Take in the beauty of Gnarabup Bay near Margaret River Western Australia
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Gnarabup Beach

4.4
·73 reviews·Gnarabup, Australia

A serene coastal gem near Margaret River, Gnarabup Beach offers soft sands, reef-protected waters, and the iconic White Elephant Cafe with stunning oc...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter beach, perfect coffee

CrowdLow
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Take in the beauty of Gnarabup Bay near Margaret River Western Australia

Gnarabup Beach

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter beach, perfect coffee

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene coastal gem near Margaret River, Gnarabup Beach offers soft sands, reef-protected waters, and the iconic White Elephant Cafe with stunning ocean views.

4.4
(73 reviews)

"The White Elephant Cafe is a beachfront gem in Gnarabup with breathtaking views and a delicious menu."

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TIP

☕ Coffee with a View

Grab a coffee and bite at White Elephant Cafe for unbeatable ocean views. Open daily!

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Plenty of parking spots, even on busier days. Easy access to the beach and cafe.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

White Elephant Cafe Views

White Elephant Cafe Views

Gnarabup Beachfront

Savor breakfast or lunch with breathtaking ocean vistas. A true coastal gem for foodies and beach lovers alike.

Instagram
Reef-Protected Waters

Reef-Protected Waters

Gnarabup Beach

Enjoy calm, reef-protected waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. Ideal for families and those seeking a tranquil dip.

Instagram
Coastal Walks & Lookouts

Coastal Walks & Lookouts

Gnarabup Beach Carpark

Explore short coastal paths offering lovely sea views. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including rays and ospreys.

Reddit
Surf Breaks

Surf Breaks

Gnarabup Beach

Catch some waves at the surf breaks that attract both pros and beginners. A dynamic spot for surf enthusiasts.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Serenity

Gnarabup Beach is a popular spot, especially with its proximity to Margaret River. For a more peaceful experience, aim for weekdays or early mornings. Weekends can get busy, but the ample parking and beachfront cafe make it manageable. Instagram

Cafe & Coastal Combo

The White Elephant Cafe is a must-visit, offering great coffee and food with stunning ocean views. It's conveniently located right on the beach, making it easy to combine a stroll with a meal or a caffeine fix. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter beach, perfect coffee
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon (off-peak)
Why
Less crowded, good for walks
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🌊☀️ Gnarabup Beach is where the Indian Ocean whispers serenity. Just 10 mins from Margaret River, it’s all soft sands, reef-protected waters, and surf breaks that draw pros and dreamers alike. Don’t forget a coffee from White Elephant Café. #australia #MargaretRiver #Beach #aussie #australia🇦🇺
eatdrinkexplorewithtony
1 likes • 333 views

☕ Coffee with a View

Grab a coffee and bite at White Elephant Cafe for unbeatable ocean views. Open daily! Instagram+1

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Plenty of parking spots, even on busier days. Easy access to the beach and cafe. Reddit

Located an the Gnarabup beach boat ramp @whiteelephantcafe is in a prime spot. Brekkie and lunch with friends overlooking our gorgeous coastline, it truly is a beautiful venue. If you’re lucky like I was you may see a dolphin 🐬 playing with their brekkie 🐟 These guys are Open Daily so go check them out! 🍳Mini brekkie burger & hash browns 🍞Fruit toast with butter & strawberry jam 🥪Veggie toast...
stoplookupexplore
15 likes • 991 views
Best beach in Margs (well we think so) 👌😍 what’s yours?! 📍Gnarabup Bay #margaretriverregion #westernaustraliabeaches #margaretriverrestaurant #margaretriverlocals #margaretrivercafe #margaretrivercoffee #beachvenue
whiteelephantcafe
183 likes • 3.4K views

🌊 Dolphin Sightings

You might get lucky and spot dolphins playing near the shore! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Strolls

Enjoy scenic walks along the beach or designated lookouts. Great for all fitness levels. Reddit

Baudin Beach House, nestled in the hill of Gnarabup, is the dreamy beachside getaway 🧡 6 Guests | 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms #baudinbeachhouse #swellstaysplus #margaretriverholidayhomes #holidayhomemanagement #oceanside
swellstays
16 likes • 791 views

Tips

from all over the internet

☕ Coffee with a View

Grab a coffee and bite at White Elephant Cafe for unbeatable ocean views. Open daily! Instagram+1

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Plenty of parking spots, even on busier days. Easy access to the beach and cafe. Reddit

🌊 Dolphin Sightings

You might get lucky and spot dolphins playing near the shore! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Strolls

Enjoy scenic walks along the beach or designated lookouts. Great for all fitness levels. Reddit

🚤 Boat Ramp Access

There's a ramp for launching boats, making it convenient for water activities. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(73 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Gnarabup Beach is widely praised for its beautiful scenery, calm waters, and the convenient, highly-rated White Elephant Cafe. Visitors appreciate the ample parking and the opportunity to spot local wildlife. Some find it can be windy, and the cafe can get busy during peak times.

"Nice spot! Extremely windy that Monday morning we were there. The beach was clean and near by cafe is convenient with restroom/ food/ indoor seating
There is also a lot of parking
And a good look out point"

Nissiel Yu

"This is a lovely beach and nature area at Gnarabup just west of the town centre of Margaret River. We had a lovely breakfast at the beachfront White Elephant Cafe and enjoyed seeing a lovely osprey perching on a tree top near the cafe.

There are a couple of short coastal walks in the area including the Gnarabup Lookouts accessible from the beach carpark that offer lovely views of the sea. Enjoyed sharing the path with a few bikers also taking advantage of the beautiful weather and views in the area Would very much enjoy visiting the Gnarabup Beach area again during future visits to the region."

Brad

"Beautiful spot even on a cold winters day. Lovely to walk along the beach."

James Arvanitakis

What People Like

Beautiful beach scenery
Calm, reef-protected waters
Excellent beachfront cafe

What People Dislike

Can be windy
Cafe can be busy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gnarabup Beach is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive west of Margaret River town center. Follow the signs towards the coast, and you'll find ample parking available upon arrival. Instagram

Public transport options are limited. It's highly recommended to have your own vehicle or use ride-sharing services for easy access to Gnarabup Beach and the surrounding Margaret River region. Reddit

Having a car is ideal for exploring Gnarabup Beach and the wider Margaret River region, allowing you to easily visit other attractions like caves and wineries. Reddit

The beach has a low shoreline and a carpark close to the sand. While direct beach access might vary, the cafe and lookout points are generally accessible. Reddit

Yes, cycling is a great option if you're staying nearby. There are paths and roads leading to the beach, and you might share the way with local bikers enjoying the views. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Gnarabup Beach is a public beach and does not have an entry fee. You can enjoy the sand, sea, and coastal views for free. Instagram

Gnarabup Beach is accessible at all hours, as it's a natural public space. The White Elephant Cafe, however, is open daily from 7 am to 3 pm for breakfast and lunch. Instagram

No booking is required for visiting Gnarabup Beach itself. If you plan to dine at the White Elephant Cafe, especially during peak times, arriving early or being prepared for a short wait is advisable. Instagram

As a natural beach, standard rules apply regarding safety and environmental respect. Always be mindful of the ocean conditions and local wildlife. Reddit

Yes, there is a boat ramp available at Gnarabup Beach, making it convenient for those looking to take their boats out onto the water. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can swim in the reef-protected waters, surf the breaks, enjoy coastal walks, relax on the sand, or simply take in the stunning ocean views. Keep an eye out for dolphins and ospreys! InstagramReddit

Yes, the reef-protected waters make Gnarabup Beach a great spot for swimming, offering a calmer experience compared to more exposed beaches. Instagram

Yes, restrooms are conveniently located near the White Elephant Cafe, making it easy to freshen up during your visit. Reddit

Visitors have reported seeing large rays cruising near the shore and ospreys perched on trees. Dolphins have also been spotted playing in the bay. InstagramReddit

The calm, reef-protected waters are generally good for families. However, always supervise children closely, especially near the water. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The most popular spot is the White Elephant Cafe, located right on the beachfront, offering breakfast and lunch with stunning ocean views. Instagram+2

The White Elephant Cafe serves breakfast and lunch, with options like mini breakfast burgers, fruit, and other cafe fare. They are known for their delicious coffee and ocean dining experience. Instagram+1

While White Elephant Cafe is the prime beachfront option, other eateries like The Common and Hooked Up Fish & Chips are available in the broader Margaret River area for different dining experiences. Instagram

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy on the beach. There are no specific restrictions mentioned against it. Reddit

Absolutely! The White Elephant Cafe is a highly popular spot for brunch in the Margaret River region, known for its delicious food and prime beachfront location. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the ocean, the coastline, the White Elephant Cafe, and the surfers. The beach lookouts offer panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1

Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be bright but still offers clear views of the turquoise waters. Instagram

The Gnarabup Lookouts, accessible from the beach carpark, offer excellent vantage points for capturing the expansive sea views. Reddit

Yes, with patience, you might capture photos of dolphins, rays, or seabirds. Remember to maintain a respectful distance from wildlife. InstagramReddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Protect your gear from sand and sea spray. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gnarabup Beach is a fantastic choice for families. The reef-protected waters offer a calmer environment for swimming, making it safer for children. The White Elephant Cafe is also family-friendly, providing a convenient spot for meals and snacks with a view. Instagram+1

Pack plenty of sunscreen and hats, as the sun can be strong. The beach has ample parking, and restrooms are available nearby. Consider bringing beach toys for the kids to enjoy the soft sand. The nearby lookouts also offer easy, scenic walks that even little legs can manage. Reddit

🏄‍♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts

Gnarabup Beach is known for its surf breaks, attracting both experienced surfers and those looking to learn. The reef structure can create enjoyable waves, and the beach is a good spot to catch some action. Instagram

Beyond surfing, the boat ramp provides access for other water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. The relatively calm waters within the reef are also ideal for swimming and snorkeling, offering a chance to explore the underwater environment. Reddit

☕ Foodies and Coffee Lovers

For those who appreciate good food and coffee with a view, Gnarabup Beach is a must-visit. The White Elephant Cafe is renowned for its excellent coffee and delicious breakfast and lunch options, all served with a spectacular ocean backdrop. Instagram+1

It's the perfect spot to indulge in a leisurely meal, enjoy a coffee break, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The cafe's prime location makes it a destination in itself, even if you're not planning a long beach day. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Gnarabup Beach

Gnarabup Beach, located just a short drive from Margaret River, is a picturesque stretch of coastline known for its soft sands and reef-protected waters. It offers a serene escape, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the natural beauty of Western Australia. The beach is also a popular spot for surfers, with breaks that cater to various skill levels. Instagram

Beyond the beach itself, Gnarabup boasts a charming beachfront cafe, the White Elephant Cafe, which has become a local institution. Visitors rave about its delicious food, excellent coffee, and unparalleled ocean views, making it an ideal spot to start or end your beach day. Instagram+1 The area also features coastal lookouts and short walking trails, providing opportunities to explore the surrounding landscape and spot local wildlife like rays and ospreys. Reddit

Accommodation options near Gnarabup Beach range from holiday homes to potential resort stays, catering to different preferences and budgets. The proximity to Margaret River town means you're never far from additional amenities and attractions, yet Gnarabup retains a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. Instagram+1

Dining Delights at White Elephant Cafe

The White Elephant Cafe is undeniably a highlight of any visit to Gnarabup Beach. Perched directly on the sand, it offers an unforgettable dining experience with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. It's the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or a satisfying lunch while soaking in the coastal ambiance. Instagram

Patrons frequently praise the cafe's quality coffee and diverse menu, which includes popular items like mini breakfast burgers and fresh fruit. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with the stunning backdrop, makes it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Many visitors highlight the convenience of having such a well-regarded eatery right on the beach, complete with restrooms and indoor seating options. InstagramReddit

While the cafe is a major draw, it's worth noting that it can get busy, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Arriving early or being prepared for a potential wait is a good strategy to fully enjoy the experience without the rush. Instagram

Exploring the Gnarabup Coastline

The Gnarabup coastline offers more than just a beautiful beach. Short, accessible walking trails lead from the carpark to lookouts that provide breathtaking vistas of the ocean and surrounding landscape. These paths are perfect for a gentle stroll, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty at your own pace. Reddit

During your walks, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. Large rays are often seen cruising close to the shore, and the area is a haven for birdlife, including ospreys. The combination of scenic views and potential wildlife encounters makes exploring the Gnarabup coastline a rewarding experience for nature lovers. InstagramReddit

For those who enjoy being on the water, Gnarabup Beach also features a boat ramp, facilitating easy access for boating and fishing. Whether you're walking the trails or enjoying the sea, the Gnarabup area provides a rich outdoor experience. Reddit

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