What's more relaxing than a day at the beach? Not much... for most people. After all, it's what most people in Esperance live for, what, with our pristine squeaky sand and incredible amount to choose from. Five adults, two children and two dogs, shouldn't take that much organisation, perhaps a little bit of food, something to cook it on, a drink or few and possibly some fishing gear (aka big boys toys.) Easy right??? HA!!
It involved two vehicles (coz the driver doing this writing, DOESN'T do beach driving, deeming her Pajero invalid for this adventure) which is a fair call as we couldn't all fit in one vehicle. Then... there was all the STUFF. And I can honestly say I have a had a great teacher in this department, but on this occasion, it was all ME.
When I pack for a day out I do so with three categories:
What do I need to avoid any whinging from the kids?
What do I ACTUALLY need to make it through the day?
and then there is my FAVOURITE category
3. What do I dream of using? (you know, those items that you can picture yourself using whilst relaxing?)
Unfortunately, on this occasion, my dream category was a little bit on the heavy side. Of course I just had to have a book AND a magazine (neither of which were opened), I also had to have my snorkeling gear (you just never know) then there was the multiple spring suits (of which only one was worn, and when I say worn, I mean I let the water come up to my waist. Even as I'm writing this I am shaking my head, I'm such a sook in the cold). However, to a different beach, these items would have been invaluable.
Wylie Bay isn't what you would call a snorkeling beach (which I knew, I just lived in hope), but it is fantastic for taking photos and for catching fish. It also seemed to be a perfect spot for the older generation to pull up their directors chairs and yell out directives to the younger generation which saw them running from one end of the fishing rods and back again, reeling in double headers of herring, baiting and rebaiting and then Master 13 hit the jackpot. He landed himself a decent size Skippy and then along came two West Australian Salmons.
The busy-ness of the fishing was my 'mother's day' pressie from my brother. It meant a chance for me to take photos, sun/cloud/shadow watch, brave the water for a half dip and then to sit and just watch. This was an incredible present. Not once did I hear 'I'm bored' from Master 10 (even though I had catered with the activities of frisbees, beach tennis and bogie boards.) I couldn't believe it.
I marveled at the views through the camera lens and dreamt of mastering the technique (who am I kidding, I point, shoot and hope for the best.) I drank my bottles of water and embraced being surrounded by family and the fact that there were no major hissy fits, that we were lucky enough to have extended family join us for the day and that NOTHING was forgotten.
The day, I can safely call a SUCCESS.
More about Wylie Bay.
* It's best to leave the 2-wheel drive at home, unless you wish to get yourself bogged. 4-wheel drives a must.
* It can become rather busy on the beach with not just road vehicles, but recreational motorbikes and buggies. Families with young children, and those with fur babies, please keep a close eye on them. Most people slow down respectfully, however, there are always the odd one or two who take it upon themselves to act like a bigshot and play up for the crowd.
* You can access Cape Le Grande National Park if you drive all the way to the end, however, please keep in mind that Park fees will be applicable.
* Along the Wylie Bay drive you will pass Kelp Beds, a popular surfing location. It has been recently fitted with a shark alarm. Sharks are rather common around this area, don't become complacent.
* On occasion, Wylie Bay can become super soft and boggy (I can't extend on this but only base it on a one off failed overnight camping trip), check the conditions first before committing to the drive, and be sure to have your recovery gear with you.
* As with any beach outing in Esperance, even if the sun is brightly shining - CHECK THE WIND REPORT FIRST. I can handle drizzle, I can handle a bit of heat and a bit of cold. But the one thing I definitely can't handle is the wind howling in straight off the water at 40-50km an hour.
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