Margaret River

Renowned wine region producing world-class wines surrounded by stunning karri forests and dramatic coastline. Visitors enjoy cellar door tastings, gourmet food, and outdoor activities like surfing and hiking.

Things to do

• Cellar Door Wine Tastings — Visit over 200 wineries throughout the region for tastings of world-renowned Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc with many offering vineyard views.
• Surfers Point Beach — A premier surf break offering consistent waves suitable for experienced surfers with a dramatic coastal backdrop and reliable swells year-round.
• Karri Forest Explorer Drive — A scenic 40-kilometre loop through old-growth karri forests featuring towering 60-metre trees, picnic areas, and walking trails.
• Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse — Australia's most powerful lighthouse perched where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet, offering panoramic coastal views and historical tours.
• Margaret River Caves — Explore stunning limestone caves including Lake Cave and Jewel Cave with underground lakes and dramatic formations formed over millions of years.
• Gourmet Food Tours — Join guided tastings combining local wines with artisanal cheeses, chocolates, and produce from specialty producers throughout the region.
• Hiking in Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park — Trek through coastal heathland and forest with access to secluded beaches, caves, and panoramic ocean viewpoints along well-maintained trails.

Food to try

• Margaret River Marron — A freshwater crayfish unique to Western Australia, typically grilled or served in creamy sauces at local restaurants and fine dining establishments.
• Dunsborough Snapper — Locally caught fresh fish featuring delicate white flesh, commonly pan-seared or grilled and served with local wine pairings at coastal restaurants.
• Artisanal Cheese Platters — Locally produced cheeses such as those from Margaret River Dairy Company paired with local wines, crackers, and native pepper berries.
• Native Pepper Berry Cuisine — Dishes incorporating the distinctly peppery and citrusy native Australian pepper berries, often featured in sauces and garnishes by innovative local chefs.
• Margaret River Venison — Game meat sourced from local farms, often prepared as steaks or slow-cooked dishes and paired with regional wines at fine dining venues.
• Marron and Wine Pairing Experiences — Specialty tasting menus featuring local freshwater crayfish paired with Margaret River wines at boutique winery restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Wine Etiquette at Cellar Doors — Most wineries welcome casual visitors but appointments are recommended for premium experiences; tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service.
• Respect Coastal and Forest Access — Stay on marked trails in national parks, be aware of strong ocean currents at beaches, and check conditions before visiting remote coastal areas.
• Local Produce Markets — Visit farmers' markets and farm gates year-round to purchase fresh local produce directly from growers, supporting the farming community tradition.
• Sustainable Tourism Awareness — The region emphasizes environmental stewardship; many wineries practice organic farming and appreciate visitors who respect native forests and wildlife habitats.