Walpole and Nornalup Inlets

The park takes in the Walpole and Nornalup Inlets and the tidal parts of the Frankland, Deep and Walpole rivers which feed in to the estuary system. 

Connected inlets

Walpole Inlet is shallow (at most 1m deep) while Nornalup Inlet is larger and deeper (up to 5m). The estuaries are joined by a natural 1km long and 2m deep channel, bordered by steep granite hills and rocky shores. These are known locally as ‘The Knolls’ and are clothed with dense karri, marri and tingle forest.

Wilderness feel

A major attraction of the inlet system is its remote wilderness feel, particularly in parts of the Nornalup Inlet and the Frankland and Deep rivers.

Shore attractions

Picnic tables and barbeques are provided along the shores of the marine park at Coalmine Beach picnic area, The Channels and Sandy Beach. There is a lookout at The Knolls and the Bibbulmun Track abuts the edge of the marine park for a short distance. 

Check out the Walpole Nornalup National Park page for ideas on how to enjoy the marine park from land.

Fishing fun

The marine park has not been fished commercially since the 1920s and supports excellent recreational fishing opportunities. Make sure you first check the latest size, season and bag limits (www.fish.wa.gov.au) and obtain any licences that may be needed.

There is good access by car and foot to various beautiful spots, swimming areas and shore fishing locations in the park. Privately operated ecocruises run every day except August and Christmas Day. You can launch a boat or kayak to explore the inlets and rivers at Rest Point, Coalmine Beach boat ramp, Walpole town jetty, Isle Road and Nornalup.

Kayaking Trip - Nornalup to Monastery Landing

Walpole and Nornalup Inlets (kayaking-wa.com)

Enter at Nornalup Jetty and paddle upstream to Monastery Landing (docking platform)

Notes:

8km return trip

4 hours paddling

difficulty: low

endurance: medium

river flow: very low speed