Looking for a fun-filled getaway that combines stunning natural landscapes, world-class wineries, and exhilarating outdoor activities?
Look no further than Margaret River. Nestled in the southwestern corner of Western Australia, this picturesque region is renowned for its booming wine industry and breathtaking coastline. But there’s so much more to explore beyond the vineyards and beaches of Margaret River.
From wildlife watching, and horse riding in Margaret River to indulging in gourmet food experiences, we’ve rounded up the best fun things to do in Margaret River that will leave you with unforgettable memories of your visit to this little slice of paradise.
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Fun Things To Do in Margaret River
Visit The Stingrays at Hamelin Bay in Margaret River
Contributed By Roxanne at Wild About Bc
Hamelin Bay, a stunning beach to the south of Margaret River, is a must-do on your next trip to Margaret River! Renowned for its breathtaking coastline, crystal-clear waters, and friendly resident stingrays, Hamelin Bay provides an ideal destination for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
To get to Hamelin Bay from Margaret River, head south via Caves Rd so that you can see the stunning Boranup Forest on your way to Hamelin Bay. The drive should take less than 30 minutes.
As soon as you arrive you will be blown away by the crystal-clear water and beautiful sandy shores. While there is plenty to do here such as swimming, snorkelling, and walking the coastline, the real highlight is the visit from the resident stingrays.
When you arrive at the beach, head to the left of the boat ramp in order to spot these gentle marine creatures. From there, you have the unique opportunity to wade into the water and observe the rays gracefully gliding past.
Hamelin Bay offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal place to unwind. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, snorkelling, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shore, Hamelin Bay is a perfect addition to any Margaret River itinerary!
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Visit Surfer’s Point in Margaret River
Contributed by Shandos Cleaver of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel
Before Margaret River became famous as a wine-growing region in Western Australia, it was better known for its surf. Surfers from around the world have long headed to the region to ride its waves, including for an annual event on the World Surfing Tour.
One of the best spots to check out the action when the waves are up is at Surfer’s Point in Prevelly. Located immediately west of the township of Margaret River, there’s a great lookout on the hill above the beach below, near the mouth of the Margaret River.
As well as checking out the action on the surfing breaks below, Surfer’s Point is also a great spot to watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean each evening. On particularly busy days, local food trucks often pull up from late afternoon to satisfy the crowds.
If you’re wanting to try the local surf yourself, there are multiple surf academies located throughout the Margaret River region. Both private and group lessons are available, catering to everyone from absolute beginners to experienced surfers.
Alternatively, just enjoy a paddle in the water yourself, ideally at some of the calmer beaches. Even if you’re visiting the region with a dog, there are plenty of dog-friendly beaches near Margaret River, including the northern end of Prevelly Beach.
Whale Watching At Augusta in the Margaret River Region
Contributed by Catrina from 24 Hours Layover
If you’re in Margaret River between June and August, make sure to drive 40 minutes down south to Augusta to see the whales! The marine life in Australia is just incredible, and getting to witness the humpback and southern right whales making a splash on their migration journey is a really unique and incredible experience. The area is known for being a prime whale-watching destination, and the whales will often come very close to the shore! Head to Flinders Bay and witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat – it’s a truly breathtaking and humbling encounter. You can go on a whale-watching tour from the nearby Augusta boat harbour, which lasts around 2-3 hours, or you can simply watch the whales from the shore!
Another reason I recommend whale watching in Augusta is the picturesque coastal scenery that surrounds the area. The rugged cliffs and pristine waters provide a stunning backdrop for observing these magnificent marine animals, making it an unforgettable visual experience.
Remember to dress warmly and comfortably, as the ocean breeze can be chilly even in winter! Bringing binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens can also help you to see and capture the whales’ behaviours from afar.
From Margaret River to Augusta, the driving distance is approximately 50 kilometres. The scenic drive itself is part of the experience, offering breathtaking views of the Margaret River countryside and the coast.
Wildlife Watching in Margaret River
Contributed by Victoria from My Australia Trip
Embarking on a journey to Margaret River in Western Australia is not just about exquisite wines and stunning beaches; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of wildlife. Wildlife watching is an experience to be noticed on your Australian road trip, nestled amidst verdant landscapes and captivating coastlines.
As the sun rises over the rugged hinterlands, the wildlife of Margaret River awakens. Begin your day with a stroll through the Boranup Forest, where towering karri trees provide a habitat for vibrant bird species like colourful parrots and majestic eagles. Keep your camera ready, as you may encounter curious kangaroos and wallabies hopping through the underbrush.
For marine enthusiasts, a visit to Busselton Jetty promises an encounter with the enigmatic creatures of the Indian Ocean. Peer through the crystal-clear waters to catch a glimpse of playful dolphins, graceful sea turtles, and perhaps even a majestic humpback whale during migration season.
Wildlife exploration is only complete with a trip to the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. As you marvel at the breathtaking coastal views, watch for Southern Right whales frolicking offshore – a spectacle that will leave you awe-inspired.
Drive The Harvest & Vine Trail in Margaret River
Contributed by Jane from Staycation Australia
The Harvest and Wine Trail is a self-drive itinerary that starts in Gracetown and takes you through some of the best of Margaret River’s vineyards, craft brewing, distilleries, honey, chocolate and gourmet produce through to the town of Cowaramup. This is one of the fun things to do in Margaret River whether you are travelling with family, friends or a solo traveller.
The distance from Perth to the start of the trail at Gracetown is 270.9 km with an average driving time of 3 hours and 7 minutes. There are 24 places to visit along the trail.
One of the top places to stay in the Margaret River region is Cape Lodge with its picturesque lake and forest.
Address: 3341 Caves Road Yallingup
Along the way, you can visit the Dune Distillery Company’s Gin Experience with lunch.
Dune Distillery’s Gin is made from local botanicals including the bright pink Davidson plum, saltbush and lemon myrtle to navel oranges, grapefruit and tea all from local suppliers.
During your 120 minutes, you learn about the gin distillery process and the gins that they produce. You even get a chance to taste a paddle of 4 gins produced at Dune Distillery.
During your cocktail-making class, you have the opportunity to create two cocktails.
Book NowBest Wine Tours in Margaret River
Full-Day Wine Tour
- We will pick you up from your accommodation (fees may apply depending on location)
- First stop at Yahava for coffee tastings
- You will visit three premium wineries: McHenry Hohnen, Brown Hill Estate and Woody Nook
- Two-course lunch and glass of wine at Nookery Cafe
- Snack stops
- You can have a pint at Wild Hop Brewing Company
- The two-course lunch and glass of wine at Nookery Café
- All the wine tastings
- Pick up & drop off
- The free-range meat & cheese tasting at McHenry Hohnen
- Chocolate tastings
- Sample coffee bag
- A chilled water bottle on request
- One eco-friendly shopping bag
- There is also an on-board cooler for you to store any treats
Indulge and Discover Tour
Our discovery Margaret River tours include:
- · Three-course lunch with 2 glasses of wine
- All the wine tastings
- Entry into Mammoth Cave
- Pick up and drop off at accommodation
- Sample coffee bag from Yahava
- Gourmet food tastings at McHenry Hohnen
- Eco-friendly bag
- Chilled water bottle (on request)
- Use of our on-board cooler for any treats you buy
- You must bring some comfortable walking shoes for this tour
- This tour includes visits to two premium wineries: McHenry Hohnen and Vasse Felix
- You will have a complimentary meat/cheese/cracker snack at McHenry Hohnen
- A tour of Mammoth Cave is included
Premium Full Day Tour
Our luxury wine tours in Margaret River include:
- Three-course lunch and 2 glasses of wine at Vasse Felix
- All wine tastings
- Free-range meat & cheese tasting at McHenry Hohnen.
- Charcuterie board and masterclass at West Winds Gin
- Pick up & drop off from your accommodation
- Free sample bag of coffee with our Eco-friendly shopping bag
- There is an on-board cooler for perishables and chilled bottled water
- We will pick you up from your accommodation (fees may apply depending on location)
- You will visit three of the most elegant wineries in the region
- An indulgent three-course lunch at Vasse Felix is included
Three Day Charter to the Margaret River from Perth
What is included in the price of the tour?
- Pick-up and return to Perth accommodation
- Accommodation two nights Margaret River
- Lunch on day 2
- Evening meal day 1
- All wine tastings
- Entry to venues
- Eco shopping bag for harvested goodies
- Chilled bottles of water
- Chocolate tastings
- Sample coffee bag from Yahava
- There is an on-board cooler for your purchases
- Free-range meat and cheese tasting McHenry Hohnen
- Charcuterie board West Winds Distillery
- We provide free transportation throughout the whole tour
- We recommend you bring flat shoes
- wineries for free tastings, and pairings with gourmet meats and cheeses
- This luxury experience will be balanced with visits to beautiful, natural sights
General Travel Information on Visiting Margaret River
FAQs on Visiting Margaret River
How far is Perth Airport from Margaret River?
The distance is 277.4 km with an average driving time of 3 hours and 10 minutes.
How long should I plan to spend in the Margaret River region?
We recommend spending at least a week to experience all that the Margaret River region has to offer.
Can you do a day trip to Margaret River?
This is a day trip from Perth that includes a visit to Busselton Jetty and the Margaret River.
Your tour itinerary:
“Discover the natural beauty of the Margaret River wine region on a full-day trip by comfortable bus.
Stop along the way to enjoy morning tea (at your own expense) at Busselton Jetty.
Visit one of the area’s oldest breweries in Margaret River to have lunch and sample craft beer and cider.
Sample some local wines, whilst gaining some industry insight on wine production with the opportunity to purchase Explore Margaret River’s natural attractions.
Admire spectacular limestone formations and take a guided tour of Mammoth Cave. Drive through the Boranup Forest to Australia’s most southwesterly point, to find the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. Then head north up to the township of Margaret River for a brief stop to stroll the main street. After a fantastic day giving you a full taste of this wonderful region, it’s back to Perth with an en-route comfort stop arriving back in the evening.
When is the best time to visit Margaret River?
We have visited in all seasons but our favourite times are during Spring and Autumn.
Can you use public transport to get around the Margaret River region or should we hire a car?
We recommend hiring a car to visit Margaret River as public transport is limited.
Getting to Margaret River
Perth Airport is recommended for flying into the Margaret River region.
We use Skyscanner for researching and booking flights around Australia.
Car Hire Margaret River
You can hire a car from Perth Airport to explore Margaret River.
Distances:
Perth to Margaret River – 271 km
Fremantle to Margaret River – 268 km
Bunbury to Margaret River – 101 km
Augusta to Margaret River – 43.5 km
Travel Insurance is highly recommended.
Travel insurance offers protection when things go wrong before or during your travels.
Where to stay in Margaret River
You can read our recommendations in our article Where To Stay in Margaret River.
For more accommodation in Margaret River:
Booking.comRelated Reading:
Where to Stay in Margaret River
Best Beaches of Western Australia
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Margaret River offers an abundance of fun activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a wine lover, nature enthusiast, or adventure seeker, this charming region has something to offer everyone.
From exploring breathtaking caves and pristine beaches to indulging in exquisite food and wine, Margaret River is a destination that truly captivates the senses. With its stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and vibrant culture, it is no wonder that Margaret River continues to be a popular choice for both locals and tourists alike.
So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with excitement and exploration in the picturesque paradise of Margaret River.