Where to Stay in Margaret River, Western Australia: Full Guide

If you ask Australians where the most beautiful part of Australia is, chances are high that many of them will say it's Margaret River, especially if they're from Perth. And you know what? I totally agree with them!

The Margaret River Region is one of the most beloved and stunning regions in the entire country. You'll find beautiful beaches with incredible waves, perfect for the World Surf League to stop by every year for their surf competition.

Not to mention the award-winning wineries where you can indulge in some amazing wine and tasty food, surrounded by breathtaking nature and wildlife. What more could you ask for?

If you're looking to spend some time exploring the Margaret River Region this guide will help you figure out where to stay in Margaret River and give you all the tips on the best towns, hotels, and things to do.

Best areas to stay in Margaret River

In this guide, I won't just talk about the town of Margaret River, but the whole Margaret River Region, which includes a widespread area in the south of Western Australia.

These are my favorite areas and towns:

If you're visiting for the first time, Margaret River Town is perfect. It's packed with amazing resorts and wineries, and it's still quite close to the ocean. 

Families will love Busselton. There are loads of family-friendly holiday parks and apartments available, and it's also not too far away from Perth, plus you'll have easy access to the entire region.

Just further down the coast, you'll find Dunsborough, which is ideal for surfers and anyone who loves some quiet and nature. 

For a laid-back beach town vibe, I would recommend Yallingup. Life here feels a little slower, but that's just part of its charm. 

Lastly, for some of the coolest beaches not too far from Margaret River Town, I recommend staying in Prevelly.

1. Where to stay in Margaret River for the first time: Margaret River Town

If you're visiting the beautiful Margaret River wine region for the first time, I highly recommend staying in Margaret River Town.

One of the main reasons I love staying here is the convenience. You'll find plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, and great wineries right at your doorstep. On top of that, there are supermarkets around the corner which is perfect if you're staying in a self-catering place. And let's not forget, the beach is just a short drive away!

When it comes to accommodation in Margaret River, the town also offers a little bit of everything. From fancy Manor-style hotels to small luxury hotels and affordable guesthouses. So, you'll definitely find something that suits your taste and budget.

Best area for:

• First-timers

• Families

• Plenty of wineries

Things to do in Margaret River Town 

Margaret River is full of amazing activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy. One of my favorites is heading to the Margaret River Brewhouse for some of the best ginger beer and stout in town. They also serve delicious food.

For your daily dose of caffeine and breakfast, I highly recommend checking out the Margaret River Bakery or Sidekick Cafe.

And of course, you can't visit Margaret River without indulging in some amazing wines and food. A must-visit winery would be Leeuwin Estate, known for its award-winning wines and stunning restaurant with panoramic views. If you're looking to join a wine tour, be sure to check out Wine for Dudes for a super fun but also very informative wine tour.

If you're up for something a little more adventurous, Jesters Flat is a great option. They offer some of the best horseback riding tours in the region. You can choose between beach tours, bush tours, or rides through the countryside. 

Nestled within natural beauty close to Margaret River Town, you'll find Wooditjup National Park. A stunning natural oasis renowned for its extensive walking paths, exhilarating mountain bike trails, and the abundance of diverse flora and fauna that thrive within its borders.

Best hotels to stay in Margaret River Town

($$$) Grand Mercure Basildene Manor

My favorite luxury hotel in Margaret River Town is the Grand Mercure Basildene Manor. This beautiful manor-style hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, a top-notch restaurant, and stunning gardens to stroll through.

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($$) Margarets In Town Apartments

If you're looking for a more affordable option, Margarets In Town Apartments is perfect. They offer spacious and modern apartments with fully-equipped kitchens, making it perfect for families or groups. You're also dangerously close to Margaret River Bakery and its treats!

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($) Margaret River Resort

For a budget-friendly option, I recommend the Margaret River Resort. Here, you'll get comfortable and cozy rooms, and you'll be located within walking distance of the town center.

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2. Where to stay in Margaret River for the whole family: Busselton

Busselton is famous for its almost 2km long jetty and has been a go-to destination in the region.

The best part for many is that it's super close to Perth. Many weekenders and day-trippers flock here to escape the city's hustle and bustle.

Personally, I love Busselton for its chilled-out and family-friendly vibe. With plenty of playgrounds, parks, and safe beaches, it's the ultimate spot for a memorable family vacation.

Best area for:

• Families

• Short trips

• Beaches

Things to do in Busselton

Busselton has a lot to offer when it comes to activities and experiences. The famous Busselton Jetty is a must-visit. You can walk or take the train all the way to the end for stunning views of the ocean.

For an unforgettable underwater experience, head to the Busselton Underwater Observatory. You'll get to see plenty of different marine life without even getting wet. Book your experience online to get the best price.

If you're visiting during whale season (June-December), be sure to book a whale-watching tour with one of the many companies in Busselton. It's an amazing way to see these magnificent creatures up close and a real highlight!

And for all the craft beer lovers out there, just like my partner, don't miss out on a visit to Rocky Ridge Brewing Co. They offer some of the best local brews and have a great outdoor area to enjoy them in.

Best hotels to stay in Busselton

($$$) The Sebel Busselton

For a luxurious stay in Busselton, The Sebel is a perfect choice. It's located right on the beachfront and offers spacious apartments and a large outdoor swimming pool.

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($$) Esplanade Hotel Busselton

The Esplanade Hotel is another great option for families. They offer various affordable room options with small kitchenettes, and the hotel also features a kids' playground.

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($) BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks

For a budget-friendly option, I highly recommend BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks. This holiday park offers spacious cabins with kitchens and patios, a pool, and free BBQ facilities.

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3. Where to stay in Margaret River for nature lovers: Dunsborough

If you're a nature lover, Dunsborough is the place to be in Margaret River. It's nestled between Busselton and Yallingup, offering the ultimate nature getaway.

While the town itself is a bit quieter than Busselton or Margaret River Town, it's perfect for beach lovers, hikers, and explorers like you and me!

You'll find some nice resorts and cute cottages to stay in, along with some great golf courses, if that's your thing!

The best part is that you can just hop in your car and you're ready to explore the nearby beaches, viewpoints, and hikes. I would also say that Dunsborough is a little less touristy than Busselton and Margaret River Town, so if you're looking for a more relaxing type of trip, this would be a great option.

Best area for:

• Nature lovers

• Couples

• Surfing

• Golfing

Things to do in Dunsborough

If you're a nature lover, Dunsborough is the perfect place to stay in Margaret River. My absolute favorite beaches in the area are Meelup Beach and Bunker Bay. They offer crystal-clear water, white sandy beaches, and great surfing. They're just a short drive away from the city center, making them worth checking out.

There are some stunning landmarks close to Dunsborough, and you can easily visit them on a little road trip to the peninsular up to the northern point of Cape Naturaliste. Some great stops along the way include Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, Sugarloaf Rock, and the ancient Ngilgi Cave.

You also absolutely have to visit the Wise Wine Winery. Not only do they offer delicious wine tastings, but the views of the ocean are absolutely breathtaking. And if you're traveling with kids, be sure to check out Next Level Monkey Business. It's an outdoor adventure park that's not only great fun for kids but also for adults.

($$$) Pullman Bunker Bay Resort

For a luxurious stay in Dunsborough, Pullman Bunker Bay Resort should be your ultimate choice. Its villas are located right by the beach and feature a private plunge pool and spa baths. In my opinion, it's the best accommodation in the whole region!

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($$) Dunsborough Beach Cottages

For a cozy and romantic stay, I highly recommend Dunsborough Beach Cottages. They offer self-contained cottages with private balconies, perfect for watching the sunset.

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($) Lanterns Retreats

For a budget-friendly option, Lanterns Retreats is a great choice close to town. Here, you'll get cozy and spacious rooms in a little family-run guesthouse.

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4. Where to stay in Margaret River for laid-back beach town vibes: Yallingup

If you're looking for a laid-back beach town vibe in the Margaret River Region, Yallingup is the place to be. Not only does this town offer a relaxed atmosphere, but it's also home to some of the area's best wineries and holiday resorts. Here, you can enjoy luxury accommodation and fine dining while still unwinding.

Personally, Yallingup is one of my favorites in the Margaret River region. It's conveniently located close to bigger towns like Busselton or Dunsborough, yet it feels very much like the countryside with everything being a little more scattered out.

Therefore, keep in mind that having a car is essential in Yallingup if you plan to visit different wineries, restaurants, and beaches.

Best area for:

• Beaches

• Couples

• World-class surf breaks

Things to do in Yallingup

Yallingup may be a smaller town, but it's certainly not short on things to do. One of the must-visit attractions in Yallingup is the famous Injidup Natural Spa. This natural rock pool offers stunning views of the ocean and is perfect for a relaxing dip.

Another popular spot in Yallingup is Canal Rocks, a series of rocky formations that create a stunning natural canal. It's the perfect place for a scenic walk and to take in some beautiful views.

Foodies will love Yallingup for its choices of great wineries, breweries, and restaurants. Be sure to visit the family-run Aravina Estate for some of the best food and wine in the region, and they often have live music as well. And if you're looking for something more casual, head to the Goanna Bush Cafe for some delicious coffee and cake in a beautiful setting. A quick tip: Book ahead as this place gets busy!

For a unique experience or a special occasion, I recommend taking a scenic helicopter ride along the coast. You'll get to see the stunning landscape from above, which you'll surely talk about for years to come!

Best hotels to stay in Yallingup

($$$) Smiths Beach Resort

My favorite Margaret River accommodation in Yallingup is Smiths Beach Resort. This beautiful resort offers stunning private villas and apartments, a pool, and direct beach access.

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($$) Canal Rocks Beachfront Apartments

For a more budget-friendly option, Canal Rocks Beachfront Apartments is a great choice. Here, you can stay in a fully equipped apartment with ocean views and direct beach access. This is an excellent option for larger groups of up to 10 people. 

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($) Sienna Lodge

For a cozy and budget-friendly stay, Sienna Lodge is a great choice. This family-run lodge offers comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden surrounded by vineyards.

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5. Where to stay in Margaret River for the best beaches: Prevelly

If you're a beach lover, you're going to absolutely adore Prevelly! It's the perfect place to stay in Margaret River if you're a water baby or you just want to relax. This coastal town boasts several breathtaking beaches and is known for its incredible surfing spots.

And here's the best part: Prevelly is just a stone's throw away from Margaret River Town.

So, not only can you stay in a cozy oceanfront resort or apartment, but you can also explore all the amazing things that Margaret River Town has to offer.

Best area for:

• Beaches

• Surfing

Things to do in Prevelly

Prevelly is all about the beaches, so you'll absolutely love spending most of your time here basking in the sun and riding the waves! The main beach in Prevelly is Gnarabup Beach, which offers fantastic swimming and surfing conditions.

Staying in Prevelly is also the perfect base to explore more of the coast. Just a short drive away is Hamelin Bay, where you can have an incredible and unique experience getting up close and personal with friendly stingrays that swim right up to the shore!

And when you're feeling hungry, nothing beats grabbing some delicious fish and chips along with a refreshing cold ginger beer. Enjoy your meal while soaking in the amazing ocean views at my all-time favorite food truck, Hooked Up Fish & Chips.

Best hotels to stay in Prevelly

($$$) Margarets Beach Resort

For a luxurious beachfront stay, Margarets Beach Resort is the perfect choice. With views of the Indian Ocean, direct beach access, and an outdoor pool, you'll have everything you need for a relaxing vacation.

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($$) Margaret River Beach Apartments

Located just steps away from Gnarabup Beach, Margaret River Beach Apartments offer comfortable and modern self-contained apartments. Perfect for families or groups of friends.

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($) Wilderness House

For affordable Margaret River accommodation, book yourself into Wilderness House. This cozy guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and a garden amid the bush.

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Where to stay in Margaret River – Frequently Asked Questions

🚗 How do I get to Margaret River?

The closest international Airport is in Perth. Alternatively, there's a domestic airport in Busselton where you can fly with Jetstar from most bigger airports within Australia. If you decide to do so, I highly recommend renting a car to explore the whole region. For most people from the Perth area or the south of Western Australia, I recommend driving down to Margaret River as the route is super scenic. Plus, you'll want to have a car anyway once you're there!

📅 When is the best time to visit Margaret River?

Margaret River is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit really depends on what you want to do. Summer (December to February) is perfect for beach lovers and outdoor activities, while autumn (March to May) is great for wine tasting and seeing the leaves change colors.

💡 What are some must-see attractions in Margaret River?

Some must-see attractions in Margaret River include the stunning beaches and coastline, the famous wineries, and the numerous hiking trails and national parks. Some popular activities also include whale watching, surfing, and visiting local farmers' markets for fresh produce.

💰 Is Margaret River expensive?

It can be quite expensive to visit Margaret River, especially during the peak summer season. However, there are budget-friendly options for accommodation and dining available. Holiday parks are usually a great and affordable option, but there are also plenty of campsites in Margaret River.

Where to stay in Margaret River – Final Words

With its breathtaking scenery, beautiful beaches, and world-class wineries, it's no surprise that I fell head over heels for Margaret River. And I'm pretty sure you'll feel the same way too.

Especially if you're a nature lover or surfer, and enjoy wine tastings and fine dining, Margaret River is an amazing destination to visit. A variety of excellent hotels, cozy guesthouses, and campsites means you have the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful time with your family or partner, all while staying within your budget.

I hope that my guide on where to stay in Margaret River helps you plan your trip and that you have an absolutely fantastic time in this stunning part of Australia!