Rating: 🌟 Highly Recommend
Located in Western Australia’s southwest, Margaret River is where world-class wineries meet rugged coastlines, ancient caves, towering forests, and gourmet food. It’s a paradise for surfers, foodies, and nature lovers — ideal for a weekend road trip or a longer escape.
Top Things to Do
Explore Wineries – Over 100 cellar doors, from big names like Vasse Felix to boutique gems like Windows Estate.
Injidup Natural Spa – Rock formations that create a unique spa-like experience
Surfers Point – Iconic surf break and a must for sunset.
Mammoth & Jewel Caves – Explore underground crystal formations in ancient limestone caves.
Boranup Karri Forest – Drive or bike through towering karri trees (some over 60m tall!).
How Many Days to Spend
Minimum: 2–3 full days – Visit local wineries, relax on the beaches, and check out the town’s boutique shops and cafes.
Ideal: 4–5 days – Add in surfing at Surfers Point, explore nearby caves (like Lake or Jewel Cave), and hike part of the Cape to Cape Track.
More time? Use Margaret River as a base to explore the southwest – from Busselton Jetty to Augusta, and the towering forests of Boranup and Pemberton.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (Sep–Nov): Wildflowers, whale watching, and perfect wine-touring weather.
Summer (Dec–Feb): Great for beach days and festivals — but book early.
Autumn (Mar–May): Grape harvest time, ideal for wine lovers.
Winter (Jun–Aug): Cosy by the fire, truffle season, and dramatic coastal views.
Where to Stay
Margaret River Town: Central, walkable, good food and shops.
Yallingup/Dunsborough: Coastal and great for beach access + luxe stays.
Farm & Eco Retreats: Think vineyard villas, glamping tents, and forest lodges.
Top Picks: Smiths Beach Resort, Eight Willows Retreat, Losari Retreat.
Where to Eat & Drink
Miki’s Open Kitchen: Japanese fine dining with a local twist.
Glenarty Road: Winery + farm-to-table dining.
Burger Baby: Casual, good vibes, and great burgers.
Yardbyrd (Witchcliffe): Hidden gem café with great coffee.
Brewhouse Margaret River: Craft beer with a leafy setting — family- and dog-friendly.
Travel Tips
Car is essential – You’ll need it to reach wineries, beaches, and forests.
Tastings often require bookings – Especially for top-tier wineries.
Beach safety – Some beaches have strong rips, so check conditions.
Pack layers – Even in summer, it can cool down in the evenings.
Slow travel wins here – It’s not about rushing — enjoy long lunches and golden-hour drives.
Top Photo Spots
Injidup Natural Spa – Rock pools with ocean waves crashing behind (go at mid tide).
Surfers Point at Sunset – Glowing skies and surfers on the horizon.
Boranup Forest Road – Misty mornings = moody, magical forest vibes.
Wilyabrup Cliffs – Rugged sea cliffs and epic coastal views.
Lake Cave’s Suspended Platform – Unreal underground photo opportunity.
Budget Breakdown (per day)
Accommodation: $120–$350+ AUD
Food & wine: $25–$100 AUD
Activities: Many natural attractions are free
Cave entry: ~$22–$35 AUD
Car rental (from Perth): ~$60–$90/day
Tip: Tastings can add up — pick a few top wineries or go for a guided tour with multiple stops.
How to Get There
From Perth: ~3-hour drive (great for a road trip with stops at Busselton or Bunbury)
No direct train/bus to most spots – A car is the easiest way
Closest airport: Busselton-Margaret River (limited flights)
