Esperance accommodation from AU$199

Things to do

Get your bearings and take the 38km Great Ocean Drive. Along the way, make sure you stop off at Rotary Lookout, Twilight Beach, Pink Lake (only slightly pink with algae), Observatory Point and the Wind Farm.

Some of the southern coast's best beaches are found in Cape Le Grand National Park, including Lucky Bay, Australia's Whitest Beach. So make sure you pay the park a visit.

Woody Island, off Shearwater Bay, is a great place for snorkelling, diving and fishing. But if it's surf you're after, try the 16ft waves at Cyclops. This certainly isn't for beginners or the faint of heart because this shallow reef can be quite dangerous, so surf at your own risk.

If you're into fishing, head to Tanker Jetty or the estuary in the Stokes National Park. With a bit of luck, you'll be able to catch some nice bream, Australian Salmon and King George Whiting.

Animal lovers can walk the 3.6km trail through the Kepwari Wetland and check out the native waterbirds. Or if you're here in late winter, see if you can spot any migrating whales from the lookout in Cape Arid National Park.

Shopping and dining

You can pick up essential items at the Esperance Boulevard Shopping Centre or grab some unique souvenirs at the Museum Village Markets and Growers' Markets on Sundays.

If you're feeling a bit peckish, you'll be able to sit down for a fantastic pub meal or indulge in a fine dining experience in town. There are also plenty of cafes, bakeries and takeaway shops to whet your appetite.

Getting here and around

To get here, grab one of these cheap flights to Esperance. Once you've arrived, you'll be able to get around town on foot but if you want to explore the coastline, you're best off hiring a car. That way, you can drive a bit further to the Great Australian Bight.

So wot are you waiting for? Book a room in one of our Esperance hotels and get ready for a laidback coastal holiday.