AUSTRALIA'S SOUTHWEST
This stunning corner of Australia is defined by towering karri forests, dramatic coastal cliffs, and the internationally celebrated Margaret River wine region. Explore a land of diverse adventures, from world-class surfing to ancient caves and picturesque port towns, all within a few hours of Perth.
Why Visit Australia's Southwest?
World-Class Wines: Home to the renowned Margaret River region, offering exceptional wines and gourmet food experiences.
Unique Forests and Caves: Wander through the majestic karri forests and explore the ancient limestone caves of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge.
Spectacular Coastline: Discover rugged coastline, ideal for surfing, whale watching, and relaxing on pristine white-sand beaches.
Smart Travel
Shoulder Season (September-November, March-May): The ideal time for pleasant temperatures, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. It’s also the peak wildflower and whale-watching season.
Deep Off-Season (June-August): Experience the region’s dramatic coastal storms, which bring strong surf and a cozy atmosphere for wine tasting by the fire. You’ll find the best value on accommodation.
Peak Season (December-February): Warm, dry weather makes this the perfect time for beach and water activities, but expect higher prices and crowds, especially around the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
Margaret River
This is the region’s gourmet and cultural heart, famous for its over 200 wineries, breweries, distilleries, and high-quality artisanal food producers. Beyond the vines, you can surf at world-class breaks or explore the towering Boranup Forest.
Your Smart Tip: To truly appreciate the scale of the region’s forests, take a drive along Boranup Drive, a scenic, unsealed (but well-maintained) track through the majestic karri trees.
The Cape to Cape Track
Stretching for 135 km along the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, this track connects the lighthouses at Cape Leeuwin and Cape Naturaliste. It offers breathtaking views of the ocean, forests, and beaches, and can be enjoyed in short sections or as a multi-day hike.
Your Smart Tip: For an easier day hike with spectacular coastal views, tackle the section between Sugarloaf Rock and Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse.
Bunbury & Busselton
Bunbury is a coastal city known for its wild dolphin interaction zone. Just north, Busselton is home to the stunning Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, offering a walk and an underwater observatory.
Your Smart Tip: Plan to visit the Busselton Jetty in the early morning for the best light for photography and before the main crowds arrive.
Denmark & Walpole
Further east, these towns offer a cooler climate and stunning natural attractions, including the enormous Tingle trees in the Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk near Walpole and the rugged coastline of William Bay National Park near Denmark.
Your Smart Tip: Don’t miss the picturesque Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks near Denmark—they are a stunning, sheltered spot ideal for swimming, especially in the warmer months.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate is Mediterranean, with warm, dry summers (Dec–Feb) and cool, wet winters (Jun–Aug). Coastal areas are often breezy, while inland regions can be hotter in summer.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but is welcomed for excellent service, especially in high-end restaurants and wine tour experiences.
Road Safety: Be mindful of kangaroos on the road, especially at dawn and dusk. Drive slowly and be alert.
Winery Visits: While drop-ins are welcome for tastings, booking ahead is often required for restaurant dining and recommended for specific tours, especially in peak season.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($30–$60), mid-range hotels/apartments ($120–$250), luxury/villas ($300+). Prices are highest in Margaret River and Busselton during peak summer.
Food: Casual café/pub meal ($20–$35), dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($40–$70 per person), fine dining ($90+).
Transport: Car rental ($40–$90/day, essential for the region).
Activities: Wine tasting flight (often $5–$15, sometimes waived with a purchase), cave tour ($25–$35), Treetop Walk ($25).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $80–$130 (hostels, cooking own meals/takeaway, free activities).
- Mid-range: $150–$280 (mid-range stays, casual dining, attraction tickets).
- Luxury: $350+ (boutique hotels/villas, gourmet meals, private tours).
Getting Around
By Car: A car is essential for exploring the vast and diverse region, allowing you to access remote beaches, forests, and wineries.
By Bus/Coach: Limited public transport connects major towns like Bunbury and Margaret River, but local touring requires a private vehicle or booked tour.
Must-Try Food
Marron: A large, freshwater crayfish native to WA, a regional delicacy often served grilled or with garlic butter.
Vasse Felix Cabernet Sauvignon: A benchmark wine that put Margaret River on the map, a must-try for red wine lovers.
Artisanal Cheese: Produced by local dairies, particularly in the Pemberton and Denmark areas.
Abrolhos Scallops: While from further north, they are a highlight on South West menus when in season.
Locally Brewed Beer/Cider: The region has a thriving craft brewery scene, offering everything from IPAs to stouts.
Fresh Abalone: Wild-caught from the cold, clean South West waters, often served pan-fried or in a rich sauce.
Olive Oil: Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil from local groves is high quality.
Karri Honey: Honey produced from the nectar of the karri tree blossoms, with a distinct, deep flavor.
Chocolates & Fudge: Numerous chocolatiers and confectioners are scattered throughout the Margaret River area.
Wagyu Beef: Produced on local farms, known for its marbling and flavor.
Must-Try Drinks
Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon: (Cab-er-nay Saw-vin-yon) The region’s flagship red wine, known for its structure and complexity.
Margaret River Chardonnay: (Shar-don-nay) An acclaimed white wine, typically powerful and oaked.
Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (SSB) Blend: A crisp, refreshing white blend, perfect for a warm day.
Craft Beer/Ale: Available at numerous local breweries like Colonial Brewing Co. or Eagle Bay Brewing Co.
Gin/Spirits: Local distilleries produce excellent gins, often flavored with native botanicals.
Coffee: Perth has a strong coffee culture that extends into the Southwest—ask for a “flat white.”
Sparkling Wine: Produced from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, often using traditional méthode champenoise.
Cider: Hard ciders made from local apples and pears.
Ginger Beer: Local artisanal producers make non-alcoholic, spicy ginger beer.
Honey Mead: A fermented alcoholic beverage made from local Karri honey.