Food, wine, nature and beach bliss – the perfect antidote to a busy life
Not only is Busselton the gateway to the renowned Margaret River region, this laidback coastal town is also an appealing destination in itself. With endless sandy beaches, crystal clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving, and a world-famous jetty within easy reach, it’s the kind of place that inspires sea-change fantasies.
Take in the panoramic views of Geographe Bay as you stroll down Busselton Jetty then get a fish’s perspective at the Underwater Observatory, eight metres below the surface at the jetty’s end.
A 25-minute drive away is Dunsborough, a seaside getaway popular with Perth folks for its protected beaches, good cycling paths and classic country bakery, the much-loved Dunsborough Bakery.
Another 20 minutes and you’ll be in Margaret River, one of Australia’s best wine regions. When you’re not hopping between award-winning wineries, boutique breweries and fine restaurants, the area’s stunning beaches (including some world-class surf breaks), glorious karri forests and ancient caves will keep you busy.
With a lively calendar of cultural, sporting and foodie events, ‘Margs’ is worth a visit at any time of year.
Things to do: Busselton and Margaret River region
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![Pretty grey and white huts at the start of Busselton Jetty.]()
Busselton Jetty
Busselton Jetty, the crown jewel of Busselton and its waterfront precinct, was originally built in 1865 and measured just 165 metres long. The new-look jetty is now 1.8km long, making it the longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere. Take a spectacularly scenic walk (or cute train ride) to the end of the jetty, then dip underneath to the Underwater Observatory and get up close with the technicolour marine life below.
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![Sunset light across the rows of vines in one of Margaret River’s wineries.]()
Margaret River wineries
Busselton is an easy 45-minute drive to a gourmet wonderland of renowned wineries – choose from 220 wineries, 100 cellar doors and many award-winning restaurants. Time your trip to catch festivals like the Western Australia Gourmet Escape (November), or travel a little further afield to Truffle Kerfuffle (June) and Taste Great Southern (March/April).
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![Two people look across the water to Sugarloaf Rock.]()
Cape to Cape Track
Extending some 135 kilometres from Cape Naturaliste near Dunsborough to Cape Leeuwin near Augusta, the Cape to Cape Track takes five or six days to trek in its entirety, but offers plenty of opportunity to dip in and out for short walks as well. Sweeping Indian Ocean views, heavenly beaches, stunning forest scenery and, from August to November, a kaleidoscope of colourful wildflowers make this track unforgettable.
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![An enormous whale leaps from deep blue water off the coast at Busselton.]()
Whale watching
The coastline of this region is prime whale-watching territory. Roughly 35,000 whales migrate through the waters off Margaret River’s coast – including humpback, southern right, minke and blue whales – between June to December each year. These gigantic beauties are often visible from the shore but the best way to witness their antics up close is to join one of the numerous whale-watching tours operating in the region.
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![A person on the viewing platform deep within the incredible stalactite-covered Ngilgi Caves.]()
Ngilgi Cave
Don’t miss the ornate Ngilgi Cave near Yallingup, a labyrinth of subterranean chambers hypnotically drenched in stalactites and helictites. There’s an impressive system of boardwalks linking the caves, the interiors of which are gently illuminated so you can appreciate the incredible natural details of these magical formations. Considered WA’s first tourist attraction, the cave also has a significant place in local Aboriginal legend.
Airport information
Airport Busselton Margaret River Airport opens in new window (BQB)
Distance to Busselton 8km
Taxi Busselton Taxi offer a range of taxis and rental vehicles. Call 131 008 or 08 9752 2730 to pre-arrange an airport pick-up.
Bus South West Coach Lines opens in new window operates a bus to and from the airport, as well as services connecting various destinations in the region.
Back to topWhen to go
There isn’t a bad time to visit this region, but summer is certainly the busiest and liveliest. Mid-seasons are also fine and winter (June–September) is the quietest. There are many excellent festivals throughout the year so check the WA festivals calendar if you want to plan your trip around an event or interest.
Ready to go? Find cheap flights to Busselton and Margaret River
Back to topGetting around
TransRegional operate public buses, and there are taxis available to call, but this area is all about exploring, so hiring a car is probably the most efficient option.
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