Hamelin Bay is not your typical Australian Beach. While the beach boasts the typical beauty of paradise -- aquamarine waters, white sands, and gorgeous sunsets -- this bay is far from typical.
Hamelin Bay is home to wild sting rays, offering one of the most unique wildlife interactions in the world. These gentle giants will swim right up to beachgoers and slide over their feet as a friendly "hello." The rays are just as curious about humans as we are of them, so don't be alarmed when several of them swim toward you. They are simply looking for fishing scraps from the many fishermen that have frequented the beach over the years, and they don't intend to hurt you. With that being said, the sting rays are wild, so they will become aggressive if they feel threatened and sting you with their barbed tails -- as long as you don't step on them, the rays are as friendly as can be.
In addition to the rays is a plethora of beach activities, including hiking, diving, snorkeling, fishing, boating, and surfing. The best hiking trail, the Cape to Cape Track, is a challenging, 80-mile trek along the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park that boasts amazing ocean views. Ocean View Cottages also offers great views of the ocean, and is located right on the sand. Each beachfront cottage has a barbeque on a verandah, perfect for enjoying a family meal on a warm, summer night. You can also opt for a more rugged beach experience by camping at one of Hamelin Bay's many campsites. As you make plans for your vacation in Margaret River, this beach should be at the top of your list, if not for the stingrays, then for the views!
