If you’re looking for the perfect weekend getaway from Perth, Margaret River is the ideal destination. Located about a 3-hour drive south of the city, this charming town is famous for its world-class wineries, pristine beaches, and fascinating natural attractions like limestone caves. With so much to do, you can easily fill your weekend with a mix of wine-tasting, adventure, and relaxation. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time in Margaret River, from savoring fine wines to exploring the coastline and underground wonders.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Heart of Wine Country

Morning: Arriving in Margaret River

Start your weekend with a scenic drive down to Margaret River. The town is known for its beautiful landscapes, rolling hills, and, of course, its vineyards. If you’re driving, make sure to enjoy the lush countryside views as you approach the region. If you prefer to fly, the nearest airport is in Busselton, about 40 minutes from Margaret River.

Once you arrive in Margaret River, check into your accommodation. Whether you’re staying at a cozy bed and breakfast, a luxury resort, or a quaint cottage, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Lunch: A Delicious Vineyard Feast

One of the best things about Margaret River is its abundant vineyards that offer delicious food and wine experiences. Head to a winery for a long, leisurely lunch, where you can enjoy local produce paired with exquisite wines.

• Recommended Winery Lunch Spots:
  • Vasse Felix: One of the region’s oldest and most renowned wineries, Vasse Felix offers a fantastic restaurant with views over the vineyards. Enjoy a modern Australian menu made from locally sourced ingredients, paired with award-winning wines.
  • Leeuwin Estate: Known for its spectacular setting and exceptional wine, Leeuwin Estate’s restaurant serves a seasonally inspired menu, with options designed to complement their premium wines.

Afternoon: Wine Tasting at Iconic Vineyards

After lunch, it’s time to dive into some wine tasting. Margaret River is home to over 150 wineries, each with its own unique offerings. You could easily spend an entire day touring vineyards and sampling world-class wines.

• Notable Vineyards to Visit:
  • Cullen Wines: Famous for its organic and biodynamic practices, Cullen Wines produces some of the best red and white wines in the region. The cellar door offers an intimate wine-tasting experience with a stunning view of the vineyard.
  • Howard Park Wines: Known for its elegant, cool-climate wines, Howard Park offers tastings in a modern cellar door overlooking lush gardens and vines. It’s the perfect spot to learn more about the winemaking process.

Evening: Dinner at a Local Restaurant

After a day of wine tasting, enjoy a delicious dinner in Margaret River. Many restaurants feature locally sourced produce and seafood, often paired with wines from the region.

• Recommended Dining:
  • Miki’s Open Kitchen: A popular spot offering a unique dining experience where you can watch the chefs at work. The menu combines Australian and Asian influences, with fresh, local ingredients.
  • The River Bar & Grill: Located on the banks of the Margaret River, this relaxed and cozy restaurant offers a fantastic selection of fresh seafood, steak, and local produce.

Night: Relax and Unwind

After dinner, take a stroll along the Margaret River town center or enjoy a drink at one of the local pubs. The Settlers Tavern is a well-known spot for its vibrant atmosphere and great local beer selection.

Day 2: Surf, Caves, and Coastal Exploration

Morning: Sunrise at a Margaret River Beach

Start your day early by heading to one of Margaret River’s stunning beaches to catch the sunrise. Whether you’re into surfing or just enjoy the serenity of the coastline, the beaches here are breathtaking.

• Recommended Beaches:
  • Prevelly Beach: Famous for its surf breaks and crystal-clear water, Prevelly is a beautiful spot to start the day. The early morning light makes for spectacular views of the ocean.
  • Gnarabup Beach: A more sheltered beach, perfect for swimming, relaxing, or a morning walk along the shore. Gnarabup offers a peaceful start to the day with fewer crowds.

Late Morning: Surfing Lessons or Watching the Pros

Margaret River is internationally known for its incredible surf, particularly at Margaret’s Beach, which attracts surfers from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner, this area is ideal for catching some waves.

• For Beginners: Head to Prevelly Beach for beginner-friendly surf lessons. Several surf schools in the area, like Margaret River Surf School, offer private or group lessons that cater to all skill levels.
• For Pros or Spectators: If you’re an experienced surfer or just want to watch the experts, make your way to Margaret’s Beach or Surfers Point. During the right conditions, you’ll see some of the best surfers in the world riding the famous waves.

Lunch: Beachside Café or Picnic

After a morning of surfing or beach relaxation, grab a bite at one of the local beachside cafés or pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the beautiful parks nearby.

• Recommended Lunch Spots:
  • White Elephant Café: Overlooking Gnarabup Beach, the White Elephant Café offers fresh, light meals with a focus on local ingredients and seafood.
  • The Studio Bistro: A laid-back spot in the heart of Margaret River, this café serves delicious fresh fare, perfect for refueling after your morning adventures.

Afternoon: Explore the Caves

After lunch, it’s time to explore some of the fascinating underground wonders that Margaret River has to offer. The region is home to a network of limestone caves, which are perfect for those looking for adventure and a taste of nature’s hidden beauty.

• Ngilgi Cave: Just a short drive from Margaret River, Ngilgi Cave is one of the area’s most famous limestone caves. With its stunning stalactites and stalagmites, the cave offers guided tours where you can learn about its geological formations.
• Jewel Cave: A little further south, Jewel Cave is known for its large formations and vibrant mineral colors. The cave is awe-inspiring and offers guided tours that explain the history and geological significance of this natural wonder.

Evening: Sunset at Cape Naturaliste

As your weekend in Margaret River draws to a close, head out to Cape Naturaliste for one last sunset. The Cape offers breathtaking views over the Indian Ocean, and the lighthouse at the point is a perfect backdrop for your final sunset of the weekend.

• Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse: You can take a short walk from the lighthouse to a stunning lookout, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coast and the setting sun. It’s a peaceful and picturesque spot to reflect on your time in this beautiful region.

Dinner: A Relaxed End to Your Weekend

Finish your weekend with a final meal at a restaurant or winery. A relaxed dinner with local wine and produce will be the perfect way to round off your weekend in Margaret River.

• Recommended Dinner:
  • The Goose: A beachfront restaurant offering a fantastic menu of fresh local seafood and Australian cuisine. The setting is perfect for a relaxed, final evening meal.

Conclusion: A Weekend Well-Spent in Margaret River

From sipping wine at world-class wineries to catching waves at famous beaches and exploring underground caves, a weekend in Margaret River is the perfect mix of indulgence, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re a wine lover, surfer, or nature enthusiast, this stunning region offers something for everyone. With so much to see and do, a weekend in Margaret River is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a longing to return.