.
