Bunbury is a cosmopolitan city which offers it all, from a huge range of attractions and activities, to accommodation to suit every need and style. No matter what your favorite way to unwind is you can do it all in this picturesque harbour city.
Located just 175 kilometres south of Perth, Bunbury is the heart of the South West, WA's premier holiday region. It's distinctive waterfront location combines amazing natural surrounds and top class facilities to guarantee a memorable experience.
Swim with bottlenose dolphins in Koombana Bay or visit Bunbury Regional Art Galleries showcasing national exhibitions. Enjoy a café latte in the bustling cappuccino strip or visit one of the many award-winning Geographe wineries within 30 minutes of Bunbury.
While in the City you can also discover the local natural attractions, art studios, shopping and enjoy the long white sandy beaches. For the energetic, play golf, dive the Lena Wreck, go kayaking or indulge in the endless variety of water sports available.
Bunbury is also the place to be at night offering the finest live music, Gold Plate award wining restaurants and the most vibrant clubs and pubs within the region.
Combine all this with Bunbury's central location and it is the perfect base for touring the South West.
A City of Three Waters
Almost an Island, Bunbury is surrounded by water. The rumbling surf of the Indian Ocean, the calm waters of Koombana Bay and the peaceful Leschenault Inlet offer unique lifestyle and recreation opportunities. The long white sandy coastline of the Indian Ocean, better known as Back Beach, is ideal for swimmers of all ages and reflects the Australian beach culture. Home to over 100 bottlenose dolphins, the sheltered waters of Koombana Bay make it the perfect aquatic play ground for families, while the still waters of the Leschenault Inlet offers endless varieties of water sports, fishing and crabbing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How was Bunbury named?
Bunbury was named in the honour of Lieutenant Henry William St. Pierre Bunbury who carried out explorations in this area in 1836.
What is Bunbury's population?
Over 56,000 people live within 15km of the City centre with a regional population of 141,100 for the South West. The City of Bunbury covers an area of 65.7 square kilometres.
What does Koombana Bay mean?
Koombana is taken from our region's indigenous people, the noongar which has a debatable meaning. It is suggested the following is either one of the names:
1. Place where the whales blow, place of whales
2. Calm and peaceful
What does the “up” mean in names of country towns?
Names ending with up signify a "place of ... ", eg: Boyanup is a place of rock (boya is a type of rock. In the Bunbury and the surrounding region you will find Wyalup, Boyanup, Dardanup, Balingup, Mumballup and the list goes on.
When were the Silos built?
The white silos on Casuarina Drive, currently being redeveloped into apartments were originally built in 1937. The four cells of the silos are 28.3m high. Eight adjacent cells were demolished in 1992. The silos were used to house grain for shipping from the port.
What are Bunbury’s main industries?
Mining extraction, processing and manufacturing are the largest contributors to the economy injecting approximately $1.85 billion per annum into the area.
What does Bunbury export/import?
Bunbury's deep-water port moves more than 12 million tonnes of cargo each year with alumina and wood chips making up the bulk of the exports.
