3-Day Margaret River Itinerary for First-Timers (Hidden Gems + Food Stops)

Intro

If you’re crafting a Margaret River itinerary, remember that Margaret River isn’t just about wine — it’s one of WA’s most loved regions for food, beaches, forests, caves, and picture-perfect coastal drives.
If you’re visiting for the first time, this 3-day Margaret River itinerary gives you the perfect mix of wineries, adventure, local eats, and hidden gems, without trying to cram too much in.

Easy days. Big memories. Zero stress.


Quick Snapshot — Your 3-Day Plan

Day 1: Margaret River Town • Caves • Coastal Lookouts
Day 2: Wineries • Lunch Views • Chocolate / Cheese Stops
Day 3: Beaches • Forest Walks • Breweries

your Margaret River itinerary starts here

Where to Stay (General Traveller Picks)

Whether you’re after convenience, charm, or something quiet, these areas suit almost everyone:

✔ Margaret River Town (Most convenient)

Walk to cafés, restaurants, bars, and shops.

✔ Prevelly / Gnarabup (Best for views & beaches)

Perfect for coastal lovers.

✔ Yallingup / Dunsborough (Stylish upper-coast base)

Stunning beaches, close to caves & premium wineries.


Day 1 — Explore Caves, Coastlines & the Town

Morning — Breaky & a Town Wander

Grab a coffee in Margaret River town and explore the boutiques, local crafts, and bakeries.

Mid-Morning — Lake or Mammoth Cave

Both are beginner-friendly and incredible introductions to the region’s limestone systems.

Tip: Book ahead during peak season.

Lunch — Prevelly or Gnarabup

Head to the coast for lunch with a view. Watch surfers, dolphins, or simply settle in for a relaxing afternoon by the water.

Afternoon — Coastal Lookouts

Don’t miss:

  • Surfers Point
  • Redgate Beach
  • Canal Rocks (short drive but worth it)

Evening — Settle In & Dinner in Town

Plenty of pubs, wine bars, and relaxed restaurants perfect for your first night.


Day 2 — Wineries, Chocolates & Scenic Drives

This is your “classic Margaret River day.”

Morning — Start with a Guided Winery Tour

Let someone else do the driving. You’ll learn more, taste more, and relax more.

Lunch — Winery Restaurant

Choose a vineyard with a view and settle in for a long lunch.

Popular picks:

  • Voyager Estate
  • Leeuwin Estate
  • Xanadu

Afternoon — Chocolate, Cheese & Treats

Stop by:

  • Margaret River Chocolate Company
  • Yallingup Cheese Company
  • Providore Margaret River
A steaming mug of coffee served with a slice of berry cheesecake on a wooden café table, with people chatting in the background.
A comforting mug of coffee with a slice of berry cheesecake, enjoyed in a warm and welcoming café atmosphere.

These make easy, delicious afternoon breaks.

Evening — Sunset & Casual Dinner

Find a quiet lookout, grab fish & chips, or relax back at your accommodation.


Day 3 — Beaches, Forest Trails & Breweries

Morning — Hit the Beach

Depending on your base, choose from:

  • Gnarabup Beach
  • Smiths Beach
  • Bunker Bay (arguably the best water in the region)

Late Morning — Boranup Forest Drive

Tall karri trees, peaceful atmosphere, and some of the region’s best photo spots.

Lunch — Local Brewery

Perfect for general travellers — relaxed atmosphere, great food, and local craft beers.

Afternoon — Choose Your Finale

Pick one:

  • A second winery
  • A forest walk
  • A coastal drive
  • A wildlife encounter
  • Shopping in town

Evening — Final Dinner & Stroll

Finish the trip with something cosy and local.


Best Time to Visit

  • March–May: Mild weather, perfect winery season
  • September–November: Wildflowers, warm days
  • Summer: Busy but beautiful
  • Winter: Fireplaces, empty beaches, cheaper stays

privacy policy is like driving through a tall forest

Insider Tips

  • Don’t try to do every winery — pick 3–4 and actually enjoy them.
  • The region is bigger than you think. Drive times sneak up on you.
  • Book popular tours early, especially long weekends.
  • Keep your afternoons flexible — that’s where the magic usually happens.

🌞 Make Your Trip Easy — Book Your Tour

Margaret River is the kind of place you never really finish exploring.
Use this itinerary as your base, tweak it to your style, and don’t forget to save the Pinterest pin so you can come back to it later.

Enjoy your trip — this region never disappoints.

Leave a Comment