Gracetown, South West

Gracetown is a small coastal town located in the South West region of Western Australia. It is situated facing the Cowaramup Bay.

Part of the bay is the Cowaramup Reef Protected Area, where no intense fishing activity is allowed. Fishermen are allowed only to use fishing rods or handlines, though a good catch is almost always guaranteed. The bay is also teeming with other marine creatures, such as squid, cuttlefish, octopus, rock lobster, blue manna crab, and abalone.

The bay is also ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and boating. Being a protected marine area, the bay is also ideal for scuba diving, with lots of colorful corals and marine organisms to enthrall every diver. Because of its sheltered location, the bay is quite safe for children to frolic in, making it a popular holiday venue for families from big cities like Peth. Boats can also be hired for those wishing to go out in the bay, enjoy a bit of fishing and swimming. The beach fronting Gracetown is also ideal for picnics and barbecues.

There are also several restaurants and cafes lining the foreshores. Visitors can have their pick on the dishes and kind of refreshment they want.

Gracetown is also ideal for whale watching, with various vantage points all over the town and around it providing ideal setting for watching these gentle mammals pass by during their annual migration. In fact, Gracetown and the nearby towns has made a substantial industry out of this activity and every town's visitors information center offer helpful information and tips for to ensure visitors enjoy their whale watching experience.

The town is also known as an ideal surfing destination. Among the identified spots that are popular surfing havens are the Surfing Point, Left Handers, Ellenbrook and the Womb, and The Box. In fact, the town of Prevelly Park, south of Gracetown, is the location of the annual surfing competition in the area.

The town is also located near Margaret River, another major attraction in the area. Tour operators offer cruises up and down the river, allowing visitors to enjoy scenic views of farmlands and forested areas along the banks.

Visitors to Gracetown can also visit the Olio Bello olive grove, which is the prime producer of virgin olive oil in the area. Located along Armstrong Road, this establishment welcomes visitors to try some of their products.

Another establishment worth a visit is the Margaret River Chocolate Company, located on the corner of Harman's South Road and Harman's Mill Road. Visitors will get to watch how chocolate treats are made, with interactive displays on hand to provide further information on the operations of the company. Free samples are also available after each tour.

Following the Caves Road, visitors will come upon two of the popular caves in the area. One is the Mammoth Cave, where fossils of extinct animals were found. The Lake Cave, on the other hand, is a limestone cave known for its beautiful formations. Both caves are open for tours and guides are on hand for first time visitors.

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