32 Things To Do In Margaret River For Every Traveller + How To Plan Your Visit

Margaret River is a quaint town in Western Australia’s southwest. It’s also the gateway to the homonymous region, famed for its world-class surf, exquisite wines, ancient caves, and enchanting forests.

The town is located a scenic 3-hour drive south of Perth. It’s absolutely perfect for a weekend getaway.

There are over 30 unique things to do there, so your itinerary can be as packed or as relaxed as you like.

Besides wine tasting and surfing, you can do things like visiting Hamelin Bay and its friendly stingrays, swimming at the beautiful Injidup Natural Spa, or exploring the ancient Mammoth and Jewel Caves.

There are also a few things you can do in specific seasons – like whale-watching or enjoying the wildflowers.

We’ll cover all that further down, including the best ways to get to Margaret River, where to dine, the best places to stay, and much more!

🤩 This is the PERFECT tour to do on your first day in Margaret River, as it takes you to all the highlights! Margaret River Wine Adventure.

5 Things to do for foodies in Margaret River

The Margaret River region is famous for its food. There are lots of world-class wineries and breweries, and the local produce is top-notch.

Here are the best things to do in Margaret River for all kinds of foodies:

🤩 This is the tour for foodies. You’ll do tastings of wine, chocolate, and oil! Plus you’ll start your day visiting a farm: Hidden Gems Full Day Tour

1) Go on a wine-tasting experience

There are over 200 Margaret River wineries in this region!

The unique combination of the ancient soil and the weather (influenced by the sea) helps make its wines unique and full of different flavours.

The area is especially known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay wines.

Now, you can either go winery-hopping on your own (have a designated driver, please) or with a tour.

Famous wineries in the region include:

• Vasse Felix, a 20-minute drive from Margaret River town. It is Margaret River’s founding wine estate.

• Leeuwin Estate, another pioneer of the region. At a quick 10-minute drive from town, it combines fine wine with art and music, hosting the annual Leeuwin Concert Series.

• Cullen Wines, at a 15-minute drive from town. They’re leaders in organic winemaking, balancing sustainable practices with high-quality produce.

🤩 Go winery-hopping without worrying about driving. You’ll also sample cocktails, liqueur, beer, and more: Margaret River Wine Tour: The Full Bottle

2) Grab a beer at one of the local breweries

The breweries in Margaret River are well known for their creative ways of making beer. They usually use local flavours and ingredients that show off the area’s wide biodiversity.

This special local touch makes their beers different and special, compared to those in other places of the world.

And just like wineries, many breweries are in scenic spots. They offer a laid-back place where you can enjoy a nice pint while enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.

Some well-known breweries in the Margaret River Region are:

• Margaret River Brewhouse is a short walk from the heart of town. It’s known for its welcoming vibe and excellent craft beers.

• Black Brewin Co., renowned for its innovative beers and stunning location, overlooking a dam. It’s a 25-minute drive from Margaret River town.

🤩 Visit three wineries, two breweries, and sample chocolates and cheese along the way with this half-day tour: Margies Big Day Out Beer & Wine Tour

3) Try some artisanal chocolate

Most visitors tend to go for the wine and beer, but don’t forget the chocolate! Chocolatiers use local products to craft different kinds of delicious treats.

To indulge in your sweet tooth, check out these chocolateries:

• Margaret River Chocolate Company, one of the most famous chocolate producers in the region. It’s a 20-minute drive from Margaret River town.

• Gabriel Chocolate, Australia’s first bean-to-bar chocolate maker. It’s a 30-minute drive from town.

• Temper Temper Fine Chocolate, known for its commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. It’s a 10-minute drive from town.

4) Go olive oil tasting

Margaret River has a Mediterranean-like climate – mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers.

This creates the perfect conditions to grow olives that would leave the Spaniards and Greeks envious!

The olive oil tasting experience here is as complex and rewarding as the region’s renowned wines. Here are some places in the region where you can do it:

• Olio Bello, famous for its award-winning olive oils. It has a tasting room set amidst stunning olive groves. It’s a 15-minute drive from town.

• Vasse Virgin, known for its handcrafted olive oil-based beauty products. It also offers an olive-tasting workshop (book ahead). It’s a 30-minute drive from town.

• Eagle Bay Olives, a boutique olive farm offering tastings of their extra virgin olive oils, table olives, and olive-based products. It’s a 40-minute drive.

🤩 This full-day tour takes you to Vasse Virgin, among other spots for expert tastings. 2-course lunch included! Small-Group Full-Day Wine & Food Tour

5) Mingle with the locals in the farmer’s markets

There’s no better way to meet the locals than farmer’s markets. Plus, you’ll get to browse fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious food in the meantime.

These are the most popular ones:

• Margaret River Farmers’ Market. It’s one of the most popular markets in the region and it’s right in the heart of town. It opens every Saturday morning.

• Vasse Markets. They’re about a 25-minute drive from Margaret River town, and offer a mix of fresh local produce, artisan crafts, and food stalls.

• Busselton Foreshore Markets. It’s approximately a 40-minute drive from Margaret River. The markets are held every other Sunday and feature a variety of stalls.

7 Things for Ocean Lovers

This whole region is famous for its pristine beaches, where you can do pretty much every water-based activity under the sun!

Here’s our guide with the BEST beaches in Margaret River, btw! Don’t miss out.

Here are some of them:

6) Go whale-watching

The Margaret River Region has a very long whale-watching season – from June to December!

The best spots are Augusta, Dunsborough, and Busselton. You’ll be able to see humpback whales, southern right whales, and even blue whales as they migrate.

You can see them frolicking and breaching from the shore or on a lookout, but the best way to see them is with a whale-watching tour.

That way you’ll see them up close, while your guide teaches you all about them!

However, you can’t really swim with them here. If you’ve always wanted to swim with whales, go to Exmouth or Coral Bay. Here are the best whale shark tours in that area!

🤩 If you visit during whale-watching season, don’t miss this tour! It departs from Augusta: Whale-watching cruise from Augusta

7) Snorkel in The Aquarium

The Aquarium is a natural rock pool in Yallingup, a 35-drive north of Margaret River town. It’s an absolute must if you like snorkelling!

This spot is protected from the open ocean, which means the water is crystal clear and calm. It’s teeming with marine life (hence the name) and it’s perfect for snorkelers of all levels.

8) Chill at Injidup Natural Spa

The Indjidup Natural Spa is a not-so-secret spot tucked along the coast of Yallingup. It’s a natural rock pool with a spa-like feel, due to the waves crashing over the rocks.

This creates a natural whirlpool that’s just right for a refreshing dip. It’s the perfect mix of rugged nature and relaxation!

It gets crowded, though. We were able to have it mostly to ourselves, we explain how you can do it too in this guide!

9) Visit Hamelin Bay

This is the famous beach where friendly stingrays glide right up to the shore! This gives you the rare opportunity to see these graceful creatures up close, in their natural habitat. It’s right here.

This stunning location is also perfect for fishing, snorkelling and diving, as there are a few shipwrecks nearby worth exploring.

You can also hike along the scenic coastal tracks of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.

Plus, it’s a 30-minute drive from Margaret River town – perfect for a day trip!

10) Surf in one of the many awesome beaches

The Margaret River region is a surfer’s paradise, with some of the best waves in Australia. Here are the top picks for beaches to catch some epic surf:

• Surfer’s Point. This is the heart of surfing in the region, offering consistent, world-class waves that challenge even professional surfers. It’s the site for international competitions.

• Prevelly Beach: Just next to Surfer’s Point, it has powerful waves and is known for its reliable swell, making it a favourite for those looking to test their skills.

• The Box: This is a famous right-hand barrel that provides one of the most intense surfing experiences in the region. Not for the faint-hearted, this spot is best left to the pros.

• Yallingup Beach: With something for all levels, Yallingup Beach is as scenic as it is thrilling. It’s known for its longboard-friendly waves but also has spots that offer more challenging rides.

For more surfing spots, check out Surf Forecast. It has up-to-date info on the forecast of each surf spot, and even ratings from other surfers!

🤩 Learn how to surf with this 2-hour group lesson, from an expert instructor in Margaret River: Surf Lesson at Margaret River

11) Watch the Margaret River Pro

The Margaret River Pro is a key stop on the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour. It attracts the very best surfers from around the globe to the rugged coast of Western Australia.

It’s held in Surfer’s Point and showcases top-tier surfing as competitors tackle some of the most challenging waves the ocean has to offer.

The contest lasts around 10 days to allow for the best conditions possible. It’s usually scheduled in April or May, depending on the year. You can find the exact dates on the WSL website.

12) Check out these beautiful beaches

As you can see, the Margaret River region is spoilt for choice when it comes to white sandy beaches. Here are some worth including in your itinerary:

• Gnarabup Beach. The most accessible beach near Margaret River town, at a quick 10-minute drive. It’s perfect for a family day out with its sheltered waters and nearby café to grab a bite.

• Redgate Beach. It has a mix of surf for enthusiasts and calmer sections for swimmers, plus it tends to be a bit less crowded than other beaches. It’s a 15-minute drive from town.

• Gracetown Beach. Nestled in a protected bay, this beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, and even spotting whales from the shore during migration season. It’s a 20-minute drive from town.

• Smiths Beach. It’s a long, picturesque stretch of white sand, perfect for surfing, bodyboarding, and long beach walks. It’s also family-friendly with gentle waves in certain areas! A 40-minute drive from town.

• Meelup Beach. In Cape Naturaliste (a 40-minute drive), it has calm, turquoise waters and shady grassed areas. It’s perfect for families and picnics, as well as a relaxing paddle surf session.

• Bunker Bay. It’s a hidden gem with calm, turquoise waters. Perfect for swimming and snorkelling, plus there’s a café nearby for that essential mid-day snack. It’s a 50-minute drive from town.

12 Things for outdoor enthusiasts

Besides excellent food and unspoiled beaches, Margaret River also has ancient forests and caves, rivers, waterfalls, and hikes for all levels. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts!

Here are some things to do so you can fully enjoy all the nature Margaret River has to offer:

🤩 Don’t want to choose what to do? Book this tour, it has a little bit of everything – mountain biking, kayaking, wine, and more: Mountain Biking, Kayaking and Wine Tasting Tour

13) Do watersports in the Margaret River

The Margaret River itself is a prime spot for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).

It winds through some stunning forest areas and the water is mostly calm, so you won’t be battling against strong currents.

You won’t find the big adrenaline rushes of jet skiing or power boating here, it’s more about having a relaxed time on the river and enjoying the natural surroundings.

🤩 Kayak lovers can’t miss this tour, as you’ll paddle along the nearby Blackwood River. Lunch and wine tasting included! Kayaking and Winery Tour

14) Explore Wooditjup National Park

Wooditjup National Park is an absolute gem for anyone keen to dive into nature without straying too far from town.

It’s at a quick 5-minute drive from the town centre, and entry is free!

There are walking trails for all skill levels, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. They’re all well-marked, so you can confidently explore without worrying about getting lost.

We recommend doing at least the Chimney Trail, an easy 3km hiking trail that takes you through Karri, Marri, and Jarrah forests. It’s a great spot to be at during wildflower season!

Other things you can do here include:

• Mountain biking.

• Climbing and bouldering.

• Birdwatching.

15) Visit the nearby caves

The Margaret River region has over 100 underground caves, but only a handful are open to the public.

These are truly natural wonders, being there for thousands of years! The most popular ones include:

• Lake Cave. Tucked away beneath a sunken forest, this spot south of Margaret River town is famous for its stunning “Suspended Table” formation. It’s a tranquil, crystal-clear lake cave that feels like another world. Book a tour here.

• Mammoth Cave. This one’s a self-guided cave near Lake Cave, making it super handy if you like to explore at your own pace. Famous for its fossil remains, it’s a walk through ancient history. Book a tour here.

• Jewel Cave. Near Augusta, Jewel Cave is absolutely magical, with intricate formations. It’s the largest show cave in WA, with one of the longest straw stalactites in any tourist cave. Book a tour here.

• Ngilgi Cave. Up north from Yallingup, this cave is not just a natural wonder but also holds significant cultural value. It’s interactive, with semi-guided tours that let you explore its stunning chambers. Book a tour here.

• Calgardup Cave. Located near Prevelly, this cave offers a more adventurous experience with its reflective lakes you can see by hiring a helmet and torch. It’s a DIY adventure, you have to pay an entry fee.

• Giants Cave. This one’s for the more adventurous souls. Near Boranup, it requires a bit of climbing and crawling, making it a thrilling visit. You’ll need to be a bit fit, but it’s heaps of fun. There’s an entry fee.

16) Check out these waterfalls

The Margaret River region has a few hidden gems when it comes to waterfalls.

They’re seasonal waterfalls, so timing is everything. Late winter to early spring is ideal – these are rainy months so the waterfalls will be at their best.

There are two main falls in the region:

• Quinninup Falls. This is the most famous one and it’s a bit of a trek, located on the Cape to Cape Track near Wilyabrup. The hike to get there adds to the adventure, making it a rewarding view after a good walk.

• Kevill Road Waterfall. This waterfall is relatively easy to access, making it a great little detour for those exploring the region. It’s not as well-known as some other spots, so you might just have it all to yourself.

17) Explore Boranup Forest

The Boranup Forest is known for its towering karri trees, some of the tallest in the country. They create a canopy that feels like a natural cathedral – it’s awe-inspiring. It’s here.

One of the best ways to experience this forest is by hitting the Boranup Drive, a scenic route that winds through the heart of the forest. It’s suitable for most vehicles and it’s free!

We recommend packing a picnic and enjoying it at one of the designated areas along the drive.

For those keen to explore, there’s a network of trails perfect for bushwalking or mountain biking.

There’s also a gallery, the Boranup Gallery. It showcases local craftsmanship, featuring works made from timber from the forest. It’s a great spot to pick up a unique souvenir or just to admire the skill of local artists.

18) Hike a section of the Cape to Cape Track

The Cape to Cape Track is a scenic coastal hike that stretches about 130 kilometres along the southwest coast, from Cape Naturaliste down to Cape Leeuwin.

It takes you through an incredible variety of landscapes, from rugged coastlines and pristine beaches to dense karri forests and limestone caves.

The best thing is that you don’t have to tackle the whole thing in one go. Several popular sections are perfect for a day hike or a short overnighter.

For example, the stretch from Yallingup to Moses Rock is a favourite – the coastal views are out of this world and there’s a good chance of spotting whales when in season. You’d have to arrange pick-up, though.

Learn more about the track here.

🤩 Wanna hike the entire Cape to Cape track? Book this 8-day tour. It starts and ends in Perth, includes accommodation and most meals: Hike Western Australia’s Cape to Cape Track tour.

19) Check out the lighthouses

There are two famous lighthouses in the region – Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse.

Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is down at the very tip of the southwest, where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. It’s Australia’s tallest mainland lighthouse, and the views from up top are nothing short of spectacular. Book a tour here.

Then there’s the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, sitting at the northern end of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. It has equally impressive views over the Indian Ocean and the national park. Book a tour here.

Both lighthouses have visitor centres and offer guided tours, which are well worth it for the stories and insights alone. Just remember to check the opening times and book your tours in advance.

20) Visit Sugarloaf Rock

Sugarloaf Rock is this massive granite rock just off the coast near Cape Naturaliste, it’s here.

It’s become a bit of an icon for photographers due to its dramatic shape and the way it stands tall against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.

There’s a dedicated viewing platform that gives you an epic vantage point without having to scramble over any rocks. The car park is right nearby, so it’s super easy to access, even if you’re not up for a big hike.

It’s also a fantastic spot for whale watching during the migration season! It can get a bit windy though, so bring layers, especially when visiting in winter.

21) Visit Canal Rocks

Canal Rocks is a series of granite boulders that have eroded over thousands of years, creating a canal-like structure where the waves crash through. It’s located here.

There are wooden boardwalks and viewing platforms where you can see different perspectives of the rock formations and the surrounding ocean.

Some areas can be snorkelled too, but pay attention to the warning signs. Also, make sure to bring sturdy shoes, as some rocks can be slippery and uneven.

22) Go mountain biking

Margaret River’s varied landscapes – from dense forests to coastal views – make it a playground for mountain bikers of all skill levels.

The best biking trails in the area include:

• The Pines. It’s a network with over 16km of biking trails that goes through a plantation of pine trees. It’s just outside Margaret River town and has options for all skill levels.

• Compartment 10. Also near Margaret River town, it features a variety of trails that cater to intermediate and advanced riders, offering more technical features and challenging terrains.

• Middle Earth. Stretching over 10km, this trail winds through the Boranup Forest with its towering karri trees, providing a magical riding experience. It’s suitable for intermediate riders, offering a mix of climbs, descents, and scenic views.

• Rails to Trails. Perfect for families or those looking for a gentler ride, this trail follows the route of an old railway line from Cowaramup to Witchcliffe. It offers a scenic and historical ride through farmland and forests.

For more trails, check out the Margaret River Off-Road Cycling Association (MRORCA) website. They have great resources for trail maps and connect you with the local biking community.

23) Go abseiling

Abseiling in the Margaret River region is a thrilling way to experience its rugged landscapes, from its towering coastal cliffs to its ancient forests.

Plus, there are spots for everyone – from beginners to experienced abseilers looking for a challenge.

The most popular places for abseiling in the Margaret River region include:

• Wilyabrup Cliffs. Offering some of the most spectacular coastal abseiling in Western Australia, these cliffs provide a range of descents from 10 to 40 metres.

• Brides Cave and Giants Cave. Descend into the depths of these caves for a unique underground experience, with limestone formations and ancient fossils surrounding you.

We recommend abseiling by booking a tour with a reputable company, like this one.

They provide you with a guide, safety equipment, etc. Plus they know the area and can ensure you have the necessary permissions to access abseiling locations.

24) Go on a scenic flight

A scenic flight over the Margaret River region gives you an exclusive perspective of the area.

It’s a way to celebrate a special occasion or simply make your visit to Margaret River unforgettable. Plus, it’s a more intimate and exclusive experience compared to other tourist activities.

You’ll see the patchwork of vineyards, tall timber forests, and the meandering river. The contrast between the turquoise waters and the dense greenery is haw-dropping.

And if you do this during wildflower season, you might witness the vibrant hues of wildflowers in bloom! Not to mention the opportunity to see the whales migrating.

Just remember to book well in advance and that weather conditions play a crucial role in the scheduling.

We recommend booking your scenic flight at the beginning of your trip, as it will be easier for you to reschedule if needed.

🤩 Hop on a helicopter and fly over the Margaret River region in this 1-hour scenic flight: Lighthouses Helicopter Flight

4 Things for kids and families

Margaret River is a truly special place for people of all ages. But here are a few things that kids (and those young at heart) will really enjoy:

25) Get lost in a maze

The mazes in the Margaret River region offer the perfect combination of natural beauty, fun, and challenge. They provide an immersive experience instead of the passive sightseeing most tourists do.

The 3 mazes in the area are:

• A Maze’n Margaret River. It’s one of the largest mazes, featuring a giant hedge maze that has been attracting visitors for over two decades. It also has beautiful gardens, a café, and other puzzle challenges.

• Yallingup Maze. Located just north of Margaret River, this maze is constructed from wooden panels and is periodically reconfigured to offer a new challenge for return visitors.

• Boranup Forest Maze. It’s the smallest of the three but very enjoyable. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and let the kids play.

26) Visit Eagles Heritage Wildlife Centre

This is a sanctuary focussed on the conservation and rehabilitation of birds of prey and owls. It’s one of the largest of its kind in Australia, playing a crucial role in wildlife conservation. It’s located here.

The flying demonstrations are incredible, as you can see the birds in action, exhibiting their impressive natural behaviours.

The centre has a self-guided walking trail and guided tours as well. It provides a rare chance to see these powerful birds up close and to learn about the vital work being done to protect them.

🤩 Visit the Eagles Heritage Centre and watch a flying demonstration with this tour: Birds of Prey Encounter and Forest Walk

27) Play at Ninjas in mOcean

This is a massive indoor playground designed specifically for kids aged 1 to 12 years old. It’s in the heart of Margaret River town, located here.

The playground has slides, trampolines, crawling tunnels, rings, rope swings, cliffhangers and more! Plus, the dedicated toddler area is next to the café, so you can keep a watchful eye comfortably.

Play sessions last 90 minutes and you don’t have to book online. Everyone is required to wear clean socks in the play area, though. You can bring your own or purchase a pair upon entry.

28) Visit Margaret River Sculpture Park

This is an outdoor gallery set in a natural bushland, showcasing a collection of large-scale sculptures and artworks.

These artworks are placed throughout the park, so you’ll discover them as you meander around. It’s a 30-minute drive from town, right here.

4 Must-see towns near Margaret River Township

These towns are gems of the South West and are a stone-throw away from Margaret River. They’re perfect for a day trip:

29) Augusta

Augusta is a quieter, more laid-back place compared to the busier Margaret River.

The drive there is absolutely beautiful and just the right duration – 30 minutes of beautiful forests.

Here’s the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse too, the tallest lighthouse on mainland Australia. The views from there are absolutely incredible.

And don’t miss Jewel Cave, one of the largest show caves in Western Australia. It’s a natural wonder, filled with stunning stalactites, helictites, and other crystal formations.

You can enjoy whale watching from June to September, when Southern Right and Humpback Whales come close to the shore.

30) Pemberton

Pemberton is the place to be if you want more forests. The drive takes 1.5 hours and takes you through lush forests and farmlands.

This town is home to some of the world’s tallest trees, including the majestic karri trees. You can walk along them in Gloucester National Park.

There are lots of hiking trails and mountain bike tracks, too. Apart from forests, this region also has vineyards producing exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

These wineries give you a more intimate tasting experience compared to the bustling vineyards of Margaret River! Here’s a full guide with all the things to do in Pemberton.

Note: At the moment of writing, you can’t climb the Gloucester Tree or the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree due to safety reasons. But check their websites (linked) for updates!

31) Yallingup

If you prefer the pristine beaches and coastal sights, Yallingup is the place to be.

It’s a 30-minute drive from Margaret River town, with a relaxed vibe focussed on surfing, snorkelling, and hiking.

Yallingup, boasts some of the greatest beaches in the region, with crystal-clear waters and impressive surf breaks. There are more beginner-friendly waves here compared to Margaret River town.

Ngilgi Cave is another highlight. It’s another natural wonder with an interesting history connecting to the Traditional Owners. It’s 100% worth doing the guided tour of the cave to learn more about it.

Here are more things to do in Yallingup and how to plan your trip there.

32) Dunsborough

Dunsborough is a charming town with a relaxed coastal vibe. It’s a 40-minute drive from town and it’s the northern gateway to the Margaret River Region.

This town is on the shore of Geographe Bay, renowned for its calm waters and beautiful beaches. You can swim and snorkel in a more sheltered environment compared to the waves of the Indian Ocean.

It’s near the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park too. So you’ll be able to see some spectacular natural attractions, including the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse!

When is the best time to visit Margaret River?

The best time to visit Margaret River is summer (December to February). The beaches are at their best, and the warm weather is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and surfing.

However, it’s also the peak tourist season. Book accommodations and tours well ahead of time and be prepared for crowds and higher prices.

That said, visiting Margaret River is ideal at other times of the year, too:

• Autumn (March to May) is perfect for wine enthusiasts. The weather is mild, and the vineyards are busy with the harvest. Food and wine festivals are also in full swing.

• Winter (June to August) is the best time to visit if you want to go whale-watching, as Southern Right and Humpback whales migrate along the coast.

• Spring (September to November) is when wildflowers bloom and the weather is excellent for hiking and exploring.

Margaret River offers something different each season. So, the best time to visit really depends on your interests and the things you want to do.

How to get to Margaret River?

Margaret River is in the southwest region of Western Australia. It’s fairly accessible, as you can get there by plane, car, bus, or with a tour.

Getting there by plane

The nearest airport is in Busselton, a 50-minute drive from Margaret River. It hosts direct flights from Melbourne and closed charter flights.

We recommend Trip.com for booking flights as they find the cheapest tickets available (better than Google Flights). Plus if you have a specific price point, they can send you email notifications if the price drops below that!

Now, if you’re visiting from Perth, it’s faster to drive to Margaret River.

The nearest airport hosting flights from Perth is in Albany, a 4-hour drive from Margaret River. We’ll tell you how to get there by car in the next section.

Regardless of where you’re visiting from, we strongly recommend renting a car

As you can see, most of the things to do in Margaret River require a bit of driving.

We like DiscoverCars because they find the very best deals in Perth and Busselton. They also have a wide variety of rentals, including 4WDs in some destinations.

Another option would be RentalCars, as they also find good deals and serve most cities!

Compare the two and book with the one that offers you the best deal. Just make sure to search by city, not by airport – this will give you the most variety of options.

Getting there by car

The drive from Perth to Margaret River takes 3 hours and it’s very scenic, as the route is mostly along the coast. Bunbury is a great place to stop and stretch your legs midway.

Margaret River is perfect for a weekend getaway from Perth. It’s also a must-stop for a road trip around the south west, or from Perth to Esperance.

There are heaps of car rentals available in Perth. As mentioned earlier, we recommend checking DiscoverCars and RentalCars to find the best deals.

If you’re like us and want as much freedom as you can get, consider renting a caravan!

You’ll be able to really experience all the beauty of Margaret River with more flexibility. Plus it can be cheaper than renting a car and booking a stay, as you’ll have both in one place.

We recommend renting your caravan from StarRV. Their vehicles are in top condition, the prices are excellent, and have options for up to 6 people!

Getting there by coach

This is the best way to go to Margaret River if you don’t plan on exploring nearby towns, or are travelling solo and don’t want to drive the entire way there.

TransWa has coaches that take you from Perth to Margaret River in ~5 hours, dropping you at the Charles West Avenue stop. It’s the route SW1 East Perth to Augusta and Pemberton.

Check the info on the timetables and costs on TransWa’s website.

Explore Margaret River with a tour

This is the best option if you don’t want to plan anything or drive, but still want to enjoy everything Margaret River has to offer.

If that’s you, this is the tour for you. It’s a 3-day tour that starts and ends in Perth.

You’ll stay in a 4-star accommodation in Margaret River, while you visit the main highlights of the area, including:

• Surfers Point.

• Mammoth Cave.

• Boranup Karri Forest.

• Hamelin Bay

Your guides will take you wine tasting to two award-winning wineries! Plus you’ll visit Mandurah and Busselton Jetty on the way to Margaret River.

I did quite a few tours in my stay in Perth and this by far was the best! Lincoln and Robert were fantastic tour guides. Thanks for bringing the variety, the fun, and the adventure. The people on board the tour were also great! We all enjoyed each other’s company. I didn’t want it to end.

-Vivian

How many days to stay in Margaret River?

We recommend staying at least 3 to 5 full days in Margaret River. This gives you enough time to explore a lot of what the town has to offer, and explore some nearby spots.

However, if you want to explore more of the region, we’d recommend adding at least 1 day extra per town. For example, 1 day for Yallingup, 1 day for Augusta, etc.

Doing this will allow you to check out 2-3 highlights in each town without rushing too much.

Best places to stay in Margaret River

There are hundreds of places to stay in the Margaret River area, catering to every budget and preference. These are the top ones:

• Best stay: Prideau’s of Margaret River. The location is excellent but it doesn’t show in the price! It has something for every budget and options for up to 6 people.

• Best budget-friendly stay: Riverview Tourist Park. This campsite is in town as well, with cabins and chalets for up to 6 people.

• Best for families and groups: Banana Pancakes. It’s a cottage at walking distance from town, surrounded by forest. It’s pet-friendly, and sleeps up to 8.

• Best caravan park: Margaret River Tourist Park. This caravan park is next to the town centre and has cabins for up to 6 people, as well as powered sites.

• Best luxury option: Olio Bello Lakeside Glamping. It’s a holiday park in Olio Bello’s campgrounds. It offers spa services and guests stay in bungalows with lakefront views, for up to 4 people,

Where to eat in Margaret River?

Margaret River is a foodie adventure!

So, apart from checking out must-stops mentioned in the foodie section (like the Margaret River Brewhouse or the Margaret River Chocolate Company), here are other places to check out in town:

• morries ($$) is a must during your visit. The food is delicious, focussed on Australian recipes. Have vegan options, too!

• La Scarpetta Trattoria ($$) is where you go if you want some Italian food during your visit.

• Swings & Roundabouts ($$) uses local ingredients to make delicious meals. The woodfire pizza is superb!

• Willow Grill ($$) has great Australian food, well-sized meals, and cosy vibes.

• Settlers Tavern ($$) is a nice joint near the town centre where you can have a meal and/or a few drinks.

Top Tips

The beaches in the Margaret River region are beautiful but can have strong currents and large waves. Swim at patrolled beaches and pay attention to safety signs.

If you’re planning to surf, double-check local conditions and know your own abilities.

Also, remember that this region can get quite busy during peak holiday periods, such as the summer months (December to February) and school holidays.

Accommodation and tours can be booked out, and prices may be higher. So, if you’re visiting during these times, make sure to book well in advance.

Did you know?

The Margaret River region was originally inhabited by the Wadandi people, part of the Noongar nation, who have a deep spiritual connection to the land.

European exploration began in the early 19th century, but it wasn’t until the 1920s that the township began to develop significantly. This was because the Group Settlement Scheme encouraged British settlers to the area for farming and timber industries.

FAQs

The bottom line

Margaret River is a playground for anyone and everyone.

With its world-renowned wineries and an array of chocolate-tasting opportunities, the Margaret River wine region satisfies even the most discerning foodies.

For thrill-seekers and ocean lovers, the area boasts some of the best surf breaks suited to all skill levels, alongside pristine spots for snorkelling adventures.

The region is also home to some awe-inspiring natural wonders, including ancient caves and towering karri forests.

So, whether you’re an exigent foodie, an avid surfer, a family looking for an unforgettable adventure, or anyone in between… Margaret River has something for you!