The Best Things to Do in Margaret River for an Unforgettable Escape

You go to Margaret River for some sun, sand and surf — with a side of incredible wineries, of course. An easy 2.5 hour drive south from Perth, Margaret River (aka ‘Margies’ or ‘Margs’ to the locals) is a dreamy coastal region with an exciting mix of natural beauty, foodie delights, world-renowned wineries and outdoor adventures. This stunning region has it all.

Here are some of the best things to do in Margaret River.

Things to do in Margaret River: Play

Go surfing or SUPing (or have a lesson!)

Margaret River is a playground for surf enthusiasts of all levels, and it’s the perfect place to try your hand at catching a wave. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner; Margaret River’s surf schools provide expert instructors who will guide you through the fundamentals of paddling, catching waves, and executing your first ride. If stand-up paddle boarding is more your thing, hire a board and take off from the river mouth at Prevelly. 

Hit the bushwalking trails

Margaret River isn’t just about beaches and wineries; it’s also home to some of the most stunning bushwalking trails in Australia. If you love the outdoors, you’re in for a treat. What better way to immerse yourself in the sheer natural beauty of this region than by taking a walk or hike on some of Margaret River’s best walking trails. Wander through ancient Karri forests, where towering trees create a canopy above you. Or try the Cape to Cape Track, which stretches for over 135 kilometres along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs and pristine waters below.

Hike the Bluff Knoll in Stirling Ranges National Park

Tackle Bluff Knoll’s breathtaking bushwalking tracks to enjoy spectacular views of National Heritage-listed Stirling Range National Park’s rugged mountain landscape. The South West region’s highest peak was formed more than a billion years ago, offering a glorious display of awe-inspiring natural beauty – from its panoramic views to its unique floral species.

Journey underground at Mammoth Cave

For a truly unique adventure, explore the wonder that is Mammoth Cave. Join a guided tour that leads you through the winding tunnels and awe-inspiring limestone formations. As you delve deeper into the cave’s depths, you’ll uncover the secrets of this ancient underground, home to fossil remains of long-extinct giant animals. The grandeur of the cave is awe-inspiring, with colossal stalactites and stalagmites that have taken centuries to form. 

Wine tasting

With vineyards virtually rolling into the ocean, no list of things to do in Margaret River would be complete without incorporating a wine tasting or ten to proceedings. 

Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chenin Blanc, Verdelho, Merlot, Shiraz and Malbec are the most notable varietals produced in Margaret River. With around 100 cellar doors, there’s much swilling to be had, from rustic sheds to architecturally designed wineries, many with dining options, galleries and those quintessential vineyard views.

Sitchu Tip: With so many wineries on offer, you could enjoy a drive and see what takes your fancy, pick up a map from a visitor’s centre or join a tour like Harvest Tours and leave the decision-making to someone else.

Aquatic adventures

Surrounded by three sides of water, the Margaret River Region boasts over 120-kilometres of pristine coastline adorned with dramatic cliffs and turquoise beaches; there’s no shortage of gorgeous spots to flop, surf, swim, canoe, kitesurf or fish – or to simply admire the scenery at Canal Rocks or Sugarloaf Rock.

If you’re feeling adventurous, make your way to Rivermouth Beach where the rugged coastline hides caves and rock pools waiting to be explored. More of a beach bum? Meelup Beach is a picture-perfect slice of paradise. 

Family-friendly beaches abound, like Bunker Bay, Point Picquet, the Busselton Foreshore, Gracetown, Granny’s Pool, Hamelin Bay, and Yallingup Beach. You might want to join a jet boat tour, head out on a fishing charter or take a stand-up paddle boarding lesson. 

Not just confined to oceanic capers, you simply can’t visit the Margaret River Region without getting your toes wet in the literal Margaret River, which flows for 60km into the Indian Ocean. At the very least admire it from the lookout near the river mouth; although, a sunset paddle board is never a bad idea. 

Get active above and below ground

Margaret River is a haven for cycling enthusiasts, boasting numerous trails that include routes through vineyards. Start your adventure at café/bike shops like The Golden Jersey in Cowaramup or Melo Velo in Bunbury and Nannup, to pick up tips from passionate locals. 

For hiking, the region offers coastal and forest trails, including the iconic 135km Cape to Cape Trail from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin. Tackle it in sections or join a tour like Walk into Luxury for boutique accommodation and gourmet meals.

Yallingup, known for its limestone caves since the early 1900s, features popular sites like Lake Cave, Jewel Cave, Ngilgi Cave, and Mammoth Cave.

Whale Watching

Over 35,000 Humpback, Southern Right, Minke and Blue whales migrate north to warmer waters between June and December every year. One of the most incredible things to do in Margaret River is to bear witness to this phenomenon. It might be as you spend time traversing a coastal trail, from atop a lighthouse or even while enjoying a meal at a waterside café. But the cream of the crop way to experience the majesty of these incredible creatures is on a purpose-built whale-watching vessel – and there are several tour operators in the region offering unforgettable encounters. Find out more here. 

Relax with a pamper sesh

You can be at one with nature and horizontal with a spa treatment when it comes to experiencing relaxation in Margaret River. The pampering in spectacular locations ranges from Bodhi J at Injidup Spa Retreat, set to the tune of crashing waves to OM Day Spa among Yallingup’s treetops. Or head to Lake Gunyulgup, meaning ‘place of rest’ to the custom-designed Bodhi Yallingup. Inspired by the Bodhi brand’s commitment to wellness, they combine healing and holistic treatments using WA products such as Sodashi, infrared saunas, hydrotherapy baths and chakra balancing. 

Cultural Experiences

The coastal landscape, magical forests and rural plains are irresistible drawcards for creatives. Annual festivals like the CinefestOZ film festival, Margaret River Region Open Studios (MRROS), Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival and Jazz Under the Jetty attract tens of thousands of visitors. The region’s state-of-the-art facilities cater well to year-round events, including the Margaret River HEART entertainment complex, the ArtGeo Cultural Complex (Busselton) and the Busselton Entertainment, Arts and Cultural Hub (BEACH), currently under development. With the region dating back 60,000 years, the land remains of immense significance to the Wadandi (Saltwater) People and their connection as the traditional owners of the land through songs, stories, spirituality and dreams. You can experience these ancient customs yourself on a Koomal Dreaming Cultural Tour.

Busselton Jetty

The heritage-listed Busselton Jetty is one of the most iconic attractions in the region, and stretching for 1.84km into Geographe Bay, it’s also the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. One of only six underwater observatories in the world is reached either on foot or by the cute train that chugs along to the end of the jetty. Over 300 marine species live in or visit the bay, which you can descend eight metres below the surface to observe from the dry comfort of the observatory. Or immerse yourself on a dive, snorkel or sea walk among the colourful tropical and sub-tropical coral, sponges, invertebrates and fish. 

Things to do in Margaret River: Wine & Dine

Indulge at the farmers market 

Kick off a Saturday morning in Margaret River with a visit to the Margaret River Farmers Market. This lively year-round market is located in the main town, and is a bustling hub of local produce, artistry, and community spirit. As you stroll through the stalls, you’ll find excellent coffee, delicious fresh baked goods and a colourful range of fresh, seasonal fruits, vegetables, artisanal cheeses, and meats that reflect the rich agricultural heritage of the region. 

Lot 272 Bussell Highway, Margaret River 

Have breakfast at Gnarabup Beach

Start your day in beachfront bliss at the White Elephant Cafe. Sit back, sip your coffee and take in those jaw-dropping views of gorgeous Gnarabup Beach. On the menu, you’ll find avo on toast drizzled with local olive oil, smashed pumpkin paired with poached eggs, and coconut bircher bowls topped with fresh berries and granola. With its sheltered waters, Gnarabup Beach is also the perfect location for a refreshing dip or a stand-up paddling session. 

Gnarabup Rd, Margaret River 

Origins Markets

Situated in Busselton, this one-stop collective connects consumers with over 60 local farmers, producers, artisans, makers and creators. There is no other purpose-built market like it in Western Australia, as the Origins Market is 100% WA grown, produced and crafted, and it has also been designed as an incubation space for small businesses to test the market. Community and sustainability are at the heart of Origins Markets, which also transforms into a function centre and has food stalls serving delicious local and international cuisine.

86 West Street, Busselton

Glenarty Road

At Glenarty Road, dining is an adventure where trust is key. The set-course feasts arrive unexpectedly, each dish a rustic masterpiece sourced directly from their 83-hectare farm. With vineyards, orchards, and livestock, everything is foraged or harvested daily, offering a true farm-to-table experience. The menu is seasonal, sustainable, and entirely unique to this farmhouse kitchen. For an even deeper dive, join a food and wine foraging adventure and savour the spoils. This is Margaret River dining at its finest.

70 Glenarty Road, Karridale

Chow’s Table

Tucked between a chocolatier and a winery, Chow’s Table serves up contemporary Chinese-Malay dishes with a side of stunning vineyard views. This isn’t your typical Asian eatery—expect a bold sharing menu featuring Albany Akoya with white miso butter, Shark Bay tiger prawn curry laksa, and pork and chive dumplings. Pair it all with local beers and wines, including selections from the neighbouring House of Cards winery.

12/5 Quininup Road, Yallingup

Yarri

Found in the heart of Dunsborough, Yarri offers an authentic regional WA experience. Relax on the deck with a glass of Snake + Herring wine, the surrounding forest offering a perfect backdrop. Inside, the space reflects the region’s natural beauty with Yarri timber, limestone, and rich textures of leather and terracotta. Chef Aaron Carr collaborates with local producers to highlight the region’s best, crafting dishes inspired by the six Indigenous seasons, paying tribute to the traditional owners of the land.

6/16 Cyrillean Way, Dunsborough

Domaine Naturaliste

At Domaine Naturaliste’s cellar door, you’re so close to the vines, you could almost pluck Merlot grapes straight from them. Winemaker Bruce Duke blends agronomy precision with an artist’s intuition to craft award-winning, sustainable whites and reds. Pair your wine tasting with a charcuterie board, and be on the lookout for their gourmet events—they’re the stuff of legend and tend to sell out fast. Or, book your own special occasion and let those stunning vines be the backdrop to unforgettable memories and photos.

160 Johnson Road, Wilyabrup

Meelup Farmhouse

Just metres from Meelup Beach, Meelup Farmhouse is a stunning outdoor venue home to alpacas, Silkie chickens, and even a hairy cow. Relax under the gum trees with a picnic hamper or indulge in seasonal dishes from head chef Dean Williams. Highlights include orange and poppy seed pancakes, wood-roasted mushrooms on sourdough, and hearty mains like sweet potato flatbread with roasted vegetables. A perfect spot for nourishing your body, mind, and soul amidst breathtaking scenery.

54 Sheens Road, Naturaliste

Things to do in Margaret River: Stay

8 Paddocks Chalets

Reset, relax and unwind from daily life in one of these luxuriously appointed chalets at 8 Paddocks. Each chalet features an exclusively designed king size master bed with luxury linens that’ll have you dreaming the sweetest of dreams. Wake up to the ever changing view of natural bush land or watch the stars through over sized picture windows in the night. Salute the sun in the evenings on the deck with a glass of local wine or two. Or, take a relaxing soak in the outdoor concrete bath whilst watching the night time star show above. 

Treeton, Augusta-Margaret River Region, Western Australia

Bina Maya

Set within 7.5 acres of native Yallingup forest, Bina Maya immerses you in breathtaking tree-scape views, often captured by local artists. Choose between a four-bedroom residence or luxury villas, each featuring king-sized beds, wood burners, free-standing baths, and private balconies. Just minutes from Yallingup Beach and Dunsborough, Bina Maya invites you to enjoy in-house spa treatments, yoga sessions, food delivery, and even a personal chef. It’s the perfect retreat—no effort required. 

51 Bina Place, Quedjinup

Swell Stays

Exuding beachy and country vibes, Swell Stays offers holiday homes that let you wake up to migrating whales or kookaburras calling from their lofty perches. With properties scattered across the region, each one enjoys a stunning setting that caters to all budgets. Since 2011, every home has been thoughtfully appointed with modern luxuries like fully equipped kitchens, alfresco dining, and BBQs, all designed to make the most of the surroundings. Our top picks? FortyTwo Mini overlooking Gracetown and Kaya Karri nestled in a Karri forest near Margaret River.

2/31 Station Road, Margaret River

Private Properties

For those seeking architecturally designed luxury and jaw-dropping scenery, Private Properties delivers a bespoke service tailored to couples, families, groups, corporate retreats, celebrities, and even pets. With over 26 years of experience and more than 100 properties to choose from, this family-owned business is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail. Their portfolio spans exclusive locations, from secluded beaches and forest retreats to expansive vineyards, offering unforgettable stays in some of the most stunning settings.

16 Griffin Drive, Dunsborough

Cape Lodge

Voted a Luxury Lodge of Australia, Cape Lodge is a true retreat. Beyond its 22 opulent rooms and private residence, it’s home to one of the region’s best restaurants. Daily-changing degustation menus, featuring fresh produce from their kitchen garden, include indulgent bites like marron and truffles. Rooms are pure comfort, with king beds, luxe bathrooms, and views over forests, lakes, or vineyards. For something extra, embark on guided walks, gourmet tours, or scenic helicopter flights to take in the breathtaking Margaret River landscape.

3341 Caves Road, Yallingup

Glamping aplenty

Immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing comfort. The region boasts a range of eco-friendly glamping options, offering secluded escapes amid towering forests. From rustic setups to self-contained dome studios, these retreats connect you with breathtaking vistas and starry nights. For a truly romantic experience, check out our top picks: the four-poster canopy beds at Mile End Glamping, Olio Bello Lakeside Glamping nestled among olive groves, and Two Blind Cows in a relaxed country setting—each with the added luxury of ensuite bathrooms when nature calls.

Once you’ve ticked off our list of the best things to do in Margaret River, why not check out our pick of the best Margaret River wineries for sensational sips and luxurious, long lunches, and our round-up of the most stylish glamping accommodation around the state.