Is Margaret River Worth Visiting? 46 Reasons to Visit Margaret River (2024)

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If you’re wondering if Margaret River is Worth Visiting, I’ve got you covered! I’ve been on plenty of Margaret River getaways and taken my time exploring this beautiful region, and I can say without a doubt that Margaret River is absolutely worth visiting!

Margaret River, or ‘Margs’, as it’s affectionately known to us Western Australians, is a must-visit for anyone who loves a mix of adventure, relaxation, and top-notch food and drinks. It’s best known for its world-class wineries, but it’s also home to breathtaking landscapes, internationally renowned surf and a trendy arts scene. 

Four wheel drive driving the backroads of Margaret River. Overlaid text reads "Is Margaret River worth visiting? 46 Reasons to Visit Margaret River"

Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, I can say without a doubt that Margaret River has plenty of experiences you’ll love. From exploring ancient limestone caves and lush forests to tasting some of Australia’s finest wines and fresh produce, there’s something for everyone. Read on to discover the reasons why Margaret River is worth Visiting.

46 Reasons Why Margaret River is Worth Visiting

Margaret River is a brilliant Australian holiday destination. Here are the top 46 reasons why Margaret River is worth visiting on your next Western Australian Holiday. 

Table Of Contents
  1. 46 Reasons Why Margaret River is Worth Visiting
  2. Best Time to Visit Margaret River
  3. Last Words
  4. More Weekend Inspiration

1. It’s Home to 200+ Vineyards and World-Class Wines

A wine lover’s dream – Margaret River is most famous for being home to over 200 vineyards! The region takes pride in producing world-class wines, recognised globally for their quality and variety. Here you can explore boutique wineries, enjoy tastings of premium wines, and learn about the winemaking process while enjoying the stunning landscapes. You can join a wine tour for ultimate convenience, or do a DIY wine tour you’ve got a designated driver.

Row of grape vines at a winery in Margaret River

My top pick wineries in the region are:

2. World-famous Surf

Margaret River is recognised for its famous surf, attracting surfers from around the world. The region is home to over 40 surf spots, offering a range of waves suitable for beginners to professionals. Its consistent surf conditions and iconic breaks, like Surfers Point, make it a great destination for surf enthusiasts.

Each year, thousands of visitors flock to the region for the Margaret River Pro, one of only two Australia events in the World Surf League, it’s a great opportunity to catch some of the best professional surfers battling the waves!

3. Ancient Limestone Caves

Margaret River is home to spectacular limestone caves, offering a unique underground experience. These caves, set within the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge, are known for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites, ancient fossils, and mysterious underground pools. There are four caves to explore, each with its own unique features, through guided tours that illuminate the region’s geological history and natural beauty. 

The 4 Margaret River Caves are:

Limestone cave formations in Margaret River

4. Aboriginal History to Discover

Margaret River, located on Wadandi and Pibelmen land, has a rich Aboriginal history. Through guided tours, storytelling, and visits to significant sites, you can learn about the Traditional Owners’ connection to the land, their ancient customs, and spiritual beliefs. It’s a profound way to connect with Australia’s oldest living culture and gain insight into the significance of the land and its natural features from an Aboriginal perspective.

5. Hamelin Bay Stingrays

Just 30 minutes from Margaret River town you’ll find Hamelin Bay, which is famous for its friendly stingrays. Visitors flock to these shores to meet the gentle creatures who glide right up to the shoreline! It’s a magical experience, not to be missed, just make sure you never touch the rays and treat them with respect.  

6. Plenty of Stunning Beaches

There are so many stunning beaches to explore in the Margaret River Region! From tranquil turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling to rugged coastlines that attract surfers from around the world, these beaches are famous for their beauty. With soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets – make sure you have time to discover them on your Margaret River trip!

My top picks are:

  • Meelup Beach
  • Redgate Beach
  • Gnarabup Beach
  • Yallingup Beach

7. Excellent Fishing

While you’re out at the beach, why not try your hand at fishing? Margaret River is known for its excellent fishing spots, offering anglers plenty of different environments to chuck in a line. From tranquil riverbeds to rugged coastline to productive deep-sea offshore spots – there’s something for every fishing lover!

8. It’s a Cheese Lover’s Dream!

Margaret River Dairy Company is a haven for cheese lovers, offering a huge range of gourmet cheeses. Known for its rich, creamy textures and diverse flavours, their cheese selection reflects the quality and tradition of artisan cheese-making in the region. Make sure you pop in for a tasting!

9. Quirky Shopping

Strolling down Margaret River’s main street offers a charming shopping experience with a variety of boutiques. It’s perfect for discovering unique local crafts, fashion, and souvenirs, reflecting the creative spirit of the region. 

10. Boranup Karri Forest

Just a 20-minute drive south of Margaret River, you’ll find Boranup Karri Forest. It’s one of the most peaceful places I’ve ever experienced, home to towering karri trees that create an awe-inspiring setting. Some of the trees here are even over 60m tall! Ideal for nature lovers, it offers walking trails, scenic drives, and lookouts to enjoy the forest’s beauty. 

Karri trees stand in Boranup Karri Forest

11. The Amazing Food

Margaret River is a paradise for foodies, celebrated for its fresh, local produce and innovative cuisine. From gourmet restaurants to casual cafes, the region offers a diverse range of dining experiences that highlight the local flavours. Whether it’s seafood freshly caught from the Indian Ocean, succulent meats from local farms, or organic fruits and vegetables, the quality and freshness of the ingredients are unmatched. 

My top picks are:

  • Morries
  • Rustico at Hay Shed Hill
  • Pizzica
  • Wills Domain
  • Burger Baby

12. Indian Ocean Sunsets

Watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean is a highlight in Margaret River. The coast offers great spots for viewing the sun setting, turning the sky colourful. It’s a calming experience, perfect for ending the day. Extra points if you grab fish and chips to go with it!

13. The Best Breakfasts

Start your morning right, with a coffee and brekkie from Margaret River Bakery. Known for its homemade pastries, quality coffee, and eclectic atmosphere, there’s no wonder it’s packed on weekends! It’s a great spot to enjoy a quick, tasty start to your day out in Margaret River.

14. Venison Products to Sample

Trying some venison is a must-do in Margaret River, where local game is celebrated for its quality and flavour. Venison from the region is known for its tenderness and rich taste, making it a favourite among both locals and visitors. 

Many restaurants in the area offer venison dishes, showcasing it in a variety of ways that highlight its unique qualities. You can also take a trip to the Margaret River Venison Farm shop to discover more. 

15. So Many Craft Beers to Taste!

Margaret River is also a hotspot for craft beer lovers. The region is home to heaps of breweries that offer a wide range of craft beers, from classic lagers to innovative ales infused with local ingredients. Here you can sample different beers and learn about the brewing process. 

My top picks are:

  • Beerfarm
  • The Brewhouse
  • Cheeky Monkey Brewing Co.
  • Black Brewing Co.

16. Injidup Natural Spa

Injidup Natural Spa is a hidden gem near Margaret River! It’s a secluded spot where the ocean water swirls into rock pools, creating a natural spa effect. It’s a spectacular location, perfect for a refreshing dip and enjoying the natural beauty of the Western Australian coastline. 

Waves roll into the rocky shoreline of Injidup Natural Spa

17. Injidup Spa Retreat

If you’re looking for a luxurious getaway, look no further than Injidup Spa Retreat. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, it’s a place where tranquillity meets luxury, with spa services that blend with the natural beauty of the surroundings. Each villa provides privacy and breathtaking views, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. It’s perfect for those seeking a serene getaway with the added indulgence of spa treatments inspired by the region’s natural elements.

18. Whale Watching

Whale watching in Margaret River is an unforgettable experience, as the region is a prime spot for observing these impressive creatures during their migration. From June to December, visitors have the chance to see whales up close, including humpbacks, southern rights, and occasionally blue whales. 

For more details check out my guides to:

19. Local Artists to Discover

Exploring Margaret River’s art scene means finding local talent in galleries and studios. Here, artists inspired by the region’s landscapes produce paintings, sculptures, and crafts. Visiting these places not only showcases the area’s culture but also supports its artists, offering unique souvenirs of your visit.

20. The Giant Maze

Amaze’n Margaret River is a fun morning out, offering a giant hedge maze, 18-hole mini golf, and beautiful gardens to explore. It’s a great spot for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy outdoor activities in a pretty setting. 

21. Paradise for Olive Lovers

Olio Bello is a must-visit in Margaret River for olive oil enthusiasts and foodies. This award-winning olive farm offers tastings of their exquisite, organic extra virgin olive oils, showcasing a variety of unique flavours. The picturesque property also features a café serving dishes made with their oils and local produce and a shop where visitors can purchase products.

22. Busselton Jetty

Busselton Jetty is an iconic landmark in the Margaret River region, extending 1.8 kilometres into the Indian Ocean. It’s the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere, offering visitors stunning views, a chance to spot marine life, and the unique Underwater Observatory. This historic jetty is a popular spot for a leisurely walk, fishing, and learning about the area’s marine biodiversity, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.

Whale mural on at the end of Busselton Jetty

23. Delicious Fresh Produce

The Margaret River Farmers Market is a vibrant showcase of the region’s rich agricultural and artisanal bounty. Every week, it brings together local producers offering fresh, organic produce, artisan foods, and handcrafted goods. It’s a place where visitors can interact with growers, taste the local flavours, and purchase high-quality products directly from the source. 

24. Vintage Shopping

Vintage shopping at The Flying Wardrobe in Witchcliffe offers a unique experience, featuring a curated collection of vintage clothing and accessories. This charming boutique is known for its eclectic and high-quality selection, offering something special for collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike. It’s a treasure trove of past eras, perfect for those looking to add unique pieces to their wardrobe.

25. Quad Bike Adventures

What better way to explore the region’s rugged landscapes than to get amongst them on a quad bike! Quad bike tours in the region provide an opportunity to explore bush trails, hills, and farmlands, making it a thrilling experience for adventure seekers. It’s a unique way to see parts of the area that are otherwise inaccessible, offering adventure within the natural beauty of Margaret River.

26. Learn to Surf

It’s world-famous for its surf, making it a great spot to try out surfing for yourself! Margaret River Surf School offers surf lessons for both groups and individuals. They’ve got something to suit all age groups and skill levels. They’ve also got 3 and 5 day courses if you’re in the region for a while.

27. Fish and Chips from Squid Lips

Chowing down on Fish and chips on the beach, especially while the sun is setting over the Indian Ocean is an absolute must! Squid Lips is the place to go! They cook up fish and chips with a gourmet twist – be sure to try their specialty – squid. They’ve got two locations, in Dunsborough and Margaret River.

Squid Lips locations:

  • Dunsborough: Centrepoint Shopping Centre – 27a/55 Dunn Bay Road
  • Margaret River: 118 Bussell Highway

28. Meelup Beach

Meelup Beach is a sheltered bay, home to calm, crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect place for swimming, snorkelling or even stand-up paddle boarding. It’s surrounded by beautiful native bushland that can be explored by walking the 7 km Meelup Trail. Meelup is a perfect spot for a family day out at the beach with great facilities like toilets, BBQs and picnic tables. Just be prepared for flies if you visit in summer. 

Families relaxing on the sand and in the water of Meelup Beach

29. Millers Ice Creamery

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Millers Ice Creamery is the spot for you! Handcrafted by third-generation dairy farmers and using top-notch local ingredients it’s a must-visit. Check out flavours like Cowtown Coffee, Choc Brownie and Wild Fig while the kids have fun on the playground and spot the cows off in the distance. 

Millers Ice Creamery is located at 314 Wirring Road, Cowaramup

30. Degustation at Leeuwin Estate

The Leeuwin Estate Tasting Menu is a six-course fine dining experience, perfect for a special day out in Margaret River. The restaurant overlooks the stunning grounds of Leeuwin Estate with lush green grass and tall native trees, the ultimate setting for enjoying meticulously prepared local and seasonal produce paired with Leeuwin’s acclaimed wines. 

31. Helicopter Flight 

Explore Margaret River by taking a helicopter flight over the region. Discover the region’s vineyards, coastlines and forests by air. Scenic Helicopters have a range of helicopter tours available, from quick 10-minute trips to hour-long lighthouse tours.

32. Forest Adventures South West

Forest Adventures South West offers thrilling outdoor activities set in the beautiful forests of Margaret River. It’s an adventure park where visitors can challenge themselves with high ropes courses, zip lines, and climbing challenges. Perfect for adrenaline seekers and families looking for fun, it provides a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the region from the treetops. 

33. Melting Pot Glass Studio

Open by appointment only, Melting Pot Glass Studio offers glass-blowing demonstrations and workshops, offering a unique Margaret River experience. Try your hand at crafting one-of-a-kind pieces like a wine glass or bauble – a fantastic souvenir of your time in Margaret River.

34. Indulge in Truffles

Experience the luxury of Margaret River’s gourmet truffles! While you’re here you’ll find plenty of dishes at local restaurants serving up truffle-infused dishes. The Margaret River Truffle Farm produces beautiful truffle products you need to try out, like truffle salt, truffle oil and creamed truffle honey. You can find their products stocked in shops all over the South West region.  

Fresh truffles and slicer sit on a fabric tablecloth

35. Canoe Margaret River

Take a canoe trip on the tranquil waters of Margaret River. The Bushtucker Margaret River Canoe Tour is a unique experience suitable for all ages and abilities. Canoe down the river past beautiful scenery and stop for a bushtucker lunch of wild foods – a unique way to experience the region.  

36. Go Mountain Biking

Explore Margaret River’s diverse terrain, from scenic forest trails to challenging technical tracks. The Margaret River region is home to well-maintained trails, suitable for all skill levels – from beginners to advanced riders. Check the Margaret River Region website for more details on mountain biking in the area. 

37. Bettenay’s Nougat 

Bettenay’s Margaret River is home to the Margaret River Nougat Company. They source local fruits and nuts where possible to accompany their creamy, indulgent nougat. 

You can try some of their 30+ nougat varieties in the tasting room, or for the ultimate treat, I recommend the Nougat + Wine Pairing experience – where five nougat varieties are paired with 5 wines, delicious! 

38. Check Out a Festival

Margaret River hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from food and wine to music and arts. These events offer a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy live performances, and sample the region’s culinary delights. 

Some of the festivals worth checking out include:

39. Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Looking for a unique way to explore Margaret River’s calm waters and scenic coastlines? Stand-up paddle boarding may just be for you! Margaret River Stand Up Paddling offers a variety of SUP experiences. The friendly instructors will take you through all the techniques you need, right on the ocean!   

40. Sunday Sesh at Brewhouse

Enjoy live music and a laid-back atmosphere at the Brewhouse Margaret River’s classic Sunday Sesh. Sample locally brewed beers, showcasing the region’s craft brewing talent while you unwind with mates in a beaut outdoor setting – good vibes!

41. Blend Your Own Gin

At the Giniversity Gin Blending Class you’ll get the chance to blend your own Gin, tailored to your taste preferences. You’ll also learn about the distillation process and the botanicals that create the gin’s flavour profile. The best part is you’ll get to take home a 500mL bottle of your own gin to share with your friends and family!

Red vintage truck parked next to Margaret River Distilling Co. sign - home of Giniversity

42. Head Out on a Bar Crawl

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Margaret River by going on a bar crawl. Visit a selection of the best local bars and pubs, enjoying tastings of craft beers, wines and spirits produced in the region. 

Some great spots right in the heart of Margaret River town:

  • Margaret River Brewhouse
  • Margaret River Distilling Company
  • Swings and Roundabouts
  • Settlers Tavern
  • Yonder

43. Sugarloaf Rock

Sugarloaf Rock is a huge granite rock, emerging from the Indian Ocean, just off Cape Naturaliste near Dunsborough. It’s a spectacular spot for photography and to just take in the view of the coastline. Don’t miss it on your next trip.

44. Happs Pottery

Happs Pottery is a working pottery studio and showroom, located between Busselton and Dunsborough. Here you can check out the range of individually crafted serveware, dinnerware, and sculptural pieces.

If you’re keen for a more hands-on experience, try out the Studio Pottery Lessons. You’ll get to watch a teacher demo, where they explain how to make a pot, before trying it out yourself. You can even have your pot glazed and fired. The experience is suitable for people of all abilities aged 5 and up. 

45. Lighthouses

The Margaret River Region is home to two historic lighthouses, offering tours and breathtaking views:

  • Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse: where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet, provides panoramic vistas and a glimpse into maritime history
  • Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse: offers easier access and equally stunning views, with whale watching opportunities in season

Both lighthouses have informative visitor centres, detailing their historical significance and the region’s maritime heritage and are well worth the trip.

46. Margaret River Fudge Factory

The Margaret River Fudge Factory is a sweet lover’s paradise, offering a wide variety of handmade fudges. Here you can watch the fudge-making process on-site and sample some of the delicious creations. Try fudge flavours like chocolate hazelnut, coconut ice, fairy fudge and Irish Cream fudge.   

Best Time to Visit Margaret River

The best time to visit Margaret River truly depends on what you’re looking to experience. 

For wine enthusiasts and foodies, the harvest months of March and April are ideal, as the region buzzes with entertainment and food festivals. 

If you’re keen to relax on the beach, the warmer months from December to February offer sunny days perfect for surfing and snorkelling. 

Outdoor adventurers and nature lovers might prefer the cooler, quieter months of May to November, when the region’s hiking trails are lush and the whale-watching season is at its peak. Regardless of when you visit, Margaret River’s diverse offerings ensure there’s always something to enjoy!

Last Words

Margaret River is definitely worth a visit! With its many vineyards, stunning natural beauty, and diverse activities, there’s something for everyone. It’s a place that combines relaxation with adventure, making every visit memorable. So, if you’re wondering whether to add Margaret River to your travel list, the answer is a resounding yes!

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