It’s the destination on everyone’s bucket list – for good reason – so why not make Margaret River your next getaway with G'day Parks? Book your chosen park, drive three hours from Perth, and uncover the magic of Australia’s south-western corner. For everything coastal and culinary, this is the place to be.
Here are 30 of our top things to see and do in Margaret River and its surrounds!
FOOD AND DRINK
Wineries
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
This is a given—with over 100 cellar doors and gourmet experiences at your fingertips, no trip to Margaret River is complete without visiting a winery (…or five). Even if you’re not an alcohol drinker, come for the delicious food and vineyard views. Choose a guided tour if you want someone to curate your journey.
Taste Award-Winning Chocolate
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Satisfy your sweet tooth thanks to the region’s expert chocolate makers. Pick up delicious treats at The Margaret River Chocolate Company, Gabriel Chocolate, Yallingup Chocolate, and Temper Temper Fine Chocolate.
Breweries and Distilleries
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
It’s not all about the wine—savour craft beers, ciders, cocktails, and spirits. Join a tour, sign up for a gin tasting, or navigate your own way to preferred breweries and distilleries.
Margaret River Main Street
Image Credit: Elements Margaret River
Browse the cafés, restaurants, pubs, galleries, and shops on the main street to buy local delicacies. Make sure you visit the famous Margaret River Bakery for a tart, pie, or donut.
Markets
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Why not browse through one of the region’s markets? The Margaret River Farmers Market opens every Saturday morning in town, while the local Lions group runs the monthly Vasse Lions Twilight Markets on the Napoleon Promenade. There’s also a bunch of offerings in Busselton, including the Foreshore Markets on the first, third, and fifth Sunday of each month.
COASTAL TREASURES
Beaches
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia and @christianfletcher_gallery
Margaret River is home to some of the best beaches in Australia—which is saying something! Spot stingrays in the shallows of Hamelin Bay Beach, wade through pristine blue waves at Smiths Beach, stroll the sandy Redgate Beach, or swim in the calm waters of Meelup Beach. If you can’t decide which one to try first, ask the locals to point you towards their personal favourite.
Cape to Cape Track
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Hikers rejoice! The 130km-long Cape to Cape Track hugs the border of Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, where you can sight dolphins and whales. Either trek the course over a full week or tackle a smaller section.
Busselton Jetty
Image Credit: @4boys&acaravan
The charming town of Busselton has a jetty like no other. This 150-year-old, 1.8km-long heritage-listed jetty contains an underwater observatory and sculpture park, as well as an iconic red train ($17 per adult, $11 per child) to travel its distance by rail. For just $4, purchase a day pass or dive/snorkel pass to explore its ocean delights.
Sugarloaf Rock
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Searching for the perfect sunset snap? Look no further than Sugarloaf Rock, a sea-sculptured granite rock within Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. You can also admire beautiful birdlife and the occasional whale.
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Visiting this historic lighthouse feels like walking onto a film set, with waves crashing in the distance while the lighthouse stands tall against the peninsula. Drop into the Interpretive Centre at The Lightkeeper’s Cottage, and take a Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse tour to climb the tower and hear about its history.
Canal Rocks
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Within Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, the timber pathway to the Canal Rocks leads to a beautiful seaside outlook beside granite coastline. It makes for a magnificent open-air walk, not to mention a fabulous photo opportunity.
NATURE AND WILDLIFE
Caves
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Ready to be wowed? There are more than 100 limestone caves in the region—popular choices are Lake Cave, Mammoth Cave, and Jewel Cave. In Yallingup, take an eye-opening tour of Ngilgi Cave to learn about the Wadandi people and marvel at stalactites, stalagmites, and helictites; if you’re feeling brave, slide along the ‘tunnel of doom.’
Quinninup Falls
Head inland near Moses Rock on a moderately challenging hike, and you’ll be rewarded with sights of this spectacular waterfall. Park at the Moses Road carpark and follow signs to the falls!
Boranup Karri Forest
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Contained within Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, the tall timber of the Boranup Karri Forest offers scenic drives and beautiful walks, with forest and coastal views. These massive trees are a drawcard of the region.
Capes Raptor Centre
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Observe incredible birdlife – including eagles, hawks, and falcons – at Capes Raptor Centre. Don’t miss the incredible daily Birds of Prey encounters at 11am and 2pm. Purchase an exclusive VIP Owl Encounter to meet these beautiful birds and get a photograph with one!
Meelup Regional Park
Image Credit: Frances Andrijich, Tourism Western Australia
Boasting walking, cycling, and accessible trails, along with swimming, snorkelling, surfing, whale watching, fishing, and boating opportunities, see the region’s beauty at Meelup Regional Park. It’s a biodiversity hotspot, containing over 11 kilometres of coastline passing Meelup Beach and Eagle Bay.
Horse Riding
Image Credit: Tourism Australia
Jesters Flat has great horse-riding opportunities almost all year round. Saddle up for an Introduction to Horse Riding Tour, enjoy a beginner experience on a Drovers Tour, or giddy up for a Bushman’s Ride through the nearby farmland, conservation park, and state forest.
WET AND WILD
Surfing
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
These beaches are irresistible for surfers, whether you’re a beginner, amateur, or pro. Learn to surf in Yallingup or the Margaret River Mouth, or find the best breaks for advanced surfers at Surfer’s Point, Gnarabup Beach, or “Cow Bombie.”
Whale Watching
Image Credit: David Ashley, Tourism Western Australia
Whales call the oceans surrounding Margaret River home for six months each year. From June to early December, spot Humpback, Southern Right, Minke, and Blue Whales from a cruise. Boats leave from many towns including Busselton, Dunsborough, and Augusta.
Injidup Natural Spa
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
This shallow swimming hole is tucked amongst a natural rock formation, protected from the rough waves and winds. The seawater is warm on cooler days and cool on warmer ones, and occasionally, little waterfalls trickle off the overhead rocks.
Canoeing
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
The Margaret River Canoe Tour leaves from Prevelly Beach, paddling past river valleys, cliffs, Aboriginal sites, and forests. These two- to five-seater canoes are suitable for all ages and abilities, and the bush tucker lunch is a special treat.
Learn to Sail
Set aside two days to set sail! Adventure Sailing runs courses for beginners to pick up the basics on a small keelboat. Join the crew to learn about boat handling, safety, and sailing theory.
ACTIVITIES
Mountain Biking and Road Cycling
Image Credit: Tourism Australia
On the fringe of the Margaret River township, ride a network of beginner, intermediate, and advanced mountain biking trails in Bramley National Park. Alternately, test out the challenging, 24-kilometre Middle Earth trail. For those after something more relaxing, pedal along vineyard trails.
Forest Adventures
Balance on high ropes among the Ludlow Tuart Forest at Forest Adventures. There are six obstacle courses to conquer, plus wire challenges, more than 500m of flying foxes, a 13m base jump, and even riding a BMX on a wire through the trees. Book your adventure through Experience Oz.
Amaze-n Margaret River
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Family fun awaits at Amaze-n Margaret River with an 18-hectare maze that towers three metres high! With admission ($40 adult, $30 children, and $130 family), access 18-hole mini golf, giant games, pretty gardens, BBQs, and a picnic area to sit while sipping a coffee from their café.
Melting Pot Glass Studio
Have you ever marvelled at the artistry of glass blowing? Give it a go at Melting Pot Glass Studio, with a workshop such as Blow Your Own Bauble or Create Your Own Wine Glass—just make sure you can carry your creation home safely!
Pottery
Image Credit: Tourism Australia
Indulge your curiosity and creativity through this Happs Pottery class, which welcomes beginners to test their skills behind the potter’s wheel. Play with clay, then return home with a one-of-a-kind treasure.
OUT AND ABOUT
Pemberton
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Discover a ‘Timber Town’ full of Karri forests, beautiful wildflowers, mountain biking and bushwalking tracks, and national parks (buy your day pass for $15 from the Pemberton Visitor Centre). There are even climbing trees—drop into the visitor centre to purchase a climbing certificate, then scale the pegs to the top of these historic 1930s/40s fire lookouts.
Yallingup
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
In Yallingup, dive into surf beaches, explore caves, drink exceptional wine, and learn about the Indigenous Wadandi culture in this nature playground. A highlight is Yallingup Galleries, the region’s largest contemporary Aboriginal art gallery where you can appreciate sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and glassware.
Dwellingup Trail Town
Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Forge and follow paths through Dwellingup Trail Town, whether you’re behind the wheels of a mountain bike, lacing up hiking shoes, or paddling a raft. From rocks to red gums, the backdrop to your adventures is second to none. The Munda Biddi Trail is a world-class, off-road cycling trail clocking in at a staggering 1,067km.
Dip your toes in crystal clear waves and white sand when you book your stay in Margaret River. Good news—we have incredible G’day Parks to choose from in the region!
Discovery Parks - Margaret River
Discovery Parks – Margaret River offers a unique farm stay experience, just 15 minutes from the lively township. Feed farm animals, traverse the Cape to Cape track, spot dolphins and whales, uncork world-class wines, and explore ancient cave systems. After a big day, retreat to a cosy cabin or spacious site on this working sheep and beef property for a holiday you’ll be talking about for years.
Margaret River Tourist Park
Margaret River Tourist Park is a great option for families in this stunning region. With small cottages, deluxe cabins, campsites, and caravan pads available, you’ll find the right base for your holiday. Spend your days touring wineries, breweries, beaches, and national parks, before coming ‘home’ to unwind.
Gracetown Caravan Park
Nestled within natural bushland, Gracetown Caravan Park is the perfect stopover for a beach and wine region getaway. Ten minutes from Margaret River and three minutes from the surf at Cowaramup Beach, there are chalets, cabins, and caravan sites. The park is a haven for wildlife and birdlife and home to native plants and wildflowers. Children will love the playground, mini golf, and tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts.
Riverview Tourist Park
If you want a park that puts the ‘River’ in ‘Margaret River’, we’ve got the place for you. Riverview Tourist Park has a range of cabins - including waterfront chalets - and dog-friendly, powered sites to make yourself at home, before you enjoy a BBQ picnic beside the water. The park is nestled in a peaceful and convenient location, with the town’s main street only minutes away.
Busselton Lazy Days Caravan Park
Explore the lush southwest of Western Australia from this popular holiday hub in Busselton. Centrally located near the town and a stone’s throw from the calm swimming beaches of Geographe Bay, Busselton Lazy Days Caravan Park is a family-friendly getaway in a stunning all-year-round location.
Discovery Parks - Busselton
At Discovery Parks – Busselton, choose from powered sites scattered throughout shady peppermint trees or take comfort in self-contained cabins, bungalows, and cottages. There are even safari-style glamping tents, all with direct beach access to Geographe Bay. Park facilities include an indoor heated pool, children's playground, communal camper’s kitchen, and BBQs.
Explore all of these Margaret River parks and more on the G'day Parks app!
