2026.06 - Kayaking Cape Naturaliste
Xander, Leanne & Jonno explore the Dunsborough coastline
The first week of winter was spent excitedly watching the Saturday forecast for the Margaret River region. When the low winds held, I upgraded our planned river paddle to an ocean adventure.
Leanne and I packed everything Friday afternoon, and Jonno arrived Friday night, preparing us for an early start to our Saturday adventure.
The original plan was a return paddle from Canal Rocks to Yallingup, however big swell and bad vibes encouraged us to reconsider.
Decision made, we quickly reset the equipment, then headed to a cafe to reset our spirits.
After a hearty brunch at La Lah there was still plenty of good weather left in the day, so we headed over to the sheltered side of the cape and put in at Eagle Bay.
Setting out, the water was calm and crystal clear. Although we once again had to contend with swell around the rocky headland into Bunker Bay, we were rewarded with a close encounter with the local dolphins.
Leaving the dolphins behind, we paddled north towards Shelly Cove and Point Merchant, giving the growing swell and breaking waves plenty of room.
The closer we got to the lighthouse, the rougher the conditions became.
We decided to snap a few pictures and retreat to safer waters.
To our delight, the dolphin pod was still there on the return journey, providing a welcome boost as we settled in for the paddle home.
Before long, we were back in Eagle Bay with the boat ramp in sight.
Back at the beach, we were pleased to find it was still only early afternoon, so we took some time to enjoy the view across the bay before cooling off with a swim.
Eventually our appetites got the better of us, so we made the short trip up the hill to Eagle Bay Brewery for a bite to eat.
We finished the day relaxing in the sun, enjoying a bite to eat and gazing out towards the lighthouse, this time with plenty of land between us.
