We’ve mentioned Middleton Beach before when a shark-attack victim chuckled about poking the shark’s eye to get away. Checking it out in person recently, we could definitely see the attraction for a shark with the gray, stormy weather that sometimes haunts the beach’s home, Albany. Not to mention the tasty-looking boys with boards.

But there’s more than just a beach-without-a-shark-net to Middleton Beach: There’s also a boardwalk that takes you from the sand up around the cliff face, with possible whale-sightings at the right season, and eventually down into Albany’s main street. The wooden boardwalk was constructed by local Aboriginal people and it’s got a few interesting historical side notes.

And once you walk up further from the beach, you’ll also get a good view down on any shark attacks. Much more exciting than just having a swim.

Related Stories:
· Albany Visitor Centre [Official Site]
· Killer Beaches 2008: Australia’s Latest Shark Attack [Jaunted]
· Western Australia Travel coverage [Jaunted] ]]> amandak 2008-11-07T09:05:08-05:00 http://www.jaunted.com/story/2008/11/3/0732/38394

We’re starting to get the feeling that the tourist authorities in southwest Australia are trying to kill us. Climbing the Gloucester Tree looked perilous enough but head further south to Albany and you might get swept off the rocks by a giant wave.

On a coastal peninsula a half-hour out of the town of Albany, there are mighty cliffs and incredible ocean views to be had, and our favorite is the Natural Bridge. It sure looks tempting to try to cross or at least get further out onto the cliffs for a better photo angle, and there’s nothing to stop you.

But there are a few warning signs, and then there’s the local knowledge: Tourists get swept off here regularly by suddenly large waves, either while attempting to get a good view or trying to catch a fish!

Our advice: Go for this photo angle yourselves (there’s a protective fence to help you out) and send your friend out further for the extreme angles.

Related Stories:
· The Gap and Natural Bridge [Official Site]
· Western Australia Travel coverage [Jaunted] ]]> amandak 2008-11-05T09:30:07-05:00 Search Jaunted string http://www.jaunted.com/search/