Margaret River Western Australia: A Paradise for Wine Surf & Nature

Margaret River, located three hours south of Perth, is Western Australia’s premier wine region, famous for its world-class wineries, spectacular surf beaches, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re a wine lover, adventure seeker, or nature enthusiast, Margaret River offers a perfect mix of gourmet experiences and outdoor adventures.

From sampling award-winning Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon to exploring ancient caves, hiking coastal trails, and watching migrating whales, Margaret River is a must-visit destination in WA.

Top Attractions in Margaret River

1. Margaret River Wine Region 🍷🍇

• Home to over 200 wineries, producing some of Australia’s best cool-climate wines.
• Must-visit wineries:
  • Vasse Felix – The oldest and one of the most prestigious wineries in the region.
  • Leeuwin Estate – Known for fine dining, premium wines, and an art gallery.
  • Voyager Estate – A stunning Cape Dutch-style winery with exceptional Chardonnay.
  • Cullen Wines – Famous for organic and biodynamic wines.

2. Surfers Point & Prevelly Beach 🏄‍♂️🌊

• One of Australia’s most famous surf spots, hosting international surfing competitions.
• Watch pro surfers ride massive waves or try beginner-friendly beaches nearby.
• Best for sunset views over the Indian Ocean.

3. Mammoth Cave, Lake Cave & Jewel Cave 🕳️💎

• A series of ancient limestone caves, each with incredible stalactite and stalagmite formations.
• Mammoth Cave – Self-guided tour with fossils of prehistoric animals.
• Lake Cave – Features a stunning crystal-clear lake and suspended rock formations.
• Jewel Cave – The largest cave in Western Australia, with massive underground chambers.

4. Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse – Where Two Oceans Meet ⛯🌊

• The most south-westerly point of Australia, where the Indian and Southern Oceans collide.
• Offers incredible panoramic views, whale-watching opportunities (May–December), and guided tours.

5. Margaret River Chocolate Company & Providore 🍫🍯

• A must-visit for chocolate lovers, offering free tastings of handmade chocolates.
• Providore next door features local gourmet produce, olive oils, and preserves.

6. Boranup Karri Forest 🌳🚗

• A beautiful forest of towering Karri trees, some over 60 meters high.
• Scenic drives and walking trails through lush greenery and bird-filled canopies.

7. Margaret River Brewhouse & Local Breweries 🍺

• If you prefer beer over wine, Margaret River is also home to some of WA’s best craft breweries.
• Top breweries to visit:
  • Margaret River Brewhouse – A local favorite with craft beer and a beer garden.
  • Eagle Bay Brewing Co. – A scenic brewery with great food and ocean views.
  • Colonial Brewing Co. – A relaxed setting with tasting paddles and pub-style food.

8. Injidup Natural Spa & Canal Rocks 💦🏝️

• A stunning rock pool where waves crash over the rocks, creating a natural spa effect.
• Canal Rocks offers dramatic rock formations and ocean views.

9. Sunflower Animal Farm 🐑🐴

• A great family-friendly farm experience with hands-on animal feeding.
• Features kangaroos, alpacas, goats, and cows.

10. Eagles Heritage Raptor Wildlife Centre 🦅

• One of Australia’s largest bird of prey rehabilitation centers.
• See eagles, owls, and falcons up close during daily flight displays.

Outdoor Adventures & Day Trips from Margaret River 🚗🏕️

1. Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park & Cape to Cape Track 🥾🏔️

• One of WA’s best coastal hiking trails, stretching 135 km from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin.
• Walk sections of the Cape to Cape Track, passing secluded beaches, limestone cliffs, and wildflowers.
• Popular short hikes:
  • Redgate Beach to Bob’s Hollow – A clifftop walk with epic ocean views.
  • Smiths Beach to Canal Rocks – A scenic coastal trek with unique rock formations.

2. Augusta & Hamelin Bay (30 min drive) 🦈🏝️

• Augusta is a charming coastal town, great for whale watching and river cruises.
• Hamelin Bay is famous for wild stingrays that swim right up to the shore.

3. Busselton Jetty & Underwater Observatory (45 min drive) 🏗️🐠

• The longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere (1.8 km long).
• Features an underwater observatory where you can see marine life and coral reefs.

Margaret River’s Food & Drink Scene 🍽️🍷

1. Must-Try Local Specialties

• Margaret River wines – Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc Semillon.
• Fresh seafood – Marron (freshwater crayfish), oysters, and WA rock lobster.
• Gourmet cheeses and truffles from local producers.

2. Best Restaurants & Cafés ☕🍽️

• Vasse Felix Restaurant – A fine-dining experience overlooking the vineyards.
• Miki’s Open Kitchen – A Japanese degustation restaurant using local produce.
• Settlers Tavern – A casual pub with live music and an award-winning wine list.
• White Elephant Beach Café – A stunning beachfront café perfect for breakfast and coffee.

3. Best Pubs & Wine Bars 🍺🍷

• Settlers Tavern – Famous for its huge wine list and craft beers.
• Swings & Roundabouts – A relaxed wine bar and pizzeria.

Where to Stay in Margaret River 🏨

Luxury & Boutique Stays ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Cape Lodge – A luxurious vineyard retreat with a private lake and fine dining.
• Smiths Beach Resort – A 5-star beachfront stay with self-contained villas.

Mid-Range & Family-Friendly Stays ⭐⭐⭐

• Margaret’s In Town Apartments – A great option in the heart of town.
• Stay Margaret River – A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and great facilities.

Budget & Camping Options 💰🏕️

• Prevelly Caravan Park – Beachfront camping near Surfers Point.
• Riverview Tourist Park – A budget-friendly stay along the Margaret River.

Best Time to Visit Margaret River ☀️🍇

• Summer (December–February) – Best for beaches, surfing, and outdoor dining.
• Autumn (March–May) – Ideal for vineyard tours, food festivals, and mild weather.
• Winter (June–August) – Best for whale watching, cozy wine tastings, and forest walks.
• Spring (September–November) – Wildflower season, perfect for hiking and exploring nature.

How to Get to Margaret River 🚗✈️

• By Car 🚗
  • From Perth: 3-hour drive via Forrest Highway & Bussell Highway.
• By Air ✈️
  • Busselton-Margaret River Airport (BQB) has direct flights from Melbourne.

Why Visit Margaret River?

Margaret River is Western Australia’s ultimate getaway, offering world-class wine, incredible beaches, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re surfing at Prevelly, wine tasting in the valley, or hiking along the rugged coast, Margaret River is a must-visit destination for all travelers.

🍷🏄‍♂️🌿 Plan your trip to Margaret River and experience the best of WA’s southwest