Margaret River Summer Gems: Hamelin Bay & Injidup Natural Spa
A Safer Margaret River Summer Guide
Summer brings long days, brilliant coastal colour and plenty of reasons to explore the Margaret River region. It also brings stronger sun, changing sea breezes, busy car parks and powerful Indian Ocean conditions. This Margaret River summer guide combines three memorable places with the practical information visitors need to enjoy them responsibly.
The route includes Hamelin Bay, Wyadup Rocks at Injidup and Boranup Forest. They are natural places rather than controlled attractions. Conditions, access and wildlife sightings can change, so check official alerts and local signs on the day.
1. Hamelin Bay: Beach Scenery and Wild Stingrays
Hamelin Bay is known for white sand, clear water and the possibility of seeing smooth stingrays or eagle rays near the boat ramp and remains of the old jetty. These are wild animals, and no particular time of day guarantees a sighting.
Calmer conditions can make the shallows easier to see, but the weather and ocean should determine whether you enter the water. Hamelin Bay is not a wildlife attraction where animals arrive to a schedule. Visit for the beach and regard any ray sighting as a bonus.
Respect the Rays
- Keep a respectful distance and allow the animals a clear path.
- Never touch, feed, chase or crowd a ray.
- Keep children close and follow instructions from rangers or local signs.
- Do not rely on social-media advice that encourages close interaction.
Facilities include public toilets, a boat ramp, a small shop and nearby holiday-park facilities. Parking becomes busy during peak summer periods, so arrive with time and park only in designated areas.
2. Injidup Natural Spa at Wyadup Rocks
At the end of Wyadup Road, ocean waves break over a rocky shelf and can send foaming water into a natural rock pool. The effect is dramatic, but the name “natural spa” can create a dangerously reassuring impression. This is an exposed, unpatrolled section of coastline—not a managed swimming pool.
Unexpected waves can wash across the rocks even when the ocean appears manageable. Wet granite is slippery, the route from the informal parking area involves uneven ground and rocks, and emergency access is difficult. In April 2026, a visitor died after being swept from the rocks and caught in a rip.
How to Visit More Safely
- Check the weather, swell, tide and official warnings before leaving.
- Stay well back from exposed rock edges and never turn your back on the ocean.
- Do not enter the pool or cross the rock shelf when waves are breaking over it.
- Wear secure footwear and remain on established access routes to protect coastal vegetation.
- If conditions look doubtful, enjoy the wider coastal scenery from a safe position and leave the rock pool alone.
Photo: BRO Beard via Pexels.
3. Boranup Karri Forest Drive
Boranup Forest provides a cooler contrast to the coast, with pale-barked karri trees rising 50 metres or more above the forest floor. Drive slowly, use designated pull-over areas and watch for cyclists, walkers, wildlife and other vehicles.
Boranup Drive is unsealed. Its condition can change after rain, storms, fire activity or maintenance, and closures may occur with little notice. Check Parks WA alerts before travelling and do not assume a hire vehicle is permitted on unsealed roads.
There is no vehicle entry fee for Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, although fees can apply to camping and commercial activities. Dogs are not permitted in the national park.
Planning This Summer Route
- Carry drinking water, sun protection and a charged phone.
- Download maps before travelling because reception can be unreliable.
- Check fire-danger ratings, park alerts and beach conditions on the day.
- Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle.
- Allow extra time for summer traffic and full car parks.
For more coastal options with clear swimming and patrol guidance, read our guide to the best beaches in Margaret River. Photographers can also use our Margaret River photography guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are stingrays guaranteed at Hamelin Bay?
No. The rays are wild and may or may not enter the shallows. Never touch, feed, chase or crowd them if they appear.
Is Injidup Natural Spa safe for swimming?
It is an exposed, unpatrolled rock pool affected by ocean swell, waves and slippery rocks. People have been swept from the rocks, including a fatal incident in 2026. Treat it as a hazardous coastal location, stay well back from exposed edges and do not enter when waves are crossing the shelf.
Do I need a four-wheel drive?
Hamelin Bay and Wyadup Road can be reached in a conventional vehicle under normal conditions. Boranup Drive is unsealed, so check its current condition and your hire-vehicle agreement before using it. Reaching the Injidup rock pool requires walking over uneven ground and rocks.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are prohibited in Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, including the national-park areas covered by this route. Do not leave a dog unattended in a vehicle; choose a confirmed dog-friendly alternative instead.
Are there entry fees?
There is no vehicle entry fee for Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park or general admission charge for these natural locations. Camping, commercial tours and other booked activities may have separate fees.
Summer conditions can change quickly. Let the weather, ocean and official warnings shape your day rather than trying to complete every stop regardless of conditions.
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