Last Updated on 22 January 2026 by Ariana Svenson
Margaret River is the perfect winter getaway from Perth! From rugged coastlines to unforgettable forests, the Margaret River region is famous worldwide for its unsurpassed beauty and the wide array of activities on offer. However, back to rainy and stormy weather! There are so many things to do in Margaret River in winter! The area is also home to a vast range of wineries, breweries, gourmet food producers, and five-star restaurants.
While Margaret River is one of the premier WA holiday destinations, it is as good in winter as in other seasons.
We love Margaret River in winter, the forests are misty and so green, the coast is thunderous and powerful – but oh so refreshing! The area has some breathtakingly beautiful natural highlights. Then there are the cozy fires that you can curl up beside, a fine glass of Margaret River wine in your hand.
Margaret River is one of our favorite getaways from Perth. We have visited many times and in many seasons. We know the pros and cons of Margaret River in winter, and we are delighted to share our experiences and insider info here!
Where and What is Margaret River?
Let’s start with a small definition: Margaret River is known worldwide as synonymous with fine wine and cranking surf.
However, if you are planning a trip to Margaret River, you need to know that the region is pretty big, and plenty of bloggers (and booking engines) refer to a much broader region when they talk about things to do in Margaret River.
The Margaret River region stretches from Augusta in the south to Busselton in the North. Within that area are a range of other localities, including Dunsborough and Yallingup.
For more information on these areas, read:
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Things to do in the Margaret River Region in Winter
So, I bet you are asking, “What to do in Margaret River when it’s raining”? Let me give you some great news! There are many things to do in Margaret River when it’s raining; you just need to plan carefully!
Margaret River Winter Temperatures: Check the Forecast!
Yes, Margaret River can be very wet in winter. However, the weather pattern over the southwest land division tends to be a system of fronts of weather. Typically, you might have one awful day of squalls and heavy rain followed by several days of sunshine and light showers. If you watch the forecast, you should plan to do outdoor activities while the sun is shining!
We spent a stunning week in Margaret River during winter, and there were several days of storms (I won’t lie to you)! However, on the less stormy days, there were plenty of breaks in the showers, and we did a good range of outdoor activities, including horse-riding, walking on the beach, visiting Canal Rocks in Yallingup, and even a hike to Quinninup Falls.
In this day of age if you use an app like Willy Weather or the Bom App you can even take a look at the satellite imagery to see where the rain is going and what kind of weather is coming your way!
Have a Can-Do Attitude
It’s raining – so what? Get out between the showers and enjoy the power of the beautiful landscape of Margaret River. You might get wet, but you will also be invigorated and refreshed. We love Margaret River in winter – and with a positive, can-do attitude, you can too!
In short, whatever the weather, there is plenty for you to enjoy, especially with our handy guide.
Margaret River Map: Things to Do in Winter
The Best Things to Do When You Visit Margaret River
Here are the top things to do in this amazing region.
1. Explore Margaret River Town
Some reviewers don’t rate Margaret River town (in comparison to the spectacular scenery around the area), but I think the town should be mentioned, especially as one of the Margaret River activities you can do in the rain (e.g., you can pop in and out of the shops). Or, of course, you can sit and enjoy a hot chocolate and watch the world go by.
Pro Tip – If you like staying in towns, make sure you clarify the location of your accommodation. Some booking engines actually list Busselton as being in Margaret River when they are most definitely not! We have made some recommendations here, in our post The Best Family Accommodation in Margaret River.
Active Things to do – Margaret River in Winter
As a natural wonderland, Margaret River offers a massive range of active things to do—some are obviously better than others in the wintertime.
2. Whale Watching Margaret River & Augusta
The best time of the year to go whale-watching in Margaret River is winter. Actually, the heart of winter is the best time to see the whales in Augusta, as the Humpback Whales are migrating from May to August, and sightings are guaranteed from the Augusta harbor.
Why is winter a great time to see whales in Augusta? From June until early December, whales from the Antarctic migrate around the Southwest corner of WA and arrive in Flinders Bay.
Several highly recommended local whale-watching companies run these charters into Augusta Harbour. We went with Whale Watch Western Australia as they have the largest and most luxurious purpose built whale watching vessel. It was an unforgettable experience for Mum and one child; not so good for the others who got seasick! That said, seeing the whales breach near the boat is not something we will forget for a long while.
Can I See Whales from Shore?
Yes, you can. A keen eye helps, as do binoculars. However, they can be seen if you gaze out at the ocean carefully – look out for large splashes! Once you have seen a splash, keep watching in that general vicinity, and then you might see the actual tail of a whale.
You can whale watch in Margaret River anywhere along the coast, but it can also be a good combination with a visit to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse or Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse (or for the walk from Cape Naturaliste to Sugarloaf Rock). We also love Canal Rocks for their powerful and out-of-this-world shapes.
Winter is also a Good Time for a Whale Watch Charter
During the heart of winter, one of the best places to see whales is Augusta. The whales often rest in sheltered Flinders Bay, where you can see Southern Right and Humpback whales interact. We were lucky enough to see this last year during our Augusta whale watch.
Also, check with the local whale-watching charter companies. They offer a range of interesting options, like the chance for a free reschedule if the weather is too rough or come back for a second day if you don’t see a whale on the first.
3. Explore the Margaret River Caves
If you’re wondering what to do in Margaret River in winter, you just have to visit one of the truly stunning Margaret River caves. Underground in one of the many Margaret River caves, you won’t know if it’s raining outside. Not only is it one of the great things to do in Margaret River with kids, but it is a perfect winter activity.
We love the Margaret River region so much, we find ourselves coming back year after year! We enjoyed visiting the Lake Cave last winter and the Mammoth Cave several years before. Deep down in the caves, you have no idea what the weather is like outside.
Make sure you read our full guide to the Margaret River caves for detailed info.
4. Experience Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
I always have imagined the life of a lighthouse keeper in the middle of the storm as they gaze out to sea, searching for ships coming too close to shore!
While you won’t be able to re-enact such stories exactly, climbing the lighthouse and having a guided tour in winter will give you a wonderful insight into the region’s history. Plus, on a clear day, the views go on for miles.
One of my favorite fun facts about the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is that Australia’s tallest mainland lighthouse is situated at the most south-westerly tip of the country, where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet.
5. Take a Hike and Explore a National Park
Quinninup Falls is one of the most Instagram-famous spots around Margaret River, and guess what, your best chance of seeing it in full flow is during winter, especially after heavy rain!
With this in mind, we braved the elements last winter and headed to Quinninup Falls along the Cape to Cape Track. At the time, it was hard to find good information about the track’s condition—we didn’t want to do a muddy, sloshy hike with small kids. The good news is that we have covered trail conditions for Quinninup Falls in our detailed post.
Margaret river hikes
A one-minute drive out of Margaret River town is the stunning Wooditjup National Park hiking hub. The hub offers a wide range of hikes, from the 3km Chimney trail hike to the 22km Wardandi track. This is a really stunning section of forest, including tall Karri Trees, Jarrah, and Marri, and a beautiful place for solitude and reflection.
If doing one of these Margaret River hikes in the rain, prepare well with a rain jacket and poncho. However, most of all, wait for those serendipitous moments when the sun comes out, the water drips off leaves like jewels, and you deeply breathe in the amazing petrichor.
6. Enjoy the Coastline (Including Canal Rocks)
Ok, you might not need to pack your swimmers for your winter Margaret River escape. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t head to the coast to admire the Indian Ocean and the beautiful beaches.
Whether a beautiful walk along the beach watching the surfers at Bunker Bay or admiring the powerful ocean at Canal Rocks or Sugarloaf Rock, there is nothing quite like the incredible beauty of the ocean in winter.
We got some stunning pictures at Canal Rocks as the sunlight moved over the rocks with a backdrop of a cloudy dark sky.
7. Take a Scenic Drive through Margaret River or Go on a Quad Bike Tour!
I love driving down Caves Road in Margaret River! It is naturally beautiful, and there are so many things to do and see along the way.
One of the most beautiful – even in the misty rain of winter – is the Boranup Forest. This is about 30 minutes south of Margaret River town, heading south towards Hamelin Bay. The Karri Lookout on the eastern side of Caves Road is a wonderful spot to get beautiful photos of this picture-perfect forest.
Feeling adventurous? Swap the car for a bit of off-road action and join a quad bike tour instead! These tours are a great way to explore the Margaret River region, especially through the forest tracks and bushland around Boranup and beyond.
Kid Friendly and Fun Things to Do in Margaret River
While the above suggestions are all family-friendly options, there are two specifically kid-friendly places that we can highly recommend when it’s raining.
8. Wow Illusions
Location: 219 Harmans Mill Rd, Metricup
Wow Illusions Metricup, is also perfect for winter. In keeping with other trick or illusion rooms around the world, prepare to have your senses challenged with a gravity room, an amazing mirror room, and going to the toilet in a see-through room (really)!
Make sure you have plenty of space on your phone and allow the kids some time to play in the big grassed area and playground outside. We spent about one hour, and Wow Illusions is 20 kilometres north of Margaret River.
You don’t need to book in. There are no session times, and you can come whenever you like, though be aware that there may be waiting times on busy days.
9. Naturaliste Reptiles /Discover Deadly Park
Location: 10 Wildwood Rd, Carbunup River
A short drive up the road from Wow Illusions (10 minutes) is the Naturaliste Reptiles/Discover Deadly Reptile Park in Carbunup River.
Though very small in comparison to some of the other family-friendly attractions in Busselton or Margaret River, the Naturaliste Reptile Park is home to a large number of reptiles, especially snakes. These include Tiger Snakes, Dugites, Adders, and several Pythons.
Make sure you find out what time the daily presentations are and attend the centre for these highly informative talks. The day we were there, there was an awesome presentation about turtles, and we learned a lot. At the end of the talk, the friendly staff offered the opportunity to hold a python—my son loved it.
We spent an hour at Naturaliste Reptiles, and combined with Wow Illusions, it was a full morning of kids activities in Margaret River!
You don’t need to book in. There are no session times and you can come whenever you like, though be aware there may be waiting times on busy days.
10. Animal Farm Margaret River
There are several different farms in Margaret River that allow visitors to meet their animals. We’ve Country Life Farm, and the Sunflower Animal Farm. By far, the best experience for us was the Sunflower Farm, which was just awesome and we visited it in the heart of winter!
TOP TIP: If you are going to a Margaret River animal farm in winter, pack gumboots!
Sunflower Animal Farm
We loved our time at Sunflower Animal Farm. There were over 300 animals, and they were very friendly and well cared for. From horses to cows and sheep, there are also lots of kangaroos.
Of course, this is a farm, and in winter, with lots of rain, there can be mud. We had our boots, so this was not a problem, and the kids enjoyed feeding all the animals. There are a small number of sheds in case you get caught in a rain shower.
11. Swim in a Heated Swimming Pool
I did say that these were things to do in Margaret River with kids in WINTER, right? Yes, that is right. I think children worldwide love nothing more than playing in a swimming pool. That’s why we frequently book accommodation in Margaret River in winter, which has a heated swimming pool.
Last year we stayed in the amazing Pullman Bunker Bay. My theory was right – the pool had lots of kids in it, having a ball. With amazing views across Bunker Bay that outdoor pool is the pick of the bunch – but not necessarily the warmest.
Further north in Busselton, there are a couple of hotels with pools. We have tried out the Abbey Beach Resort and the Broadwater Beach Resort. If you are looking for full reviews and inspiration, we have covered them at Best Family Accommodation In South West WA.
12. Visit Cowaramup, the Cow Town, and the Candy Cow!
Every kid – and many adults – will love exploring the streets of The Cow Town, Cowaramup! Some ingenious locals decided to make the most of their town’s name, and the streets are filled with some very fun black and white cows!
These dairy cows also celebrate the dairying history of both Cowaramup and the Margaret River region.
Exploring Cowaramup in winter is easy to do. Should there be a shower of rain, you can pop into one of the cute gift shops or boutiques. Of course, the kids are likely to direct you towards the Candy Cow. Just like an old-fashioned candy show, the Candy Cow is full of every sweet you can imagine. You’re likely to leave with more than just a couple of bags of delicious sweets!
13. Visit The Hangout Indoor Play zone & Café
Location: 3/40 Station Rd, Margaret River
It rains quite a bit in Margaret River in the winter. One day, we got pretty stuck and headed to the Hangout indoor soft playground and ninja course.
It’s designed for kids aged 1-12 with several different play sections. It is certainly fun enough to keep the kids playing for the full 1.5-hour session while you can enjoy some coffee and food.
It does rain quite a bit in Margaret River in winter. One day, we got pretty stuck and headed to the Ninjas in MOcean indoor soft playground and ninja course. It’s designed for kids aged 1-12 with several different play sections. It is certainly fun enough to keep the kids playing for the full 1.5-hour session while you can enjoy some coffee and food.
Gastronomic Ways to Enjoy Margaret River in Winter!
15. Enjoy a Long Lunch at a Margaret River Brewhouse/One of the Margaret River Wineries
Have I mentioned that Margaret river family-friendly wineries are like the BEST? Get in out of the rain, enjoy award winning wines, enjoy the heat of a wood fire and eat the delicious food that Margaret River is so famous for.
In recent years, the Margaret River brewery scene has seen huge growth and now cater for year-round tourism. In the winter, there are plenty of large spaces where you can warm up and get out of the weather.
We particularly enjoyed our visit to Cheeky Monkey Brewery when we were in Margaret River in winter and some time at the Beer Farm Metricup. For a full round-up of The Best Margaret River Breweries or the Busselton Wineries and Breweries, look at these posts.
In the Yallingup area, make sure oyu give the Swings and Roundabouts Winery winter pizza a try, or enjoy a visit to the historic Caves House. Both are reviewed in The BEST Things To Do In Yallingup WA.
And you just have to visit Cape Lavender Teahouse for the purple ice cream!
16. Warm Yourself up with Liquors like Whiskey and Gin!
Now we are getting into some serious winter warmers! Make sure you add the Margaret River Distilling Company and taste the fantastic whiskey and gin.
At least a few of the breweries also have a distilling section such as Black Brewing Co, which is home to Dune Distilling. They have released the luscious Yallingup Pink Gin, Hibiscus & Rhubarb Pink Gin, and even an Australian Xmas Gin.
At The Grove Distillery, they make spirit-based liqueurs, vodka, whiskey, gin, bourbon, and more. You can even try a range of liquors as mini cocktails!
If you are looking for something to eat, The Grove Cafe serves delicious Stone-fired Pizza, traditional scones, jam and cream, and espresso coffee. Unlike wine tastings, some distilleries charge.
Giniversity at Margaret River Distilling Company
Location: Maxwell Street, Carters Road
Speaking of Margaret River Distilling Company, why not go back to Giniversity? There, you can take a blending class and learn to mix and match botanicals, just like a master distiller. Become an honorary distiller for the day! In these highly popular classes that experiment with exotic and native botanicals to craft unique recipes reminiscent of Australia’s South Wes,t you even get to take your own bespoke blend with you.
These Margaret River masterclasses are very popular, especially in the cold winter months. Make sure you book in advance. Reviews of Giniversity graduates are stellar! Even calling it a not-to-miss experience in Margaret River, it is well worth the visit!
17. Gourmet Food
Margaret River is often described as a gourmet destination. There is an incredible range of fresh produce to try! It is one of Australia’s top eating and drinking destinations, or just a haven for foodies… and with good reason.
If you haven’t got the idea yet, there are not just delicious drinks in Margaret River. It also abounds with gourmet goodies. Given that the locals know winter is long and wet, most of these places are cozy and warm, especially on a rainy day. You can have some incredible gourmet experiences in the Margaret River region!
The oldest chocolatier in the Margaret River Region is the Margaret River Chocolate Company. They have a very wide range of chocolate products.
It is always extremely busy. Lately reviews have been lackluster and mentioned just how pricey it is. Tthe idea of some delicious creamy chocolate on a cold winter’s day is pretty enticing!
Gabriel Chocolate is a new alternative to the Margaret River Chocolate Company. It imports cacao beans and turns them into chocolate bars. Gabriel Chocolate is immediately adjacent to Chow’s Table Restaurant and House of Cards Wine.
On a nice day, there are large lawn areas where you can sit and indulge in one of their steaming hot chocolates, salted chocolate chip cookies, or hand-made chocolate-dipped ice creams.
18. Cooking Class or Demonstration
If you want to do more than just eat, why not head to Cape Lodge? There is a good range of options if you want to spend some extra time in the kitchen and learn from local Chef Tony Howell.
Cape Lodge also runs winter-friendly cooking experiences, from Saturday demos to hands-on classes with local chef Tony Howell. Expect to roll up your sleeves rather than sit back watching! A perfect way to spend a winter day!
If you have ever wanted to try your hand at winemaking, then this winter in Margaret River might be the perfect opportunity to have a wine-blending experience at Clairault Streicker Wines.
You will use legit lab equipment from their winery to blend Australia’s two most popular red grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. The knowledgeable team will help you measure, mix, and taste until you have created your own personal blend. Then, you can take it home in your very own wine bottle!
19. Olives, Skincare and Beauty Masterclasses
The kids loved our visit to Olio Bello last year. They ran in the beautiful olive groves until they were exhausted. Then we sat down by warm fires to enjoy the Mediterranean ambience of their café and delicious pasta.
We’ve been long-time fans of Olio Bello Organics Beauty & Wellness range that is hand-made on-site. They are one of the few products that my daughter’s eczema can tolerate. We all spent a delightful time testing more olive oil products. We also took home some of their gourmet deli range of dips and marinated olives.
Vasse Virgin is another olive oil producer. You can visit their soap factory at the end of an olive tree-lined drive. Here, you can see the soap makers at work. They hand blend a variety of lux body products using the finest extra virgin olive oil.
My daughter is keen to do the Vasse Virgin Lip Balm Workshop. You can make lip balms using Vasse Virgin’s olive oil and add your touch with essential oils like lavender, orange, or mint.
20. Enjoy a Roaring Wood Fire
There is something extremely decadent about curling up beside a roaring fire with a good book and wine in hand. I’m sure you have dreamed of a Margaret River winter getaway with a good old-fashioned fire. Make sure you book carefully, looking for a cozy place with a fireplace.
If you look carefully, there are many Margaret River accommodations with fireplaces. A few suggestions are the Constellation Apartments and Bushy Lake Chalets. We stayed at Eight Willows, which had a beautifully hot electric fireplace.
21. Pamper Yourself
Imagine the sounds of nature outside, the rain on the roof, or the stormy winds while you are inside, safe and warm… and being pampered!
There is a range of luxury accommodations around Margaret River that have a spa on-site. This means you can move between your room and your treatments easily (and without getting cold)! The Vie Spa at the Pullman Bunker Bay Resort is a wonderful place to Pamper yourself in winter.
22. Experience the Margaret River Winter Festival
The Cabin Fever Festival is a highlight of the Margaret River winter season. Over 40 events are held throughout the 10-day festival, and you can enjoy gourmet experiences, live music, art, and entertainment in the Margaret River region, Busselton, and nearby!
There are Things that Aren’t so Good in Winter
We pride ourselves on being honest in our reviews. Let’s face it: not everything is great all year round. Here are a few things we have attempted in winter or a colder season, and they have not worked so well for us. Our advice: do your research! Check the forecast and see if they are a good option for you and your family.
- Stingrays at Hamelin Bay
- Underwater Observatory at Busselton Jetty
- Ropes courses at next Level Monkey Business Dunsborough or Trees Adventure Busselton. Closed in high winds, and are slippery.
The Verdict – Things to do in Margaret River When Raining
So here you have it, a comprehensive guide to things to do in Margaret River when raining – and in the heart of winter. In short, whether you are looking for a family weekend or a romantic escape without the kids, the Margaret River Region has a lot to offer in the colder months.
Margaret River is awesome in the winter when there are fewer people. There are lots of places to curl up by the fire, do a wine or gin masterclass, or just indulge in a pampering massage. Margaret River really does put on the warmth of an awesome Australian winter getaway!
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[…] Margaret River family accommodation options are endless, with every type of resort, farm stay, luxury camping, or simply hotel available. We’ve discovered fewer hotels offer heated pools though, which for us is a vital element of our weekend winter getaways. In fact, we adore Margaret River in Winter. […]