Margaret River

Location: 277 km south of Perth.
Population: 10,000
Attractions: Magnificent caves, wineries, surfing, beaches, forests, cuisine, galleries, wine bars.
Accommodation: A range of farmstays, 3 hostels, chalets, lodges, guest houses, caravan parks, hotels and motels,
Visitor Centre: 100 Bussell Highway, Margaret River. Tel: 08 9780 5911.

Situated where lush forest meets the headwinds coming off the ocean, Margaret River, or Margs' as it's affectionately called, has a huge variety of things to do and see. This place offers everything underneath the hot south Western Australia sun: surf, ancient forests, world-class wineries, caving, canoeing, abseiling, bush tucker tours, and a thriving arts community, to name just a smattering.

Locals here are still mellow and kind to everyone, despite the place having grown up just a little bit in recent years. Perhaps this preservation of spirit is due to the 20 odd something surf breaks and 50 wineries, all within a half hours drive.

Famous waves here include the Margaret River 'Main Break,' which has one of the gnarliest tubes of any reef break in the world. Several surf competitions are held here every year. The Margaret River Solomon Masters is held in April. Come November the Margaret River Classic is held.

If you find yourself driving around aimlessly do hit up Caves Road. Caves Road is very scenic and there are countless scenic caves you can check out; including Calgarup and Giant's Cave. Both of these are still in their natural state and those annoying electrical lights are nowhere to be found. Graciously, both helmets and torches are provided.

In the event money is a little bit tight consider stopping overnight at one of the many campgrounds that pepper the region. Conto Campground is right off Caves Road on Conto Road. In the event you want to beach camp it, continue on down Conto Road and you will soon find yourself at Point Road Campground.

On the coast be sure to cast a fishing line. The entire Margaret River area abounds with Bream, Herring, and Yellow Fin Whiting fish. Or if none of the above strikes your fancy go for a leisurely bike ride on the Rails to Trails: a bike track stretching from Margaret River to Cowaramup. There are two backpacker hostels in town with a multitude of alternative accommodation options available in and around Margaret River. See the Margaret River Visitor Centre.

Margaret River Accommodation

Margaret River Hotels

Margaret River Backpacker Hostels