Albany sits proudly on the southern edge of Western Australia, where the rugged coastline meets cool southern waters and rolling green hills. It is a town filled with history, charm, and a sense of calm that visitors immediately feel when they arrive. Staying at Ocean Mist Villa near Middleton Beach places you right in the heart of this coastal paradise. From natural wonders to local discoveries, here are twenty must do experiences that make Albany unforgettable.
1. Start the Day with a Sunrise Walk at Middleton Beach
Middleton Beach is one of Albany’s most iconic coastal stretches, and Ocean Mist Villa is just moments away. Begin your day with a slow walk along the shoreline as the sun rises over King George Sound. The light spreads softly across the sand, the air smells fresh with salt and eucalyptus, and you can often see dolphins cruising through the calm waters. It is the perfect way to centre yourself before a day of exploration.
2. Swim, Paddle, or Simply Relax in the Bay
When the weather warms, Middleton Beach becomes an aquatic playground. The gentle surf is ideal for swimming or paddleboarding, while the clear water and soft sand make it just as enjoyable to sit and watch the world drift by. Guests at Ocean Mist Villa love that they can walk straight to the beach without worrying about parking or crowds. It feels like your own private piece of paradise.
3. Visit the National ANZAC Centre
One of the most moving and important attractions in Albany is the National ANZAC Centre. Set high on Mount Clarence, this world class museum honours the soldiers who departed from Albany for World War I. Through interactive displays and personal stories, it gives an intimate look into the courage and sacrifice of those who served. The panoramic views over King George Sound add a sense of perspective and reflection that stays with you long after your visit.
4. Explore the Raw Power of Torndirrup National Park
Just a short drive from Ocean Mist Villa, Torndirrup National Park showcases nature at its most dramatic. The Gap and Natural Bridge are the park’s most famous landmarks, carved by the relentless force of the Southern Ocean over millions of years. Standing on the viewing platform as waves crash below your feet is an awe inspiring experience. Continue further into the park to discover hidden beaches, wildflower trails, and some of the best coastal photography spots in Western Australia.
5. Discover the Magic of Little Beach at Two Peoples Bay
Few places capture the essence of a perfect beach like Little Beach. Its powdery white sand and turquoise water have made it one of the most photographed coastal spots in the country. The drive from Albany takes about forty minutes, but the reward is pure serenity. Bring a picnic, swim in the crystal clear shallows, and let time slow down. It is an experience that embodies the natural beauty of the Great Southern.
6. Step Back in Time at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station
Once a working whaling station, this site has been transformed into an engaging museum that tells the story of Albany’s maritime past. You can walk through restored machinery, explore the decks of a preserved whaling ship, and learn how this industry shaped the region. The station also has beautiful gardens, a wildlife park, and ocean lookouts, making it an interesting and family friendly destination.
7. Climb to the Desert Mounted Corps Memorial
For one of the most breathtaking views in Albany, make your way to the Desert Mounted Corps Memorial on Mount Clarence. This monument honours soldiers who served in the Middle East campaigns and offers a panoramic view of the town, harbour, and coastline. The gentle walk up the hill is well worth the effort, and it is a popular place to watch the sunrise or sunset.
8. Wander the Ellen Cove Boardwalk
The Ellen Cove Boardwalk begins at Middleton Beach and winds along the coastline, offering spectacular ocean views all the way to the lookout. Dolphins often appear close to shore, and seabirds glide effortlessly over the water below. The boardwalk is especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is golden and the sea shimmers. It is one of the most accessible and rewarding walks in Albany.
9. Taste the Flavours of the Great Southern
Albany sits at the heart of one of Western Australia’s most productive food and wine regions. Cool climate vineyards produce crisp rieslings, elegant chardonnays, and delicate pinot noirs, while local restaurants and cafés proudly showcase fresh produce from nearby farms. Spend a day visiting cellar doors, sampling artisanal cheeses, or picking up local delicacies at the Albany Farmers Market. When you return to Ocean Mist Villa, enjoy your finds on the verandah as the evening breeze rolls in.
10. Go Whale Watching in Season
Between June and October, Albany becomes one of the best whale watching destinations in the country. Humpback and southern right whales migrate along the coast, and local tour operators run eco cruises to get you close to these incredible creatures. You can also spot them from land at vantage points like the Albany Wind Farm or Marine Drive. Seeing a whale breach against the backdrop of a wild southern sea is an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
11. Visit the Albany Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning, the centre of Albany comes alive with the vibrant energy of the Farmers Market. Local growers and producers sell fresh fruit, vegetables, honey, baked bread, and flowers. It is the perfect spot to sample seasonal produce and meet the people behind it. Grab a coffee, chat with friendly stallholders, and fill your basket with breakfast supplies to enjoy back at the villa.
12. Take a Day Trip to the Stirling Range National Park
The Stirling Ranges rise dramatically from the surrounding plains, offering hiking trails, wildflower displays, and sweeping views. Bluff Knoll, the highest peak in southern Western Australia, is famous for its misty summit and occasional dusting of snow. The climb takes a few hours and rewards you with an incredible outlook across the Great Southern landscape. It is a day of adventure that contrasts beautifully with the coastal calm of Albany.
13. Enjoy a Spa Evening at Ocean Mist Villa
After a day of exploring, there is nothing better than returning to Ocean Mist Villa for a relaxing spa evening. Sink into the bubbling spa bath under the open sky, listen to the distant sound of waves, and let the tension melt away. The villa’s private setting and luxurious touches make it a haven of rest. Many guests say it is the perfect balance to Albany’s adventurous spirit.
14. Visit the Albany Wind Farm
The Albany Wind Farm combines renewable energy with incredible scenery. The massive turbines stand tall against the coastline, and the surrounding walking trails offer dramatic views over the Southern Ocean. On windy days the sound of the blades whooshing above you is strangely soothing. It is also a great spot for photos, especially near sunset when the sky glows pink and orange behind the turbines.
15. Enjoy a Coffee and Brunch in Albany’s Town Centre
Albany’s main streets are lined with charming cafés that serve excellent coffee and hearty breakfasts. From classic bacon and eggs to creative vegetarian options, there is something for everyone. Take your time over brunch, explore boutique stores, and stop by a local gallery. It is a lovely way to spend a lazy morning before heading out for more sightseeing.
16. Take the Scenic Drive to Frenchman Bay
Frenchman Bay lies within Torndirrup National Park and offers calm swimming spots, shaded picnic areas, and rock pools to explore. The drive itself is worth doing for its ocean views and occasional glimpses of wildlife. Pack a picnic basket, a towel, and a good book, and spend an unhurried afternoon by the water. It is another reminder of how beautifully untouched much of Albany’s coastline remains.
17. Visit the Museum of the Great Southern
Located on the waterfront, the Museum of the Great Southern tells the story of the region’s natural and cultural heritage. Exhibits include maritime history, Indigenous culture, and displays about Albany’s early settlers. The museum is family friendly, informative, and well presented, making it a great indoor activity for cooler days.
18. Watch the Sunset from Emu Point
Emu Point is a calm, family friendly area at the entrance to Oyster Harbour, just minutes from Ocean Mist Villa. It is the perfect place for a picnic or takeaway fish and chips as the sun sinks low over the water. The light over the harbour creates stunning reflections, and pelicans often glide across the surface. The nearby playground and walking paths make it ideal for families or couples looking for a peaceful end to the day.
19. Explore Albany’s Art and Cultural Scene
Albany has a thriving creative community that reflects the region’s natural beauty. Visit local art galleries to discover works by Great Southern artists inspired by the coastline, forests, and wildlife. The town often hosts exhibitions, live music, and community events that add to its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Taking home a locally crafted piece is a meaningful way to remember your visit.
20. Slow Down and Embrace the Ocean Mist Lifestyle
With so many things to see and do, it can be easy to forget that one of Albany’s greatest luxuries is its pace of life. Take time to simply slow down. Brew a pot of tea, open a book, and listen to the ocean in the background. Walk the short path to the beach at twilight, breathe in the sea air, and feel the stress of daily life dissolve. Ocean Mist Villa was designed for guests to rest, reflect, and reconnect with the beauty of the coast. It is not just accommodation but an experience in itself.
Plan Your Perfect Albany Escape
What makes Albany so special is its ability to combine history, adventure, and tranquillity in one place. You can hike a mountain in the morning, visit a museum in the afternoon, and unwind in a spa that evening. Ocean Mist Villa’s location at Middleton Beach ties it all together. You can step out your door and walk to the water, drive to national parks within minutes, and come home to a peaceful retreat that feels personal and private.
Albany is a destination that rewards every type of traveller. It is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, families looking for relaxed outdoor adventures, or solo travellers wanting peace and perspective. The town’s welcoming spirit, stunning landscapes, and fresh coastal air make it a place people return to again and again.
Ocean Mist Villa provides the perfect backdrop for this experience. Each moment spent there feels unhurried and authentic. You can spend your days exploring and your evenings unwinding in comfort, knowing that the best of Albany is right at your doorstep. Whether you are here for a weekend or a week, these twenty experiences will fill your days with beauty, inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for the slower rhythm of life by the sea.
