Dunsborough, a charming coastal town in Western Australia, is a hidden gem brimming with natural beauty, vibrant culture, and unique experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, there’s always something new to discover in this picturesque paradise. As locals who know Dunsborough inside and out, we’re excited to share our favourite spots and must-see attractions.
From pristine beaches and world-class wineries to thrilling outdoor adventures and cosy cafes, this guide will help you uncover the best that Dunsborough has to offer. Join us as we take you on a journey through our beloved hometown and reveal the secrets and highlights that make Dunsborough a destination like no other.
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse
Standing proudly since 1903, Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is a must-visit for its stunning views over Geographe Bay and fascinating maritime history. You can access the top balcony and its incredible views with a 59-stair climb that is even accessible for small children.
Guided tours are available every day, starting every hour from 9:30am – 4:30pm. The tours provide you with an insight into the region’s maritime history, as well as the life of a lighthouse keeper.
Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park
Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park is one of the world’s most pristine national parks, featuring breathtaking coastal views, beaches, and forest walks along the 123 km Cape to Cape track.
Named after the two lighthouses at its ends, the park offers activities for everyone, whether you love camping, hiking, swimming, diving, or just admiring the views. Highlights include sunset at Sugarloaf Rock, surfing at Smith’s Beach, and the Quinninup Falls trail.
Injidup Natural Spa
This stunning crystal-clear rock pool is located in Dunsborough’s neighbouring suburb of Yallingup, and is the perfect spot for a swim on a warm day, with expansive views of the Indian Ocean.
A little bit of rock scrambling is required to get down there, but you are rewarded with a beautiful mini waterfall and natural ‘spa’ that is formed by the crashing waves. Keep in mind this spot can get busy in the summer, so we suggest heading down early and outside the holidays.
Quinninup Falls
A hidden gem just 25 minutes from Dunsborough in Wilyabrup, along the famous Cape to Cape track, Quinninup Falls is a 10-metre waterfall accessible via a 4 km return trail. A moderate level of fitness is recommended for the hike, which offers beautiful coastal views along the way.
Winter is the best time to visit, with increased rainfall making the waterfall more impressive. September is also a great time to see the falls during the peak wildflower season, adding an extra layer of beauty to the trail.
Ngilgi Cave
Ngilgi Cave is one of the four ancient caves of the region. Less than a 10 minute drive from Dunsborough’s town centre, this is a great activity year-round regardless of the weather.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour and be amazed by the collection of stalactites, stalagmites, helictites all throughout the cave. There are 350 steps in the cave that take you 36 metres underground and back, and children will love the optional tunnel that you can crawl through to enter the cave.
Whales!
If you’re in Dunsborough in August-November, don’t miss the opportunity to see humpback whales up close and personal on a whale watching tour with Naturaliste Charters.
The whales will be hanging out in the calm, clear waters of Geographe Bay as they make their way down south after giving birth further north (that’s right – you might even get to see some playful calves!)
From October, you may even be able to witness the magic of the world’s largest mammal – the blue whale. But don’t worry if you’re visiting outside of these months!
Between May-August we have whale watching tours departing only one hour south of Dunsborough in Augusta, or if you’re up for an adventure, you can venture five hours south east of Dunsborough to Bremer Bay for our all-day killer whale expeditions!
Book your Dunsborough whale watching adventure with Naturaliste Charters today! Visit our website
Stunning Wineries
Although there aren’t too many wineries in Dunsborough itself, Margaret River is only a 35 minute drive away, and there is no shortage of wineries there, plus plenty on the way! The region is best known for producing cabernet sauvignons and chardonnays, however you can find anything to suit your palate, from bubbles to rose to shiraz.
Some of the most popular of the 90+ cellar doors of the region include Vasse Felix (the founders of the wine region), Aravina Estate, and Leeuwin Estate. For more information on our favourite wineries, see our latest blog: Top 5 best wineries in Margaret River
Don’t miss the wonders of Dunsborough!
This guide only just skims the surface of all of the reasons that Dunsborough is such an incredible place, and there is absolutely no shortage of beautiful places to see and fun things to do here.
Whether it’s enjoying a picnic at Cape Naturaliste lighthouse, or watching the whales put on a show from our catamaran, we have no doubt that you will have a great time in this beautiful little town.
And don’t be shy to pop into our office on Dunn Bay Road for more information or to book a tour!
