Margaret River conjures up thoughts of wine and surf but it’s that plus so much more. Three hours drive south of Perth, the Margaret River region is 110km of striking natural beauty, world class wines, stunning beaches, ancient landmarks and towering forests. Margaret River is home to a diverse arts and craft scene, outdoor activities and aboriginal heritage. Running from Busselton in the north to Augusta in the south you will need more than a weekend to take it all in.
BEST TIME TO GO TO MARGARET RIVER
Margaret River’s Mediterranean style climate makes it a year-round holiday destination. The cooler months from April to September are the most popular, but really it depends on your poison. Because surprisingly not everyone visits just for the wine.
Wine lovers – true wine lovers will visit anytime but Autumn is superb with cool nights and sunny days. It’s also when the vineyards are looking their best.
Surf lovers – April is the month for you, when the swell is at its best and the Margaret River Pro is on. Beachgoers will welcome the warmer summer months.
Nature lovers – Spring is the time that the wildflowers come to life and the wildlife get adventurous. It is also a great time to avoid the crowds.
THINGS TO DO IN MARGARET RIVER
Surf and Beaches
The Margaret River region is home to beach after beach after beach. Each one as stunning as the next. If swimming, snorkeling in crystal clear waters, walking long stretches of white sand or spotting marine life along the shores is your thing, you are spoilt for choice. Hard core surfer folk will already know it has some of the best waves in the world. And it is also home to some of the best surfing competitions including the Margaret River Pro in April. Take a look at the Margaret River Events Calendar for more details.
Wine Tasting
Home to almost 100 cellar doors, wine tasting in the Margaret River could take some time. The journey through the wine region takes you from farm-style producers, to boutique wineries and large scale, sophisticated estates. You are bound to find a favourite with reds and whites produced in equal parts. Think Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Merlot. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Verdelho.
Natural Wonders
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park are highlights. Besides the spectacular views, there are over 150 limestone caves in the area. Most aren’t open to the public but the few that are will leave you flabbergasted. Your Margaret River Region has more info about visiting Lake Cave, Jewel Cave, Mammoth Cave and others. Up for a challenge? Take the 140km (5-6 day) Cape to Cape Track walk. Or maybe just take on a bite sized chunk of the walk. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and then reward yourself at a winery. Get some perspective with a visit to the Baranup Forest. The 60 metre high karri trees tower above and the light show through the canopy is amazing. An easy 25-minute drive south of Margaret River.
Events in Margaret River
Margaret River events happen all year round. Wine, food, surf, adventure, wildflowers. You name it and it’s happening. Keep an eye on the Margaret River events calendar for what’s on where and when.
BEST FOOD AND COFFEE IN MARGARET RIVER
Best food in Margaret River
Did someone say long lunch? Nowhere does a long, lingering lunch better than the Margaret River. Winery restaurants with a focus on local produce are kicking goals. Try Leeuwin, Voyager Estate or Vasse Felix also home to the oldest grapes in the region. The new kid on the block, Amelia Park Restaurant is getting some well-deserved attention. Or try Rustico at Hayshed Hill for a relaxed option with plenty of space for the kids to burn off energy on the lawn overlooking the vineyard. Other notables include Miki’s Open Kitchen for next level Sushi, Wise Winery for delicious regional fare, Studio Bistro for hearty share plates and Arc of Iris for its’ hip food and vibe.
But if casual is more your thing there are relaxed beachside cafés, quality pub food and micro-breweries. Head to Settlers Tavern or Colonial Brewery. Also try The Beer Farm (such a great name!) and Swings Taphouse.
Best coffee in Margaret River
“Life is too short for bad coffee” is the catch cry of Brew Shack Espresso Bar. And they take it seriously. Sidekick Café is a local’s favourite serving up caffeine hits and real, home-made food. Or head to Blue Ginger. All three are in Margaret River. Try The Good Egg, in Busselton for coffee with heart. In Dunsborough, Yallingup Coffee Co is the place to go.
BEST SHOPPING IN MARGARET RIVER
Shopping in Margaret River usually starts at a cellar door. But it doesn’t end there. Clothes, gifts, books, souvenirs and gourmet food can all be found in the region. Boutique shopping at its best with little surprises tucked in out of the way places. Head to the Margaret River Farmers market on a Saturday morning for all things local and delicious. Fill your picnic basket and head to the coast with your packed lunch.
WHERE TO STAY IN MARGARET RIVER
Accommodation in the Margaret River area spans the full 110kilometres from north to south. There are beachside holiday homes and country retreats in and around the villages of Busselton, Dunsborough, Yallingup, Augusta and Margaret River, pick the perfect holiday home on Search and Stay.
TRAVELLING WITH KIDS TO MARGARET RIVER
You wouldn’t think wine tasting and kids go hand in hand but somehow Margaret River manages to blend the two. Will’s Domain, Xanadu Wines, Swings and Roundabouts Winery and Cullen Estate welcome kids with relaxed vibes, a playground or kid’s area. And the lunches are pretty great too. Away from the wineries head to Margaret River caves, the national park or the beach. Keep the kids entertained with ice cream tasting, visit the Chocolate Factory, or go bike riding. Seriously, you won’t need to take the kids to a winery if Shiraz just isn’t their thing.
THE HISTORY OF MARGARET RIVER
The local Noongar people know the Margaret River area as Wooditchup, home to their people for nearly 50,000 years. Devil’s Lair Cave, south of Margaret River is one of the earliest sites of human occupation in Australia. Named Margaret River in the late 1830’s the area was recognized for its jarrah timber. Although it faltered on its first attempt (1850s) the industry took off in the 1870s. Dairy and the agricultural industry later thrived. Surfers hit the area in the 1960’s, the same decade the first vines were planted. The wine and surf remain drawcards for the more than million visitors to the area each year.
SEARCH AND STAY SECRET TIP
Close encounters of the third kind? Well not quite. But you can interact with the stingrays that have been frequenting Hamelin Bay for decades. This hidden gem is one of the most spectacular beaches in the region. And stingers gliding over the top of your feet is awesome. But take care not to stand on them. They can sting.
Find your perfect Margaret River holiday accommodation at Search and Stay.
For more information VisitMargaretRiver.