Guide to Visiting Misery Beach, Albany, Western Australia
Misery Beach, in Torndirrup National Park near Albany, Western Australia, is a secluded cove known for its soft white sand, calm turquoise water, and sculpted granite boulders. Protected by surrounding headlands, the beach offers sheltered swimming conditions and a tranquil escape from the rugged Southern Ocean beyond. Its striking natural backdrop and quiet, tucked-away setting have earned it a reputation as one of Albany’s most picturesque coastal gems.
Misery Beach Torndirrup National Park
Activity Overview and Map
Beach Access: Visible from the carpark | Google Maps
Parking: Parking is $17 AUD per car for the day | Google Maps
Total Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Price: Access to the beach is free
Highlights: Discover Misery Beach in Torndirrup National Park, a secluded white-sand cove framed by granite cliffs with sweeping views over the Southern Ocean along Albany’s rugged South Coast.
Getting There
From Albany:
Hire Car
There are a number of car rental companies in Albany, but for most visiting on a larger road trip from Perth will likely have hired it from there
Car hire costs vary substantially in Australia so it is best to check and compare prices at the time of booking
The roads are well surfaced the entire way so a 2WD is fine for the journey
The total distance is around 27 km one-way to Torndirrup National Park
There is no public transport to the beach location
Misery Beach Western Australia
General Tips
There is a short but slightly steep walk (around 200 metres) from the car park down to the beach, including steps, so wear sturdy footwear if you’re carrying gear.
The beach is relatively sheltered compared to other nearby coastal spots, but conditions can still change quickly. Always check the weather and ocean conditions before swimming.
There are no lifeguards on patrol, so swim with caution and avoid rough conditions.
The granite headlands surrounding the beach make it a fantastic spot for photography, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light hits the turquoise water.
In the summer months, the beach and parking area can get extremely busy so its reccommended to get there early.
If you’re planning on visiting multiple national parks in Western Australia, it is cheaper to get a WA parks pass, where a one-month pass costs $70 AUD, or an annual pass is $130 AUD. Further information is available on the DBCA Website.
Where to Next
Bald Head: Up for an adventure after your visit to Misery Beach? The start of the Bald Head Walk Trail is just a short drive away in Torndirrup National Park. This 12.5 km return hike follows a dramatic granite ridgeline with sweeping views over the Southern Ocean and King George Sound, a challenging but unforgettable way to continue your coastal adventure.
Little Beach: Located within Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, a 45 minute drive east of Albany, Western Australia, Little Beach is a stunning stretch of powdery white sand framed by smooth granite headlands and turquoise waters. This sheltered beach is perfect for swimming, relaxing, photography, and coastal walks, with crystal-clear water, dramatic rock formations, native bushland, seabirds, and seasonal whale sightings visible from the surrounding lookouts.
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Waterfall Beach in Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve is a secluded coastal gem located about 45 minutes from Albany on Western Australia’s South Coast. Tucked beside Little Beach, it features turquoise waters, striking granite headlands, and a seasonal waterfall cascading onto the sand, making it a stunning and more tranquil alternative for those exploring the region.