Best Sights Along the Coastline of Margaret River
There is never a wrong time of year to visit the Margaret River Region. Delicious wines, gourmet meals, and hand-crafted brews all enhance the area’s exceptional beauty 365 days a year.
The spring months usher in the celebration of the clearing skies and warming temperatures. September and October are ideal months to visit the region. You can dodge the summertime crowds and enjoy everything the Margaret River Region has to offer.
One of the most impressive areas in the region is also one of the most accessible. The 150km coastline offers incredible views, charming landmarks, and a wonderfully hospitable population. If you plan on visiting the region, be sure to make time to stop at these five remarkable spots near the coast.
1. Cape Naturaliste September and October Whale Watching
The spring migration of whales is an exciting tradition that draws whale enthusiasts and nature lovers from all over the world to the Margaret River Region.
The whale’s journey begins in Antarctica in the winter when they head north to propagate. Humpbacks, Orcas, Blue Whales, and Southern Rights pass the Margaret River Region. The same group make their return trip in the spring and summer.
There are several vantage points where you can see whales swimming offshore. The gentle giants are often so close to the coast that you can get a clear look without the aid of binoculars.
- Bunker Bay Viewing Platform – Near the point of Cape Naturaliste sits Bunker Bay. An exceptionally beautiful and peaceful section of An exceptionally beautiful and peaceful section of coastline, the area has modern amenities just steps away from unspoilt beaches. To see the whales, follow the walkway from the car park to the viewing platform situated above the limestone cliffs.
- Point Picquet – Viewing whales and other marine life at Point Picquet is at once soothing and breathtaking. As a protected Eagle Bay Special Purpose Zone, the area offers an incredible look at rare blue whales swimming in the deep water below the rocky cliffs. The local conservation group monitors whales from this vantage point, so seeing whales is very likely.
- Cape Naturaliste Lookout Platform – Located at the lighthouse, the lookout platform is an easy 1.3km walk from the car park. The lighthouse offers fascinating tours and a look at the life of a lighthouse keeper. You will be treated to panoramic views of the ocean as well as the whales making their annual trek.
2. Cape to Cape Walk Track
For an unforgettable experience and bragging rights for hiking enthusiasts, try traversing at least part of the 123km trail that takes you from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin. The track is a combination of man-made material, soft sand beaches, and rugged terrain that follows tracks.
The track is uniquely designed to allow access from numerous points. So, once you begin the journey, there are modern areas to exit. Those who plan to hike the whole 123km can expect a trip of roughly six days or more, depending on skill level.
You may want to plan for some sightseeing while on the trail. Along the Cape to Cape Walk Track, you will see soft sand beaches kissed by turquoise waters that one could expect to find only in dreams. There are many other fascinating sights to take in, like stunning rock formations and local wildlife. Exploring nearby caves is popular, as is viewing the stingrays at Hamlin Bay.
Since walking the trail is a five- to nine-day adventure, many hikers plan to camp along the track. If you prefer a less rustic experience, try using a car service for transport to the nearest town, where your accommodations range from average to astounding depending on where you choose to stay.
3. Gracetown
For an idyllic day in the Margaret River Region, visit Gracetown. The charming town of around 300 people is a welcome stop for many. The Cape to Cape Walk Track traverses the town bringing locals and tourists to the region.
The area around Gracetown is home to several excellent wineries, and winery tours are extremely popular with locals and tourists alike. One can’t-miss destination in Gracetown is the General Store. It is a popular place to enjoy a break and watch the town go by.
While in the area, consider enjoying time at Gracetown Beach. The area is known for its excellent surfing conditions and is the site of many national and international surfing competitions.
4. Gnarabup and Prevelly
Situated near the mouth of the Margaret River are the charming towns Gnarabup and Prevelly. The towns are perfect places for tourists (or locals) to enjoy a day at the beach or on the water. You can set sail from the boat ramp, or if canoeing is your hobby, you can launch from the mouth of the Margaret River. Both areas are deemed safe for swimming, and you can also relax on the beach and soak up the sunshine.
While in the area, make time for a stop at the popular eatery, the White Elephant Beach Café. This landmark café sits on the beach near the Gnarabup boat ramp, making it hard to miss. The café started as a beachside snack shop and soon grew into a fabulous café. After a close brush with closing, the White Elephant was redone and received a warm welcome from locals and tourists.
The Cafe is a popular spot is open for breakfast at 7:30 am and closes roughly around 3:00 pm.
5. Hamelin Bay Sting Rays
In the quiet coastal waters of Hamelin Bay, you can enjoy a fantastic adventure meeting the local sting rays. The group of sting rays has occupied Hamelin Bay for years. The scraps from fishing are said to attract them.
In the warmer months, you have the best chance to spot the rays as there is less seaweed than during other times of the year. Mornings are the best time to spot them.
Generally, you can enjoy watching the rays swimming; if you wait long enough, they will come close to you. This is normal behaviour; under typical circumstances, there is no need to fear the sting rays.
Rays have a fearsome reputation as being dangerously aggressive after the widely publicized 2006 death of Steve Irwin. Rays are not typically aggressive, and Irwin’s tragic death is one of just a handful recorded in Australia.
A holiday in the Margaret River is a perfect opportunity to enjoy world-class wineries, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy a step away from your daily routine. If this sounds like something you might enjoy, then be sure to contact Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge.