19+ Things To Do In Dunsborough For The Perfect Trip + Guide To Plan Your Visit
Dunsborough is nestled in the Western Cape region of Western Australia. This privileged location makes it the gateway to the stunning Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park, as well as the Margaret River Region.
It’s just a 3-hour drive from Perth, making it the perfect weekend getaway for those looking for scenic coastal walks, laid-back vibes, and world-famous wine.
Unmissable attractions include the majestic Sugarloaf Rock, the historic Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, and the tranquil shores of Meelup Beach.
The best time to visit is definitely in spring, as it aligns with both whale-watching season and the bloom of wildflowers. But other seasons have their advantages too, which we’ll discuss later.
There are more things to do (we counted 20!) and a few things to consider when planning your visit – where to stay, what to eat, etc. This guide will help you with all of that, so you have the perfect trip to Dunsborough!
Table of Contents
20 Best things to do in Dunsborough
Dunsborough is part of the beautiful South West Region, famous for its rugged landscapes, beaches, and wine. No wonder why these are the best things to do in Dunsborough:
1) Sugarloaf Rock
Sugarloaf Rock is a massive, distinctive granite rock formation a 10-minute drive from Dunsborough’s town centre, right here.
The viewing platform gives you a unique perspective of the landmark, making it a prime spot to watch the sunset and even whales (when in season).
It’s a straightforward visit but packs a punch with its scenic beauty and the raw, natural atmosphere. You can’t access the rock itself, but the surrounding area is great for exploring.
2) Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is at the northern tip of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, a 15-minute drive from Dunsborough, right here.
From the top, you get panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding national park, which are particularly breathtaking during whale-watching season (August-November).
The lighthouse stands tall at 20 metres, but offers a shorter climb compared to others, with only 59 steps to the top.
There are guided tours available, too. We 100% recommend doing them, the history of the area is really interesting.
🤩 Visit Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse near Dunsborough with a guided tour! More details here: Margaret River: Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Guided Tour
3) Whale watching
Whale-watching season in Dunsborough runs from September to November.
During this time, you can spot humpback whales and southern right whales as they travel south to the cooler waters of Antarctica for feeding. You might even see blue whales if you’re lucky!
You can see them from the shore from these spots:
Point Picquet, a 7-minute drive from town.
Just make sure to bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom if you want to take pictures.
Arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon can also increase your chances of sightings, as whales are often more active during these times.
It’s always best to book a whale-watching tour, though.
Your guides will take you to where the whales are, so you can see them up close. Nothing compares to seeing a whale breaching a short distance from the boat, it’s incredible.
But don’t forget to take a seasickness tablet if you’re prone to motion sickness!
🤩 Get up close to whales in Dunsborough from September to November with an expert-guided tour for humpback sightings, southern right, and blue whales: Dunsborough Whale Watching Eco Tour
4) Spend the day at Meelup Beach
Meelup Beach is an epic spot near town (a 5-minute drive), right here.
It’s renowned for its calm, crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkelling.
The beach also has ample parking, barbecue facilities, toilets, and picnic tables, so you can easily spend the day here!
5) Walk a section of the Cape To Cape Track
The Cape to Cape Track is a spectacular hiking trail that stretches approximately 135 kilometres between Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse in the north and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse in the south.
If you’re visiting Dunsborough, tackling a section of the Cape to Cape Track is a must!
We recommend doing the section from Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to Yallingup Beach. It’s ~13km long (3-4 hours depending on the number of stops).
The route is easily accessible and the views are absolutely spectacular. You’ll pass through Sugarloaf Rock, Three Bears, and Kabbijgup Beach, finishing in Yallingup Beach.
Just make sure to wear sturdy walking shoes and carry enough water, as some sections can be remote and facilities are sparse.
🤩 If you want to try the Cape to Cape track, book this tour that starts and ends in Perth: Hike Western Australia’s Cape to Cape Track
6) Hike the Bunker Bay Loop Trail
If you want a shorter hike, definitely try the Bunker Bay trail. It’s 3.6km long (~2 hours) and takes you from Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to Bunker Bay and back.
It’s designed to be an easy hike that most people can manage without too much trouble.
The coastal views are stunning, winding through native bushland and along the rugged coastline. You’ll finish in Bunker Bay, where you can take a nice dip in Shelley Cove before heading back.
7) Castle Rock
Castle Rock is a striking granite formation located a 15-minute drive from town, right here.
It’s next to Castle Beach, a great spot with all the amenities (toilets, BBQ, etc) where you can spend the day if you don’t feel like climbing.
The rock itself is impressive, standing tall against the backdrop of turquoise waters and lush greenery.
It’s worth exploring the surroundings too, especially during wildflower season (August-November), as the whole area explodes into colour!
8) Enjoy Eagle Bay’s luxury
Eagle Bay is one of the premium beach destinations a stone’s throw from Dunsborough, right here.
This secluded spot is a bit of an upscale area, where you’ll find some luxurious holiday homes and a generally quieter, more exclusive atmosphere compared to busier tourist spots.
It’s ideal for those looking to enjoy a serene beach day with a touch of class.
The water is calm and clear, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and fishing. The bay’s gentle conditions make it perfect for families or a relaxed day out!
9) Visit Dunsborough Beach
If you want to have fun but don’t want to drive, spend the day at Dunsborough Beach. It’s in the heart of town, right here.
This stretch of beach is known for its calm waters, soft sand and shallow waters that are perfect for a swim, snorkelling, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
The beach is also sheltered from the strong winds, making it a safe spot for the whole family. Plus, there are BBQ facilities, picnic tables, toilets, and heaps of cafes and shops nearby.
10) Dive HMAS Swan wreck
If you’re Open Water certified, diving this wreck is a must!
The HMAS Swan, a former Royal Australian Navy destroyer escort, was intentionally sunk in 1997 to create an artificial reef and dive site.
It rests 30 metres underwater near Point Piquet and has become a haven for marine life, offering divers a unique opportunity to explore a large naval vessel up close.
The dive is suitable for both novice and experienced divers, thanks to the different access points and levels of depth. But visibility can vary, so check weather conditions before your dive.
🤩 This half-day boat and scuba tour of the HMAS Swan wreck is perfect for divers of all skill levels: Ex- HMAS Swan Wreck Double Boat Dive
11) Visit the Ngilgi Cave
Ngilgi Cave is an ancient karst cave that’s a short drive from Dunsborough, in Yallingup – right here.
The cave is famous for its stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and helictites, alongside its roots in local Aboriginal legend.
It’s named after the good spirit Ngilgi, who, according to Wadandi lore, triumphed over the evil spirit Wolgine in this very cave.
You can do a self-guided tour to explore at your own pace or join a guided tour to dive deeper into the cave’s history and geology.
Before you head down, wear comfy shoes because you’ll be walking on damp and uneven surfaces. The temperature inside the cave is quite cool, so it’s a great activity to do during summer!
🤩 Explore the Ngilgi Cave with this self-guided tour. Learn about the karst formations and the local Aboriginal legend: Self-Guided Ngilgi Cave Ancient Lands Experience
12) Canal Rocks
Another gem of Yallingup, Canal Rocks is a naturally-formed rock canal a 15-minute drive from Dunsborough, right here.
This landmark was sculpted over millennia by the relentless Indian Ocean, making it a must-visit just for the sheer spectacle and the chance to see nature’s power up close.
There’s a sturdy wooden boardwalk that allows you to get right up close to the action without needing to scramble over rocks. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the smaller rock pools and the formations along the coastline.
Just be sure to check the weather and ocean conditions before you go, as the rocks can be slippery and the waves unpredictable.
13) Surf at Yallingup Beach
Yallingup Beach is renowned for its consistent surf breaks and it’s just a 10-minute drive from Dunsborough, right here.
This is the best spot to ride some waves if you’re staying in Dunsborough. But you don’t have to be a surfer to enjoy it, as it also has a protected lagoon, ideal for a safe and relaxing dip if the open ocean feels a bit too lively.
Keep reading: 15 Unique things to do in Yallingup, near Dunsborough
14) Check out Injidup Natural Spa
This is a secluded spot along the coast of Yallingup, an 18-minute drive from Dunsborough, right here.
It basically turns the rugged shoreline into a natural jacuzzi. The waves crash over the rocks into a large rock pool, creating a frothy, bubbly effect that feels like a spa treatment courtesy of Mother Nature!
Getting there involves a bit of a trek down a rocky path, so wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a bit of a scramble.
This spot has become very popular in the past few years, but we had it pretty much to ourselves when we visited.
We explain how we did it and tips for your visit in this article: Ultimate Guide to Injidup Natural Spa
15) Do an Aboriginal tour
The Wadandi people have lived in this area for thousands of years, they’re the Traditional Owners of this land.
As such, they have a deep connection with the area, traditions, and a rich heritage that is incredibly interesting. Doing a tour to learn about this will definitely add to your visit!
Koomal Dreaming is one of the providers of these cultural tours, led by local Wadandi custodian Josh Whiteland. These tours are renowned for their authenticity, offering a range of experiences that include bushwalking, didgeridoo playing, tool making, and traditional fire lighting.
You can learn more about them here, on their website.
16) Go wine-tasting
Going wine-tasting while you’re in Dunsborough is a no-brainer… You’re right next to the famous Margaret River Wine Region, famous for its top-notch wineries!
Each winery has its own vibe, from rustic to modern chic, so you’ll definitely find a spot that suits your taste. The best ones near Dunsborough include:
Wise Wine, a 7-minute drive from Dunsborough, boasts spectacular views over Geographe Bay and has its own distillery.
Flametree Wines, a 10-minute drive, offers a beach house-style cellar door with cosy vibes and a superb service to enjoy their award-winning wines.
Happs Wines, a 10-minute drive, they’re committed to producing naturally-made wines. They also offer pottery workshops!
Regardless of which one you choose, make sure to book ahead, especially if you want a tour or a meal. Also wear something comfy but neat, as some places have a smart-casual dress code.
It’s best to do a wine-tasting tour, though.
These tours often take you to 2-3 wineries, include food, and you won’t have to worry about driving.
It’s the best way to truly enjoy the wine-tasting experience without stress!
🤩 This wine-tasting tour will take you to top-notch wineries and breweries along Margaret River, without worrying about driving: Margaret River Winery and Brewery Day Trip, Plus Gourmet Winery Lunch
17) Don’t miss Simmo’s Ice Creamery
No trip to Dunsborough is complete without a visit to Simmo’s Ice Creamery, a 5-minute drive from town, right here.
This is a local institution, famous for whipping up some of the best ice cream in Western Australia. They have 60 homemade flavours, so there’s something to tickle everyone’s taste buds.
It gets packed during the weekends and holidays, so you might have to wait for your ice cream, but it will be worth it!
Awesome spots at driving distance from Dunsborough
Dunsborough is the gateway to the South West, famous for its beautiful beaches, forests, and of course – wine.
So if you have an extra day on your trip, why not spend it in at least one of these spots?
18) Busselton
Busselton is a 25-minute drive from Dunsborough, right here.
You can also get there by bike, as there’s a network of well-kept bike tracks with scenic views!
However you choose to visit, it’s well worth a day trip just for the star attraction – the Busselton Jetty. This is the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, stretching almost 2 km out to sea.
If you’re not up for a stroll over the jetty, hop on the little train that’ll zip you to the end where you can visit the Underwater Observatory.
You can also snorkel or dive under the jetty, as it has its own marine ecosystem. It’s beautiful!
There’s also the Ludlow Tuart Forest, with plenty of hikes and wildlife to spot.
19) Margaret River
Margaret River is right here, just a 40-minute drive south of Dunsborough and is a hotspot for anyone who loves good wine, stunning nature, and a bit of adventure.
This region is famed for its premium wineries and craft breweries, so dedicating a day to sip and savour some of the best drinks in Australia is a real treat.
Plus, the food scene here is top-notch, with loads of places offering farm-to-table experiences that highlight local produce.
The area is also surrounded by towering forests, ancient caves (like Mammoth Cave), and epic surf beaches, making it perfect for nature lovers and surfers alike.
Keep reading: 32 Things to do in Margaret River for the trip of a lifetime
20) Augusta
Augusta is a 1-hour drive from Dunsborough, right here. It’s the place to be if you crave more spectacular coastal scenery with a laid-back vibe.
The town is located where the Indian Ocean meets the Southern Ocean, so you can expect some dramatic ocean views that are pretty unique to this part of Australia.
You can see where these oceans meet from the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, the most south-westerly mainland point of the Australian continent.
Whale-watching tours depart from here as well, but if you prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of hikes to do.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Jewel Cave, one of the most spectacular show caves in the region!
When is the best time to visit Dunsborough?
The best time to visit Dunsborough is spring (September to November) hands down.
The weather is just right (not too hot, not too cold), which is perfect for outdoor activities. Plus, it coincides with whale-watching and wildflower season, adding a splash of colour to the scenic drives and hiking trails.
But if you want to spend as much time as possible in the water, summer (December to February) is your best bet. But it can get pretty busy since it’s peak tourist season.
How to get to Dunsborough?
You can get to Dunsborough by plane, car, or coach:
Getting there by plane
The closest airport is the Busselton-Margaret River Airport, a 30-minute drive from Dunsborough.
This airport has direct flights from Melbourne and Sydney (not from Perth) as well as private flights.
If you want to get there by plane, definitely go to Trip.com to book your flights. We’ve used them a few times and they are the best at finding the cheapest deals available, sometimes even cheaper than booking directly from the airline!
That said, if you’re visiting from Perth, it will be best to go driving. More on that in the next section.
You might want to rent a car to get around Dunsborough.
Most of the things to do in Dunsborough require short drives – going to the Lighthouse, the beaches on the cape, wine tasting, etc.
You can rent a car directly from Busselton’s airport, we recommend using Rental Cars to see the best rentals available and their prices. They compare all the car providers available at the time of your trip to find you the best deals, with the convenience of pick-up and drop-off in the airport (or somewhere else).
Getting there by car
Getting to Dunsborough from Perth by car is a straightforward and scenic drive, covering around 250 kilometres (a 3-hour journey).
You could do it in one go, but we recommend stopping a few times along the way to stretch your legs and check out a few cool spots.
Bunbury is a great spot to pause, check out the local cafes, or even have a quick look at the Dolphin Discovery Centre if you fancy a longer break.
Another nice stop is Busselton, which we talked about previously.
Getting there by coach
This is the cheapest way to get to Dunsborough, as a round ticket costs around $90-100.
TransWa can take you from Perth to Dunsborough in 4 hours, dropping you in Seymour Boulevard. The route is SW1 (East Perth to Augusta and Pemberton via Bunbury and Augusta).
This is the best option if you plan on staying around the town centre. Otherwise, you will have to either hire a taxi or rent a car in Busselton (use RentalCars for that).
Book your coach tickets, check the info on the timetables, and more on TransWa’s website.
How many days to spend in Dunsborough?
You can check most attractions in a weekend. But if you want to explore the area without rushing or checking out nearby spots, you might want to stay 3-5 days.
This gives you time to go to the lighthouse, explore the surroundings, chill at Meelup Beach, and maybe even do a whale-watching tour.
You’ll also have enough time to check out some nearby attractions, such as the Ngilgi Cave, the Natural Spa, or even spend the day in Margaret River.
Top accommodations in Dunsborough
Dunsborough is a bit of a resort town, so accommodations might be a bit expensive. If you add that to the costs of renting a car and eating out, the total cost of the trip can be high.
That’s why we always prefer staying in a caravan. Having a home with wheels gives you tonnes of flexibility, plus you can cook right there.
If you want to rent one, go straight to JUCY campervans. You can pick up and drop off from most big airports (including Perth’s) and they have campervans for 2-5 people! Star RV is another great option if you want a luxury option.
But if you’d rather stay in a more traditional accommodation, here are the best places to stay in Dunsborough:
- Best budget-friendly stay: Dunsborough Beachouse YHA offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere right on the beach. Enjoy stunning views, a spacious communal area, and fun activities. It’s a 5-minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 4.
- Best for families and groups: BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks – Busselton features modern cabins, spacious campsites, and fun activities for the whole family. Enjoy the swimming pool, playground, and BBQ areas. It’s an 18-minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 6.
- Best luxury: Bay Village Resort Dunsborough offers luxurious accommodations with a spa, indoor pool, and easy access to the beach. Enjoy modern amenities and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s a 2-minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 6.
Where to eat in Dunsborough?
- Burgertron ($$) offers the best burgers with generous portions and a variety of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free. Enjoy quick service, friendly staff, and plenty of free parking.
- Pedro’s Mexican ($$) delivers an authentic Mexican dining experience with fantastic service and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy amazing fajitas, cocktails, and a welcoming vibe. Perfect for a night out with friends.
- Blue Manna Bistro ($$$) offers exceptional seafood dishes and a great cocktail selection in a welcoming atmosphere. With outstanding service and flavourful dishes.
- Merchant and Maker ($$) is your go-to spot for excellent coffee, delicious vegan options, and fresh sandwiches. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere with friendly service and a great selection of gluten-free treats.
- Occy’s ($$) offers seasonally inspired pub grub and house brews in a laid-back setting with a spacious beer garden. With friendly staff and hearty delicious meals.
Top tips
If you want to stay in Dunsborough, book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons like summer or school holidays.
When heading to more remote spots like secluded beaches or bush trails, make sure your phone is charged and you have an offline map, as mobile reception can be patchy. Always carry water with you, too.
Did you know?
The area around Dunsborough is rich in Aboriginal heritage, with numerous sites of cultural significance, including ancient fish traps at nearby Quindalup.
These fish traps are considered an ingenious example of sustainable fishing methods practised by Aboriginal people long before European settlement!
FAQs
Why is Dunsborough called Dunsborough?
The town of Dunsborough was named after Dunn Bay, which was in turn named after Captain Richard Dalling Dunn, from the Royal Navy.
Is it better to stay in Dunsborough or Busselton?
This depends on what you’re looking for. Dunsborough has a more relaxed experience, with closer access to Cape Naturaliste National Park. While Busselton has a more lively atmosphere, more cafés and restaurants.
Is there a shark net in Dunsborough?
Yes, there is a shark net at Dunsborough Beach. It was installed to create a protected swimming area. The net stretches approximately 100 meters out and covers about 300 meters along the beach.
The bottom line
Dunsborough truly has something special for everyone, making it a perfect destination whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both.
From the majestic Sugarloaf Rock to the historical charm of Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, this town offers a stunning backdrop for all kinds of explorations.
For nature lovers, the whale-watching season is a must-see, hikers will enjoy the many trails available, and wine lovers will be in for a treat.
This town is an underrated gem of the Southwest, offering a unique mix of beauty, adventure, and relaxation that few spots in WA have. Enjoy your visit and let us know how it goes!
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