This coastal region in Western Australia has more than 100 wineries, limestone caves, and surf breaks along the Indian Ocean. Popular for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
Margaret River, a town in Western Australia’s southwest, is located near vineyards and surf beaches. Walk through Boranup Forest’s karri trees, which reach 60 meters in height. Taste Cabernet Sauvignon at wineries such as Cullen Wines or Vasse Felix. Watch humpback whales surface near the coast between June and December. The main street includes galleries like JahRoc and Morries Anytime, cafes like Drift, and Settlers Tavern pub, which stocks 600 types of wine. Professional surfers ride waves at Surfer’s Point during the WSL Margaret River Pro each May. Explore Mammoth Cave to see fossils from 35,000 years ago or Ngilgi Cave’s stalactite formations.
Visiting Wineries and Tasting Rooms
Margaret River accounts for more than 20% of Australia’s high-quality wine production. Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay grow particularly well here due to the Mediterranean climate, which brings warm summers and mild winters. Over 130 wineries operate in the area, from established names like Leeuwin Estate to smaller producers such as Windows Estate. Most places let you sample wines alongside regional products like Margaret River Dairy Company cheeses. Spend a day driving along Caves Road, stopping at vineyards like McHenry Hohnen for reds or Flowstone for whites.
Surfing Lessons and Coastal Views
The ocean near Margaret River has powerful waves that draw surfers from around the globe. Main Break and The Box are popular spots, especially during the WSL competition in May. If you’re new to surfing, sign up for a lesson at Gnarabup Beach, where instructors teach paddling and standing on gentler waves. Rent a board from Rhythm or The Surf Shop in town. Even without surfing, head to North Point to watch experienced riders carve through curling waves.
Caves, Hiking Trails, and Forests
Six limestone caves near Margaret River allow visitors to explore underground. Mammoth Cave displays fossils of extinct animals like the zygomaturus. Lake Cave’s guided tours focus on crystal formations around its permanent pool. Above ground, walk the Boranup Forest trails under karri trees that have grown for centuries. The Cape to Cape Track runs 123 kilometers along the coast, passing cliffs like Redgate and beaches like Contos. For a shorter route, try the 14-kilometer Wadandi Track, which cuts through areas filled with wildflowers in spring.
Whale Watching and Flower Seasons
Between June and December, humpback whales travel close to shore during their annual migration. Join a boat tour from Augusta or watch from the Cape Naturaliste lighthouse platforms. From August to November, look for kangaroo paws with red-and-green flowers along trails like the Meelup Reserve walk. Over 150 bird species live here, including the red-winged fairywren. Guides from companies like Bushtucker Tours explain how plants like zamia palms were used by Indigenous communities. Bring binoculars to spot ospreys diving for fish or dolphins near the shoreline.
Food Producers and Weekly Markets
Sample cheddar at Margaret River Cheese Company or dark chocolate at Gabriel Chocolate. The Saturday Farmers Market in the town center sells fresh marron, olives from The Olive Oil Soap Company, and seasonal fruits. Restaurants like Miki’s Open Kitchen serve dishes like grilled marron with miso butter. Stop at Simmo’s Ice Cream for flavors incorporating local honey or lemon myrtle. Several wineries, including Aravina Estate, have restaurants where you can eat wood-fired pizza or lamb racks paired with their wines.
Noongar Cultural Experiences
The Noongar people have lived in this region for over 50,000 years. Join a Koomal Dreaming tour to taste bush foods like quandong fruit or hear stories about the Wardandi clan’s connection to Ngilgi Cave. Watch a didgeridoo performance inside the cave’s chambers. Galleries like JahRoc exhibit Noongar art, including dot paintings and carvings. Learn how traditional tools like boomerangs were made from banksia wood. These activities highlight the ongoing cultural practices of Australia’s oldest living culture.
Transportation Options and Routes
Fly into Busselton Margaret River Airport, which connects to Perth with 70-minute flights. Driving from Perth takes about three and a half hours via Forrest Highway, passing through towns like Bunbury. South West Coach Lines operates buses from Perth twice daily, dropping passengers at the Margaret River Visitor Centre. Rent a car through companies like Hertz or Europcar to reach wineries and beaches efficiently. The town center is small enough to explore on foot, with free parking near attractions like the Margaret River Regional Wine Centre.
