Your Ultimate Coastal JourneyThe Departure Point
Perth offers a vibrant blend of city life and coastal charm. Stroll along the Swan River, explore Kings Park’s majestic views, and indulge in fresh seafood by the Indian Ocean. This city boasts a lively arts scene, global cuisine, and a warm, sunny climate.
Escape Perth in comfort: early morning travellers can enjoy a coffee with river views before hitting the road. Alternatively, hop aboard a QantasLink flight to Busselton–Margaret River Airport and begin your South West journey in under an hour.
Getting There: Drive or Fly
Driving from Perth to Busselton via the scenic Bussell Highway covers 220 km and takes around 2½ hours. On the way, enjoy forested landscapes, charming towns, and winery-view pullovers—ideal for capturing coastal panoramas.
Or take a 45‑minute direct flight to Busselton–Margaret River Airport (BQB) with QantasLink. Flights run three times weekly and cost around A$149 one way. Most travellers rave about saving valuable time and arriving relaxed and ready to explore.
Arriving: Car Hire & Guided Transport
Once you land at Busselton–Margaret River Airport (BQB), you will find a range of car hire providers including: Busselton & Southwest Hire Car, Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Thrifty, Keddy, and Avraa Car Hire, which also offers campervans. Hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore the South West at your own pace.
If you prefer something more flexible, Northside Rentals in Busselton offers affordable vehicles and a free airport shuttle service. Their friendly team can help you get on the road quickly so you can start your adventure straight away.
Those who would rather sit back and enjoy the scenery can choose from several guided tour options. Bushtucker Tours and Margaret River Pick Me Up provide full-day wine, brewery, and nature tours. For a touch of luxury, Esquire Classic Charters offers transport in a vintage Rolls-Royce—ideal for a special day out in wine country.
Busselton (9 km from BQB)
Busselton is home to the world-famous 1.8 km wooden jetty with an underwater observatory. You can stroll or take the mini train along it, enjoy pancake breakfasts at the foreshore, and tour the Marine Discovery Centre at the end.
The town also features family-friendly beaches, art galleries, and bike trails. Stay central with beachside resorts or cozy apartments—all detailed on our Busselton page for easy access.
Dunsborough (40 min from BQB)
Dunsborough showcases calm bays, boutique shops, and vibrant café culture near Cape Naturaliste. Kayak in emerald waters or hike coastal paths that offer dolphins and lighthouse views.
The area also features charming local markets, craft breweries, and outdoor marriage venues. See recommended stays on our Dunsborough page for beachside escapes or luxury villas.
Margaret River (Approx. 50 min south of Dunsborough)
Margaret River lies at the heart of WA’s premium wine country. Here, you’ll find internationally renowned wineries, art galleries, and surf-chic towns.
Take scenic drives through towering karri forests, flavour local produce at gourmet cafés, or embark on guided cave tours. Check handpicked stay options on our Margaret River page, from luxe retreats to eco lodges.
Augusta (1 hour south of Margaret River)
Augusta sits at the meeting point of the Indian and Southern Oceans, crowned by the historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. Walk along dramatic cliffs, watch boats cruise the Blackwood River, or fish from Flinders Bay.
The region is rich in indigenous heritage, picturesque wetlands, and stunning trail networks. Discover boutique retreats and charming cottages on our Augusta page, perfect for nature-lovers.
Winery Experiences
The South West offers over 150 wineries, from boutique cellars to estate giants like Voyager and Howard Park. Enjoy guided tastings, intimate vineyard lunches, and twilight sessions amidst the vines.
Many estates offer behind‑the‑scenes experiences—bottle your own wine, blend varietals, or walk through rows of grapes. Tastings often pair with local cheese or dark chocolate, providing a complete sensory journey.
Whale Watching Adventures
Whale‑watching in the South West spans two thrilling seasons. From May to August, humpbacks and southern rights pass by Augusta’s Flinders Bay on migration routes—ideal for ocean cruises.
From late August to October, you can spot mothers and calves off Dunsborough and Busselton shores. Tours from either location promise close wildlife encounters—book directly with Naturaliste Charters for expert guides and memorable photo moments.
Hidden Gems & Extra Tips
Hike sections of the Cape to Cape Track for epic coastal views and spring wildflowers. Explore underground at Mammoth or Ngilgi Caves near Yallingup, or wander sculpture trails scattered through vineyards. The region is also home to remote beaches like Wyadup and Injidup, perfect for a peaceful swim or sunset picnic.
Sample fresh abalone from Augusta Harbour, taste undersea curated wines and local paddock to plate experiences straight from the source at small family-run businesses. These authentic touches bring added flavour and character to your South West escape.
Art and creativity thrive here too. Discover artisan studios tucked into forests or hidden along scenic roads. Look for handmade ceramics, timber wares, or coastal artworks. Time your visit with Cabin Fever Festival in winter or the Margaret River Region Open Studios in spring to meet artists, enjoy live music, and taste seasonal produce in spectacular surrounds.
Escape Perth with a flight or scenic drive. Then immerse yourself in beaches, wildlife, world-class wines, and adventure across Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River, and Augusta. Your South West odyssey awaits!
