Things to Do in Margaret River

Michelle Wright

General Manager

You must get outdoors and into nature! Gnarabup Beach/Rifle Butts is a beautiful beach walk trail and a great place for a quick ocean dip, the best way to start the day.

The Wadandi Track is a 31km (one-way) trail from Cowaramup to Sebbes Road (5 minute drive south of Witchliffe). The track takes you through some of the most beautiful natural bush, farmland and vineyards in the Margaret River region.

Sunrise breakfast at the beach – Sea Gardens.

Sunset meal at the beach – The Common.

Sian Baker

Festival Director, Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival

Margaret River Bookshop: relax and browse the stacks for literary gems, beloved classics and discover the finest South West authors. Located on the Margaret River High Street.

Stephanie Kreutzer

Events

Walking along the Margaret River starting at Rotary Park then crossing the weir and returning on the other side of the river to the Old Settlement. Finish your walk with coffee at the Hairy Marron Café.

Walk from the Rivermouth to Gnarabup Beach stopping for the odd dip along the way. Coffee or a snack at the White Elephant before the return walk.

Cycling the Rails to Trails from Margaret River to Witchcliffe with a stop at Yardbird Café for brunch or lunch. An easy cycle through forest, past farmland and friendly cows, vineyards and a new rural subdivision before arriving in Witchcliffe.

Trevor Brannan

Finance and Administration Manager

La Scarpetta Trattoria, Bussell Highway (bottom of High Street) – “super” Italian.

Wander the high street in Cowaramup (Cow Town).

Caves Road Galleries – stop at them all if you can.

Dawn Rybicki

Front of House

For those who love getting out amongst it, the natural wonders on offer in Margaret River are second to none.

The Cape-to-Cape track never fails to deliver. Hike from Ellenbrook to Lefties or South Point and take in the stunning coastal vistas, with the opportunity for whale spotting during season. 

Forest trails offer a peaceful alternative to coastal rambles, many of which are easily accessible from Rotary Park. The Chimney Trail out Carters Road is a highlight, for both bike riders and walkers.

If all that exercise has worked up an appetite, head to Olio Bello. A certified organic olive farm with tasting room and café, it’s a favourite for morning tea and lunch. With safari-style glamping available, you might even want to stay the night!

Pam Townshend

Front of House

Spend time at the Witch and Windmill, 3 Redgate Rd, Witchcliffe. You will find several shops within this extraordinary building – Witchy Brews, a great little coffee shop that sells Two Cracks Coffee, Miranda Aitken’s Marritree Fine Art and Books store and a splendid Herb shop. There are pop-up events and regular open-mic nights for music and poetry.

The old building (Darnell’s store) has been lovingly and creatively renovated by Sam Caruso, a living legend, with found objects and salvaged building materials – the finished building is an interesting crazy museum with thousands of quirky design features. Well worth a visit!

There are other interesting places along the main street of Witchcliffe – the Flying Wardrobe, the Tiny Store on Lake St, Cookies Galore, Yardbyrd Coffee shop, wine tasting venues and Margaret River Candle Company.

You can cycle to Witchcliffe from Margaret River, along the Wadandi track.

Christopher Young

Marketing

Bellview Shell Collection: it constantly surprises me how many locals don’t know about this eclectic place. Its plain exterior hides a wunderkammer!

Merchant Rock: a deeply moving place that is almost always deserted. Drive carefully if going in a normal car and be cautious anywhere near the water as large waves can easily catch you unawares. That whole stretch of coast is stunning.

Vasse Felix: a wonderful – if pricey – place for lunch and there is a great art gallery downstairs.