RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Exploring Esperance means stepping into a powerful natural landscape — one that rewards you with unforgettable experiences but also asks for awareness and respect. This page highlights the key safety information every visitor should know, from our coastline and remote areas to bushfire conditions, 4WD tracks, and campfire rules.
We encourage all visitors to read The Esperance Promise, our shared commitment to travelling responsibly, caring for country, and keeping yourself and others safe.
Enjoy Responsibly, Return Home Safely.
Coastal Safety
Esperance’s coastline is stunning and powerful. Sadly, lives have been lost here, especially in summer, often because visitors underestimate local hazards.
Most coastal incidents happen when people are swept off rocks or caught in strong currents. A natural black algae grows on rocks along the south-east coast, making them extremely slippery. One step can lead to a serious fall or being washed into the water. Large waves can also surge unexpectedly.
The presence of life rings often marks higher-risk areas, but caution is needed everywhere along the coast.
Coastal Safety Tips
- Follow beach signage (take a photo of your location and follow instructions).
- Stay off slippery black rocks (We really can’t stress this enough!)
- Learn how to identify and escape rip currents (e.g. never swim at Salmon Beach).
- Rock fishing? Wear a life jacket and tie off to rock bolts (free rentals available locally).
- Download the SharkSmart app for local alerts.
Safer Swimming Options
- Twilight Beach is patrolled Sundays (9am–3pm) from December–March and on summer public holidays.
- A beach enclosure and lap pontoon are located at the Whale Tail on the Esplanade.
- Ocean lagoons along the Great Ocean Drive offer calm swimming when tides are right.
Ask a local — they’re more than happy to help. And remember: If in doubt, don’t go out.
4WD Off-Road Adventures
Esperance is made for 4WD adventures, but preparation and responsible driving are everything. Be ready before heading out, know how to let down your tire pressure, carry recovery gear and water, drive carefully on tracks and beaches, and know how to respond if something goes wrong.
For detailed guidance, see the Code Off Road guide.
Local Contacts:
- New to 4WDing? Friendly local experts can help with advice and essential equipment:
- TJM Esperance
- Southern Suspension & 4x4 Centre (Castletown)
- Vehicle recovery: AM Wreckers Group Pty Ltd, Esperance.
Bushfire Safe
Esperance’s landscapes and coastal campsites are extraordinary — but warm, dry conditions mean bushfires are a real risk. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or driving, staying informed is crucial.
Check Conditions & Fire Bans
Always check the Fire Danger Rating and Total Fire Bans on Emergency WA before travelling or camping. Follow all official advice and leave early if conditions change.
Campfires: Know the Rules
Campfire restrictions vary by season and campground. Some sites never allow fires. Others allow them only under certain conditions.
Always check current campfire rules before lighting a fire.
If permitted: use designated rings, bring your own wood, fully extinguish the fire with water, and never leave it unattended.
Useful links:
Communication
The Esperance region spans over 500km of coastline. Once you leave town, mobile service, fuel, supplies, and support are very limited.
If heading into remote areas, prepare thoroughly: fuel, water, food, recovery gear, camping equipment, and a backup plan.
Download the Emergency+ app, tell someone your plans, and if travelling out of range for more than a day or two, consider a satellite phone or UHF radio.
Roads and Track Conditions
Esperance has the largest road network in WA, and conditions can change quickly especially after rain or during harvest. Roads may close or have speed/weight limits applied.
- Check Shire road closures and works here
- Check Main Roads closures and works here
- Check National Park closures and alerts here
Peak Season
From September to April, accommodation fills quickly. If you haven’t booked ahead, you risk being caught short.
- Book accommodation here.
- Camping outside designated campgrounds is illegal. Ranger patrols occur and infringements apply.
View approved campgrounds: Camping in Esperance