Western AustraliaSouthwest Free All Year Outdoor
Rock Formation

Canal Rocks (Winjee Sam)

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.

My itinerary Save View

Oh, you're so close

The awesome itinerary feature is only for VIP Members.

But that's ok! You're welcome to join the cool club for free.

Joining only takes a minute and it's... um... free! Plus you get other perks like badges, points, and unicorns.

Let's do this! I'm already cool, let me in Nah, I am boring.

Price

Free

Time Spent

30-120minutes

Fitness level: Light effort

Hours

24 hours7 days

Look Around

Wooden walkway above rocksWooden walkway above rocks
Wooden bridge over turbulent waterWooden bridge over turbulent water
Rough seawater flowing below the bridgeRough seawater flowing below the bridge
Rough seas crashing over rock formationsRough seas crashing over rock formations
Walking around Canal Rocks
Rock formations create a natural canalRock formations create a natural canal
Walking along rocks on the seafrontWalking along rocks on the seafront
Northeast-facing view along beachNortheast-facing view along beach
Landscapes of Canal Rocks

Who 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

Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, Canal Rocks Rd, Yallingup, Western Australia, 6280, Australia

Open map...

How To Get There

Car

Free • From Caves Road, turn west along Canal Rocks Road until you reach the carpark.

Driving directions...

What To Bring

Do:
  • Comfortable shoes.
  • Spare clothes in case of water splashes.
  • Drinking water to stay hydrated.
  • Picnic basket with snacks & drinks.
Don't:
  • Flip-flops or other slip-prone shoes.

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

Do:
  • 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.
Don't:
  • Leave rubbish on the viewing platform; the rocks or anywhere.

Scorecard

Best Parts:
  • Climbing rocks for a full view of the waves crashing through the canal.
  • Get up close to ancient rock formations.
  • Fishing opportunities.
Could Be Better:
  • Availability of facilities like restrooms.
My itinerary Save View

Oh, you're so close

The awesome itinerary feature is only for VIP Members.

But that's ok! You're welcome to join the cool club for free.

Joining only takes a minute and it's... um... free! Plus you get other perks like badges, points, and unicorns.

Let's do this! I'm already cool, let me in Nah, I am boring.

What's Nearby In Southwest

Travel & lifestyle blog

Follow us:

Want more stuff like this?

We've got you hooked, hey?

Get the goodies delivered into your inbox weekly plus enjoy all the perks of being a Forever Break VIP member - customized itineraries, earn points and unlock badges.

Joining only takes a minute and it's free!

Let's do this! Nah, I am boring.
Suggestions:ThailandSingaporeGreece

Wait! Before you go...

There's more free goodies at Forever Break!

Simply register a free account to build itineraries, unlock badges, and earn points.
It only takes a minute. And it will instantly make you better looking.

You up for it?

No thanks, I am boring. Yes please!
Testing your patience...