Discover the Margaret River Region
When you first arrive in the Margaret River Region, you’ll understand why so many travellers fall in love with this corner of Western Australia. It’s a rich tapestry of landscapes — from rugged coastline and towering karri forests, to rolling vineyards, hidden caves, and pristine beaches. The region is not just about wine; it’s about surf, wildlife, food, and nature. Conveniently located just three hours south of Perth, Western Australia’s capital city, the Margaret River Region is both accessible and diverse. One of the biggest improvements in access is through the Busselton Margaret River Airport. Direct flights now arrive each week from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, making it easier than ever for interstate visitors to explore this remarkable destination.
Aerial view of Amelia Park Wines in the Margaret River Region.
Explore the Towns of the Margaret River Region
The Margaret River Region is made up of distinct towns, each with its own unique character. Busselton is the gateway, offering the famous Busselton Jetty, calm beaches, and vibrant community events. Dunsborough is known for its boutique shops, galleries, and stunning beaches such as Meelup and Eagle Bay. Yallingup is surf country, boasting world-class waves, dramatic cliffs, and incredible sunsets. Margaret River itself is the centre of food, wine, and art, with cellar doors, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Augusta lies at the southern edge, where rugged coastlines, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, and tranquil charm create a slower pace of life.
Diver exploring the Underwater Sculpture Park at the end of Busselton Jetty.
Where to Stay in the Margaret River Region
There’s accommodation to suit every traveller, from luxury lodges among vineyards to cosy bed and breakfasts and family-friendly holiday parks. Visitors can explore accommodation listings on the Margaret River Region official site, or browse options through WA Holiday Guide. You’ll also find curated stays on our Margaret River Location Page. For localised searches, see our Busselton Location Page, Dunsborough Location Page, and Augusta Location Page. Booking early is essential during peak periods such as summer, school holidays, and the whale watching season.
Accommodation options are as diverse as the region itself. Luxury travellers can enjoy spa retreats or private vineyard villas, while families often prefer beach houses or holiday parks with pools and playgrounds. Eco-lodges provide sustainable stays close to nature, and backpacker hostels welcome those seeking a budget-friendly base. No matter your style, there is always a place to stay that makes exploring the region simple and enjoyable.
Car Driving through Boranup Forest, Margaret River Region
Getting Around and Guided Tours
The easiest way to explore the Margaret River Region is by hiring a car, with options available at Busselton Margaret River Airport and in major towns. Driving allows you to explore at your own pace, from hidden beaches to scenic forests. For those who prefer guided experiences, local companies such as McLeod Tours and Walk Talk Taste offer immersive food, wine, and cultural journeys. In Busselton, visitors can enjoy tours of the Busselton Jetty, the Underwater Observatory, and diving experiences. Margaret River offers wine tours, surf lessons, and cave explorations, while Augusta is perfect for guided lighthouse and coastal experiences.
Guided tours are particularly helpful if you want insider knowledge. Wine tours provide safe transport between cellar doors and often include gourmet tastings. Nature tours offer insights into forests, caves, and coastlines that self-drivers may miss. Walking tours in towns like Margaret River highlight the region’s history, art, and food culture, creating a deeper understanding of local life.
Tour Guide leads group along the Cape to Cape track in the Margaret River Region.
Whale Watching in the Margaret River Region
Whale watching is one of the region’s most unforgettable experiences, with tours operated by Naturaliste Charters. In Augusta, the season runs from May to August, when humpbacks and southern right whales pass through Flinders Bay. From August to November, tours depart from Dunsborough, giving visitors the chance to see whales resting and nursing calves in Geographe Bay. Our purpose-built vessels and expert marine biologists ensure every passenger enjoys an educational and awe-inspiring encounter with these magnificent animals. Whether it’s the thrill of a breach or the calm presence of a mother and calf, whale watching in the Margaret River Region is simply unmissable.
A sighting of a humpback whale on a Naturaliste Charters Whale Watching tour from Dunsborough
Things to See, Do and Experience
The Margaret River Region offers an endless array of experiences. In Busselton, walk the Busselton Jetty, visit the Underwater Observatory, or simply enjoy a day at one of the expansive beaches on offer. Dunsborough and Yallingup offer pristine bays, surf breaks, and access to the Cape to Cape Track. Margaret River is home to cellar doors, gourmet dining, and the towering Boranup Forest, while Augusta offers Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and dramatic coastlines.
Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy, from farmers’ markets and chocolatiers to breweries and artisan producers. Wine tasting is the region’s signature experience, with an abundance of cellar doors offering everything the award winning Margaret River wine industry has to offer. Families can visit animal farms, mazes and playgrounds, while adventurers can try caving, surfing or mountain biking. Seasonal highlights include spring wildflowers, autumn grape harvests and cosy winter fireside dining.
Tour Guide leads group through Lake Cave in the Margaret River Region
Annual events bring the community and visitors together in celebration. These include gourmet food festivals, international surfing competitions, live music, and cultural showcases.
To plan your visit around local happenings, explore:
Australia’s South West Events Calendar
City of Busselton events guide
Margaret River Region events calendar
Augusta Margaret River Shire events page
No matter the season, there is always something exciting to experience in the Margaret River Region.
Credit all images Tourism Western Australia
