Emu Point

Why Emu Point Needs to Be on Your Aussie Bucket List

Nestled just 10 minutes northeast of Albany’s historic city centre, Emu Point Channel is a breathtaking, deep-water passage where the tranquil waters of Oyster Harbour meet the roaring waves of King George Sound. Serving as a striking natural border between the Emu Point promontory and the rugged wilderness of Gull Rock National Park (Mt Martin), this vibrant channel is one of the Great Southern region’s most picturesque hidden gems.  

Whether you're embarking on a South West WA road trip or looking for the ultimate relaxed afternoon in Albany, Emu Point Channel serves up quintessential coastal vibes, spectacular wildlife encounters, and panoramic views that define Western Australia's pristine coastline.

Top Things to Do at Emu Point 

• Watch the Boat Parade: Find a spot on the tiered grass banks or the rocky groyne and watch the local fleet. The channel is a bustling aquatic highway for commercial fishing boats, luxury yachts, and kayakers making their way out to sea or cruising up the pristine Kalgan River.  
• Meet the Local Wildlife: Emu Point is famous for its resident fauna. Look down into the crystal-clear water to spot large rays gliding through the shallows and dolphins playing in the deeper channel. Don't forget to look up—giant pelicans frequently patrol the skies and shores here, often waiting near the local boat pens for a fresh catch.  
• Walk or Cycle the Coastline: Stretch your legs on the popular Middleton Beach Shared Path, a scenic 7km walk and cycle trail that connects Albany's two iconic beaches right up to the edge of the channel.  
• Indulge in Fresh Local Seafood: Pack a picnic to enjoy under the shady peppermint trees, fire up the public beachside BBQs, or grab world-class fish and chips from the nearby Squid Shack.  
• Important Safety Note: Because Emu Point Channel is a deep, active commercial boating channel with incredibly powerful tidal currents, swimming in the channel itself should be avoided at all times. For a safe dip, head just a few metres away to the protected, shallow, and family-friendly swimming jetty on the Oyster Harbour side!  

Best Time to Visit

While Emu Point is beautiful year-round, Spring (September to November) is magical as local wildflowers carpet the coastal paths, and native emus are frequently spotted foraging nearby with their chicks. Autumn (March to May) offers calmer, glassier waters perfect for photography, while Winter brings the incredible opportunity to spot migrating Humpback and Southern Right whales breaching out in the adjacent King George Sound.  

How to Get There

From Albany town square, it is an easy 7km drive. Head up York Street, follow Middleton Beach Road, and turn onto Golf Links Road (which becomes Emu Point Drive). Follow the signs straight to the Emu Point Boat Harbour where ample parking is available.

Activities

• Walking
• Photography
• Fishing
• Boating

Facilities

• Shops
• Picnic area
• Carpark
• Barbeque
• Toilets