Margaret River Itinerary: Ultimate 3‑Day & 5‑Day Guide from Perth
Planning a trip to Western Australia’s South West? This Margaret River itinerary gives you a flexible 3‑day plan with a 5‑day extension for longer stays.
We’ll cover the best route from Perth to Margaret River, exactly how many days you need and the best wineries in Margaret River, best beaches, caves to visit and the best places to stay in the Margaret River Region.
Let’s get started.
Is Margaret River Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. The region blends world‑class wineries with dramatic coastline, ancient karri forests and amazing dining experiences.
It’s one of WA’s most rewarding short breaks, with plenty of local charm.
How Many Days in Margaret River?
First‑timers should plan for at least 3 days. That covers the essentials – the town, wineries, beaches and caves.
With 5 days, you can add extra stops like Dunsborough, Yallingup and Augusta for a slower, scenic pace.
Perth to Margaret River Itinerary
The direct route from Perth to Margaret River takes around 3 hours (260 km) via the Kwinana Freeway and Bussell Highway.
Our recommended stops along the way include; The Crooked Carrot in Myalup or Bunbury Farmers Market,
3‑Day Margaret River Itinerary
Day 1 – Perth → Margaret River Town & Coastline
- Start the road trip in Perth, get the Spotify playlist going and set off towards the Southwest.
- Check in to your accommodation (see Best Places to Stay in Margaret River).
- Stroll Margaret River’s main street – browse boutiques, galleries and cafés.
- Sunset at Surfers Point or Gnarabup Beach.
Day 2 – Wineries, Forest Trails & Local Produce
- Morning walk through Rotary Park or along the riverside trail.
- Visit Margaret River Farmers Market (Saturday mornings between 7:30 am – 11:30 am) for local fruit, cheese and pastries.
- Spend the afternoon touring Margaret River wineries – Vasse Felix, Leeuwin Estate or Voyager Estate are local icons.
- Dinner at a brewery or local restaurant in town.
Day 3 – Beaches, Boranup Forest & Caves
- Explore the best beaches in Margaret River: Gnarabup, Redgate or Hamelin Bay (look for stingrays!).
- Drive through the Boranup Karri Forest for towering trees and photo stops.
- Visit Lake Cave or Mammoth Cave – both easy to access and family‑friendly.
- Drive south to Augusta and tour the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse – where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet.
5-Day Margaret River Itinerary
Extend the 3‑day plan with these extra adventures
Day 4 – Dunsborough & Yallingup Highlights
- Explore Ngilgi Cave or the Canal Rocks boardwalk.
- Swim at Meelup Beach, Eagle Bay or Castle Rock Bay.
- Snorkel at Aquarium or visit Injidup Natural Spa.
- Lunch at Wild Hop Brewery or Swings and Roundabouts
- Optional stop at Sugarloaf Rock for sunset.
Day 5 – Meelup Farmhouse and Busselton Jetty
- Treat yourself to a brunch at Meelup Farmhouse
- Go for a stroll at Busselton Jetty
- Return to Perth with new memories made
If you have time to spend in Perth, make sure you check out our Perth Itinerary next.
Best Things to Do in Margaret River (Local Favourites)
Stroll the Town Centre: Enjoy Margaret River’s main street cafés, local galleries, and artisan stores.
Forest & Riverside Walks: Go on a peaceful walk around Rotary Park or along the riverbank.
Boranup Forest Drive: A photographer’s dream – sunlight filtering through ancient karri trees.
Farmers Market (Saturdays 7:30 am – 11:30 am): Meet locals and sample produce from the region.
Cave Adventures: Choose between Jewel, Lake, Ngilgi or Mammoth Cave – each offers a unique guided experience.
Beaches & Coastal Spots: Gnarabup, Injidup, Smith Beach, Eagle Bay and Meelup Beach are some of our favourite.
Sunset Lookouts: Head to Redgate, Cape Mentelle, Prevelly or Sugarloaf Rock for golden hour.
Local Food & Wine: Pair tastings at smaller cellar doors with a brewery lunch or picnic hamper.
Busselton Jetty Stop: Perfect en route from Perth for a walk or coffee.
Make sure you don’t miss our full list of 20 things to do in Margaret River.
Best Margaret River Wineries & Wine Tours
Some of the best wineries in Margaret River to consider:
- Vasse Felix
- Leeuwin Estate
- Voyager Estate
- Cape Mentelle
- Aravina Estate
- Fishbone Wines
For a hassle‑free day, join a Margaret River wine tour and visit 3–5 wineries with a local guide.
Best Beaches in Margaret River
Gnarabup Beach: Calm mornings, ideal for a swim.
Hamelin Bay: Famous for stingrays gliding in shallow water.
Redgate Beach: Rugged cliffs and dramatic surf.
Meelup Beach: Crystal‑clear water, perfect for families.
Eagle Bay Beach: Beautiful wide beach with calm shallow water, the north part of the beach is dog friendly.
Smith Beach: An iconic beach with beautiful white sands, crystal-clear waters and great surf breaks.
Best Places To Stay in Margaret River Region
|
Area |
Vibe |
Suggested Options |
|
Margaret River Town |
Central & convenient |
Margaret River Resort, Margarets In Town Apartments, Chambré Estate |
|
Dunsborough / Yallingup |
Coastal & luxurious |
Pullman Bunker Bay Resort Margaret River, Canal Rocks Beachfront Apartments, Smiths Beach Resort |
|
Busselton |
Family‑friendly |
Hilton Garden Inn Busselton, RAC Busselton Holiday Park, Bayview Geographe Resort |
|
Forest / Retreat Stays |
Peaceful & private |
FAQs
How Many Days in Margaret River?
We would recommend at least 3 days to cover the highlights of Margaret River Region – town, coast and wineries.
5 days will allow you to explore caves, forests and see the Yallingup and Dunsborough highlights.
Is Margaret River Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Between beaches, wineries, caves and laid‑back charm, it’s one of WA’s most iconic regions and a must visit if travelling through Western Australia.
When is the best time to visit Margaret River?
Margaret River can be enjoyed all-year round and the best time to visit depends on your plans.
Winter can be cold and wet but you’ll be able to explore the region without the crowds and lower accommodation prices. It’s a great time to hit the wineries and enjoy a cosy forest retreat.
Spring is a great time for whale watching and hiking amongst the wildflowers with milder temperatures, less rainy days and fewer crowds.
Summer is peak season in the Southwest region as it’s a popular destination for both international tourists and Perth locals. It’s an ideal time for beaches, swimming and snorkelling.
Autumn ideal for a mix of beaches, swimming and hiking with temperatures starting to drop and often less busy than summer.
Is Margaret River Dog Friendly?
There are many dog friendly beaches, wineries and activities. It’s definitely possible to visit Margaret River with your pooch.
Where should i go after Margaret River?
If you have more time to spend in Western Australia and don’t want the adventure to end (we get that!) we’d highly recommend driving further down to Denmark and Albany. Check out our Albany and Denmark Itinerary here.
Final Words
Margaret River is a favourite amongst local West Aussies for a good reason – beautiful beaches, ancient forests, world-class wine and food, and that relaxed Western Australian energy that makes you slow down and soak it all in.
Whether you have 3 or 5 days, you’ll find yourself discovering something new around every corner.
Take your time, support local businesses and enjoy the journey – the drives around Margaret River are often just as special as the destinations.
If you’re visiting Western Australia during winter and are chasing warm weather, sun and snorkel adventures, considering driving up north instead. We’ve put together a full Perth to Exmouth Road Trip Itinerary.
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