With its breathtaking coastline, award-winning wineries, and fresh local produce, the Margaret River region is one of Australia’s most iconic regions. Located about three hours’ drive from Perth, if you’re short on time but want a taste of what makes this region so special, two days is the perfect introduction to see the best of what it has to offer.
Speaking from experience, 'your ideal itinerary' for 2 days in Margaret River will be different to the next person. Everyone travels differently, and it really depends on your personal taste and interests. The region is most famous for it's premium wines and rolling vineyards, which means that some wine lovers wish to spend their entire 2-days visiting the cellar doors of the region - but this is not for everyone and there is certainly enough to fill 2 days in Margaret River without visiting wineries.
The region also has many caves, lighthouse and adventure activities - which again is not to everyone's taste, especially if walking distances and taking stairs are not easy for you.
Read on for our Top 7 'things to do' in a 2-day visit to Margaret River, combining natural beauty with relaxed, local food, wine experiences and hidden gems. On our private Margaret River tours we try to touch on all of these things, but we focus the majority of time on the ones that interest you most;
- Take in some history
Yes, Australia is not very old compared to the rest of the world - but there are still plenty of local stories with this region. Iconic landmarks such as the historic lighthouses and Busselton Jetty give you a light dose of local history, plus some fabulous panoramic ocean views. The clifftop lookouts and ancient granite formations shaped over thousands of years are perfect for stretching your legs after the drive.
- Relaxed Brewery lunch
Spending 2 days in Margaret River means that you can explore a range of dining options, and don't let the breweries fool you. They are not just there to produce beer - some of them have excellent restaurants for hearty share food in a relaxed, and sometimes rustic, setting that highlights seasonal produce and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re a craft beer fan or prefer a glass of wine, many breweries offer a selection of local beverages to suit all tastes, with views to match.
- Sample the Premium Margaret River wines
With 200 wineries, and over 100 cellar doors, choosing which wineries to visit can be a daunting task. Luckily, we've done most of the hard work and research for you. Whether you want an intimate cellar door tasting at a family-owned winery, or to be spoilt at one of the region's famous icons, we work with a range of wineries that deliver high quality, personalised tasting experiences for our guests. For those who wish to focus their 2 days in Margaret River on wine tasting, we can usually cover 6 to 8 wineries over 2 days.
- Local Produce
The producers in this region are far ranging - from gourmet tasting experiences and handmade condiments to artisan skincare — all made with regional ingredients. If you have a sweet tooth, stop at a local chocolate maker where you can sample handcrafted treats and learn how they’re made — perfect for a little indulgence or gifts to take home.
- Scenic coastlines and Beaches
Spend some time winding along the coast, stopping at secluded beaches with white sand and turquoise water — perfect for photos or a refreshing walk. The region's namesake Margaret River mouth (where the river meets the ocean) and the famous Surfer's Point is a favourite amongst local surfers and photographers alike, and a great way to start your morning with fresh air and beautiful scenery.
- Long Lunch Among the Vines
Spending 2 days in Margaret River means you don't have to rush too much. One of our favourite ways to while away an afternoon is with a long, leisurely lunch at one of the region’s elevated restaurants set amongst the vineyards. Some of Western Australia's top dining can be found in Margaret River and the South West region, with world-class chefs and menus that focus on local, seasonal produce with a modern twist, paired with the region’s best wines.
- Art and Culture
Margaret River is also home to a thriving arts scene. Along quiet country roads and in town centres, you’ll find art galleries, studios, and artisan workshops showcasing everything from pottery and photography to sculpture and contemporary painting - drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Getaway
- Leave early: Make the most of your tour by setting off from Perth early.
- Stay central: An overnight stay in the Margaret River township makes the best use of the time, but you'll also have access to bars and restaurants for dinner, and a supermarket should you need to restock anything.
- Book ahead: Wineries and dining venues are popular year 'round.
- Let someone else drive: For the most relaxing experience, consider a private tour where everything — including transport, tastings, planning and timing — is all taken care of for you.
Ready to Explore?
Two days in Margaret River is just enough to fall in love with the region’s unique blend of nature, flavour, and relaxed charm. Whether it’s a romantic escape, or a once-in-a-lifetime trip with friends, a well-planned itinerary will give you a taste of why the locals keep coming back.
Want a stress-free way to experience it all? Our private Margaret River tours from Perth are fully customisable and designed around what you want to see, taste, and do — without the crowds or the stresses of planning.
