Walks, Waves, Wine & Whales

A Perfect Weekend in Dunsborough

Dunsborough is the heart of Western Australia’s coast where ocean adventures meet boutique dining, and every corner offers something new to explore. From whale watching and beach drives to Cape to Cape walks and cellar doors, this seaside town is the ideal weekend escape filled with nature, flavour, and local charm.

See the Whales of Geographe Bay

No trip to Dunsborough is complete without experiencing a whale watching tour with Naturaliste Charters. From August to November, the calm waters of Geographe Bay become a playground for migrating humpback and southern right whales. Mothers and calves are often seen resting or teaching playful tail slaps before continuing their migration south.

You can also see what our crew are spotting right now and enjoy recent highlights by visiting our Whale Watching Facebook page. It’s a great way to preview the incredible encounters happening daily on our tours and keep up with the latest whale sightings.

After your tour, relax with a stroll along the foreshore or a swim at nearby Meelup Beach, known for its crystal-clear shallows and shaded picnic spots. If you’d like to see more marine life, make time for a drive to Busselton Jetty and visit the Underwater Observatory, where coral and fish swirl in an underwater world of colour.

Dine Like a Local — Eat, Sip, and Savour

Discount Partners — Exclusive for Whale Watchers

Occy’s Dunsborough – A local favourite with a relaxed coastal vibe, craft beers on tap, and delicious share plates. Whale watching passengers receive a 15% discount, making it the perfect spot for a post-tour meal.

Southcamp – A modern community hub with a lively café open daily and a brand-new Italian restaurant now open for dinner. Whale watching guests also receive a 15% discount, so it’s ideal for a long lunch, relaxed dinner, or sunset drink in the beer garden.

Cafés and Daytime Eats

La Lah Café – Bright and friendly, perfect for all-day brunch or a quick coffee between activities.
Dunsborough Tavern – Great for hearty pub meals and casual dining right in the town centre.
Peko Peko – Fresh and healthy Asian-inspired options, great for lighter lunches or takeaway bowls.
Many Wraps – Simple, healthy wraps and rolls for on-the-go exploring.
Wild & Woods Café – Known for wholesome meals and local produce.
Silver Bullet Espresso – A beachside coffee stop perfect for your morning caffeine fix.

Evening Dining Options

Southcamp Italian Restaurant – Their new Italian concept is perfect for relaxed evenings with local produce and fresh flavours.
Blue Manna Bistro – A seafood standout in Dunsborough with a modern coastal twist.
Lady Lola Deli Bar Bistro – Intimate and stylish with a menu of shared plates and fine wines.
Yarri Restaurant + Bar – For a refined dinner experience celebrating local ingredients and artistry.
Bungalow Neighbourhood Social – Trendy and fun, serving pizzas, cocktails, and good vibes.
Palmer’s Winery Restaurant – Ideal for long lunches or dinner among the vines.
The Pourhouse – Craft beer, live music, and hearty meals near the beach.

Drives and Scenic Stops

Dunsborough is surrounded by some of the most picturesque drives in Western Australia.

Meelup Beach to Bunker Bay Loop – A coastal route through Meelup Regional Park where turquoise waters meet shaded walking trails. Stop at Castle Rock Bay for photos, then continue toward Bunker Bay and Eagle Bay for pristine swimming beaches.

Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Drive – Follow the scenic road north to the lighthouse. The lookout offers panoramic ocean views and occasional whale sightings from shore.

Caves Road to Yallingup – A classic South West drive linking surf breaks, lush forest, and local galleries. It’s the gateway to wineries and the famous Ngilgi Cave, one of the region’s oldest tourist attractions.

Walks and Nature Trails

Cape to Cape Track

The world-renowned Cape to Cape Track begins at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and winds over 120 km to Cape Leeuwin. Even if you’re not walking the full route, the Cape Naturaliste to Yallingup section makes a stunning half-day adventure. Boardwalks, lookouts, and wildflowers frame sweeping views over Sugarloaf Rock and the rugged coastline.

Shorter Walks Around Town

Meelup Reserve Trail – A gentle coastal path connecting Meelup Beach to Dunsborough Foreshore.
Castle Rock Walk – A short climb to one of the best viewpoints in the bay.
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Trails – Several circuits take in native bushland, cliffs, and interpretive points.

Surf, Sand, and Sea

Dunsborough and its neighbouring beaches offer a diverse coastal experience, from calm turquoise bays to rolling surf breaks. Whether you’re after a peaceful paddle or the thrill of catching a wave, there’s a stretch of shoreline to suit every style.

Dunsborough Foreshore is ideal for those seeking calm, shallow waters perfect for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). At Old Dunsborough, the aqua-coloured shallows and small jetty create a scenic spot for swimming or launching small boats. Families love the shaded parklands and safe swimming areas that make it easy to spend an entire morning by the bay.

Just around the headland, Meelup Beach is famous for its white sandy shores and sweeping turquoise bay. The grassy picnic areas, calm waves, and crystal water make it one of the South West’s most photographed beaches — perfect for a relaxed swim, picnic, or a gentle float in the shallows.

For those chasing a bit more action, Bunker Bay offers light winter surf and playful body-boarding waves. It’s a stunning spot to stretch out on the beach, body surf in the shallows, or watch the surf roll in from the comfort of the dunes.

A short drive away, Yallingup is the region’s surfing mecca, drawing surfers from around the world. The rolling swell at Yallingup Beach is perfect for experienced surfers, while Rabbits Beach nearby is a favourite for body-boarders and bodysurfers. On calmer days, the protected lagoon beside the grassed park offers safe swimming and paddling — a wonderful place for children to play while parents enjoy the expansive sea views.

Local Culture and Shopping

Between adventures, Dunsborough’s town centre offers plenty of boutique browsing and local treasures.

Merchant & Maker – A café and general store with locally made gifts and produce.
Beach Lifestyle Living and Milc Homewares – Coastal décor, fashion, and gifts inspired by the ocean.
Elski Danish Ice Creamery – A must-visit for a sweet afternoon treat.
Empire Spa Retreat – For those who like to add a touch of luxury, this award-winning spa offers massages and treatments among tranquil bushland.

Don’t forget to check the Dunsborough Lions Park Markets on select weekends for local art, jewellery, and produce.

A Sample Weekend Itinerary

Friday – Arrive in Dunsborough. Take the coastal drive through Meelup and Bunker Bay, then settle in for dinner at Occy’s with your 15% discount.

Saturday – Morning whale watching tour with Naturaliste Charters. Lunch at Southcamp, then explore Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse or walk a section of the Cape to Cape Track. Enjoy dinner at Blue Manna or Lady Lola.

Sunday – Visit Yallingup Beach, explore Ngilgi Cave, or detour via Caves Road to nearby wineries. Stop for coffee at La Lah Café before heading home.

Plan Your Whale Watching Adventure

Join Naturaliste Charters this season for your chance to witness the whales of Geographe Bay. Every cruise is hosted by an experienced marine biologist and passionate crew, making your journey both educational and unforgettable.

Book your Dunsborough Whale Watching Tour here.

Some images including the cover are credited to Tourism Western Australia