About Misery Beach
Misery Beach is a 400-metre sandy cove located at Torndirrup, about 20 kilometres south of Albany in Western Australia's Great Southern region. Sheltered between granite headlands on King George Sound near Torndirrup National Park and the former Cheynes Beach Whaling Station, it features white sand and clear turquoise water. Voted Australia's Best Beach in 2022, it is noted for its natural, relatively undeveloped setting and sheltered swimming conditions.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a small, sheltered sandy cove enclosed by granite boulders and coastal heath, with clear water and white sand. Access is via sealed road to a car park with a short walk down to the beach. The setting is natural and quiet with no shops or commercial development. Visitors can swim, snorkel, walk along the beach, photograph the coastline and enjoy views across King George Sound. Facilities are basic and the beach is generally less crowded than town beaches.
Key highlights
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Voted Australia's Best Beach in 2022 in Tourism Australia's annual list
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400-metre sheltered cove with white sand and clear turquoise water
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Enclosed by granite headlands and coastal heath of Torndirrup area
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Sheltered swimming and snorkelling conditions in calm weather
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Close to Torndirrup National Park coastal attractions and historic whaling station site
History of Misery Beach
The beach is located near the former Cheynes Beach Whaling Station at Frenchman Bay, which operated from 1952 to 1978 as Australia's last commercial whaling station, now the Albany's Historic Whaling Station museum. The name Misery Beach is commonly associated with the harsh conditions experienced by whalers and workers in the area during the whaling era.
Culture & Context
Located on Menang Noongar Country in the Great Southern region of Western Australia. The Albany coastline holds long-standing cultural significance for the Menang people of the Noongar Nation.
Route
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