One Day in Pemberton: Your Perfect Itinerary for Adventure and Nature
- Jan 4
- 4 min read
If you have just one day to explore Pemberton, Western Australia, this itinerary offers a rich mix of towering forests, shifting dunes, wild coastline, and local flavours. Designed for travellers arriving from Margaret River, Busselton Airport, or those staying overnight, it centres around the region’s most iconic experience: the Beach & Forest Eco Adventure. This plan balances adventure, nature, and relaxation, giving you a true taste of the Southern Forests in a single unforgettable day.
Morning Adventure: Scenic Drive and Eco Tour
7:00 AM — Depart Margaret River or Busselton
Start your day early with a scenic drive through the South West region. The route to Pemberton takes you through lush farmland and rolling hills, setting the tone for a day immersed in nature. The drive typically takes about 1.75 hours from Margaret River and 1.5 hours from Busselton Airport.
8:40 AM — Coffee and Meet Your Guide at Crossings Bakery
Crossings Bakery in Pemberton is a local favourite for fresh coffee and baked treats. Arriving here early lets you enjoy a relaxed breakfast and meet your eco tour guide. The bakery’s warm atmosphere and quality food provide a perfect start before heading into the wilderness. Should they be closed, there are a number of local cafe's open early - you just need to return here for departure.
9:00 AM to 1:30 PM — Beach & Forest Eco Adventure
This half-day 4WD tour is the highlight of your visit. Led by experienced local guides, the small-group adventure explores some of Pemberton’s most breathtaking landscapes that you cannot access on your own.
Tour Highlights:
Travel through towering karri forests, some of the tallest trees in Australia
Visit Yeagarup Lake, a pristine freshwater lake surrounded by ancient ecosystems
Explore the mobile Yeagarup Dunes, shifting sands that meet the forest edge
Reach the wild Southern Ocean coastline, where forest meets beach
Enjoy a local picnic lunch featuring local wine and fresh, regional produce
National park entry fees are included in the tour price
The guides share stories about the land, wildlife, and culture, enriching the experience with local knowledge. This journey offers a rare chance to see diverse ecosystems in one trip, from dense forest to sandy dunes and rugged coast.
Afternoon Options: Tailor Your Adventure
After returning from the eco tour around 1:30 PM, you can choose how to spend your afternoon based on your interests and energy levels.
Aerial Adventure Pemberton
If you want to keep the adrenaline going, head to Aerial Adventure Pemberton. This treetop ropes course and zipline park offers over 50 games and activities suitable for ages 4 and up. Challenge yourself on suspended bridges, flying foxes, and climbing walls while enjoying views of the forest canopy.
Gloucester Tree Climb
For a classic Pemberton experience, climb the Gloucester Tree. This 61-metre tall karri tree has a spiral staircase nailed into its trunk, leading to a lookout platform with panoramic views of the forest. It’s a thrilling way to appreciate the scale of these giant trees and the vastness of the Southern Forests.
Relax at a Local Café or Winery
If you prefer a slower pace, visit one of Pemberton’s charming cafés or nearby wineries. Sample local wines, enjoy fresh seasonal food, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this forest town.
Practical Tips for Your One Day in Pemberton
Book the Beach & Forest Eco Adventure in advance to secure your spot, especially in peak seasons.
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking and climbing.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay protected during outdoor activities.
Check weather conditions as some tours may be affected by heavy rain or strong winds.
Check out the #Southwestedge tourist drive if you are considering travelling through the region.
🌿 Why This Is the Best Things to do in Pemberton One Day Plan
This itinerary works because it balances:
Adventure (4WD dunes, forest, coastline)
Nature (karri trees, waterfalls, lakes)
Local flavour (bakeries, chocolate, wineries)
Flexibility (choose your afternoon activity)
It’s the perfect way to experience Pemberton in a single day — without rushing.
🧭 Comparison: What You Can Do in One Day
Experience | Time Needed | Best For | Why It’s Great |
Beach & Forest Eco Adventure | 4.5 hrs | Everyone | Guided Access through forests, dunes & beach most can’t reach alone |
Aerial Adventure | 1–2 hrs | Active families | Forest canopy fun |
Gloucester Tree | 1 hr | Walkers | Historic fire lookout tree |
Beedelup Falls | 1 hr | Families | Easy walk + suspension bridge |
Pemberton Tramway | 1.30 hrs | Relaxed travellers | Scenic forest ride |
Ampersand Estates | 1–2 hrs | Food & wine lovers | Located on the road to Nannup / Busselton / MR |
Understory - Art in Nature (Scupture Walk) | 2 hours - closes at 3 | Art lovers, relaxed travellers | Located on route to Walpole / Albany |
❤️ Brought to You by Locals Who Care
Pemberton Discovery Tours is a family‑owned business built on a deep love for the Southern Forests & Valleys. With over two decades of guiding experience, we’re proud to share the stories, ecosystems, and hidden places that make this region unforgettable.
When your guests join us, they’re supporting genuine regional tourism and a business that puts people and environment first.
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