Things to Do in Pemberton WA: Best Attractions, Nature, Free Activities & More

Looking for the best things to do in Pemberton WA? Surrounded by towering karri forests, waterfalls, peaceful lakes and some of Western Australia’s most beautiful national parks, Pemberton is an ideal destination for a nature-filled getaway.

Located in Western Australia’s Southern Forests, Pemberton offers something for everyone, from bushwalking and mountain biking to scenic drives, local food, historic attractions and relaxing forest accommodation. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape from Perth or a longer South West road trip, here are the best things to do in Pemberton, Western Australia.

Where is Pemberton?

Pemberton is a picturesque town in the South West region of Western Australia, approximately 330 kilometres south of Perth. Set within the Southern Forests, it is surrounded by towering karri trees, national parks, rolling farmland and scenic waterways. Pemberton is part of the Shire of Manjimup and sits close to other popular South West destinations including Manjimup, Nannup, Walpole and Margaret River. Its location makes it an ideal stop on a South West road trip, particularly for travellers exploring Western Australia’s forests, wineries and natural attractions

Things to do in Pemberton

Explore Pemberton’s Karri Forests

One of the main reasons to visit Pemberton is to experience its spectacular karri forests. These towering trees create an incredible backdrop for walking, photography, wildlife spotting and scenic drives.

The Karri Forest Explorer Drive is a great way to discover the region by car, linking many of Pemberton’s major attractions and forest landscapes. For walkers, the Bibbulmun Track passes through Pemberton, while the region also has numerous shorter trails.

Visit Beedelup Falls

Beedelup Falls is one of the most popular natural attractions near Pemberton and is particularly impressive during winter and early spring.

A short walking trail takes visitors through old-growth karri forest to the waterfall and a suspension bridge. You can also take the longer 3-kilometre trail around Lake Beedelup.

Spring brings wildflowers and orchids to the surrounding forest, while winter rainfall can dramatically increase the waterfall’s flow. National park entry fees apply.

Climb Gloucester Tree

For adventurous visitors, the Gloucester Tree is one of the most memorable Pemberton attractions.

The giant karri stands around 72 metres tall and is estimated to be more than 300 years old. Following restoration work, the historic tree-climbing experience reopened on 1 July 2026, with visitors able to climb to a new viewing platform approximately 37 metres above the forest floor.

If climbing isn’t your thing, the surrounding Gloucester National Park is still well worth exploring (National Park entry fees apply)

Cool Off at Pemberton Pool

Pemberton Pool is nestled on Lefroy Brook in the Pemberton Forest Park (alongside the Pemberton Mountain Bike Park) and is a popular spot to relax and cool off after a day exploring the surrounding forests. Set among the karri trees, the pool offers a refreshing place for families, swimmers and visitors looking to enjoy a slower pace. It’s open all year round, is free to enter and is located only a short stroll from the carpark off Swimming Pool Road.

A new sauna feature adds another way to unwind, making it possible to combine a refreshing swim with a warm, relaxing sauna session. Before visiting, the sauna opening hours and sauna availability, as facilities and sessions at Floating Sauna – Pemberton Pool as open times may vary seasonally.

Ride the Pemberton Tramway

The historic Pemberton Tramway is another popular experience. The tram travels through towering karri forest and across historic wooden trestle bridges towards the Cascades.

It’s a relaxing way to experience the forest while learning about the area’s timber and railway history. The Cascades themselves are also worth visiting, particularly if you’re interested in photography or simply want somewhere peaceful to stop. Check the Pemberton Tramway website for timetable and fare information.

Best Places to Enjoy Local Food & Wines

Pemberton isn’t only about nature. The region is well known for its cool-climate produce, wine and gourmet experiences.

Look for local wines, truffles, fresh produce, chocolate and other Southern Forests specialties. The Pemberton area is also home to wineries, cafés, restaurants and cellar doors where you can slow down and enjoy the local flavours.

Combining a forest adventure with a long lunch or wine tasting is a great way to experience another side of Pemberton.

Top 5 Places to dine and enjoy local food & wine

• Hidden River Estate – A great choice for a long lunch among the karri forest. Its restaurant uses local and seasonal produce, with a modern European menu influenced by Middle Eastern flavours. You can also taste Hidden River and Picardy cool-climate wines – www.hiddendriver.com.au
• Chefingo’s Restaurant & Wine Lounge – Located at Forest Lodge Resort, Chefingo’s focuses strongly on Southern Forests produce. Local trout and marron feature alongside seasonal produce sourced from local farms and wineries, making this a particularly good option for experiencing regional ingredients – forestlodgeresort.com.au
• Ampersand Estates Winery – Head here for a combination of wine, spirits and food platters in a beautiful Donnelly River setting. The estate offers wine and spirits tastings and is an excellent addition to a Pemberton food-and-wine itinerary – www.ampersandestates.com.au
• Treehouse Tapas and Wine Bar – Right in Pemberton, this is a relaxed option for sampling regional wines and seasonal tapas. It’s particularly suited to an evening when you want to enjoy several smaller dishes with local wine rather than a formal meal – treehousetapasandwinebar.com.au
• Mountford Wines and Tangletoe Cidery – A scenic stop for wine and cider tasting, with the added attraction of an art gallery and beautiful Southern Forests surroundings. It’s a good option for visitors wanting to experience the region’s drinks and producers as part of a scenic drive – www.mountfordwines.com.au

Best Places to Stay in Pemberton

There is a good range of Pemberton accommodation, from caravan parks and camping to forest chalets, farm stays, cottages, motels and resorts. The local Visitor Centre currently lists accommodation across several categories, including caravan parks, chalets, farm stays, hotels and self-contained properties.

For a central stay, Karri Forest Motel is conveniently located in Pemberton and offers rooms, family accommodation, free Wi-Fi, a pool and other facilities.

For a more immersive forest experience, RAC Karri Valley offers both chalet accommodation right alongside the Beedelup Recreational Lake, and campsite accommodation on the other side of the Vasse Highway, just a short drive from the lake. Read the Always Adventure Ready RAC Karri Valley Resort review here.

For the best choice, book ahead during school holidays, long weekends and major local events.

Pemberton Events

One of the highlights of 2026 is the Blooming Wild Festival, running from September to November and celebrating the wildflowers and natural beauty of the Southern Forests. Other events on the 2026 calendar include food and wine experiences, cycling events, community activities and outdoor adventures.

It’s worth checking the current Pemberton event calendar before travelling, as dates and programs can change.

Check out these upcoming events –

The Blooming Wild Festival – September to November 2026
The Cherry Harmon Festival – December 2026

Best Time to Visit Pemberton

The best time to visit Pemberton depends on what you want to experience.

For waterfalls and lush forests, June to August is an excellent choice. Winter rainfall can bring Beedelup Falls to life, while cooler temperatures are comfortable for bushwalking and exploring.

For wildflowers, pleasant walking conditions and outdoor activities, September to November is particularly appealing. Spring is also when the Southern Forests come alive with colour and wildlife.

Summer is warmer and generally drier, making it suitable for cycling, hiking and exploring, although visitors should always check bushfire conditions and park closures.

For many visitors, spring is the standout season, combining comfortable outdoor conditions with wildflowers and a vibrant events calendar.

How many days do you need in Pemberton?

A two-night or three-night Pemberton getaway gives you enough time to experience the major attractions without rushing.

Spend one day exploring the karri forests and Beedelup Falls, another visiting the Gloucester Tree, Big Brook Dam and the Cascades, and allow time for local food, wine or a longer bushwalk.

If you have four or more days, you can venture further towards Yeagarup and the Southern Forests and enjoy a more relaxed itinerary.

 

Pemberton Summary

From giant karri trees and spectacular waterfalls to hiking trails, mountain biking, local food and peaceful forest accommodation, there are plenty of things to do in Pemberton WA.

It’s a destination where you can be as adventurous or relaxed as you like. Spend the day hiking through ancient forest, enjoy a picnic beside a lake, discover local produce or simply switch off and enjoy the scenery.

If you’re planning a Western Australian road trip, Pemberton deserves a place on your itinerary.

Ready to explore Pemberton? Check current attraction conditions, accommodation availability and upcoming events with the Pemberton Visitor Centre before you travel.

Want more South West Australia adventure? Check out the Always Adventure Ready South West Australia Adventure Guide here!