Local Guide
Coastal Safety in Esperance: How Not to Become a Statistic
You'll see the signs as soon as you arrive in Esperance Kepa Kurl: stay off the slippery black rocks.
Our coastline is stunning, and it's powerful. In recent years, 18 people have died after being swept from rocks into the ocean along this coast, and the majority were visitors. Lives have been lost at Salmon Beach, Chapmans Point, Twilight Beach and elsewhere, often in summer, and often because local hazards were underestimated.
A little local knowledge goes a long way. Here's what you need to know before you head out, so you don't become a statistic.
Know the hazards
Most coastal incidents happen when people are swept off rocks or caught in strong currents.
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Slippery black rocks
A natural black algae grows on rocks along the south-east coast, making them extremely slippery. One step can lead to a serious fall, or to being washed into the water.
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Granite headlands
The safest place to be is on the sand: "keep the sand between your toes." If you do venture onto a walk along the granite headlands, stay on the marked trail and wear shoes with real grip. Spray and sea mist make the granite slippery like ice.
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Unexpected waves
Large waves can also surge unexpectedly. Give the water's edge plenty of room when you're on rocks or headlands.
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Life rings mark higher-risk areas
Where you see a life ring, you're in a higher-risk spot. That said, caution is needed everywhere along the coast, life ring or not.
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Ask yourself one question
When you're exploring the coast, ask yourself: if a large wave swept me into the ocean, how would I get out? If you can't answer that from where you're standing, move back.
Coastal safety tips
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Follow beach signage. Take a photo of the sign at your location, and follow its instructions.
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Stay off slippery black rocks. We really can't stress this enough!
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Learn how to identify and escape rip currents. And never swim at Salmon Beach.
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Rock fishing? Wear a life jacket and tie off to rock bolts. Free rentals are available locally.
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Download the SharkSmart app for local shark alerts.
If something goes wrong
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If you're swept into the ocean
Swim away from the rocks, not toward them. The rocks are what will hurt you, not the water. Remove anything heavy that's weighing you down, and focus on staying afloat while you wait for help.
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If you see someone go in
Call 000 straight away. Every beach is signposted with a Beach Emergency Number (BEN). Read it out to the operator so help can find the exact spot.
Safer swimming options
Keen for a swim? These spots give you the best chance of a relaxed dip.
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Twilight Beach is patrolled on Sundays (9am–3pm) from December to March, and on summer public holidays.
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The Whale Tail on the Esplanade has a beach enclosure and a lap pontoon.
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Ocean lagoons along the Great Ocean Drive offer calm swimming when the tides are right.
If in doubt, don't go out
Ask a local. They're more than happy to help, whether it's which beach suits the conditions today or where the calmest swimming spot is. And remember: if in doubt, don't go out.
Caring for yourself on the coast is part of the Esperance Promise, our shared commitment to travel with respect for this place and its elements. Make the Esperance Promise before you visit.
For more detailed information, visit Esperance Coastal Safety(opens in new tab).
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