Looking for a reason as to why you should visit the Margaret River region? Let the wineries, the breweries and all of the fun things to do be your answer.

If you’re all about wine, stunning views and the perfect balance between country and seaside, get ready to discover Western Australia’s Margaret River.

With plenty on offer, the Margaret River region is packed with things to do, places to eat, wineries and breweries to explore an, of course, some of the best places to tuck in at night. So settle in for our ultimate guide to Margaret River, Western Australia!

How far is Margaret River from Perth?

Passing Fremantle, Margaret River is approximately a three-hour drive from Perth. Heading south, you’ll be driving along Western Australia’s coastline to get to this beautiful region.

The Best Places to Eat in Margaret River, Western Australia:

Vasse Felix 

Vasse Felix is modern Australian in style and uses seasonal, locally-sourced produce to support their menu. One of the best places to eat in Margaret River, the restaurant offers a stunning setting that you’re invited to indulge in while enjoying the regional flavours, textures and creative cuisine. Of course don’t forget about their wine collection! The restaurant also offers a five-course set menu, which is created to compliment their seasonal tippled picks.

Vasse Felix | 4357 Caves Rd, Wilyabrup, WA 6280

Swings & Roundabouts

Set up in the heart of Margaret River, Swings & Roundabouts is your local go-to. With a huge range of drinks, eats and treats, Swings & Roundabouts has the taste and feel of a winery but is located in the middle of town. Best enjoyed in-store or takeaway, on offer are share plates, traditional wood-fired pizzas, cheese boards and desserts. The Bufalina ($28) pizza is a definite must-try!

Swings & Roundabouts | 85 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River, WA 6285

Cullen Wines

Cullen Wines were the first to offer food with wine tastings back in 1976, which started as simple cheese platters, pastries and soups to welcome their visitors. Now, the renowned restaurant and cellar door serves fruit, herbs and vegetables all grown from the biodynamic garden on the grounds, which are combined with local and organic ingredients to produce dishes that compliment their wines perfectly.

Cullen Wines | 4323 Caves Rd, Wilyabrup, WA 6280

The Best Breweries and Wineries in Margaret River, Western Australia:

Cape Mentelle Vineyards

One of the Margaret River’s founding five wineries,  Cape Mentelle Vineyards is open daily for wine tastings and rare treats exclusive to the winery. One of Margaret River’s best wineries, Cape Mentelle has a wide range of varietals on offer. But, if you’re looking to visit Cape Mentelle Vineyards, we’d recommend their red wine range that put Margaret River on the map in the early 1980s. Otherwise, for something refreshing, the maritime influence and seaside location is reflected in the white wines through their unique freshness, fruit purity and vibrancy of character.

Cape Mentelle Vineyards | 331 Wallcliffe Rd, Margaret River, WA 6285

Beerfarm

Seventeen minutes out of Margaret River and based in Metricup is Beerfarn – one of the best breweries in the Margaret River region. With real beer, real food and genuine experiences, joined together by the people who run it and the people who come to experience it, Beerfarm is a must-visit for beer lovers and foodies alike. What was once a dairy farm and still to this day houses a herd of cattle, Beerfarm are experts at beer, with everything from lagers to complex IPAs and have their own cider crafted with fresh Manjimup apples.

Beerfarm | 177 Gale Rd, Metricup, WA 6280

Voyager Estate

Voyager Estate was built for those looking to dive in and celebrate all that is wine. With a dedicated wine room specifically for wine discovery and wine flights – where three wines to compare and contrast are on offer – the estate is dedicated to striving for balance, elegance and complexity. The vineyards are currently undergoing transition to organic farming to develop their commitment to sustainable farming. By far, in our opinion, one of Margaret River’s best wineries.

Voyager Estate Wines | 41 Stevens Rd, Margaret River, WA 6285

The Best Things to Do in Margaret River, Western Australia:

Margaret River’s Lighthouses

The beauty of the Margaret River region is the diversity of the natural environment. While so much time can be spent on a vineyard infested country landscape, it is easy to forget that the beach is so near and, with that comes the Margaret River’s renowned lighthouses. Both Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin lighthouses offer the opportunity to explore the lighthouse inside and out, so visitors can fully appreciate the spectacular views of the ocean.

Cape Naturaliste | 1267 Cape Naturaliste Rd, Naturaliste, WA 6281

Cape Leeuwin | Leeuwin Rd, Augusta, WA 6290

Margaret River Gourmet Escape

Set to return this November 2021, for the past six years the Margaret River Gourmet Escape has been a local event to rival many, with national and international visitors that travel to see the renowned guests, drink the fantastic wine and eat the abundance of food. One of the best things to do in Margaret River (apart from soaking up the sun at one of the beaches), Gourmet Escape is usually led by a range of culinary stars. With Nigella Lawson, Rick Stein and James Lowe making an appearance in previous years, Margaret River Gourmet Escape is a must-do if you’re visiting.

Margaret River Gourmet Escape | Various Locations

Margaret River’s Caves

Open for exploration and hidden underneath the fabulous Margaret River are a number of caves that date back to a million years prior. The elaborate and fragile karst systems form massive labyrinths that are decorated with limestone crystal formations. Margaret River’s caves are natural wonders, cavernous and complex, with some notable ones being  Lake Cave, with its many reflections and mirrors; and Jewel Cave, which is known for its enormous chambers.

Underground Limestone Caves | Various Locations

The Best Places to Stay in Margaret River, Western Australia:

Empire Spa Retreat Yallingup

Empire Spa Retreat Yallingup is a luxury getaway that is truly something to behold. Established in 1997, the estate is nestled among tranquil pastures and undisturbed bushland. From the numerous villas to the spa which is relaxing just to look at, Empire Spa Retreat also offers fantastic facilities and top of the range comfort. For the wine lovers visiting the retreat, you’ll be pleased to know that Empire Spa Retreat Yallingup is also home to a working 12-acre winery.

Empire Spa Retreat Yallingup | 1958 Caves Rd, Yallingup, WA 6281

Pullman Bunker Bay Resort

The Pullman Bunker Bay Resort is nestled alongside the crystal clear waters of beautiful Bunker Bay. A resort and spa, the destination is a haven to escape to. The accommodation ranges in size with studio, one- and two-bedroom bungalow-style villas available, all of which are ideal for a romantic getaway or a family holiday. With views that are to-die-for and comfort to the max, this resort is definitely worth the stay when in Margaret River.

Pullman Bunker Bay Resort |42 Bunker Bay Rd, Naturaliste, WA 6281

Ready to explore more of Western Australia’s best weekend destinations? These are the 5 Best Weekend Getaway Trips from Perth. On your way, be sure to stop by for a cold one at one of Western Australia’s Top 10 Craft Beer Breweries or get inspired by these 10 Unique Getaway Gems ready to be explored.

We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land mentioned in our article, the people of the Wardandi Nation, and we recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.

Feature image: Cape Naturaliste, Dunsborough, Margaret River. Photographed by bmphotographer. Image via Shutterstock.
This article was first published on August 24 2018. It was updated and edited by Hunter and Bligh on May 13 2021.