These amazing granite rock formations have been battered into unique shapes by the powerful Indian Ocean over millions of years. Canal Rocks takes its name from the deep canals separating the rocks from the land by the awesome force of the Indian Ocean as it rushes and swirls around them, sending stunning sprays skyward. Timber boardwalks have been cleverly positioned so you can get as close as possible to view this powerful natural phenomenon in action.
The ocean around Canal Rocks is quite dangerous, with strong rips and currents so pay attention to signage, keep to the recommended viewing areas and supervise children. Public facilities include a car park, toilet block, boat ramp, small jetty and a well signed path to the rocks. North of the rocks there is an unsupervised 200m pristine white-sand beach. Some of the picnic areas have covered tables but otherwise there is little shade.
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Look Around
Wooden walkway above rocks
Wooden bridge over turbulent water
Rough seawater flowing below the bridge
Rough seas crashing over rock formations
Rock formations create a natural canal
Walking along rocks on the seafront
Northeast-facing view along beachWho Will Like Canal Rocks
Nature Lover
Take in unique views over the rocks and Indian Ocean from a viewpoint accessible via a walking trail near the car park. If you’re lucky, you may spot whales migrating from Antarctica between June and December.
Photography Whiz
Catch that one-in-a million shot of the ocean crashing, spraying over the rocks. Sunrise and sunsets along Western Australia’s coastline are always vibrant but snapping the rocks in the foreground adds a little more drama. Hawks and eagles are often found in the area, and best captured with a telephoto zoom.
Road Tripper
Take a leisurely drive along Caves Road between Busselton and Margaret River, one of Western Australia’s most famous scenic drives. Canal Rocks is one of the many natural wonders dotting this long stretch of asphalt.
Insider Tips For Canal Rocks
Bring your fishing rod as Canal Rocks has been a popular fishing and picnic location for hundreds of years. Salmon, herring, bream and even trout have been caught in the area.
Although there are no direct bus services, Line 815 from TransWA runs from Albert Street in Busselton to Pemberton and stops near Yallingup (located 5.5kms north) – a 1 hour 10-minute walk along the coast. Booking 24 hours in advance is advisable.
Video
Where Is It
How To Get There
Car
Free • From Caves Road, turn west along Canal Rocks Road until you reach the carpark.
Tech & Photography
Wifi
Public wifi access: None
Photography
Photography allowed: Yes
Tripod allowed: Yes
Selfie sticks allowed: Yes
Best time to shoot: Golden Hour
Tips: Take caution when walking near the rocky coastline as rocks can be slippery and gusts of wind can throw visitors off balance. The boardwalk area is perfect for portraits, but bring a water protective cover for your camera and use a lens cover as salty ocean spray can cause spots on your lens.
Drones
Drones allowed: Yes (subject to national/regional rules)
Bags
Backpacks allowed: Yes
Secured bag lockers available: No
Food & Drink
No food and drink available at Canal Rocks.
Backstory
Canal Rocks forms part of the ancient granite rock ridge that is a classic example of the natural wonders in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. The spectacularly shaped Canal Rocks have been naturally forged by the wild pounding waves of the Indian Ocean over more than seven million years - a process that continues today. The road leading to the rocks was formerly recognized in 1907 but has been a rough track used by fisherman and campers for eons. The Aboriginal name for Canal Rocks is Winjee Sam.
Etiquette
- Be sensitive to the pristine environment and leave no trace.
- Adhere to signage and respect barriers.
- Keep dogs on leads and clean up after them.
- Leave rubbish on the viewing platform; the rocks or anywhere.
Scorecard
- Climbing rocks for a full view of the waves crashing through the canal.
- Get up close to ancient rock formations.
- Fishing opportunities.
- Availability of facilities like restrooms.
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