Hamelin Bay
Hamelin Bay: Swim with friendly stingrays in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by stunning white cliffs. Australia's own slice of Mediterranean paradis...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, active rays
Hamelin Bay
Best Time
Calm waters, active rays
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hamelin Bay: Swim with friendly stingrays in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by stunning white cliffs. Australia's own slice of Mediterranean paradise.
"The Greece of Australia ✨ Crystal blue waters, white rocky cliffs and a g"
Respect the Rays 🩵
Observe stingrays from a distance; avoid touching them. They are wild and curious visitors.
Go Early or Mid-Week 🌊
Visit early morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stingray Encounters
Hamelin Bay Beach
Swim or kayak alongside curious, gentle stingrays in crystal-clear waters. A truly unforgettable wildlife experience.
The 'Greece of Australia'
Hamelin Bay
Marvel at the stunning white rocky cliffs and turquoise waters, reminiscent of Mediterranean landscapes.
Pristine Beach Bliss
Hamelin Bay Beach
Relax on the open, sandy bay with calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rays
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respect the Rays 🩵
Observe stingrays from a distance; avoid touching them. They are wild and curious visitors.
Go Early or Mid-Week 🌊
Visit early morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Pack Your Swim Gear 🏊♂️
Bring your snorkel and fins for an up-close encounter with the marine life.
Sun Protection is Key 🌞
The Australian sun is strong; wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Tips
from all over the internet
Respect the Rays 🩵
Observe stingrays from a distance; avoid touching them. They are wild and curious visitors.
Go Early or Mid-Week 🌊
Visit early morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Pack Your Swim Gear 🏊♂️
Bring your snorkel and fins for an up-close encounter with the marine life.
Sun Protection is Key 🌞
The Australian sun is strong; wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Free Entry 💰
Enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife encounters at Hamelin Bay without any admission fees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hamelin Bay is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, often compared to Mediterranean landscapes, and its unique opportunity to see wild stingrays up close. Visitors love the free access and the chance for unforgettable wildlife encounters. Some travelers note that stingray sightings can be inconsistent depending on the season and weather, and facilities are quite basic.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hamelin Bay is approximately a 3-hour drive south of Perth CBD. The journey is scenic, taking you through the picturesque South West region of Western Australia.
Consider driving your own vehicle or renting one for flexibility. The route is well-signposted.Yes, Hamelin Bay is conveniently located just a 25-minute drive south of Margaret River. This makes it an easy addition to any Margaret River region itinerary.
The drive from Dunsborough to Hamelin Bay is about 45 minutes to an hour, offering beautiful coastal and rural scenery. It's a straightforward drive along well-maintained roads.
While it's a long day trip (6 hours round trip driving), many visitors do make it a day excursion from Perth to see the stingrays and enjoy the beach. However, an overnight stay is recommended to fully appreciate the area.
Public transport options directly to Hamelin Bay are limited. It is best to have your own vehicle or consider organized tours that depart from Perth or Margaret River.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Hamelin Bay is a natural attraction and entry is completely free. You can enjoy the beach and observe the stingrays without any cost.
Hamelin Bay is an open natural area and is accessible at all times. However, for the best wildlife viewing and a more pleasant experience, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
No booking is required to see the stingrays as they are wild animals. Simply head to the bay, and you'll likely see them close to shore, especially in the mornings.
While there are no strict entry restrictions, it's important to respect the natural environment and wildlife. Avoid feeding or touching the stingrays, and take all your rubbish with you.
Yes, you can easily visit Hamelin Bay for a few hours to see the stingrays and enjoy the beach. However, to truly relax and explore the surrounding area, consider staying longer.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Stingrays visit Hamelin Bay year-round, but they are most active and visible during the warmer summer months when the water is calmer. Early mornings and weekdays are also ideal for fewer crowds.
Yes, many visitors enjoy swimming or kayaking in the bay alongside the stingrays. They are known to be gentle and curious, often coming close to shore.
Besides stingray viewing, Hamelin Bay offers beautiful beach relaxation, swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. The surrounding area also has wineries and other natural attractions.
Basic facilities are available at Hamelin Bay, including toilets and picnic areas. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks as options are limited.
Yes, Hamelin Bay is a popular spot for fishing, with opportunities for both shore fishing and boat fishing. Common catches include whiting, tailor, and mulloway.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities include swimming with stingrays, the stunning white cliffs against the blue ocean, and the expansive beach vistas. Early morning light offers beautiful soft shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and cliffs. For underwater shots with stingrays, a waterproof camera or action camera like a GoPro is ideal.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light for photography. Early mornings are also best for capturing stingrays with fewer people in the background.
Drone usage is generally permitted in open natural areas, but always check current regulations with local authorities before flying. Ensure you fly responsibly and respect wildlife.
Be patient and wait for the stingrays to approach. If swimming, use a wide-angle lens and try to capture them in their natural environment. Avoid using flash, as it can startle them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing beach toys and picnic gear to make the most of your family day. While the stingrays are gentle, always supervise children closely when they are in the water. The drive from Perth or Margaret River is manageable for a day trip, but an overnight stay at a nearby caravan park or holiday park could make the experience more relaxed for families.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
If you're driving from Perth, consider breaking up the journey by stopping in towns like Mandurah or Bunbury. The drive itself is scenic, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Western Australia. For day-trippers, prioritize an early start to maximize your time at the bay and increase your chances of seeing the stingrays.
💰 Budget Travelers
Accommodation options like caravan parks and campsites around Hamelin Bay offer affordable stays. Packing your own food and drinks for a picnic is also a great way to save money. While there are hotels and resorts nearby, opting for self-catering or camping can significantly reduce costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Encountering Hamelin Bay's Stingrays
It's crucial to remember that these are wild animals, and respectful observation is key. Avoid touching or feeding the stingrays, as this can disrupt their natural behavior and potentially harm them. The best times to see them are typically in the morning when the water is calmer and they are more active. Bring your snorkel or a waterproof camera to capture these incredible moments.
Some visitors have noted that stingray sightings can vary, with one Reddit user mentioning a lack of sightings in early August due to colder weather. However, generally, they are present year-round, with summer being a prime time. The shallow, sandy bay provides a safe and accessible environment for both the rays and visitors to interact.
The Stunning Landscape of Hamelin Bay
The beach itself is a long stretch of soft sand, perfect for sunbathing, walking, or building sandcastles. The water is generally calm and shallow near the shore, making it ideal for swimming and wading. The contrast between the vibrant blue water and the white cliffs is particularly striking, especially on a sunny day. Many visitors are captivated by the sheer beauty of the bay, often sharing their awe on social media.
While the primary attraction is the stingrays, the overall environment of Hamelin Bay is a significant part of its appeal. It offers a serene and beautiful backdrop for a day out, whether you're there for the wildlife or just to enjoy the coastal scenery. The drive to Hamelin Bay itself is also part of the experience, showcasing the beautiful South West region of Western Australia.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit