The Margaret River region in Western Australia is the perfect spot for a few days away. From world-class wineries and gourmet dining to stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences, it's no wonder this area is a favorite for both local and international travellers.
Recently, I had the pleasure of exploring this beautiful region, and I was captivated by the variety of experiences it offers. Whether you're a foodie, a wine lover, adventurer, or simply looking to unwind, Margaret River has something to please everyone. In this guide, I’ll take you through some of the standout places I visited, sharing photos, and discussing positives and negatives.
This post will focus on things to see and do in Margaret River. Those looking for restaurant and winery recommendations for Margaret River can see our food related post on Margaret River here.
Go Underground at the Glistening Lake Cave
Lake Cave is one of the most stunning natural attractions in the Margaret River region. This breathtaking cave is known for its pristine underground lake and incredible limestone formations, including a formation known as the "Suspended Table", which floats above the lake’s surface.
Your experienced guide will take you down into the depths of the cave, where you’ll be awed by the beauty and tranquility of this subterranean wonder. It may be worth noting that before entering the cave, visitors on the tour will need to descend down 350 wooden stairs, and return back up the same stairs after the tour.
Left: Looking down towards the entrance to Lake Cave. Right: Looking up from the entrance to Lake Cave.
The experience is both educational and extraordinary, as you learn about the geological history of the cave and the processes that formed its unique features. The cave is of course home to a variety of delicate formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, which are beautifully illuminated throughout the tour. Expect to feel a few drops on our head and shoulders as the water seeps through the earth, and down the tip of the stalactites. Once you know the drips are nothing of concern, you'll find the sound of the drops into the lake quite relaxing!
Views inside Lake Cave.
The cave is a must-visit for anyone interested in the natural wonders of the Margaret River region and offers a glimpse into the hidden beauty beneath the earth’s surface. The beauty of Lake Cave was definitely worth the trek up and down the 350 stairs in my opinion!
The cave is only open for guided tours, so be sure to book in advance to secure your spot! Lake Cave is currently open 9am-5pm 7 day a week, however, be sure to check the official website for more information.
Location: Caves Rd & Conto Rd, Forest Grove WA
Other recommended caves in Margaret River:
Mammoth Cave
Mammoth Cave offers self-guided tours, allowing you to enjoy the cave at your own pace. Expect to see ancient fossils of extinct Australian mega-fauna that once roamed the region.
Jewel Cave
Jewel Cave is the biggest show cave in Western Australia, and houses the longest straw stalactites in Australia.
Check out the Tiny Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the rugged coastline that defines the Margaret River region. The lighthouse itself is steeped in history, having been built in 1904 out of local limestone. Although only 22 metres tall, the lighthouse is easy visible to ships due to it's position high on a cliff.
The museum has some great information about the history of the lighthouse, complete with artefacts and interactive displays.
During whale migration season, when you can often spot whales from the viewing platforms. The surrounding area offers several walking trails, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the cape while enjoying the fresh sea air. Unfortunately we didn't get a chance to explore the area as much as we hoped, due to very windy and rainy weather!
Those hoping enter the lighthouse will need to do so on a guided tour, as the lighthouse is not open directly to the public. With just 60 stairs to the top, this should be a much easier 176 stair trek to the top than the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse!
Location: Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, 1267 Cape Naturaliste Rd WA
Admire the views from the top of the Historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
Standing at the South-Western most point of Australia, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. This historic lighthouse, built from local limestone in 1895, is the tallest on mainland Australia.
The visitor's center offers guided tours of the lighthouse, allowing visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the life of a lighthouse keeper. The guided tours provide fascinating insights into the lighthouse’s history, its role in maritime safety, and the challenges faced by those who maintained it. Be prepared to climb to the top of the 39 metre tower via original spiral staircase on your tour!
We were lucky enough to be able to exit out onto the exterior walkway on the day we visited, and were greeted with the most amazing views. Unfortunately we weren't lucky enough to spot a whale, but keep an eye out, as they are a common sight in the area!
For those not keen on a guided tour, the Interpretive Centre in the old lighthouse keepers' cottage houses artefacts and stories about the lighthouse, and the people who maintained it, and may be worth a visit if short on time.
The lighthouse is not open to the general public, so be sure to book a ticket in advance if you plan on entering.
Location: Leeuwin Rd, Augusta WA
Not staying in Margaret River? Or don't plan on driving? Book this one-day tour from Perth to visit the Busselton Jetty, Cheeky Monkey Brewing, Mammoth Cave, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, and Margaret River town. |
Visit The Capes Raptor Centre - A Wildlife Sanctuary Dedicated to Australia's Birds of Prey
The Capes Raptor Centre is an incredible wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the rehabilitation and conservation of birds of prey. A visit to the center offers a unique opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close and learn about their important role in the ecosystem. The knowledgeable staff informative talks and demonstrations, where you can witness the birds in action and gain a deeper understanding of their behavior and characteristics.
On the day I visited I joined the Bird of Prey Encounter, which was held under a small rotunda, due to rain. It was held by a knowledgeable and passionate staff member who told us about the history of the Raptor Centre, taught us about the uniqueness of the birds, and introduced us to two native Australian owls. I really enjoyed learning more about the owls, however, young children will likely find the talk quite dry and uninteresting. After the talk, we all had a chance to get a photo with the owls, however, please be aware that visitors are unable to hold the birds.
Following the Bird of Prey Encounter we had a chance to walk around the grounds and see some more of the birds the Raptor Centre is currently housing. Although there is ample space on the grounds, we found the enclosures to be very small. When questioning the staff at reception about the size of the cages, we were told there was simply no money to upgrade them.
Overall, a great learning experience, but a real shame that some of Australia's finest birds are housed in such small environments.
Location: 341 Boodjidup Rd, Margaret River WA
Those short on time in Margaret River, may wish to join an organised tour to make the most of their time. Margaret River Full Day Tour: Includes visits to wineries, breweries, and local sweets producers. Margaret River Half Day Tour: Includes visits to wineries, coffee farm, berry farm, and forest. |
Final thoughts on our trip to Margaret River
Despite rain each and every day on this trip, we thoroughly enjoyed our experience in this gorgeous part of Western Australia. We'd both heard a lot about Margaret River in the past, from friends and family who had visited, and were worried it may not meet our high expectations, but it really went above and beyond. The wine was exceptional, the food was outstanding, and the area was lunch and green and filled with fresh air.
Don't forget to read part 2 of our Margaret River series, which focuses on some of the regions best food. You can read part 2 here.
We're already planning another trip to this part of Australia to visit more lighthouses, do some bush walking, taste more wine, and eat more of the region's finest produce!
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I love exploring plates where geology is part of the learning experience! Great post.