Margaret River Australia Beaches

Margaret River is truly blessed with picturesque landscapes and breathtaking vineyards. Bordered by the Indian Ocean, the Margaret River Australia Beaches are one of the most magnificent beaches on earth.

It’s located in the South West region of Western Australia, 277 kilometers south of Perth, the state capital. Margaret River is an easy-to-reach tourist destination with a 3-hour coastal drive for surfers, swimmers, and lovers of beautiful coastal walks.

In this article, we will cover the famous and secret beach destinations you can visit to enjoy the beauty of the best beaches in south west WA.

Margaret River's Geographical Diversity

The long, narrow region of Margaret River, from Busselton to Albany, sits between the Indian Ocean on the north and west and the Southern Ocean to the south.

It’s one of the most geographically isolated wine regions in the world. It has a unique biodiversity, with 80% of its plant species found nowhere else. These features make Margaret River a geographically diverse paradise.

With various exceptional beaches, bays, coves, and reefs, Margaret River attracts more and more visitors yearly. There are over 130 beaches to explore in this beautiful coastal region of Australia. This ultimate guide will let you make the most out of your travel plans.

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Margaret River Australia Beaches

Let's dive into the ultimate guide to the best beaches in the Margaret River region. We will provide details, infographics, and maps of the most beautiful and fun beaches, ranging from family-friendly beaches to fun and exciting beaches with loads of stuff to do.

Beaches Around Geographe Bay and Busselton Area

Geographe Bay and Busselton Area are ideal for calmer, family-friendly beaches. The waters of Geographe Bay are calmer on the southern side than the Indian Ocean. Making it perfect for paddling and swimming.

Similarly, Busselton has amazing activities for kids. Let's explore the popular family-friendly spots around Geographe Bay and Busselton Area.

Castle Rock Beach, WA

Just a 50-minute drive from Margaret River and 2 hours and 45 minutes from Perth, Castlerock is a 1 km (0.7 mile) long stretch of beach between the sea cliffs. Known for its contrasting white sand and blue watercolors, these unique features make it the perfect spot for families.

For those looking for a steep and challenging climb, scrambling over rocks and climbing a 6-meter ladder brings you to the Granite Skywalk. As shown in the pictures below, the panoramic views here are a sight to behold.

Activities: Swimming, climbing, barbecuing.
Facilities: Public toilets, Gas barbeques, Picnic benches.

Busselton Foreshore WA

The Busselton foreshore is two and a half hours from Perth and 50 kilometers from Margaret River.

busselton foreshore beach view australia

Some of its features are:

Hangout areas
Mouth-watering restaurants
Views of the ocean
Romantic picnic spots
Children's playgrounds

Activities: Swimming, Photography, Picnics.
Facilities: Skate park, Parking, Shower, Restaurants, Playgrounds, Seating, Water refill stations, Wind-powered lights, and Barbeque facilities.

Meelup Beach

Meelup Beach is a 45-minute drive from Margaret River, 2 hours and 45 minutes from Perth. Like the Hamelin Bay beach, Meelup has beautiful white sand, clear and calm turquoise water, and beautiful native trees.

Activities: Sunbathing, Swimming, Picnics, Barbecuing.
Facilities: Changing rooms, Toilets, Showers, Picnic tables.

Eagle Bay Beach

Located at the start of the Meelup Regional Park, 45 minutes from Margaret River and a 3-hour drive from Perth. Eagle Bay is a popular family beach with safe swimming and plenty of rock pools to explore.

At just a 10-minute drive, tourists can stroll around the famous sugarloaf rock walk, perfect for explorers who love birding, hiking, and running. For dog owners planning a visit, Eagle Bay Brewery, being dog friendly, makes the spot perfect for a pre or post-swim lunch without worrying about your best friend!

Activities: Swimming, Hiking, Birding, Running, Diving.
Facilities: Pet friendly, Wineries, Showers.

Point Piquet

Point Piquet is famous for its orange rocks, clear blue waters, and calm atmosphere. It’s just 45 minutes away from Margaret River and around 3 hours 10 minutes from Perth.

Point Piquet offers a unique experience because of the exotic activities you can engage in.

Activities: Whale watching, Fishing, Swimming.
Facilities: Car parking, Public washrooms, Showers.

Margaret River's Rugged Coastal Beaches

Margaret River, situated along the picturesque Indian Ocean Coast of Australia, is a true gem when it comes to rugged coastal beaches. These beaches are renowned for their bigger waves, making them a magnet for surfers seeking an adrenaline rush. But they're not just for surfers. The scenic beauty of places like Surfers Point and Injidup Beach is breathtaking.

One of the coolest things about these beaches is their connection to the Cape to Cape Track. It is a 135-kilometer hiking trail that takes you through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes imaginable.

It's a nature lover's paradise, from towering cliffs to hidden coves offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. So, whether you're a surfer, hiker, or beach lover, you won't want to miss Margaret River's coastal beauty.

Yallingup WA

Yallingup Beach is located at a driving distance of 45 minutes from Margaret River and 3 hours 40 minutes from Perth. It has been one of the popular surf spots for the last 60 to 70 years, owing to its dramatic waves.

This beach provides the best of both worlds, as it also has a calm and shallow section of the beach suited for casual swimmers. Moreover, a dog-friendly beach between the Dawson Street steps and the Rabbits car park makes it perfect for dog owners.

Activities: Surfing, Beachcombing, Nature walks, Photography.
Facilities: Car parking, Public washrooms, Showers.

Smiths Beach

This beautiful beach is just half an hour from Margaret River and a 3-hour and 20-minute drive from Perth. It’s similar in aesthetics to the Bunker Bay beach but without the crowds. It’s secluded from tourist resorts like Surfers Point Resort along Margaret River, it’s a perfect family picnic spot.

Smiths Beach in Western Australia offers basic activities and facilities such as:

Activities: Swimming, Picnicking.
Facilities: Car park, Public toilets.

Injidup Beach

Injidup Beach is a hidden gem. It’s a surfer's heaven with its larger-than-life swells. Thirty-one hours away from Foul Bay, South Australia, Injidup Beach is a piece of heaven.

Not only that, Injidup offers natural beauty that is awe-inspiring thanks to the stunning limestone cliffs, as shown in the pictures below.

Activities: Surfing, snorkeling, picnicking.
Facilities: Car park, public toilets, nearby Cape to Cape Track access.

Gnarabup Beach

Gnarabup Beach is a 10-minute drive from Margaret River and approximately 3.5 hours from Perth. It provides expansive sandy shores, tranquil crystal waters, and stunning sunsets. You’ll be mesmerized by Margaret River mouth viewpoint photos if you visit.

Activities: Swimming, Paddleboarding, Beachcombing.
Facilities: Car parking, Beachfront cafes, Picnic areas, and Public restrooms.

Boodjidup Beach

Boodjidup Beach is a mere 7-minute drive from Margaret River and about a 3.5-hour journey from Perth. It’s a hidden treasure along Western Australia's coastline. The windmill's surf break is amazing, but if you’re looking for a casual swim, Boodjidup is a great spot.

The beach offers crystal-clear waters with lush coastal vegetation, making it a perfect spot for nature and beach lovers.

Activities: Swimming, Beachcombing, picnic areas.
Facilities: Car parking, Public restrooms.

Boranup Beach

A scenic 20-minute drive south of Margaret River and approximately 3.5 hours from Perth is the underrated Boranup Beach. If you enjoy surfing at Gallows Beach, Boranup will not disappoint you.

Its limestone cliffs and enchanting Karri forest nearby make it a tranquil escape for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts.

Activities: Surfing, Beachcombing, Nature walks, Photography.
Facilities: Car parking, Public washrooms.

Hamelin Bay

Hamelin Bay is a picturesque coastal gem located approximately a 30-minute drive from Margaret River and 3.5 hours from Perth. If you’re looking for a thrill, try the box Margaret River. But for a relaxing day, Hemalin Bay is a fan favorite.

It has more than just sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. Its main attraction is the stingrays that often visit the shallow region.

Activities: Stingray Interaction, Beachcombing, Swimming, Snorkeling, Picnic areas.
Facilities: Car Parking, Public Toilets.

Cosy Corner

Granted that Meelup Beach, Western Australia, will take your breath away, Cosy Corner is also splendid. It’s a 20-minute drive from Margaret River and a 3-and-a-half-hour drive from Perth.

Cosy Corner boasts a sheltered cove with calm, clear waters, making it an excellent spot for swimming and water sports. Cosy Corner is famous for its views of the Indian Ocean and unspoiled ambiance.

Activities: Camping, Hiking, Swimming, Picnic areas
Facilities: Car parking, Public toilets, Barbeque areas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes Margaret River beaches special?

Margaret River is celebrated for its pristine beaches, famous for their natural beauty and excellent surf breaks.

2. How many beaches are in Margaret River?

The region boasts around 30 diverse beaches to explore and enjoy.

3. Which beaches are best for swimming?

Gnarabup, Prevelly, and Dunsborough beaches offer safe and inviting waters for swimming.

4. Where are the top surf spots?

Surfers Point, The Box, and Yallingup Beach are renowned for their world-class surf breaks. Surfers often frequent the Redgate Beach surf.

5. Are Margaret River beaches family-friendly?

Several beaches are perfect for families, with calm waters and shallow areas.

6. Are there dog-friendly beaches?

Yes, Meelup Beach and Peppermint Grove Beach welcome dogs in designated areas.

7. Can I go snorkeling?

Absolutely! Bunker Bay and Eagle Bay offer excellent snorkeling opportunities.

8. When is the best time to visit?

Visit during the Australian summer (December to February) for ideal beach weather. You should also check out Sugar Loaf Rock, WA, at Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park

9. What should I bring?

Consider surfboards, snorkeling gear, or beach essentials, depending on your plans.

Conclusion and Booking Information

In conclusion, these are the best beaches near Margaret River. From the world-class surf breaks at The Box and Windmills to family-friendly shores like Smiths Beach and Meelup Beach, the diversity of experiences is unmatched.

Margaret River has peaceful beaches from Gracetown, WA, to Hamelin Bay, WA. Easily accessible and with many activities available, Australian beaches are a must-visit.

So book your trip now and let the Aquarium Yallingup photos roll in.