Hellfire Bay
Esperance, Western Australia, Australia
Hellfire Bay is a sheltered, calm cove inside Cape Le Grand National Park, a short drive from Esperance on Western Australia's south coast. It's one stop on a loop that also includes Lucky Bay and Thistle Cove, all known for squeaky white sand and clear turquoise water.
The calm water and easy access make it a reliable stop on a well loved park circuit, though it's really built around a day trip loop rather than a spot with its own separate identity.
How we score beachesSave some energy for the walking trail onward to Little Hellfire Bay, it gets steep about fifteen minutes in and isn't part of the accessible route near the main car park.
The park sits an easy drive from Esperance on a sealed road, with a standard national park entry pass required. The car park at Hellfire Bay has plenty of space and leads straight to the beach.
A brick paved path connects the car park to two accessible toilets, though it has some steep sections. The main beach access itself is described as easy, more so than the connecting trail to neighboring coves.
Pets aren't allowed in Cape Le Grand National Park at all.
Spring, mid October through November, brings wildflowers and whale watching along with pleasant temperatures, while summer, December through February, is the more straightforward swimming season. Esperance's weather has a reputation for being changeable no matter the month, so check conditions before committing to a full day.
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