There’s perhaps no better destination in Australia to kick back and unwind surrounded by nature, beautiful vineyards and glorious coastline, including some of WA's best surf and beaches. Lucky visitors can lose themselves in the ultimate get-away, completely refreshing body and soul.
UNTAMED BEAUTY – ECO TOURISM AT ITS BEST
The wild, rugged beauty of the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge with its dramatic cliffs and rocks, the tranquil aqua waters of the many protected bays, the local vineyards covered in rising mist in the early morning all contribute to outstanding visual splendour. It’s a photographer’s dream.
For a more hands on approach when visiting the area the intrepid traveller can journey along the Cape to Cape Track, stretching from Cape Leeuwin to Cape Naturaliste. The total journey takes between 5-6 days with plenty of delightful stops and welcome camping rests along the walk. For those a little less adventurous, many sections of the trail make for a most enjoyable short stroll. Section maps are available in both visitor centres.
Large stingrays grace the waters of Hamelin Bay. There are schools of dolphins, the occasional seal, and on land kangaroos, possums and bird life aplenty. The Blackwood and Margaret Rivers' meandering waterways are visited by pelicans, hundreds of black swans, red necked stints, egrets while onshore blue wrens, silvereyes, magpies and a number of species of cockatoos.
Out at the Leeuwin Cape and along the spectacular beaches view a variety of seabirds including the Yellow nosed Albatross, Great winged Petrel, the Australasian Gannet and the Flesh-footed Shearwater, to name just a few. The Blackwood and Margaret Rivers also offer abundant water activities, ranging from canoeing to fishing and boating. The Blackwood is also becoming internationally renowned for its favourable kitesurfing conditions.
In Spring the countryside comes alive with a huge variety of Australian wildflowers which lay a carpet of mesmerising colours through the forests and coastal heath. It’s wonderful for those who like to walk and explore.
FISHING – AS GOOD AS IT GETS
The area is a fisherman’s paradise. With its abundance of waterways there’s something for everyone from the professional to the amateur and the family fun day out.
Fishing from a boat, the jetty or the riverbank will reward you with Bream, Herring and Yellow Fin Whiting. Blue Manor crabs are found in season, but you may need to get friendly with the locals to find out where. Beach fishing all along the coast is extensive and worth the exploration and effort.
BEACHES
The serene aqua water of Hamelin Bay provides the perfect ambiance for relaxing in the sun, beach combing, swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving out on the shipwrecks. This bay is often graced with the presence of stingrays which can be hand fed. Beach combing in stormy weather will reap many treasures spilled onto the sand by incoming waves.
SPORT
Besides the many water sports on offer such as water skiing, surfing, canoeing, kayaking, kitesurfing, and windsurfing, improve your handicap on one of the world’s most scenic golf courses in Augusta, a mere 30 minute drive south of Margaret River. There’s bowls, tennis, walk trails, cycling and many other sporting activities to keep the energy packed holiday maker busy. A number of local operators provide guided tours. Margaret River is a kids wonderland! With safe swimming beaches, abundant natural attractions AND adventure aplenty, the region is perfect for that special family holiday... escape today.
For Kids
The majority of local businesses operate with a child-friendly ethos in mind, helping to ensure that children are entertained whilst the parents take a well-earned break; tasting world-class wines, consuming gourmet delicacies and enjoying the culture of relaxation that IS Margaret River!
WARDAN ABORIGINAL CULTURAL CENTRE
The Wardandi people are the traditional custodians of this region and have an affinity with the sea and multitude of local caves. It is through the caves that the afterlife is reached and where the sea spirit Wardandi is found. The Wardandi people along with the other local Bibbulmum and Noongah Aborigines have a well-defined culture, richly endowed with music, art and legend.
WHERE TWO OCEANS MEET
The historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse at Augusta is situated at the most south westerly tip of Australia, standing at the point where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. This famous landmark is over 100 years old and remains an important working lighthouse. Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is situated 10 minutes drive south of Augusta.