Western Australia · Attraction
Busselton Jetty and Underwater Observatory
Walk the world's longest timber jetty
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Stretching 1,841 metres into Geographe Bay, Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Construction began in 1865, and today visitors can walk its weathered planks, ride the solar-powered train to the far end, and descend eight metres below the ocean surface into one of only a handful of underwater observatories in the world, where more than 300 marine species live around an artificial reef.
The jetty started life as a working cargo wharf and was extended several times until it reached its current length in the 1960s. After falling into disuse as a commercial port, the community rallied to save and restore it, and it is now heritage-listed. The timber piles are encrusted with tropical and subtropical corals, sponges, and invertebrates, supporting an ecosystem that surprises most visitors with its colour and diversity.
The Underwater Observatory descends to a depth of eight metres inside a chamber with viewing windows. A guided tour is included with the full ticket, and in winter months low-visibility conditions are supplemented with VR goggles and a hydrophone that pipes in the sounds of the bay. The return train ride and observatory experience together run to about one hour and 45 minutes.
The Interpretive Centre at the shore end tells the story of the jetty's history and the marine ecosystem. A cafe and a gift shop round out the foreshore precinct. The jetty is patrolled and lit in the evenings, making a sunset stroll one of the most popular activities in the region.
Where to stay
Holiday parks near Busselton Jetty and Underwater Observatory.
2 options via our booking partner
BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks Busselton
3.7km away
Four Seasons Holiday Park Busselton
13.1km away
Bookings handled by our partner Parkbooker. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Scenic views
