The BEST Things to do in Yallingup WA – 2024

Last Updated on 4 January 2024 by Ariana Svenson

Here are our top things to do in Yallingup WA, part of the Northern Margaret River region and one of the jewels of the south west.  If you are coming to Yallingup from Perth, it is roughly a three-hour drive.  For tips and recommendations for things to do on the way to Margaret River, read How to Ace the Perth to Margaret River Road Trip.

We would recommend that unless you are making a once in a lifetime visit (if so, see our Best of Margaret River in 3 days Itinerary) to pick one area around Margaret River and explore that over a weekend.  There is literally so much to do that if you are coming from Perth on short visits, the best way to visit the Margaret River region is by breaking the areas into sections.  We have loved doing this and enjoyed each one thoroughly!  The main benefit of focusing just on the Yallingup area is that you can limit the amount of travel you need to do, which means happy kids!

 

Yallingup, famous for Caves House, is really just a seaside collection of shacks – that look pretty luxurious.  While it’s not a kid’s beach at all has that feeling of a small country spot, the caravan park looks especially unpretentious and our kids adored the playground.  Both Caravan Parks look like great places to stay, and we cover Yallingup Accommodation further on in the post.  If you are looking for Dunsborough, take a look at Things to do in Dunsborough.

What Does the Name Yallingup Mean?

In the olden days Yallingup was thought to mean ‘Place of Love‘ in the local Aboriginal dialect, due to the popularity of Yallingup as a wedding and honeymoon location.  This was connected to the fact that Caves House was an extremely popular honeymoon destination!  For example, my grandparents had their honeymoon there in 1935!.

In fact, Yallingup means ‘Place of Caves’, as the town sits above an extensive cave network in the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge.  The traditional owners of this area are the Wardandi, (pronounced Waaardandi), also known as the salt water people.

Disclosure:  Through my site there are links to affiliates, which means that I might receive commission if you buy something after clicking them.  This costs you no more, and you definitely don’t pay extra.  However, I do get a small amount which contributes to the upkeep of this blog.  Thanks so much for all of your support – and we hope you have a ball in Western Australia!

Who Are We?

We are Western Australian locals and over the years take a family trip to the Margaret River or Busselton region once or twice a year.  These recommendations are based on regular visits, as well as talking to friends about their experiences.  So the advice we offer is from our own experience, or talking as locals do, with friends, about what they liked.  Recently, during the pandemic, we spent 3 full weeks in the Margaret River area and got to really dig deeper.  We also venture to the Yallingup region frequently with kids.  We hope you find our advice helpful!

Is Yallingup Worth Visiting?

With world-class surf breaks and a laid back vibe, Yallingup is in the Margaret River wine region and offers nature lovers, foodies, a great weekend getaway.  Yallingup is definitely worth visiting for a quiet escape and reset; your going to want to stay longer!

What is Yallingup Known For?

Known for huge waves,  Yallingup is the home of surfing in Western Australia.  It’s also famous for Caves House, Western Australia’s first honeymoon hotel;  and being a quiet boutique escape spot for those in the know.

What is the Best Time to Visit Yallingup? 

Yallingup is amazing year round.  However, from September to early December is magnificent when the wildflowers are in bloom and its not too hot or busy.  Avoid school holiday periods and January if you are looking for a quiet getaway in one of the most beautiful places around.

Best Things to do in Yallingup

Yallingup and the entire Margaret River region is jammed-packed with plenty of activities to keep you busy for quite some time.  Whether you are enjoying the beach, dramatic coastline,  exploring the lighthouses, or relaxing at a winery, there are so many things to see in Yallingup Western Australia.  Here are some of our favorites.

Yallingup Beach

Yallingup Beach is a long white sandy beach that stretches from the steep hillsides to the north, which are covered in bushland, to the southern rocky headland.  It’s famous as where the surf culture in Western Australia really got its feet; or maybe where the surfing caught the wave.

The main break at Yallingup is quite breathtaking to see for the first time when you head down the hill towards the beach.  It has left and right-handers that are just a short paddle from the shore.  Watching sunset from the playground or park area above Yallingup Beach while the very talented surfers catch a wave is one of my favorite things to do.

Smiths Beach

The next beach in the Yallingup region is Smiths Beach.  It is down Caves Road and a right turn into Canal Rocks Road.  You can expect several different waves on this beach with ‘Super Tubes’, at the northern end, being the most challenging which breaks over sharp reef in shallow water (more for the professionals and not for the faint-hearted!).

Yallingup Lagoon

The best spot for families to swim is Yallingup Lagoon.  However, it is good to know as there are some pretty intense reef breaks in the area.  It’s a protected spot that is full of marine life and great for snorkeling.  So, take your mask and flippers as its only a short walk from town.  If your family are first time snorkelers, check out our suggestions for Best Snorkels for Kids. 

Nearby, “The Aquarium” has become very popular due to social media.  It is almost “overcrowded” in the busy January school holidays.  Plus, its a bit of a walk along the Cape to Cape.  We think that the Yallingup Lagoon is a great alternative.

Canal Rocks

One of the best places to visit in Yallingup is Canal Rocks, with amazing views of the Indian Ocean.  Over thousands of years, these soft rocks have been eroded by the powerful action of the ocean, creating natural canals.  They are really from out of this world – a network of lined, rocky islands.

The Canal Rocks carpark is huge and it’s only a short walk to the Canal Rocks.  There are toilets here, but no shade in summer or protection against the winds in winter.  There was a raised wooden  boardwalk out across the rocks; this was washed away during storms in June 2020.   We had just as much fun climbing up on the rocks and having a fantastic view below.  This is truly one of nature’s playgrounds!  Keep in mind that this part of the coast is very dangerous and unpredictable, so don’t get too close to the water!

Canal Rocks are just south-west of and easily accessed off of Caves Road.  The Cape Lavender tea house is located on the corner!  Exploring Canal Rocks then stopping at one of the many Yallingup restaurants, would be a great date.

Canal Rocks to Wyadup Hike

On our next trip to Yallingup with the kids we plan to do the hike south along the Cape to Cape Walking track that links Canal Rocks with Wyadup Bay.   At 4km return, it is a moderate walk and will enable us to visit the other famous spot along the coast, the Injidup Natural Spa.

Injidup Natural Spa

One of the most popular places on Instagram in the Margaret River is Injidup Natural Spa.  It is famous for its spectacular photos of crashing water into a natural spa areas.

If you are heading south from Dunsborough along Caves Road, a few minutes after you leave the Canal Rocks turnoff you will see Wyadup Road.  Follow it to the end and you come to a carpark (and usually lots of cars park up the road).   Although the spa is only a short walk from the carpark, it is steeply downhill and quite rocky, washed out and not suitable for people who don’t have good balance.

As you reach the rocks at the bottom, to the right you’ll find a large rock.  This is the Injidup Natural Spa where the surrounding rocks shelter this little inlet from the crazy waves.  In the right conditions, the surf crashes through the little gap in the rocks.  You will know you have found it due to the crowd around it and the people in the water.

There is another little bay to the left where people were also gathered (which seemed more dangerous to me!).  We saw a large man (say 110kg!) caught unawares when a wave came crashing through and he seemed to struggle with the power of the undertow.

 

My Honest Opinion – This “Insta Famous” spot is really very dangerous with powerful waves crashing through the rocks, and people losing hats, and glasses as well as getting swirled around a fair bit.  It is not something recommended for small children (any children in fact!), people who can’t swim, or are not confident in the ocean.  Go with a friend and keep your wits about you if you are going in the water.  You could easily get knocked over and hit your head on a rock, and in the foam not be found quickly.

This part of the coast is powerful – the waves can be strong and unpredictable and there are strong outgoing currents.  Please be very careful!

The Aquarium

Don’t you hate it when people say “this was a place that only locals knew about” OR “social media has made this place so overcrowded.”  Both of these statements are true of The Aquarium which is a natural rock pool is between Canal Rocks and Smiths Beach and accessed Cape to Cape Track.  You can get to it from either direction, but the Canal Rocks route is significantly shorter – 500 metres as opposed to 1.5 km.  In our opinion the Yallingup Lagoon is just as good for snorkeling – and doesn’t have all the hype and selfie takers!

Beaches Near Yallingup

We don’t want to confuse you … but we’ve noticed other websites saying that the following beaches are “in Yallingup.”  That’s really misleading.  These beaches are all in Dunsborough, and are best included in a “Best things to do in Dunsborough”.

The protected bay at Meelup Beach, Castle Rock, Eagle Bay, Point Piquet, Bunker Bay and Shelley Cove.  These are all on the north side of Cape Naturaliste and are NOT in Yallingup.  They are all very pretty places to swim (especially with families) and are better options for people who are looking for a traditional white sand beach.

Ngilgi Cave, Yallingup

The Margaret River region is famous for its unique underground caves, and you must do one while you are in the area.

A “must do” attraction in Yallingup is Ngilgi cave (pronounced ‘Neel-gee’) which starts with a guided tour.  It was a bit difficult for the small kids to stay still while the guide was talking, and the cave means every little sound echoes.  However, we found it very colorful and brightly lit and once the tour ended could explore.

More Information Here Ngilgi Cave Tours Tickets, Opening Times, and Availability!

Eat Purple Ice Cream at Cape Lavender

Cape Lavender Tea House is probably not a little kid’s destination.  However, it is an Insta-perfect spot for tea and scones and most definitely an attraction to see if you’re keen on tea & scones.

We chose to eat our bright purple lavender ice-cream out on the lawn rather than amongst the lovely flowers and lavender china indoors.  Keep in mind they ONLY offer the purple ice-cream so if your littlies are looking for something a little less radical, they might be disappointed!   Very popular for those looking for Yallingup things to do.

Yallingup Maze

The only Margaret River maze is located in the north.  It is the very popular Amaze’n Maze.  It is huge and has amazing gardens.

If you are looking for a more fun park-like atmosphere then consider Xcape At The Cape.  It has more traditional kid’s entertainment like mini-golf, a maze, and trampolines.  If that’s not enough there are also climbing towers, a bouncy castle, and an undercover adventure playground.

Visit a Farm Near Yallingup

Given you are in the country, it’s a great chance for the kiddos to get to know more about farm life.

Country Life Farm is actually located closer to Dunsborough than Yallingup, but its only 10kms away so a short trip if you want to meet some friendly farm animals.  The day we visited in February it was super hot and dry.  The animals were all taking shelter in the shade, and we should have been doing that too!   I believe that this would have been a much better experience in the cooler months where the animals would have been feeling more energetic (and so would have we)!

Whale Watching (In Season)

This is on our bucket list, big-time.  We want to head to the open ocean to watch the migrating whales.  They pass by this area of the coast and you can do the trip with Naturaliste Charters, located in Dunsborough.  There are several other whale watching tours you can do.  Check here for more information.

Visit an Art Gallery

In recent years, art galleries have appeared throughout Caves Road in Yallingup and can be found in various wineries.  Additionally, there are furniture galleries, studios for art, exhibitions showcasing photography, and workshops that offer the opportunity to create your own masterpiece.  Many of the artworks on display highlight the breathtaking local landscapes.

Take a Hike to Quinninup Falls

The famous Cape to Cape track winds along the coast here and you can basically walk any section if you are looking to take a short hike.  One of the most Insta-popular sites around is Quinninup Falls.

Despite being Western Australian, I first saw these pretty waterfalls on Instagram!  The track to the Quinninup falls is not especially difficult (allow about 45 minutes one way – or 3km) and also offers great views along the coast.

We visited in July 2020.  For more information on Quinnip Falls check out our post The Quinninup Falls Hike: Everything You Need to Know.

 

The short hike to Quinninup Falls is a 3.4 km round trip, allow 1.5 to 2 hours.  The trail follows the Cape to Cape Track North through granite outcrops and coastal heath.  Near the beach, the trail turns inland to the base of the falls.  There is one steep dune, which is quite hard to come back up … but not impossible.

Our group consisted of my 76-year-old mother, kids aged 10 and 6, and myself carrying an 18-month-old baby in a backpack.  It was extremely achievable for this group.  We did the hike following some very heavy rain, and we were impressed that the wetter parts of the hike were covered in a boardwalk, and other parts had shale added.  In general, it was entirely suitable to do the hike to Quinninup Falls in winter, with kids.

 

Yallingup Playground

This is a great playground with a beachy shipwreck feel; our kids loved it.  We spent a good hour there during late winter and it was quite full; rumor has it that during summer the area is jam-packed.  The playground will be on any kids Yallingup things-to-do list.

The Yallingup playground has plenty of grassy spaces with trees and picnic tables.  It’s an excellent location to spend a couple of hours relaxing on the grass, appreciating the stunning ocean views, while the children hopefully the kids wear themselves out.

Tempt Your Tastebuds

Gabriel Chocolate Yallingup

If you love a fine chocolatier then head to Gabriel Chocolate, knowing for its award winning creations.  It is is located on the corner of Caves and Quininup roads, about 10 minutes south of  Yallingup village, immediately adjacent to the House of Cards Winery.  Yep, thats the perfect two in one stop.

Wildwood Valley Cooking School

If you are in Yallingup for a few days and are looking to extend yourself, then why not consider doing a class at Wildwood Valley Cooking School.  You can choose from ‘Taste of Tuscany’, or ‘Thai Temptations’ menu.  Part of the $180 cost is a set of take home recipes as well as the practical demonstration and a five course meal.  The classes are limited to 11 people.

Places to Eat in Yallingup WA

Caves House

On this particular trip to the Margaret River Region, my mother had a special request – she wanted to stop at Caves House.  She’d visited with her own family in the 1950s and even had a photo outside the old building.

In a place of foodies, wineries, and breweries Caves House makes you feel like you have come home.  It’s old fashioned, full of ambiance and a lovely place to spend some time in the middle of winter.  They have a large restaurant, a lounge area and also as Caves House is a hotel, an old fashioned bar where you can get your favorite beverage.

In the middle of winter, we set the kids up with some coloring books, supplied by the hotel, and settled down by the fire.  In summer I can imagine eating outside overlooking the beautifully manicured gardens.  Even in the middle of winter, our kids went for a huge run around these lovely old fashion gardens.

Yallingup Bakery

This cute bakery will catch your attention because of its bright blue and pink painting!  We’ve been a few times now and always had something delicious.  If you are staying in Yallingup itself, there is fresh bread that is delivered every afternoon WARM!

Yallingup General Store

As soon as we walked into the eclectic Yallingup General store you could feel you were in a truly cool place.  Full of nooks and crannies, there is a coffee shop and post office.

There is a great range of burgers on the menu and there were a few surfer dudes appearing to shelter from the windy weather outside.  We grabbed some supplies (milk, meat, and some vegetables) amongst the well-stocked shelves we found all the supplies we needed for the night’s dinner.  Next time we are in Yallingup I think we will stop for a coffee and a famous burger.

Lamont’s at Smiths Beach

Lamont’s is the first of Kate Lamont’s chain of restaurants is known for classy food and fine service.

Places Not Far From Yallingup

Ooopsy, more misinformation out there on the web and we felt it was important to clarify.  These spots are better described as being in Dunsborough than Yallingup, and are comprehensively described in   Things to do in Dunsborough WA!

Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse

The Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is one of the most popular attractions in the whole Margaret River region.  Visitors to the t lighthouse tower are rewarded with breathtaking ocean views.  With an easy climb of 59 stairs, this lighthouse is accessible even for small children.  Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is open 9.00am – 5.00pm with guided tours departing every hour from 9.30 – 4.30pm.

Sugarloaf Rock

Sugarloaf Rock is among the most magnificent attractions in the whole region.  Upon nearing Sugarloaf Rock, the immediate impact of this towering and artistically shaped rock formation will become apparent, making it one of the most frequently photographed coastal features in the area.

Facing the unpredictable wrath of the ocean, the rock stands isolated from the shore by a narrow strip of turbulent water, resulting in an extraordinary seascape.  We always combine a visit to Sugarloaf Rock with a visit to the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse.  In fact, you can walk the 3.5 km along a fully sealed path between the two spots.

Busselton Jetty

Stretching across 1.841 kilometers above the protected waters of Geographe Bay.  The heritage listed Busselton Jetty is the longest wooden jetty supported by piles in the Southern Hemisphere.  It is also the location of one of the six Underwater Observatories in the world!

The  jetty is accessible 24/7 – meaning you can walk out  any time or day.  The Interpretive Centre and Heritage Museum are open every day of the week, except for Christmas Day.  The Interpretive Centre operates from late April to early September from 9:30am to 4:15pm, and from late September to early April from 8:30am to 5:15pm.  Call the interpretative centre for the Busselton Jetty Train hours.

Visit Wineries & Breweries Around Yallingup

Family Friendly Wineries & Breweries 

Swings and Roundabouts is a popular family-friendly winery with a casual atmosphere, picnic tables, and a big lawn for the kids to run on.  We’ve heard that their wood-fired pizza is divine but haven’t stopped.  Swings and Roundabouts are well located in relation to the Cape Lavender tearooms and the turn off to Canal Rocks.

Windows Estate is another place that gets good reviews for kids – they have lawns and outdoor games as well as elegant, though understated wines.

If you enjoy good pub fare then why not stop by Caves House.  The kids will enjoy the grassy banks in this heritage garden.

7km from Yallingup village is Aravina Estate, formerly known as Amberley Estate.  This excellent restaurant and cellar door is set amongst an attractive vineyard, with ample grassed areas, a playground and restaurant.  It is also home to the WA Surf Gallery and a very zippy sports car collection.

Bunkers Beach House gets rave reviews; it’s right on the beach overlooking Bunker Bay.  How suitable it is for kids, we don’t know.  If you do happen to know, please drop your thoughts in the comments below.

Goanna Cafe has an outdoor play area, and that makes it a winner in our book.  It comes recommended by locals as a great family-friendly place to eat around Yallingup.  The Goanna Cafe is open for breakfast and lunch.

Wild Hop Brewery is a relaxed brewery located just out of the village, on Wildwood Road.  Rather than offering a standard selection of beers, they produce small batches that are distinct from one another, resulting in a constantly evolving tap list.  Food is also a priority for them, and they specialize in using their wood-fired rotisserie to create delicious meals.  For example, you can enjoy BBQ rotisserie chicken with salsa verde alongside refreshing salads.

Last, but not least, is the fantastically kid-friendly Cheeky Monkey Brewery.

Winter Activities in Yallingup

It is no secret that the summer holidays are busy around the entire Margaret River region as Perth folk head south for a little cooler weather.  We’ve often taken long weekends down to Yallingup, Dunsborough, and nearby Busselton during the winter.  There are still plenty of things to do in Yallingup when it’s raining.

Many of the accommodation places offer to pay 3, stay 4 type deals.  The walk trails are empty.  The beaches are windswept and the brooding coast makes for some stunning pictures.

Many Yallingup accommodation places have cozy warm fires.  If the weather is particularly inclement, take the chance to enjoy some truly family bonding.  Grab some cards or a board game and cozy up by the fire.

Winter is definitely our go-to time for a visit to the Yallingup, Dunsborough, and the Busselton area.  If you like to have an indoor swimming pool as we do, take a look at our list of recommended indoor pools (these are tried and tested because our kids love to swim)!

 

Yallingup Accommodations

Hotel	Stars	Pool	Tripadvisor Rating	Book With Agoda	Book With Booking.com
Caves House Hotel	4	No	4.0	Book Here	Book Here
Wildwood Valley	4	No	5	Book Here	Book Here
Tasman Holiday Parks Yallingup Beach	3	No	4.0	Not Available	Book Here
Canal Rocks Beachfront Apartments	4	No	4.5	Book Here	Book Here
Seashells Yallingup	4	No	4.5	Book Here	Book Here
Smiths Beach Resort	5	Yes	4.0	Book Here	Book Here

Caves House Hotel

If your kids aren’t too noisy, then consider a stay in the Caves House Hotel heritage rooms.  The property is set on a gorgeous 35-acres and a close drive to Canal Rocks and the Yallingup Maze.

Check here for current prices & reviews on Booking.com

Check here for reviews and prices on Agoda.com

Wildwood Valley

Wildwood Valley is for the wild ones.  They are self-catering and fully furnished.  They allow you space and privacy you need for a country getaway.

Check here for current prices & reviews on Booking.com 

Check here reviews and prices on Agoda.com

Tasman Holiday Parks Yallingup Beach

This is a traditional caravan park that is almost beachside in Yallingup overlooking the ocean.  The Tasman Holiday Parks Yallingup Beach is all about location.  They offer glamping, cabins, and traditional caravan and camping sites.

Check here for current prices & reviews on Booking.com

Check here reviews and prices on Agoda.com

Canal Rocks Beachfront Apartments

Self-contained, the Canal Rocks Beachfront Apartments are homey refurbished apartments.  They include a washer and dryer which can be useful for those wet days or if you have been traveling a while.  You can hear the powerful waves of Yallingup beach from the apartments, and they have great views.

Check here for current prices & reviews on Booking.com

Check here reviews and prices on Agoda.com

Seashells Yallingup

Located in lovely gardens full of birds, these self-contained apartments are great for families.  The Seashells Yallingup all have a kitchen and washing machine.  Located adjacent to Caves House and 15 minutes’ walk from the beach.

Check here for current prices & reviews on Booking.com

Check here reviews and prices on Agoda.com

Smiths Beach Resort

Famous in the Margaret River region, the Smiths Beach Resort apartments have living areas upstairs with views of the ocean and coast.  They are fully equipped with everything you would expect from a high-quality resort and are located very close to Canal Rocks.

Check here for current prices & reviews on Booking.com

Check here reviews and prices on Agoda.com

How to Get to Yallingup

If you don’t stop, it is a 3 hour drive from Perth to Yallingup.  This is a total distance of 161 mi (259 km.  Leaving Perth you first take the Kwinana Freeway which turns into the Forrest Highway. 

At Bunbury the road changes again to the Bussell Hwy which runs all the way down to Dunsborough, where you then take Caves Road to Yallingup.  Use this Perth to Margaret River road trip itinerary to plan your route.

Yallingup Weather and Forecast

We recognize the Wadandi’s deep knowledge of the land they live on.  For a fascinating insight, take a look at The six seasons of Wadandi Boodja. 

The hottest months in Yallingup January and February, where the average highs are 28 degrees (but can get much hotter!)  These months are also very dry.

The coldest months are from July and August. During this time, the temperature will be around 15 – 17 , with a minimum of 5.  Some days are also a lot colder, with a lot of wind and rain in these months.

The Verdict – The BEST Things to do in Yallingup WA

We hope you’ve enjoyed this comprehensive review of Yallingup, particularly the winter activities in Yallingup.  We are going to be heading to Western Australia’s south west next winter and will be able to give you an update on our favorite things. Don’t forget we put together our list of What do in Yallingup after many visits to the region!

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