Canal Rocks

One of my favourite natural wonders in the Margaret River area is Canal Rocks. Located in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park 12 kilometres southwest of Dunsborough or 40km northwest of Margaret River, it is definitely worth a stop for unique and very scenic views.

Besides watching the crashing waves from the footbridge, other activities include scrambling over the rocks (highly recommended!), fishing, snorkelling and swimming.

How to get there

The road to Canal Rocks is well signed along Caves Road. Follow Canal Rocks Road (a paved road wide enough for two cars) all the way to the end to the large carpark. A couple signs lead the way to a wooden boardwalk for accessible friendly views.

Visiting tips

  • There are no lifeguards in the area, so any water based activities are at your own risk. Swimming is only recommended for confident swimmers due to the strong current.
  • Swimming or walking on the rocks during storms is not recommended due to large waves and dangerous conditions.
  • Non-slip shoes are recommended for climbing on the rocks.
  • For a truly unforgettable experience, time your visit with the late afternoon for the sunset on non-cloudy days.
  • Since the waves are larger and more spectacular on windy days, this makes a perfect stop when the weather conditions are not favourable for the beach.
  • For less-hazardous swimming, there is a beach a short distance away, reachable from Canal Rocks Road. For a larger beach, head north to Yallinyup
  • Pets are not allowed.
  • There are toilet facilities near the carpark.

If you need any more reasons to visit the area, check out the pictures below.

Bridge from the carpark
A pod of dolphins were swimming near the boat. The calmer waters here was popular with snorkelers.
The narrow bridge some kids were using as a diving board
Lots of rocks to climb on
For this view, you have to scramble on the rocks
Fisherman
View looking down on the bridge
Part of the ‘canal’
Lots of rocks to play on

Have you visited Canal Rocks? Do you have any other favourite spots in the area? Let me a comment below 🙂

I'd love to hear from you. Add your comments to the discussion below!

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