The Best Regional Day Trips from Mandurah: From Coast to Forest

Take a day away from Mandurah’s canals and marina and explore the region beyond. From windswept beaches and dense forests to historic towns and wildlife hotspots, there’s a surprising mix of landscapes to discover in this gorgeous part of Western Australia. Each trip offers something different. Ready to fill a day with adventure?

Where Mandurah Ends and Adventure Begins

Sunny Mandurah is known for its canals and marina. The vast estuary where dolphins can be regularly sighted, as well as long stretches of coastline and an easygoing café and dining scene, makes the city what it is.

But if you’re visiting and looking for a change of scenery, you’ve got even more choice.

In just a short drive, the landscape around Mandurah transforms depending on which direction you drive. Ancient forests open onto winding rivers, wide beaches meet rugged coastline, and wetlands host wildlife at every turn. Historic towns tell stories of settlers, timber cutters, and early industry, while local farms, wineries, and hidden natural wonders show a side of Western Australia many visitors never see.

The Best Day Trips from Mandurah

These regional day trips reveal just how diverse and remarkable Mandurah’s surroundings truly are.

1. Yalgorup National Park

Just a little south of Mandurah, Yalgorup National Park spans over 13,000 hectares and includes ten lakes that form a Ramsar-listed wetland, supporting migratory birds and threatened species. But the most special part of a trip here is found at Lake Clifton.

From the lake a short boardwalk leads to the iconic thrombolites; figures that appear like rocks but are actually built by microorganisms similar to the earliest life on Earth. They are found in very few places in WA and are around 2,000 years old; making up the largest thrombolite reef in the southern hemisphere!

From the boardwalk over the lake, you can observe these formations up close, or you could opt for a guided tour to uncover the thrombolites’ incredible history and cultural significance.

2. Pinjarra

Pinjarra blends history with plenty more, to keep a day out fun and interesting, especially for families! Kids can get hands-on at Peel Zoo, or run around the open spaces along the Murray River.

Visiting without kids? Head to a local gallery or find a spot for kayaking on the river. You could also catch a race at the Pinjarra Race Club. Easy to get to from Mandurah, and fun to spend a full day in for anyone, Pinjarra is ideal for a little taste of regional WA.

3. Dwellingup

Around 45 minutes from Mandurah, Dwellingup is where forest, river and trails all come together.

As one of WA’s official Trail Towns, it’s known for its mix of outdoor experiences in every direction, with rich red earth of gorgeous gum trees giving it a real WA feel. There’s over 125 km of mountain bike trails right here, with sections of the Bibbulmun Track for hiking right at your doorstep, and the Murray River also right here for kayaking. Nearby, the wild Lane Poole Reserve adds even more, with expansive forest, wildlife, and scenic spots like the suspension bridge.

4. Serpentine

Serpentine sits among a wild and wonderful combination of forest and farmland. Here at the edge of the Darling Scarp, there’s a great mix of nature and small country town charm for a day out from Mandurah. The area is known for its bushwalks, with access to sections of the world-famous Bibbulmun Track and plenty of trails through the surrounding forest.

Serpentine Falls is also a popular stop for a swim or picnic, while Serpentine Dam offers families a fantastic open space, barbecues and a beautiful place to spend the day. Plus, if it is a beautiful day you can also cool off in the water!

5. Jarrahdale

Looking for some peace and quiet? Jarrahdale, once WA’s first timber town, is now a relaxing escape surrounded by forest on the Darling Scarp. Its heritage still shows through old cottages, small museums and historic buildings, giving a sense of its early timber and farming past.

The area is well set up for a day well-spent and outdoors, with access to the Bibbulmun Track and nearby spots like Serpentine Dam and Pipehead Dam for picnics. Langford Park is also nearby, where you can find mountain biking trails, as well as local cafés, galleries and wineries! What more could you ask for?

6. Waroona

There’s no shortage of space near Mandurah, and Waroona is no exception to the rule. Here, south of the city, forests, rivers and coastlines meet, offering bushwalking, wildlife spotting, and water adventures. Waroona Dam and Lane Poole Reserve are perfect for boating, fishing, and paddling, while Drakesbrook Weir makes for easy picnics and swims. Back in town, a small selection of cafés and local eateries with a very friendly and local feel complete the visit.

7. Preston Beach

Preston Beach is all about the space. There’s nothing but open sand and a coastline that feels pretty untouched. The main access is straight off Preston Beach Road, where you can park near the foreshore or drive directly onto the beach if you’ve got a 4WD. Head here from Mandurah if you need a long walk or a swim. Feeling like staying for the day? Set up for the long haul, and you might give yourself enough time to see dolphins moving along the shoreline.

For the bird lovers, just inland, Lake Preston and Lake Pollard attract birdlife like black swans, pelicans and cormorants, especially in the warmer months.

Where to stay in Mandurah

Atrium Hotel Mandurah puts you in the heart of the city, steps from the marina, boardwalk, and cafés. Rooms range from studios to family-size apartments with balconies, air-conditioning, and kitchenettes.

The indoor heated pool and spa beneath the atrium is a standout, and there are tennis courts, an onsite bar and restaurant, plus free parking. With everything close by and easy access to Mandurah’s waterways and nearby nature, it’s a practical and comfortable base for exploring the area.