Margaret River is one of Australia’s best kept secrets and is a must-visit destination, whether you’re on holiday from overseas or travelling interstate. Surrounded on three sides by the Indian Ocean, this natural geographic wonder of Western Australia is of stunning natural beauty with its spectacular beaches, and crystal clear turquoise water where thousands of humpback and blue whales migrate annually.
The region is 3 hours drive south from the vibrant city of Perth, and from Busselton on Geographe Bay, through Dunsborough and Margaret River town itself to Augusta – it truly is a magical journey. This spectacular destination is famous for its world class surfing, stunning wildlife, refined culinary reputation and established wineries.
Stock up at one of the South West’s best local produce markets, visit incredible art galleries and boutique shops, or be adventurous and experience one of the many scenic walking trails. Camp at one of the many diverse campsites and explore an ancient underground wonderland of caves, or climb a lighthouse for breathtaking views over the Indian Ocean.
Whatever you decide to do, the Margaret River Region has it all, so keep this Ultimate Margaret River Travel Guide handy and book in for one of the fantastic Margaret River Tours for a memorable experience you’ll never forget.
THINGS TO DO & SEE
MARGARET RIVER SURF
Surfers Point Beach is a must for surfers. It hosts the world’s best surfing competition, the ‘International Margaret River Drug Aware Pro,’ with the world’s best surfers travelling from all over the world to compete.
Whether you surf like a pro who loves to challenge open ocean big waves and world-class reef breaks, or a beginner who prefers gentle beach breaks, Margaret River offers some of the best waves in the world.
To read more on the surfing Margaret River has to offer, read our article on Margaret River’s Best Surfing.
MARGARET RIVER WINERIES
The Margaret River Region is one of the largest wine regions in Australia, producing world class wines from superior growing conditions and a Mediterranean-style climate. With 150 wineries and breweries in the region you will be spoilt for choice – so make sure you organise transport to get you around safely.
Wineries such as the world famous Vasse Felix are renowned for their quality wine production, and Cape Mentelle transforms their lawn into an outdoor cinema in summer. Along with live events and festivals that run throughout the warmer months, many of the region’s wineries offer unique culinary experiences to pair up with your favourite wines. Whether you’re on a romantic getaway, a flamboyant girl’s or boys weekend, or wanting to indulge and discover with friends or a loved one, Margaret River will not disappoint.
We’ve also got the perfect wine tours that allow you to enjoy Margaret River even if it’s just for half a day!
Half Day Wine Tour in Margaret River : A snapshot of the Margaret River region for those who don’t have much time, but still want to make the most of it and experience the local foods and authentic wines.
Full Day Wine Tour in Margaret River : Relax and unwind with a picturesque day trip enjoying an amazing two-course feast in a scenic vineyard.
Premium Wine Tour in Margaret River : Harvest Tour’s Premium Wine Tour is a decadent tour to enjoy with your family or friends, an authentic luxury tour discovering food & wine produced by Margaret River’s local artisans.
To read more on the wineries Margaret River has to offer, check out our article on Margaret River’s Best Wineries.
MARGARET RIVER HIKING
The Margaret River region is home to a rich and biodiverse natural environment, managed through effective and sustainable solutions. There are many epic walking trails to be experienced that extend some 123 kilometres along the South West coastline. Hike through incredible forest and coastal scenery, discover fascinating headlands and rock formations, or catch a glimpse of whales migrating from May to late November at Hamelin Bay, one of the best spots to watch whales.
Visit the tranquil Ten Mile Brook Dam, one of Margaret River’s best trails within the Wooditjup National Park for a more adventurous hike, or really test yourself by tackling a section of the world-famous Bibbulman track! If you’re looking for more on the best trails in the Margaret River, read our article on Margaret River’s Best Hiking.
MARGARET RIVER CAMPING
Camping in the Margaret River Region is a great way to explore the region’s surf, award-winning wineries, walking trails, and other attractions – or just escape to nature, unplug and refresh yourself. There are many campsites that have facilities that cater for all requirements and budgets.
Camp by the beach, close to town, or enjoy the tranquillity of the bush, you’ll find a campsite that is sure to make you a happy camper! Whether you are a family, a couple or an intrepid traveller, there are many options to choose from to use as a base to explore the many wonders in the region.
The best way to explore if you leave your transport on-site is with Margaret River Tours who offer the best destination tours including the Tree Top Walk Wapole, where you can visit the Ancient Empire Forest and discover the history, heritage, arts whilst enjoying wine tastings and the best culinary delights the region has to offer.
MARGARET RIVER CAVES
The Margaret River Region is known for more than it’s wines, and boasts a range of unique, spectacular caves that you absolutely have to see. In particular, there are four main caves that have been opened up to tourism and are a must-see for any Margaret River traveller. Explore the Ngilgi Cave, an exquisitely decorated cave, with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, helictites and incredible coloured shawls.
Towering Karri trees descend you into a crystal wonderland when you visit Lake Cave, deep beneath the earth. A lake at the bottom of the cave reflects the delicate crystal formations that will take your breath away.
Mammoth Cave, another natural wonder, is a magnificent natural time capsule, and once home to over 10,000 fossils, and still home to ancient fossil remains of long-extinct giant mammals.
As always, we are saving the best for last – the Jewel Cave which truly is a magical experience. It will take you on a journey through towering crystal creations that have taken thousands of years to form, and home to one of the longest straw stalactites in Australia.
To read more on the caves Margaret River has to offer, read our article on Margaret River’s Best Caves.
EXPERIENCE MARGARET RIVER
An incredible place that’s caught the attention and interest of people all around the world, Margaret River is the jewel of Western Australia and not to be missed. From the wineries to the beaches, it offers some of the most picturesque scenery and gourmet indulgence around.
If you’re looking for the ultimate guided tour, experiencing the best of Margaret River’s wineries, beaches, history and the famous Lake Cave, check out our raved-about Indulge and Discover Tour.
