Nestled in the heart of Western Australia’s Wheatbelt region, Williams is a charming town that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, rich history, and exciting adventures. Located 161 km south of Perth and 32 km west of Narrogin, this friendly farming community is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and is home to an array of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Join us as we unveil the top things to do in Williams, WA, a captivating destination that promises unforgettable experiences. Immerse yourself in the area’s natural wonders, delve into its fascinating heritage, and embark on a remarkable journey through the enchanting world of Williams, WA.
Things To Do In Williams, WA
1. Williams Woolshed – A Hub of Local Flavors and Experiences
Indulge in a taste of the region at the Williams Woolshed, a shopping and dining destination located along Albany Highway. This unique venue offers a range of local products, from gourmet food and wine to clothing and souvenirs. The Woolshed Cafe is a must-visit for travelers, serving up delicious meals and barista coffee in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Williams Woolshed also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, workshops, and live music performances. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, the Williams Woolshed is a must-visit destination.
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
- Address: 101 Albany Hwy, Williams, WA 6391
2. Williams Lions Park – A Relaxing Riverside Retreat
Take a break from your journey and unwind at the Williams Lions Park, a popular rest stop nestled on the banks of the Williams River alongside Albany Highway. The recently refurbished park offers a range of amenities, including a nature play area, a long flying fox, a large numbat sculpture, and free public toilets. The park is open year-round, 24/7, making it a convenient and accessible destination for travelers.
While you’re at the park, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, take in the beautiful surroundings, and let the kids burn off some energy in the play area. If you’re feeling peckish, the nearby Williams Woolshed is a must-stop destination for barista coffee, food, shoes, and wool garments.
- Address: Albany Highway, Williams, WA 6391
3. Williams Nature Reserve – A Hidden Gem of Biodiversity
Discover the natural beauty of the Williams Nature Reserve, located approximately 6 km northwest of the Williams townsite. This hidden gem is set aside for the conservation of flora and fauna and has long been visited by locals and wildflower enthusiasts. The reserve offers suitable access and day-use facilities such as parking, information, a lookout, and a picnic table.
To reach the reserve, turn off Albany Highway onto McKenzie Road and travel approximately 2 km along a gravel road. Once there, immerse yourself in the serene surroundings and keep an eye out for the diverse range of native plants and wildlife that call the reserve home.
- Address: Williams Nature Reserve, Williams, WA 6391
- Distance from town: Approximately 5 km from Williams.
4. Dryandra Woodland – A Biodiverse Wonderland
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Western Australia’s native bushland at the Dryandra Woodland, a short drive from Williams. This biodiverse area is home to a variety of native flora and fauna, including wildflowers, rare marsupials, and over 100 species of birds. The woodland offers a range of walking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the highlights of Dryandra Woodland is the Barna Mia Nocturnal Wildlife Experience, a guided tour that allows you to observe the region’s unique nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat. The best time to visit Dryandra Woodland is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in full bloom.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn
- Address: Dryandra Woodland, WA 6311
- Distance from town: Approximately 30 km from Williams.
5. West OZ Skydiving – An Adrenaline-Pumping Adventure
Experience the thrill of a lifetime with West OZ Skydiving, an adrenaline-pumping skydiving experience located just a short drive from Williams. Whether you’re a first-time jumper or an experienced skydiver, the friendly and professional team at West OZ Skydiving will ensure your experience is unforgettable.
As you soar through the sky, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, from the rolling hills to the sparkling coastline. West OZ Skydiving is open daily, weather permitting, and bookings are required.
- Opening Hours: Open daily, weather permitting. Bookings required.
- Address: 3616 Albany Hwy, Williams, WA 6391
- Distance from town: Approximately 3 km from Williams.
6. The Big Numbat – A Symbol of Western Australia
Celebrate the state animal of Western Australia with a visit to The Big Numbat, a large sculpture located in Williams Lions Park. This unique and eye-catching piece of public art is a tribute to the numbat, a small marsupial native to the region. The sculpture is a great photo opportunity and a reminder of the importance of conserving the local wildlife and their habitats.
While you’re at the park, take the time to explore the other attractions and amenities, including the nature play area, picnic facilities, and the picturesque Williams River. The Big Numbat is a must-see for anyone passing through Williams.
- Address: 2 Brooking St, Williams, WA 6391
7. Wellington National Park – A Natural Wonderland
Discover the beauty of Wellington National Park, a sprawling park featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for water-based activities. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom.
One of the park’s highlights is the Honeymoon Pool, a popular swimming spot surrounded by lush vegetation. For those seeking adventure, the park offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and mountain biking. With so much to see and do, Wellington National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Williams area.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn
- Address: Wellington National Park, WA 6236
- Distance from town: Approximately 100 km from Williams.
8. Barna Mia Nocturnal Wildlife Experience – A Magical Encounter with Nature
Experience the magic of the Australian bush at night with the Barna Mia Nocturnal Wildlife Experience, a guided tour that takes you into the heart of Dryandra Woodland to observe the region’s unique nocturnal wildlife. The tour offers a rare opportunity to see some of Western Australia’s most endangered marsupials up close, including the woylie, quokka, and bilby.
The Barna Mia Nocturnal Wildlife Experience is a must-do for animal lovers and those seeking a truly unforgettable encounter with nature. Tours are available by booking only, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance.
- Opening Hours: Tours available by booking only.
- Address: Dryandra Woodland, WA 6311
- Distance from town: Approximately 30 km from Williams.
9. Munda Biddi Trail – A World-Class Mountain Biking Adventure
Challenge yourself on the Munda Biddi Trail, a world-class mountain bike trail that stretches over 1,000 km from Mundaring to Albany. This epic trail takes you through some of Western Australia’s most stunning landscapes, including towering forests, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys. The trail is suitable for riders of all skill levels, with sections ranging from easy to challenging.
The best time to tackle the Munda Biddi Trail is during autumn and spring when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Whether you’re an experienced mountain biker or a beginner looking for a new adventure, the Munda Biddi Trail offers an unforgettable experience.
- Best time of the year: Autumn and spring
- Address: The trail starts in Mundaring, WA 6073, and ends in Albany, WA 6330.
- Distance from town: The trail passes through various towns in Western Australia.
10. Hot Air Ballooning in Northam – A Breathtaking Experience
Soar above the picturesque landscape of Western Australia on a hot air balloon ride in Northam, a thrilling and romantic experience that offers stunning views of the countryside. As you float through the sky, take in the breathtaking scenery, from the rolling hills to the sparkling rivers and lakes below.
Hot air ballooning in Northam is best enjoyed during autumn and spring when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Be sure to book your flight in advance, as this popular activity tends to fill up quickly.
- Best time of the year: Autumn and spring
- Address: Northam, WA 6401
- Distance from town: Approximately 200 km from Williams.
11. Drakesbrook Wines – A Taste of the Region’s Finest
Discover the flavors of Western Australia at Drakesbrook Wines, a winery located in Waroona. The winery offers a variety of wines, allowing you to sample and savor the unique tastes of the area. Drakesbrook Wines is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy their offerings and soak up the beautiful surroundings.
The winery is located approximately 130 km from Williams, making it a great destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a relaxing afternoon, Drakesbrook Wines is a must-visit destination.
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
- Address: 1085 South Western Hwy, Waroona, WA 6215
- Distance from town: Approximately 130 km from Williams.
Towns Nearby Williams, WA
Here are some nearby towns/suburbs around Williams, WA, Australia, along with their highlights, attractions, distance from Williams, and reasons why they are worth visiting:
- Narrogin, WA (30 km from Williams) : A significant and prosperous wheatbelt town, Narrogin offers a range of services and attractions. Visit the Narrogin Heritage Walk Trail to explore the town’s history and heritage buildings. The town is also close to the Foxes Lair Nature Park, which offers bushwalks and opportunities to spot native wildlife.
- Cuballing, WA (36 km from Williams) : A small town in the Wheatbelt region, Cuballing is home to a tight-knit community. While there are not many specific attractions in the town itself, it serves as a gateway to explore the surrounding Wheatbelt region.
- Wandering, WA (approximately 25.81 km from Williams) : A small rural town, Wandering is known for its picturesque landscapes and friendly community. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to explore the beauty of the Wheatbelt region.
- Quindanning, WA (approximately 40 km from Williams) : A small town located near the picturesque Spookwood Estate, a boutique vineyard farmstay. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing getaway and wine tasting experience at the estate, which is open by appointment only.
- Crossman, WA (approximately 22.38 km from Williams) : While not much information is available about specific attractions in Crossman, it is another small town in the Wheatbelt region that can be explored as part of a larger journey through the area.
Getting To Williams, WA
To get to Williams, WA from common destinations or origins as a local tourist, you have several options for both public transport and driving.
From Perth CBD:
- By bus: Take the Transwa bus service from Perth to Williams. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes and covers a distance of around 165 km.
- By car: Drive south on the Kwinana Freeway and continue onto Albany Highway. The drive takes approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic.
From Bunbury:
- By bus: There is no direct bus service from Bunbury to Williams. However, you can take a bus to Perth and then take the Transwa bus service to Williams.
- By car: Drive northeast on the Collie-Williams Road, which takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to cover the 141.62 km distance.
From Albany:
- By bus: Take the Transwa bus service from Albany to Williams. The journey takes around 3 hours and 13 minutes and covers a distance of around 257 km.
- By car: Drive northwest on Albany Highway. The drive takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to cover the 249.45 km distance.
For public transport options from other nearby towns, use the Transwa website (https://www.transwa.wa.gov.au) to plan your journey, as it provides detailed information on bus routes, schedules, and ticketing.
