Things To Do
in Northam
Northam is a town located in Western Australia, about 97 kilometers east of Perth. It is situated along the Avon River and is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Northam has a rich history dating back to the 1830s, with many historic buildings still standing in the town today.
The annual Avon Descent, a river race that attracts competitors from around the world, is a major event in Northam.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Northam Visitor Centre to learn about the town's rich history. Visit the historic buildings and the Avon River.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café followed by a stroll through the picturesque streets. Don’t forget to check out the town’s murals.
Wrap up your day with a dinner at a restaurant offering local cuisine. Take a moment to appreciate the sunset over the river.
Rent a bike and hit the scenic trails around Northam. Explore the beautiful countryside as you ride along the Avon River.
Stop for a picnic at one of the parks along the way. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon soaking in the natural beauty of the area.
Return to the town and have dinner at a local pub. Relish the outdoor atmosphere and perhaps catch a live music performance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and rivers.
- Strong community spirit and friendly residents.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities like hiking and fishing.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Australian cities.
- Developing local economy with small businesses and agriculture.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and specialists.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options than larger urban areas.
- Less public transportation infrastructure.
- Potentially slower-paced lifestyle might not appeal to everyone.
- Job opportunities may be limited in specialized fields.
Best Activities in Northam
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a day of fishing, picnicking, and swimming at Lake Nambung, a scenic spot surrounded by natural beauty.
Explore Northam's historical sites and landscapes on this self-guided heritage walk, showcasing the town's rich history.
Take a hike along the Avon River, with trails that offer beautiful views and opportunities for birdwatching.
Rent a bike and cycle through Northam's parks and along dedicated cycling paths, enjoying the fresh air and countryside.
Visit the local outdoor markets for fresh produce, crafts, and community events, often held on weekends.
Experience the thrill of hot air ballooning over the picturesque Avon Valley, offering breathtaking views at sunrise.
In spring, explore the nearby trails to view stunning wildflowers in bloom, showcasing Western Australia's natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Northam with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Northam
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic lookout offering panoramic views of the surrounding Avon Valley, perfect for capturing stunning landscape photos.
The picturesque Avon River provides beautiful riverbank views, ideal for sunset photography and capturing local wildlife.
This trail features historical landmarks and scenic spots along the way, providing numerous opportunities for photography.
A peaceful park with open spaces and views of the countryside, great for capturing nature shots and family moments.
This historic church boasts beautiful architecture, making it a perfect subject for architectural photography.
An iconic historic site in Northam, featuring interesting structures that provide unique photo opportunities.
The historic windmill is a landmark in Northam, offering a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts.
A nearby lookout providing views over the Swan River, particularly stunning at dawn and dusk for photographers.
Food in Northam
Northam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local dish, kangaroo steak is a lean and flavorful meat typically served medium-rare. You can savor this dish at the Northam Country Club.
Must-Try!
Emu is a lean and gamey meat, often prepared as a bush tucker with native Australian spices and herbs. You can try Emu Bush Tucker at the A Taste of Northam restaurant.
These sweet, oat-based biscuits have a historical connection to the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) and can be enjoyed at local bakeries like Flourish Bakery.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Northam better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Northam Farmers Market offers a variety of fresh produce, artisanal products, and ready-to-eat snacks. Local vendors also showcase international street food, making it a great spot for food enthusiasts.
This periodic food truck event features a diverse range of street food, including gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and creative dessert options. It's a vibrant gathering for food lovers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Northam, a friendly handshake is a common way to greet people. Make sure to maintain eye contact and smile to convey warmth and openness.
Be aware of and show respect for the local Indigenous culture. Acknowledge the traditional owners of the land when participating in events and be open to learning about their traditions and history.
Northam has a relatively relaxed dress code. While casual attire is acceptable, it is important to dress appropriately for specific events, especially formal gatherings or ceremonies.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Northam with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Northam
Ensure a smooth experience
In Northam, Australia, tipping is not a common practice and is generally considered optional. While some service workers in hospitality might appreciate gratuities for excellent service, it is not expected. Customers usually round up their bill or leave small change, but there is no set standard for tipping.
Payment practices in Northam typically include cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Many businesses also accept mobile payment options. EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale) is widely used, making transactions convenient. It's common for customers to pay for goods and services without any additional fees for card use.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Northam.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer in Northam runs from December to February, characterized by hot temperatures, often exceeding 35°C (95°F). This is a great time for outdoor activities, although it's important to stay hydrated and use sun protection. Expect vibrant landscapes and plenty of local events.
Autumn spans from March to May, with milder temperatures and more comfortable weather, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is ideal for exploring local parks and nature reserves, with beautiful fall foliage. Also, many harvest festivals occur during this season.
Winter lasts from June to August, with cooler temperatures averaging between 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Visitors can expect occasional rain and chilly nights. This is a quieter time for tourism, making it perfect for indoor activities like visiting museums and enjoying local cuisine.
Spring runs from September to November, with gradually warming temperatures (10°C to 25°C or 50°F to 77°F). This season is marked by blooming wildflowers and is a fantastic time for agricultural tours. Local markets and outdoor events flourish, making it an exciting time to visit.
Northam at Night
Hiking in Northam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hike offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, suitable for families and nature lovers.
A moderately challenging hike with scenic views and diverse flora and fauna, located near the town of Northam.
This trail provides a mix of moderate hiking paths and trail running options, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
An easy, long-distance trail suitable for hiking and biking, following a historic railway corridor with beautiful landscapes.
Offers a range of hiking trails through natural bushland, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy wildflowers during the season.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Northam through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Northam by plane.
Located approximately 50 kilometers west of Northam, Perth Airport is the main international airport serving the city of Perth and surrounding areas.
Situated about 150 kilometers south of Northam, Busselton Margaret River Airport offers limited international flights and serves the southwestern region of Western Australia.
Located approximately 230 kilometers south of Northam, Albany Airport serves the Great Southern region of Western Australia and has some flights to regional destinations.
About 300 kilometers northeast of Northam, Kalgoorlie Boulder Airport primarily serves regional flights but is a significant airport in the Goldfields region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A majority demographic group in Northam, reflecting the broader population of Australia with a primarily European background.
Includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have a historical connection to the land.
Comprising various communities, including those from East Asia, Southeast Asia, and South Asia, representing a growing demographic in the area.
Includes immigrants and descendants from Middle Eastern countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of Northam.
Represents a smaller demographic group within Northam, including individuals from various Pacific Island nations.
The Soul of Northam
Discover the essence of Northam through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in Australia, Australian Rules Football is particularly favored in regions like Northam, with local clubs and competitions.
Cricket is widely played during the summer months in Northam, offering opportunities for participation in local leagues and community teams.
Netball enjoys significant popularity among women and girls in Northam, with many local clubs competing in various leagues.
Basketball has gained traction in Northam, with facilities available for both recreational play and organized competitions.
Athletics is a widely supported sport in Northam, offering events and competitions for athletes of all ages.
Soccer is growing in popularity in Northam, with local clubs and initiatives aimed at increasing participation among youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Northam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries in Northam offer a range of vegetarian-friendly dishes, from wholesome salads to creative plant-based burgers and pastas. Be sure to inquire about vegetarian options when dining out.
Several restaurants and cafes in Northam provide dedicated vegan menus, offering choices such as vegan burgers, dairy-free desserts, and plant-based breakfast items.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find various gluten-free options at eateries across Northam, including gluten-free pizzas, pasta dishes, and desserts made with alternative flours.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Northam with these cultural adventures.
