The Gap — Attraction in Torndirrup

The Gap is a spectacular natural feature in an ocean cliff face within the Torndirrup National Park. It has recently been enhanced with a caterlevered platform that allows visitors to safely walk out over the cliff face to view ocean waves crashing into the rocks below. People with a fear of heights could find going out beyond the edge challenging but can view from a distance they feel comfortable with. Access for people with mobility limitations is eased by well designed pathways. The Natural Bridge is close by and connected to the same pathways. Observation of the Natural Bridge is tame in comparison with The Gap. Both are entirely outdoors in an area prone to strong winds and rain. Prepare accordingly. You need to buy a park pass if you don't already have one. A pass vending machine is at the entrance. The surrounding area has other natural features worth visiting, plus the old Cheynes Beach whaling station. You will need to plan your journey including meals and toilet stops. The area does not have a cafe or similar. It is about 30 minutes drive from the town of Albany. The area and surrounding coastline is dangerous, so take heed of the...

This was always a popular spot to visit, but since the new walkway/gantry was built it is downright impressive.

Waves come in from the South and Southwest, funneled into a channel formed by 35~40m tall gneiss cliffs. The water crashes impressively high, often going over the top of the cliffs themselves. A viewing platform puts you right above the action - although far enough back to stay dry on all but the windiest days.

I have been here in all weather conditions. High swell with South Westerly winds is always the most impressive - during a storm it is downright scary at times. Moderate swells are best, with the waves sometimes spraying 20 or so metres above the cliffs. My last visit was a calm day, still a nice visit, but more for the view and seaside than the raw power of the ocean.

FYI: there is an entry fee as it is located inside a national park, I believe the day fee is ~$13 and gives access to all of the national parks along this strip. I have an All Parks Pass for $130 annually which grants access to all national parks in WA, I'm not entirely sure if this actually covers this specific attraction, but have never...

The incredible power of the Southern Ocean is evident at The Gap, a spectacular channel in the 40m high coastal granites of Torndirrup National Park.

Lookouts at both The Gap and Natural Bridge provide outstanding views of the Southern Ocean and the coast from Bald Head to West Cape Howe. Visitors to The Gap can venture onto a new accessible viewing platform 40 metres directly above the surging seas in all but the worst weather conditions. From the gentle and mesmerising heaving of calm seas to the buffeting rush of wind and spray of winter storms the experience changes from day to day. A raised pathway leads from the parking and picnic area across the top of the exposed granite ramparts to reach the viewing platform at The Gap. The pathway gives safe access to the best views while protecting vulnerable plants and lichens on the rock surface from trampling. The solid accessible pathway and viewing area of the Natural Bridge provides a less confronting but still impressive window to one of Australia’s most...