Three hours south of Perth, Margaret River is known for its rolling vineyards, towering old-growth forests, and world-class surf. The beating heart of southwestern Australia, this hip-and-happening hub is perfect for lovers of culture, food, wine, and outdoor adventures. But there’s far more to Margaret River than the town proper, with many things to do in the surrounding region. From beautiful beaches and art studios to coastal cafés, buzzing breweries, crystalline caves, and stunning national parks, the Margaret River region is just waiting to be explored.
Margaret River is a popular destination all year round, even in the quieter, cooler (and sometimes wetter) winter months. While summer is the busiest time of year, especially with Christmas and school holidays, spring is arguably the best time to visit, when the bush and coastland are filled with colorful wildflowers, and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities like catching waterfalls and whale watching.
Just over three hours south of Perth, Margaret River is as popular with overseas visitors as it is with city folk seeking a break from the concrete jungle. While you can fly directly from Melbourne into Busselton, public transport connections are still pretty limited, especially if you want to explore outside the town. Make the most of your time in the region by renting a car or joining a tour.
The Margaret River wine region isn’t just optimum for grape growing—it’s great for exploring, too. If you’re here primarily for wine tasting, it’s worth getting an early start and squeezing in some sightseeing before hitting the vino. Highlights include the four caves—Lake, Jewel, Ngilgi, and Mammoth—in addition to Surfers Point, Boranup Karri Forest, Hamelin Bay (known for its friendly stingrays), Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, and Injidup Natural Spa in nearby Yallingup.
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Margaret River is one of those places you go for a day or two and never want to leave. Still, two to five days is plenty enough time to squeeze in some sightseeing, including hitting the beach, enjoying a long lunch at a vineyard, or spending a few hours exploring the town.
...MoreYes, Margaret River is worth visiting. Just three hours from Perth, it’s a great addition to any Western Australian itinerary. Popular with visitors from all over the world, Margaret River has plenty to offer every traveler, whether you’re interested in food and wine, surf, nature, or wellness.
...MoreMargaret River is arguably most famous for its wine, but it’s also known as the home of the Margaret River Pro surfing competition. However, there’s plenty more on offer here, too, including amazing local food, beautiful swimming beaches, great national parks, and a thriving arts and culture scene.
...MoreThere’s always something to do in Margaret River, whatever the weather. Some of the best rainy-day activities include visiting the Margaret River Chocolate Factory and exploring Mammoth or Lake caves. You could also swing by one of the region’s 100-plus wineries for a fireside feast while watching the rain fall on the vines.
...MoreThere are many different ways to spend three days in Margaret River, from winery-hopping on Caves Road to eating your way around town. If you want to hit the highlights, Lake Cave, Boranup Forest, and Hamelin Bay make for a good day or half-day adventure, as do Injidup Natural Spa, Ngilgi Cave, Meelup Beach, and Sugarloaf Rock.
...MoreMargaret River and Dunsborough both have great accommodation options and plenty going for them, so it depends on what you’re looking for. Sitting on Geographe Bay, Dunsborough makes for a great coastal getaway, while Margaret River is closer to the action, with forests, vineyards, shops, cafés, and pubs just a stone’s throw away.
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