The best things to do in Margaret River
One of south west Western Australia’s tourism hotspots, Margaret River has managed to keep its slow-down, country town vibes while increasing their offerings for more and more visitors each year.
Next time you head south be sure to check out this list of all the best things to do, places to see, and where to eat and drink in Margaret River.
EAT & DRINK
Wineries
Margaret River is of course home to one of the world’s most heralded winery regions and there’s HEAPS of ‘em. Dozens in fact. So many, that perhaps it can feel a little daunting when it comes to picking places. If you’re looking for a full list of wineries follow this link, otherwise you can check out a heap of our favourites here. The best way to do it is by having someone drive you around, and there are plenty of options to do so, just like The Journey in Margaret River – a relatively new business offering boutique tours to all the best hidden gems.
Settlers Tavern
Settlers Tavern is the perfect pub; the food is wholesome, the staff are friendly, and the vibe is second to none. But what this Tav is most renowned is for being the quintessential live music venue of the south west – band posters and fanbase paraphernalia adorn the walls like a trophy cabinet of good times gone by. Throw in the occasional comedy night and food and drink specials, and it’s easy to see why Settlers Tav is the place to be.
114 Bussell Highway, Margaret River
CBCo Brewing
This Margaret River brewery has implemented a range of sustainability processes, including the development of a Paddock to Plate menu served at the restaurant, seasonally inspired and full of fresh, flavourful ingredients. And along with serving great beers and excellent food, they’ve also added short iron range bays so you can work on your golf swing while bending the elbow at the same time!
29 Osmington Road, Bramley
The River Hotel
Formerly The Knights Inn, The River Hotel just down the road have also entered the fray as a fantastic spot for live music in Margs – check out their upcoming events here. Otherwise their restaurant is a great spot to eat, and their courtyard is a wonderful place to wile the hours away.
40 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River
d’esendent
de’sendent is a new chapter for owners and co-directors Ann Spencer and Executive Chef Evan Hayter, previously at Arimia Estate. The duo describe their latest venture as a “supercharged version” of that winery/restaurant’s offerings set within a 35-seat space at the top of the Margs’ main street. “Margaret River’s got exceptional winery restaurants; we wanted to add an elevated option to the main street that complements the existing dining offerings in the heart of town,” says Hayter. Open Wednesday-Saturday from 5.30pm til late, de’sendent offers a Chef’s Choice set menu for seatings between 6pm and 8:15pm, with the snack menu available for the earlier or later seatings outside those times.
3/152 Bussell Highway, Margaret River
Miki’s Open Kitchen
For a standout dining experience head to Miki’s Open Kitchen – Japanese chef Mikihito Nagai takes you on a diverse culinary journey through contemporary fine dining like no other. Make sure you book ahead of your trip, as it’s one of the south west’s most popular restaurants.
131 Bussell Highway, Margaret River
Alchemy Eats
Alchemy Eats opened quietly in Margaret River just before the silly season took over town in November 2023, and in a very short time has become the go-to for a healthy takeaway in town. Sometimes all the wine and fine dining down south can get the best of you, so if you need a little freshen up Alchemy is packed with delicious açai, buddha bowls, sandwiches and a stacked grocery shelf to line the holiday home pantry in no time. “The Margaret River community are very conscious about where their food comes from and how the environment is treated, but there was no holistic food destination where you could reliably get a yummy, healthy (and affordable) lunch and pick up groceries that aligned with those values,” says owner Clair Van Veen.
91 Bussell Highway, Margaret River
Margaret River Farmer’s Market
Margaret River Farmers Market showcases local seasonal produce to the community every Saturday morning. Peruse local vendors suppling anything from warm baked goods, dairy, chocolate, condiments and pasta. If you’re not looking to have a cook up yourself, there are stalls with delicious pre-made delights for you to feast on.
Lot 272 Bussell Highway , Margaret River
Margaret River Distilling Co.
At the northern tip of town you’ll find Margaret River Distilling Co., nestled among some shady peppermint trees and a delightful spot to spend the afternoon. Home to the popular Giniversity Gin, award-winning Limeburners Single Malt Whisky, Dugite Whiskey, and Tiger Snake Sour Mash Whiskey. The friendly staff will make you mean cocktail to enjoy in the grassy backyard.
Maxwell Street (off Carters Road), Margaret River
Rhum Burgundy
Opening back in early 2023, Rhum Burgundy is the brainchild of the crew at boutique winery LS Merchants and award-winning cocktail bartender Billy Phillips. Squeezed in between a surf shop and a restaurant on Marg’s main drag, Rhum Burgundy certainly puts the “small” into small bar. Spread out over two floors (including a balcony that overlooks Bussell Highway) and with a fair dose of nautical-inspired decor, the itty-bitty bar is serving up a delightful mix of the classic and the more experimental. You can expect to see familiar favourite (yet party-ready) cocktails, particularly of the rum-based variety, alongside plenty of Anchorman inspired numbers…
107 Bussell Highway, Margaret River
Pizzica
For some authentic, rustic, cosy Italian vibes make sure you visit Ivin and his family at Pizzica. Combining Italy’s best pizza flour with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a giant wood fire oven makes for some molto bene delights.
73 Bussell Highway, Margaret River
Hooked Up Fish And Chips
It doesn’t get much more Margs then pulling up on the grassy knoll at Surfer’s Point and watching the world class surf wild munching on some world class fish and chips courtesy of the Hooked Up van. Check their Facebook to make sure you’re there at the right time and you won’t be disappointed.
Surfer’s Point Road, Prevelly
Brewhouse Margaret River
Across the road from Margaret River Distilling Co. you’ll find a bigger, beer-fuelled time at the Brewhouse. It’s a big, no-fuss, family-friendly brewery with a lush outdoor area, plenty of hearty brews on tap and big, honest modern Australian fare.
35 Bussell Highway, Margaret River
Margaret River Chocolate Co.
Having been in operation for over two decades, the Margaret River Chocolate Co. knows their way around a sweet treat. The cafe also serve up plenty of great lunch options to go with their huge range of cakes, desserts, chocolate fondues, milk shakes, brownies and more.
415 Harman’s Mill Rd, Metricup
Sea Garden Cafe
Featuring fantastic views of Surfer’s Point and the beaches of Prevelly, the Sea Garden Cafe just happens to be the only licensed venue with ocean views in Margaret River! Whether it’s a pre-surf coffee or a post surf sunset beer you’re chasing, the Sea Garden Cafe has you sorted.
9 Mitchell Drive, Prevelly
Morries
One of the most popular eateries in Margs, Morries’ incredible tapas selection is matched only by their alluring array of cocktails – seriously, look at this list! A bustling joint since opening in 2012, don’t expect to just rock up and grab a table – make sure you book ahead. Most of the menu is made to share and while you’ll probably want to try them all, the whiting, beef cheeks and/or the kingfish ceviche are must-do’s, just go easy on the cocktails ;).
2/149 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River
The Common
The Common lives up to its name, an inviting spot offering relaxed, down south vibes that make it a favourite for visitors and locals alike. Live music regularly wafts out from their beautiful beer garden deck, there’s regular meal deals throughout the week and sports fans are well catered for with TVs and even a pool table.
1 Resort Place, Margaret River
White Elephant Cafe
For breakfast on the beach you can’t go past the White Elephant Cafe, owned and operated by local legends AJ and Alex and offering all the good stuff including local coffee from Margaret River Roasting Co, the best poached eggs going around and even the perfect wedding venue (should you require one).
Gnarabup Road, Margaret River
La Scarpetta Trattoria
All of this adventuring and wine drinking could use a serious pasta hit, and La Scarpetta Trattoria at the southern tip of town serves up some incredible varieties. It’s all made fresh in-house daily, and even has some solid gluten free and vegan options.
73 Bussell Highway, Margaret River
Burger Baby Margaret River
Perth’s love of a good burger joint is slowly spreading south, and Burger Baby is doing the south proud. Big burgers, a bigger craft beer selection, some foosball tables and friendly staff make it an very popular spot for people from all over. Stop in on Thursday nights for $9 pints and a quiz.
2 Andrews Way, Margaret River
El Toro
Another south west restaurant not afraid to bring the heat over coals, El Toro may be a relatively new kid on the Margaret River block, but it’s already hit amongst locals and visitors alike. Big South American grill vibes abound – it’s all about big flavours and bigger smiles at El Toro. Given it’s a South American grill, they’ve also got heaps of options for gluten free and vego folks too.
Unit 15/16, 49 Town View Terrace, Margaret River
Swings & Roundabouts
Originating as a passion project between friends, the good times never end at Swings & Roundabouts‘ Margaret River taphousje. Nestled between nature in the town’s centre, this spot offers an impressive seasonal menu and a stunning wrap-around balcony to ensure you dine in style.
85 Bussell Highway, Margaret River
Teddi’s Big Spoon
Teddis Big Spoon is a deliciously casual Korean restaurant located in the heart of the town. The dining menu ranges from traditional Korean dishes and delectable hot pot to tender and tasty wagyu Korean BBQ options.
113A Bussell Highway , Margaret River
Margaret River Tuck Shop
The home of amazing food, craft beer and local wines, Margaret River Tuck Shop leaves visitors feeling satisfied no matter the occasion. Tuck into delicious woodfired pizzas, fresh seafood dishes and a divine drinks menu including one of the best Tommy’s margaritas you’ll find in the south.
147 Bussell Highway, Margaret River
Squid Lips
If you’re after gourmet fresh fish and chips to finish a day of adventure, look no further than Squid Lips. This spot claims to deliver the best fish and chips in the south west, and while we’ll let you be the judge, we’re absolutely not going to argue the claim!
118 Bussell Highway, Margaret River
Cowaramup Brewing Company
Just down the road from Margs you’ll find the unassuming town of Cowaramup, a place that’s very quickly becoming as essential as the rest of the Margs region, and the Brewing Company is a great first port of call. The brewpub busts out a bunch of hearty beers, while the kitchen dishes up equally hearty feasts.
229 North Treeton Road, Cowaramup
SEE & DO
Boranup Forest
Just south of Margaret River you’ll enjoy some scenic driving through the tall trees of the Boranup Karri Forest, part of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. They can reach upwards of 60m tall, and will do plenty to remind you of how small we are in this world. There’s plenty of options to pull up and walk around, including the Boranup Lookout and a few spots to barbecue, picnic or even camp.
Amaze’n Margaret River
For an action-packed day of fun for kids big and small, head to Amaze’n where you’ll find a half-hectare giant hedge maze and an 18-hole mini golf course set amidst five hectares of lush green gardens.
Cape To Cape Trail
The 135km-long Cape to Cape Track is a hiker hotspot in spring, and Margs falls pretty much smack bang in the middle. The track is the perfect vantage point to spot whales and dolphins from the shore and is home to a whole variety of coastal wildflowers. Pick a section and go for a gentle stroll, challenge yourself with an all-day or all-track hike, or take a guided tour with operators like Cape to Cape Explorer Tours or Walk Into Luxury.
Margaret River Wellness Centre
If you’re really looking to get into a chillout zone, The Margaret River Wellness Centre provides many services from deep tissue massages to trigger point therapy to gently prod, poke and roll your way into deep relaxation.
Jewel Cave
Located a 30-minute drive south of the Margaret River town centre, Jewel Cave is the largest tourist cave in all of Western Australia with one of the longest stalactites in the world. It is recognised by visitors from across the globe as one of the world’s most spectacular show caves; encrusted with gleaming crystal ornaments throughout its three massive chambers.
Lake Cave
Lake Cave is located on Conto and Caves Road in Boranup; around a 15-minute drive south of Margaret River. Walk down 350 steps and you’ll discover a stunning pristine chamber beneath the earth, with a beautiful permanent lake reflecting the unique formations of the cave. Once back above ground, admire the views from the Lake Cave Deck, a spectacular viewing platform in the treetops.
Giants Cave
Giants Cave is an adventure cave with torches and helmets provided on arrival. Negotiate vertical ladder climbs and rock scrambles, tight spots and gigantic chambers, natural cave floor and constructed walkways for more than half a kilometre in the 86m deep cave. It’s located a 15 minute drive south of the Margaret River town centre.
Mammoth Cave
Living up to its name, Mammoth Cave is 500 metres long, 30 metres in depth and is one of only a few caves in WA that contains fossils. During winter, a stream flows through the cave, creating reflections and giving it a whole new life. It is one of the more accessible caves in the region and provides wheelchair access to the first chamber.
The Flying Wardrobe
If you’re chasing a bit of retail therapy with a difference, make sure you land at The Flying Wardrobe – a true collector’s paradise. Offering an eclectic mix of clothing, vinyl records, glassware, ceramics, toys, jewellery, books and more, if you’re done with the metro antique scene who knows what awaits at the Wardrobe.
Surfer’s Point
Arguably the region’s most iconic spot, Surfer’s Point is home to the world class waves of Margaret River main break. An area steeped in history, it’s also the home of the World Surfing League’s Western Australian event, and if the waves are too big (which is most often), it makes for fantastic viewing.
The Actual River
With all there is to see and do around Margs, it can be easy to forget there’s actually a wonderful, winding river at its heart. Head to the river mouth to play where the river meets the sea, or do a little more exploring further along where you can hire canoes or go swimming and fishing.
Coasteering
Margaret River’s Coasteering is a combination of rock jumping, hopping and shore-scrambling and provides the ultimate adventure. Discover amazing wildlife, beautiful scenery and a once in a lifetime opportunity to enjoy nature live never before. Definitely not for the faint of hear, head to Margaret River Adventure Co. to find out more and get amongst it!
The Horse Resort
Whether you’re an experienced horse rider or a complete novice, The Horse Resort is the perfect spot to enjoy nature and an elegant ride. A team of experienced instructors make this experience a relaxing and enjoyable one as you fall in love (or re-fall in love) with these gorgeous animals and their surroundings.
Gnarabup Beach
A little further south you’ll find the much calmer waters of Gnarabup Beach, it’s the most popular public beach in the area and also the main launching spot for boats. There’s a pontoon in summer, and ample opportunity to catch a fish or two if they’re biting.
Conto’s Campground
Conto Campground near Conto Springs Beach is huge, with over 100 sites nestled amongst shady peppermint woodlands in Boranup, 20 minutes south of Margaret River. It’s mostly accessible with 2WDs, and has some stellar hiking trails (jump on the Cape To Cape track here) to go with surfing, fishing or just putting ya feet up and relaxing.
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Redgate Beach
Redgate Beach is a popular surfing spot a little further south of Prevelly, and can get pretty wild and wooly in certain conditions. During summer it calms down a bit, and is a great spot for exploring – just be mindful of the conditions on the rocks close to the water.
Aboriginal Tours
The Wadandi Noongar people are the traditional owners of this part of south west WA, and if you want to learn more about their experiences with the land there is ample opportunity to do so. Cape Cultural Tours, Kaya Cape Experience and Cape Cultural Experience are all great starting points.
Eagles Heritage Raptor Wildlife Centre
An awesome, off-the-beaten path idea is to pop in to the Eagles Heritage Raptor Wildlife Centre, home to twice-daily flight displays in beautiful bushland surrounds. They have the biggest collection of eagles, hawks, falcons and owls in Australia.
Hamelin Bay
Just a quick half-hour south of Margs, Hamelin Bay is a special peace of WA coastline, world famous for the remarkably friendly stingrays that swim right up to the shore on any given day, but there’s plenty to discover further offshore and inland at this little bay just a short trip south of Margs.
ACCOMMODATION
For accomodation options check out our massive article on the best Airbnbs in Margaret River.