About Margaret River

Margaret River is both a region and a town.  Prideau’s of Margaret River is located in the heart of Margaret River town offering easy walking access to shops on the main street while being centrally located in the Margaret River region so you can completely explore the region easily.

Margaret River

Getting to Margaret River

Most people choose a leisurely 3-hour drive to Margaret River heading south from Perth.

Head to Bunbury via Kwinana Freeway/Forrest Highway or via South Western Highway. At the Bunbury bypass, take the turnoff for Busselton. Follow the Margaret River signpost at the Vasse roundabout near Busselton and you’ll soon start to experience the atmosphere of the region as you travel through rolling dairy pastures, neat rows of vines, and stunning native forest on the outskirts of the Margaret River Township.

Getting to Margaret River by Coach or Train

If driving isn’t your thing, sit back in comfort and let someone else take you there. You can catch the Australind train from Perth to Bunbury, connecting with a Westrail bus to Margaret River. Or you can travel by coach direct from Perth to Margaret River. The journey takes about 5 hours and services run daily.

margaret river main street

Margaret River Wineries

You really can’t come to Margaret River without visiting a winery. Superb wine tasting, luscious food and scenic vineyards are a combination not to be missed. Almost 100 wineries in the region open their cellar doors to visitors. But don’t just take our word for it. Drop in to the Margaret River Regional Wine Centre to learn more before you head off to explore the wineries.

margaret river vineyard

Forests, walks and views in and around Margaret River

Whether you’re a hardy hiker or prefer a lazy stroll in the forest, there are perfect places to walk in and around Margaret River. Heritage trails meander through forest and bushland. Each trail is graded by difficulty and time to complete, and some are suitable for wheelchair access. For a longer walking challenge, try segments of the 135km Cape to Cape walk track along spectacular coast and forest in Cape Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.

There’s plenty to see by car, too. Breathtaking forest views and picturesque picnic spots are to be found in the Boranup Forest. Take in wild coastal views at Yallingup, Injidup and Canal Rocks. When surf’s up, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the action from the top car park in Prevelly. The Leeuwin lighthouse is another popular viewpoint – a rare chance to see where two oceans meet.

Margaret River Beaches – swim, snorkel, surf, and fish

There’s a wide variety of beaches to try – from the intense turquoise of sheltered Meelup, to the pristine white sands of Boodjidup or the wild secluded beaches behind Boranup forest. Gnarabup beach is popular with Margaret River families. Snorkellers will love Eagle Bay and scuba divers should head for the scuttled wreck of the HMAS Swan.

Surfers are spoiled for choice with dozens of excellent breaks along the coast, many with spectacular views as well. The Main Break at Margaret River is home to the world-class Margaret River Pro and experienced surfers seek out several powerful “left-hander” reef breaks nearby. Other popular surfing spots are around Injidup, Cowaramup Bay, Boranup, Gracetown and Yallingup. New surfers should try one of the local surf schools for a great introduction.

If you’d rather be fishing, Margaret River fish are biting to be caught from boats, jetties and beaches. Local catches are snapper, silver bream, herring, whiting, tailor and salmon. Deep sea charters target dhufish, cod, pink and red snapper, groper, and more.

margaret river the box

Caves

The Margaret River region contains about 350 limestone caves, formed over 1 million years ago. See this fascinating and spectacular underground world at Jewel, Lake and Mammoth Caves. These caves are considered some of the best in Australia, with phenomenal formations and remnants of ancient megafauna. Don’t forget to visit the CaveWorks Eco Interpretive Centre for engaging information and interactive models of the caves to help you make the most of the experience.

margaret river caves

Art – galleries, artisan studios, fine crafts

Immerse yourself in the inspiring galleries and artisan studios to be found all over Margaret River. Get to know local painters, photographers, jewellers, glass blowers, fine wood craft and furniture makers, metal and textile artists, ceramic artisans, and many other talented, creative people.

Fun with the kids – Kids Activities in Margaret River

Family holidays in Margaret River have been a tradition for generations. As well as all the outdoor and nature-based activities you can share as a family, here are some attractions with extra kid appeal:

You don’t need to miss out on a winery experience if you’re travelling with kids. Just choose one with a safe indoor or outdoor play area. Here are just a few that cater for children:

 

margaret river bussleton jetty

Local produce

Margaret River is heaven for foodies. You’ll enjoy delightful farm gates throughout the area. Often, you can talk to the producers in person as you sample pickles, jams and preserves, sauces and dressings, locally-made cheeses, chocolates and candy, artisan breads, olive oil, herbs and spices, honey mead, marron, venison, and the list goes on and on.  You can also stock up on Margaret River goodies at one of several purveyors of the finest local produce.

margaret-river-produce

History in and around Margaret River

Visiting sites of local historical significance is a great way to really get to know a place. Here are a few to try:

  • The Margaret River Heritage Trail
  • The Warden Aboriginal Centre
  • Ellenbrook and Meekadarabee Falls
  • Cape Leeuwin lighthouse and waterwheel
  • Augusta Historical Museum

Quick Facts

Time zoneGMT +8
CurrencyAustralian dollar (AUD)
Dial codesAustralia: +61 Margaret River: (0)8
Distance from Perth275 km

 

Best times to visit

Any time! The climate is mild, maritime Mediterranean. Daytime temperatures in summer are around 32°C. In winter, the average daytime temperature is 18°C. Night temperatures are usually cooler.

Margaret River is extremely popular in school holidays and during special events. It’s always wise to book ahead if you plan to visit in peak periods.

Shopping hours

General shopping hours are 9 to 5. Cellar doors usually open from 10 to 5.

Transport

Taxi: Best to book in advance.
Margaret River Taxi and Tour Service +61 (0)8 9757 3444

Car Hire: Choose from several local car hire services.

  • Rent A Car
    +61 (0)8 9757 9627
  • margaretriverrentacar.com.au

Here are some must see places during your stay in our beautiful Margaret River Wine Region. You could travel north of Margaret River one day and then south the next!

 

Margaret River Wine Region South Trip

Please click on attraction to direct link to their website for more information.

 Margaret River Wine Region North Trip

Please click on attraction to direct link to their website for more information.

More things to do & tours in Margaret River

What to pack

We suggest you bring light clothing you can wear in layers to suit the season. A hat, swimwear and snorkelling gear are great for summer. You could throw a picnic rug in the back of the car, and don’t forget your camera whatever the weather. That’s about all – you’ll never be short of food, wine and things to do in Margaret River!

Tourist information

Margaret River Accommodation: www.accommodationmargaretriver.com 

Rediscover Your Margaret River Region

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  • Rediscover Margaret River
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  • Rediscover Busselton
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