About this park
We all know that the southwest region has great coastal scenery and West Cape Howe National Park is no exception. The landscape is wild and dramatic - towering cliffs, white sandy beaches, granite headlands, huge crashing waves, coastal heathland and even some karri forest. It is breathtaking whichever way you look. The diverse landscape is home to lots of birds and wildlife.
Visit beautiful Shelley Beach and the spectacular lookout above for views out to sea and along the rugged coastline to Torbay Head. Venture further into the park on the sandy four-wheel drive tracks, or by walking a section of the Bibbulmun Track. And, if that sounds tame, well there’s always paragliding. Shelley Beach Lookout has two platforms purpose built for hang gliding and paragliding. I mean who doesn’t want to launch themselves off a ledge into mid-air right?! Stick around for a while and set up camp. There’s a low-key campground at Shelley Beach.
Yes, we recommend you drop into West Cape Howe National Park. After all, it is the southernmost point of mainland Western Australia and the next stop is Antarctica!
Safety information
Plan when to visit. Read this safety information about bushwalking, fishing and hang gliding/paragliding. Consider travelling with a personal location beacon (PLB). In the event you need to be rescued it could save your life!
- The southern coastline has a notorious record for accidents and deaths due to people slipping or being washed into the ocean by unexpected waves, gusting winds or extra-large swells. Please exercise extreme caution and don’t risk being the next victim.
- Stay well back from cliff edges.
- When fishing please wear a Personal Flotation Device or life vest. Rock fishing is extremely dangerous on this coastline and is not recommended. Fish from the beach.
Gallery
Activities
Bushwalking
Camping
Fishing
Four-wheel driving
Overnight hiking
Paragliding
Rock climbing
Plants, wildlife and fungi
Visit the Atlas of Living Australia for a list of species recorded in West Cape Howe National Park.
Traditional Owners
We recognise and acknowledge Menang people as the Traditional Owners of West Cape Howe National Park.
