Esperance, on the south coast of Western Australia, had been visited by the Dutch in the 17th Century and the French in the late 18th Century before Matthew Flinders sailed through in 1802.

Today it’s a busy service centre with a deep port from which grain and ore are shipped. It’s also great for travellers who have crossed the Nullarbor to rest and recharge.

The town has ample caravan parks and motels, and there is a good selection of restaurants and pubs for the hungry and thirsty. It has retained a small-town feel and the esplanade and its parks have a friendly, local atmosphere.

It’s the coastline though, that really makes this location so special. From the esplanade, the many islets in the aptly named Bay of Isles provide a panorama that is unique in Australia. A short climb up Wireless Hill next to the port allows views both east and west, and a taste of the remarkable beaches that lie around subsequent headlands. In the few kilometres of coast to the west of the town are no less than five beautiful beaches.

The Great Ocean Walk is a sealed trail that follows the coast for 12 kilometres to Twilight Beach and is suitable for either walking or cycling. For those who prefer to drive, the Great Ocean Drive is a 40km loop that also takes in the nearby beaches before turning inland to return to Esperance via Pink Lake.

By foot or car there are numerous lookouts along the way providing excellent spots to rest and enjoy the scenery. The coastline around Esperance makes this a wonderful destination and provides a reason to linger a while before moving on.

More information is available at experienceesperance.com.au