THE CAPE TO CAPE TRACK
The Cape to Cape Track is an iconic 135-kilometre hike in Western Australia, tracing the stunning coastline between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin. It offers a spectacular blend of dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, towering forests, and ancient caves.
This celebrated trail winds through the heart of the Margaret River Region, renowned worldwide for its premium wines, fine food, and powerful surfing breaks, providing a memorable journey for hikers of all levels.
Most Popular Attractions
The Track & Coastal Highlights:
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse: Located at the southernmost point of the track, this historic lighthouse marks the meeting point of the Indian and Southern Oceans.
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse: The starting/ending point of the track, offering panoramic views of Geographe Bay and the Indian Ocean.
Contos Beach: A stunning, often-photographed section of the coast with high cliffs and powerful surf.
Moses Rock: A popular rest point and surf break, featuring dramatic coastal rock formations.
Boranup Beach: A long stretch of white sand known for its remote beauty and often accessed for fishing and 4×4 driving.
Quinninup Falls: A seasonal waterfall, a delightful detour requiring a short walk off the main track.
Redgate Beach: A scenic beach known for its beautiful caves and rock pools at the northern end.
Canal Rocks: A unique geological formation where the ocean surges through a narrow channel in the rock.
Gracetown: A small coastal town known for its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to world-class surf breaks.
Hamelin Bay: Famous for its resident, friendly stingrays that often swim close to the shore.
Inland and Natural Attractions:
Boranup Karri Forest: An awe-inspiring section of the track that passes through a dense forest of towering Karri trees, some reaching up to 60 meters.
Mammoth Cave: One of the spectacular show caves in the area, known for its vast chambers and ancient fossil deposits.
Jewel Cave: The largest show cave in Western Australia, featuring massive stalactites and flowstone formations.
Lake Cave: Known for its unique ‘suspended table’ formation, reflected in the underground lake.
Margaret River: The town that gives the region its name, famous for its arts, crafts, and river mouth.
Busselton Jetty: (North of the track’s start) The longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, perfect for an underwater observatory visit.
Wadandi Track: A rail-to-trail path running parallel to the coast, offering cycling and walking opportunities away from the cliffs.
Culinary & Cultural Experiences:
Margaret River Wineries: The region is world-famous for its premium Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Visit a cellar door like Vasse Felix or Leeuwin Estate.
Local Breweries & Distilleries: Enjoy craft beer at places like Colonial Brewing Co. or Margaret River Brewhouse.
Margaret River Farmers Market: A great place to sample local produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods (Saturdays).
Yallingup: A beautiful coastal town near Cape Naturaliste, known for its safe swimming lagoon and historic Caves House hotel.
Margaret River Chocolate Factory: A must-stop for sweet treats and tasting.
Art Galleries and Studios: The region is home to numerous artists inspired by the stunning landscape.
Activities & Experiences
Trek the Full Cape to Cape Track: Embark on the entire 124km (77 miles) journey, typically taking 5-8 days, covering coastal heath, forest, and towering karri trees.
Hike to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse: Take a short, paved walk to this historic lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and Geographe Bay.
Explore the Ngilgi Cave: Descend into this stunning show cave near Yallingup to witness beautiful stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal formations on a guided tour.
Go Surfing or Bodyboarding: Hit the famous surf breaks along the coast, such as Margaret River Main Break, Yallingup, or Injidup Beach. Lessons are widely available.
Visit a Local Winery and Cellar Door: Detour off the track to one of the hundreds of world-class wineries in the Margaret River region for a tasting experience.
Spot Wildflowers (Seasonal): Hike during spring (September–November) to witness the spectacular display of endemic wildflowers and orchids along the coastal sections.
Go Whale Watching (Seasonal): Book a boat tour from Augusta or Dunsborough (May–December) to see migrating Humpback and Southern Right Whales.
Hike to the Busselton Jetty: Walk the track’s northernmost section, ending at the iconic 1.8km-long jetty, or take the tourist train out over the ocean.
Kayak or Canoe on the Blackwood River: Hire a watercraft in Augusta to explore the tranquil, scenic lower reaches of the river, an important habitat for local birdlife.
Visit Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse: Explore the most south-westerly point of mainland Australia, where the Indian and Southern Oceans officially meet, and tour the historic lighthouse.
Enjoy a Beach Walk at Hamelin Bay: Stroll along the pristine beach, famous for its shallow, clear waters and the chance to see friendly, wild stingrays near the jetty ruins.
Join a Guided Aboriginal Cultural Tour: Connect with the traditional custodians of the land, the Wardandi people, and learn about their deep history and connection to the region.
Local Tips & Transport
Shuttle Services are Essential: Since the track is a one-way hike, most hikers arrange a car relocation service or use a dedicated hiker shuttle service to get to the start/end points. Pre-booking is crucial, especially during peak season.
Minimal Public Transport: Public transport options between towns (Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River, Augusta) are infrequent and do not service the track’s remote access points. Relying on local taxis/rideshares can be very costly.
Parking at Trailheads: Overnight parking is often available at the major capes (Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin) but be sure to check current regulations and security. Some smaller access points may have time limits or fees.
Getting to the Region: The closest major airport is Perth (PER). From Perth, you can drive the 3-4 hours to the Margaret River region or take a regional bus service (e.g., Transwa) to Busselton or Margaret River town.
Respect the Trail: The trail passes through protected national park land. Stick to the marked track, carry all rubbish out with you, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Open fires are strictly prohibited.
Water Management is Key: Carry ample water, especially during summer. While tank water is available at official campsites, it must be chemically treated or boiled before drinking. The longest stretches without water access should be planned for carefully.
Check Fire Danger: Western Australia experiences extreme fire risk. Always check the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) website for current fire warnings and trail closures before and during your hike, particularly from November to April.
Watch for Snakes: The region is home to several venomous snakes (e.g., Tiger, Dugite). Wear appropriate hiking boots/gaiters and avoid walking through tall grass. If you see one, stop, wait for it to move, and never provoke it.
Best Time to Hike: Spring (Sep-Nov) is ideal for wildflowers, mild weather, and whale viewing. Autumn (Mar-May) offers mild hiking temperatures. Summer can be intensely hot (plan for early morning starts), and winter can be very wet and windy.
Hidden Gems Along the Track:
- Moses Rock: A stunning, often-missed coastal section perfect for a quick, cooling dip in a protected rock pool.
- Contos Campground: Stop for a spectacular cliff-top view over the Southern Ocean, a great spot for an unofficial lunch break.
- Meelup Beach: A gorgeous, sheltered cove near Dunsborough with calm waters, ideal for a post-hike swim if you’re hiking the northern section.
Tidal/Water Crossings: Be aware of Deepdene Beach near Cape Leeuwin, which can be impassable at high tide or during rough seas. Always check tide times and be prepared to wait or take the detour.
Sun Protection: The sun is incredibly strong. Apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and use sunglasses, even on overcast days.
Top Restaurants
Cullen Wines Restaurant [$50-$80] – The ultimate biodynamic and certified carbon-positive winery restaurant, where the menu is driven directly by their extensive on-site kitchen garden and local, ethical sourcing.
Glenarty Road [$40-$70] – A rustic farmhouse dining experience nestled amongst a working regenerative farm, offering a true paddock-to-plate menu that changes daily based on what they harvest.
Arimia Estate [$60-$90] – An off-grid, sustainable restaurant with its own farmed trout, pork, olives, and produce, known for head chef Evan Hayter’s exemplary and highly seasonal menu.
Voyager Estate Restaurant [$70-$100] – Located at a prestigious organic winery, this restaurant offers a progressive wine-focused degustation menu that evolves with the key seasonal milestones of the vineyard.
Wills Domain Restaurant [$70-$100] – Regularly ranked as one of Australia’s best regional restaurants, offering high-calibre dishes and an excellent tasting menu with stunning views over the Gunyulgup Valley.
Vasse Felix Restaurant [$60-$90] – Situated at Margaret River’s founding wine estate, it offers an impeccably prepared menu that beautifully accompanies their wines, with a focus on fresh, regional ingredients.
Olio Bello Cafe [$25-$40] – Located on a beautiful, working organic olive farm, offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes, delicious homemade pasta, and pizza, all featuring their own award-winning olive oils.
Leeuwin Estate Restaurant [$70-$100] – A classic, fine-dining experience at an iconic winery, featuring a sophisticated tasting menu that blends food, art, and wine.
Sidekick Cafe & Deli [$15-$25] – A small, local-favourite cafe and deli in Cowaramup that focuses on high-quality, local produce, perfect for grabbing artisanal sandwiches or gourmet picnic supplies.
Yarri Restaurant + Bar [$50-$80] – A collaboration between chef Aaron Carr and Snake + Herring winery, focusing on local ingredients cooked over a wood fire and reflecting the natural palette of the surrounding bushland.
Rustico At Hay Shed Hill [$30-$50] – A rustic vineyard location offering award-winning Mediterranean-style tapas and share plates, with a very popular tasting degustation option.
Black Sheep Deli [$15-$25] – A local gem in Cowaramup, known for its excellent coffee, house-baked goods, and delicious, wholesome takeaway lunches and local produce.
Margaret River Farmers Market [Varies] – A must-visit every Saturday, not a restaurant but a collective of local producers, bakers, and food vendors offering the freshest goods for a perfect trail-side picnic or self-catering meal.
Margaret River Bakery [$15-$25] – A hip, local institution famous for its fantastic pies, freshly prepared sandwiches, baked goods, and strong coffee, often frequented by locals before a day on the tracks.
White Elephant Cafe [$15-$30] – A scenic clifftop eatery right on Gnarabup Beach, a favourite among locals for breakfast and lunch, offering simple, fresh food with stunning ocean views.
The Sea Garden Cafe [$15-$25] – A relaxed, casual cafe in Prevelly offering great coffee, fresh juices, and simple, wholesome meals close to the track entry point at Surfers Point.
Beerfarm [$20-$35] – An independent brewhouse housed in a rustic shed on a former dairy farm, offering a relaxed vibe, boutique brews, and hearty bistro-style pub feeds.
Margaret River Brewhouse [$20-$35] – Known for its good vibes, great craft beer, and tasty food in a relaxed setting, popular with both hikers and locals.
Eagle Bay Brewing Co. [$25-$40] – Tucked up in the trees behind the coast, this brewery offers delicious, casual meals, an expansive lawn, and panoramic views of the farmland and ocean in the north end of the track.
The Goose Beach Bar + Kitchen [$25-$45] – Located on the Busselton foreshore (north of the track), offering a relaxed atmosphere with great views and modern Australian cuisine.
Occy’s Dunsborough [$20-$35] – A great local spot in Dunsborough (northern end) for tummy-filling plates and an experimental range of craft brews on tap.
The Servo Taphouse [$20-$35] – A cosy Cowaramup haunt that was once a petrol station, now offering local and international craft brews alongside Canadian-inspired comfort eats and live music.
Yahava KoffeeWorks [$10-$20] – A fantastic spot for coffee aficionados and a quick bite, offering high-quality, locally roasted coffee and a relaxed atmosphere, great for a morning refuel.
Yardbyrd Takeaway [$15-$25] – A local favourite for grabbing simple, delicious, and generously portioned takeaway meals like burgers and fish and chips, perfect for a quick dinner or picnic.
Margaret River Burger Company [$15-$25] – A casual joint in Margaret River town, renowned for its gourmet burgers using local ingredients, a perfect, satisfying meal after a long hike.
Dunsborough Bakery [$10-$20] – A quintessential Aussie bakery offering a great selection of fresh bread, pies, pastries, and cakes, essential for trail provisions or a simple breakfast.
Riverside Cafe [$15-$25] – A relaxed cafe located in Margaret River town, known for its great breakfast and lunch options, focusing on simple, fresh ingredients.
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse Cafe [$15-$25] – Housed in one of the original lighthouse keepers’ cottages at the southern end of the track, famous for its Devonshire teas and incredible views.
Gracetown Cafe [$15-$25] – A small, unpretentious cafe in the tiny coastal settlement of Gracetown, popular with surfers and locals for simple, hearty food and coffee.
Bunkers Beach Cafe [$20-$35] – Located right on the beautiful Bunkers Beach near Dunsborough, offering a casual, modern Australian menu with unbeatable beach views.
Miki’s Open Kitchen [$70-$120] – An exceptional, intimate Japanese omakase experience where fresh local produce, especially seafood like abalone, shines under expert preparation. Reservation is essential.
Blue Manna Bistro [$40-$70] – Specializing in top-quality, local seafood, served under festoon lighting on an alfresco deck, with a menu blending Asian and modern Australian flavours.
Chow’s Table [$35-$60] – A restaurant in Yallingup offering spicy, feisty Chinese-Malay cuisine, famous for its dumplings and duck-fat fried rice, overlooking the House of Cards vineyard.
Morries Anytime [$30-$50] – Located in Margaret River town, this stylish spot is the go-to for cocktails and tapas, offering a globally inspired menu with a focus on share plates.
Pizzica Italian Restaurant [$25-$40] – A rustic, cosy Italian restaurant and pizzeria that combines Italy’s best pizza flour with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Fishbone Wines [$30-$50] – Specializes in fresh, light, and modern sushi and Japanese food, designed to pair perfectly with their wines, with a beautiful setting.
The Kitchen at Cherubino Wines [$40-$70] – Located at the Tuscany-inspired cellar door, offering delightful wine-tasting experiences often paired with grazing platters and Italian-influenced snacks.
El Toro Margaret River [$30-$50] – Serving Spanish-style tapas and share plates, offering bold flavours and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Margaret River town.
Spice Route [$25-$40] – A local favourite for authentic, flavourful Indian cuisine in Margaret River town, great for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
La Scarpetta Trattoria [$30-$50] – A charming Italian trattoria in Margaret River town, known for its traditional, hearty pasta dishes and warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Boranup Cafe [$20-$35] – Located in the stunning Boranup Forest, this spot offers simple, wholesome food and an incredible setting, perfect for a break while driving through the forest.
Wild Hop Brewing Company [$20-$35] – A highly-regarded brewery known for its creative beers and excellent, locally-sourced food, often served in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Margaret River Tuck Shop [$10-$20] – A small, unassuming spot offering excellent takeaway food, pies, and coffee, a true local’s choice for a quick, quality bite.
Chai Cha Wala [$10-$20] – A unique spot specializing in authentic Indian street food and chai, offering a quick and flavourful alternative for lunch or a snack.
Swings & Roundabouts Margaret River [$25-$40] – A laid-back winery offering signature wood-fired pizzas and share plate options in a friendly, relaxed setting.
Flour/Salt [$15-$25] – A popular Dunsborough bakery/cafe known for its excellent wood-fired sourdough and simple, well-executed breakfast and lunch dishes.
Lady Margot [$20-$35] – A contemporary wine bar in Margaret River town offering small, shareable plates and an extensive list of regional wines and cocktails.
Dunsborough Tavern [$20-$35] – A classic, no-fuss pub offering reliable and generously portioned pub meals and local beers, a good spot for a casual dinner.
Settler’s Tavern (The Settlers) [$20-$35] – An iconic Margaret River pub famous for its relaxed atmosphere, excellent selection of beers, and reliably good pub grub.
Peko Peko [$15-$30] – A fantastic spot in Margaret River town offering fresh, healthy, and delicious Asian-inspired takeaway food and dine-in options.
Cape Lavender Tea House [$15-$30] – A unique stop offering lavender-themed treats, cakes, and light lunches in a charming, relaxing setting near Yallingup.
The Common [$20-$35] – A stylish bar and eatery in the Margaret River town caravan park, offering great drinks and a modern, casual menu.
Dough Pizza [$20-$35] – Known for its authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, a fantastic and quick dinner option in Margaret River town.
De’sendent [$80-$130] – An award-winning, intimate 35-seat restaurant focused on sustainability, seasonality, and innovation, offering a distinctively West Coast degustation experience. Highly sought after.
Cape Lodge Lakeside Restaurant [$80-$130] – An elegant, 3-chef hat award-winning restaurant on the grounds of a boutique estate, offering a three- or five-course menu driven by the on-site garden and local produce.
Amelia Park Restaurant [$60-$90] – Known for its modern design and elevated menu, offering a more luxurious dining experience than the adjacent, more casual tavern.
Black Pig Deli & Table [$40-$70] – More than a deli, they offer occasional intimate ‘Table’ events and a high-quality grazing menu featuring local charcuterie and cheeses, paired with regional wine.
Cherubino Wines [$50-$80] – While casual, their setting and high-quality antipasto platters and wine tastings offer an upscale, relaxed afternoon indulgence.
Clairault Streicker Estate [$50-$80] – The restaurant here offers sophisticated dining with a seasonal menu and an impressive wine list in a beautiful vineyard setting.
The Larder at The Colour Patch [$40-$70] – Located closer to Augusta (southern end), this spot offers sophisticated dining with a focus on fresh, regional produce and a great view.
Fish & Fever [$30-$50] – A Dunsborough spot that elevates the fish and chip experience with high-quality, fresh catches and a refined, casual atmosphere.
Ginversity [$30-$50] – A unique experience focused on local gin and cocktails, with a menu of creative, small plates designed to complement the spirits.
Wildwood Valley Cooking School [Varies] – While not a restaurant, it offers a unique, high-end food experience through cooking classes focused on local produce.
Aravina Estate Restaurant [$50-$80] – A stunning vineyard setting with a sophisticated menu that blends modern Australian with international influences.
Chow’s Table [$35-$60] – Even though categorized as International, the quality and unique execution of the Chinese-Malay cuisine elevates it to a memorable dining experience.
Knee Deep Wines Restaurant [$50-$70] – Known for its seasonal menu that expertly pairs with its estate wines, offering an elegant lunch setting.
The Berry Farm [$20-$40] – Offers a quaint, traditional experience with light lunches and famous scones, jams, and preserves, a pleasant, non-touristy detour.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Morries: A tapas restaurant and cocktail bar in Margaret River town centre, renowned for its innovative cocktail list—including the ‘Trophy Wife’—and intimate, date-night atmosphere.
Lady Lola Deli Bar Bistro: Located in Dunsborough, this sophisticated spot offers an ultra-classy environment for catching up over wine or their signature cold brew espresso cocktail.
Yarri Bar + Restaurant: Situated in Dunsborough, the bar crafts cocktails using locally-foraged, in-season products, aligning with the restaurant’s commitment to the Noongar six seasons.
Rhum Burgundy: A funky bolthole bar in Margaret River that embraces a “classy” atmosphere with a focus on cocktails and an extensive international wine list. It’s a great spot for a late-night drink.
The River Hotel (Riversmith): This establishment in the heart of Margaret River offers an extended Happy Hour with great deals on cocktails, beers, and local wines, perfect for people-watching from its main street location.
Normal Van: Located centrally in Margaret River, while known for burgers, their impressive drinks menu and happy hour, featuring signature margaritas like the ‘Normal Marg’, makes it a great patio spot.
Lady Lola (Dunsborough): A stylish venue in Dunsborough that works perfectly for a sophisticated evening out with a great wine selection and classic cocktails.
The Fire Station: A bar in Busselton (north of the track’s start), set in a beautifully restored building, offering craft beers, local wines, and a selection of classic cocktails.
Shelter Brewing Co.: Located right on the foreshore in Busselton, this huge brewery also offers a range of spirits and basic cocktails, best enjoyed with a view of Geographe Bay.
Tonic by the Bay: An upscale bar and eatery in Busselton that provides a great selection of cocktails and fine local wines.
Pinky’s Rottnest Island (Sunset Deck): While a short distance away, this stunning spot on Rottnest Island is famous for its delicious handmade cocktails and the best sunset views in the region.
Occy’s Dunsborough: A friendly, relaxed hub in Dunsborough where everyone mingles happily, offering great food and a full bar with all the classic cocktail favourites.
Wills Domain: Primarily a winery and restaurant near Yallingup, their sophisticated bar and stunning vineyard setting make it a luxurious spot for a pre-dinner glass of wine or a simple classic cocktail.
Cape Lodge: An exclusive retreat in Yallingup offering intimate and sophisticated bar service with high-quality wines and drinks, perfect for a quiet, indulgent evening.
Swings Taphouse & Kitchen: Found in the centre of Margaret River town, this venue, part of the Swings & Roundabouts family, transitions into a cool, moody hangout at night with craft beers, wine-on-tap, and a full bar.
Settlers Tavern (“The Tav”): The most iconic live music venue and pub in Margaret River town centre. With a huge wine list, 16 pouring taps, and a regular schedule of live acts, it is the heart of the region’s nightlife and the closest thing to a traditional club/music venue.
The River Hotel (The River): A large, cheerful pub in Margaret River with a classic pub vibe, a spacious front bar, and a beer garden that transforms into a lively spot for dancing with bands and DJs.
Bungalow Neighbourhood Social: Located in Dunsborough, this is the current ‘in’ watering hole, offering DJ beats under big palm trees and a lively social atmosphere, often extending late into the evening.
Caves House Hotel Restaurant & Bar: Set in a historic building in Yallingup, this venue hosts a lively atmosphere with regular events, live music, and twilight markets, drawing a large crowd.
The Pour House: A popular two-story bar in Dunsborough, just a quick walk from the foreshore, known for its extensive range of South West craft beers on tap and a great late-night energy.
Albies Bar and Bistro: A well-known venue in Busselton with a vibrant and active nightlife scene, often featuring bands and a full pub-style setup.
Margaret River Brewhouse: While a brewery in Margaret River, it has a huge deck and regularly features live music on Friday and Sunday afternoons/evenings, fostering a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere.
Har Bar: A nautical-themed bar in Dunsborough known for bringing “perpetual mirth and merriment,” offering a lively evening of revelry and a great spot for a late-night drink.
Esplanade Hotel: Located in Busselton, this historic hotel is a major nightlife spot, providing a classic pub experience and often hosting events and late-night action.
The Goose Beach Bar + Kitchen: Found on the foreshore in Busselton, this spot provides a stylish yet lively atmosphere, perfect for evening drinks and socialising by the sea.
Origins Market: In Busselton, this market hosts “Origins Nights” from Thursday to Saturday, featuring a bar, food vendors, and live music, making it a bustling social and entertainment hub.