5 Unique Things to do in the Margaret River Region Part 1
After being privileged enough to travel through the Boojarah Region, I’d like to start by acknowledging the Wadandi people, the traditional owners and custodians of the land. I pay my respects to their elders both past present and emerging.
Without a doubt, if you’re Australian, you’ve heard of Margaret River. Think wine and waves! With a population of less than 20,000, Margaret River can be considered a relatively small town. However, surrounded by vineyards, the iconic West Australian coastline and dense forests, the town attracts over 1.5 million tourists per year. Whilst most flock to the wineries and popular beaches, here’s five lesser known things to do when you plan a trip to this beautiful region.
1. Relax at Injidup Natural Spa
This natural spa had me returning time and time again! Aim to get there early before the crowds and enjoy a dip in the rock pool. The crashing waves act as spa jets, trickling over into the pool. Make sure you bring a picnic lunch to eat on the rocks because you won’t want to leave in a hurry! If bathing isn’t for you, spend a day exploring the rocks surrounding. I loved sitting and watching the water being pushed through the rocks to the spa. Just be wary of large waves as people have been known to be swept off the rocks here.
2. Hike along the Cape to Cape track
With 130km of track, there’s something for everyone along the Cape to Cape trail. Head out for just a few hours or hike the whole lot over seven days, camping along the way! As the name suggests, the trail connects Cape Naturaliste with Cape Leeuwin. It follows the coast most of the way, occasionally heading inland to weave through trees in the Boranup Forest. The cliffs, caves and rock formations are a sight to be seen juxtaposed against the blues of the Indian Ocean. There’s a huge variety to the trails you walk on including sandy beaches, 4WD tracks and limestone rock scrambles. Bring some binoculars for whale spotting!
5. Take a drive through the Boranup Forest
Feel like a road trip? Don’t miss this impressive drive through the Boranup Forest. Get lost amongst the karri trees, both young and old. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as this region is home to many endemic and threatened species. One of my favourites are the red-tailed black cockatoos. Make sure to take a minute or two to hop out of the car, and breathe it all in.
4. Sunset and tacos at Surfer’s Point
It’s impossible for me to not get in on the food action. And the fish tacos from the food truck (Hooked Up Fish and Chips) are honestly to die for! No joke, best fish tacos I’ve ever had! Okay, I’m going on a lot about the tacos, but this spot is an iconic place to watch the sunset. Green lawns provide the perfect seating sloping down over the lookout, creating a sort of natural amphitheatre. Watch world famous surfers brave the wild waves as you enjoy the changing colours of the sky. What could be better?
5. Swim with stingrays at Hamelin Bay
This is beyond a doubt, one of my favourite things to do in all of Western Australia. The wild, yet tame stingrays hang out in the warmer shallows of Hamelin Bay Beach. With the boat ramp close by, they worked out that this is the perfect place to get free fish scraps from successful fisherman. Bring your snorkel and see if you can spot both types of rays that frequent the area; the giant ‘smooth ray’ and the smaller ‘eagle ray’.
If you’ve got any questions at all, are planning a trip out to the Margaret River Region or have some memories to share, please leave a comment below or Contact Me. I’m always up for a chat!
