Margaret River Region

Margaret River is a tourist destination that has something for everyone. We suggest that if you are exploring the region for the first time you contact the Margaret River Visitors Centre Visitors Centre for all the advice you will need in planning your itinerary. In addition to this, we would also like to offer you the following suggestions:

What lies beneath

Hidden amongst the towering Karri Trees beneath the limestone outcrops of Margaret River’s Leeuwin-Naturaliste ridge lies a vast underground network of caves. Visiting these primeval, delicate and vast networks will leave you breathless and is a must for an adventurous traveller. Choose from one of three caves or visit them all:

• Mammoth Cave
• Jewel Cave
• Lake Cave

For more information contact caveworks@margaretriver.com.

Pounding surf

For over 40 years Margaret River has been known as one of the top surf spots of the world with many die hard surfers travelling from all corners of the globe to experience the world class breaks. With over 75 surf breaks spread over 130 kilometres of unspoiled pristine coastline, there is guaranteed to be space for all.

The powerful ground swells generated by the notorious roaring forties 1000 kilometres to the south of Cape Leeuwin push their way north along the Leeuwin-Naturaliste ridge. As they meet the bays and reefs some of the most consistently high quality breaks are created. The lure of the waves was what initially drew Jeff Burch, the owner of Howard Park to the region. Being captivated by the surf and the magnificence of the region, Jeff’s passion soon expanded to wine!

If you are interested in trying a surf lesson or watching one of the region’s surf events when you visit, check out these surfing pages.   

Take the plunge

With clear waters surrounding the cape region a diver can find many under water escapes. From simple scenic to more challenging depths there is something for all. Busselton Jetty at only nine metres is regarded as one of the most visually splendid dives in Australia while the HMAS Swan Shipwreck lies a short distance off the coast between Dunsborough and Eagle Bay. The Swan dive offers both novice and advanced diving with the opportunity to explore the main deck at 18 metres or venture to the sea floor at 30 meters. Visit My South West for more information.

Forests and walks

A great way to explore the changing scenery is to take a walk along the Cape to Cape track. The entire pathway will take 5-6 days to complete however there are small parts that you can choose to walk along that will take you past beautiful bays and rocky outcrops giving you some magnificent views of the region.  

Exploring the rivers

For the eco-tourist, the Blackwood and Margaret Rivers' meandering waterways are visited by pelicans, hundreds of black swans and a number of species of bird life. Schools of dolphins, graceful stingrays, the occasional seal, kangaroos and possums can also be seen. Take a tour on the rivers by canoe or boat and experience the wilderness first hand.

If you would like to take a guided tour, we recommend contacting The Bush Tucker Tours group.

Artists and galleries

Many artists and crafts people have moved to this region for inspiration. There are many galleries exhibiting their pieces that are well worth visiting. From photographers to painters, wood and metal craftsmen there is something for all on the Margaret River craft trail. Howard Park also holds exhibitions at the winery intermittently so be sure to check our events listing prior to visiting. 

Geographe Bay Tourism Association
Busselton/Dunsborough
Phone: (618) 9752 2066
Fax: (618) 9754 1470
Email: info@bsn.downsouth.com.au

Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association
Margaret River Visitor Centre
Phone: (618) 9757 2911
Fax: (618) 9757 3287
Email: welcome@margaretriver.com

Or visit www.margaretriver.com