Where to stay in Margaret River for first time: 5 Safe areas

Finding where to stay in Margaret River as a first-timer can be overwhelming. That’s why, in today’s article, I will help you to find safe places to stay in Margaret River for first-time visitors.

I will share with you what I believe are the best and safest areas to stay in Margaret River for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Margaret River and recommend some of the best hotels for various budgets.

Margaret River is a popular tourist destination in Western Australia, located about 3 hours’ drive south of Perth. It is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, world-class wineries, and stunning coastline. 

Margaret River is famous for its premium wine production, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The region boasts over 200 vineyards and more than 100 wineries, many of which offer cellar door tastings and tours.

The coastline around Margaret River is dotted with beautiful beaches, popular for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. Some of the most well-known beaches include Surfers Point, Prevelly, and Smiths Beach.

In addition to its wineries and beaches, Margaret River is home to several stunning natural attractions. These include the ancient caves of Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, the towering karri trees of Boranup Forest, and the rugged cliffs of Cape Leeuwin.

The region is a paradise for food lovers, with numerous gourmet restaurants, cafes, and artisanal food producers offering fresh, locally-sourced cuisine. You can enjoy everything from fine dining to casual picnics in the vineyards.

Margaret River offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, and whale watching (during the migration season). The region’s diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Is Margaret River safe to visit?

Yes, Margaret River, like most of Australia, is generally safe to visit. But, I advise you to always swim at patrolled beaches, be mindful of ocean conditions and your own swimming/surfing abilities, and be aware of potential risks during the bushfire season. 

If you’re driving, be cautious on winding roads, be aware of wildlife, especially kangaroos, which can sometimes hop onto roads unexpectedly, particularly at dawn and dusk.

Where to stay in Margaret River for the first time?

The best and safest areas to stay in Margaret River for first-timers and tourists are Margaret River Town, Dunsborough, Yallingup, Busselton, and Prevelly. These areas provide a range of accommodations and amenities for visitors to stay and explore the region.  

Margaret River Town offers a central location with easy access to restaurants, cafes, shops, and galleries. It’s a great base for exploring the surrounding wineries, breweries, and attractions. You’ll find a range of accommodation options here, from boutique hotels to bed and breakfasts.

Prevelly is a coastal area that is perfect for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and surfers. It’s located near some of Margaret River’s most famous surf breaks, including Surfers Point and Gnarabup Beach. There are also scenic coastal walks and beautiful sunsets to enjoy. 

Yallingup, just north of Margaret River, is known for its stunning beaches, caves, and limestone cliffs. It’s a great spot for surfing, swimming, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. 

Dunsborough, situated further north along the coast, is a popular holiday destination with beautiful beaches, calm waters for swimming, and plenty of family-friendly activities. The town has a relaxed vibe with cafes, restaurants, and shops lining the streets.

Busselton is a family-friendly destination with plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy. It is famous for its iconic Busselton Jetty, which stretches almost 2 kms into Geographe Bay. You can stroll along the jetty, visit the Underwater Observatory, explore the historic town center, or relax on the beaches. 

During my trip to Margaret River, I stayed at the mid-range Margarets In Town Apartments. It was located in the center of Margaret River town, a great base to explore the region. Easily walk everywhere in town and use a car to visit wineries, beaches, and caves. Room was spacious, very clean. 

Below is a map of the popular areas in Margaret River for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.

Map of the safe areas to stay in Margaret River first time
Map of the safe areas to stay in Margaret River first time

Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Margaret River, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget. 

All hotels in Margaret River have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. 

If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.

5 Best/ Safe areas to stay in Margaret River for first-timers and tourists:

1. Margaret River Town

Margaret River Town is an excellent choice for tourists looking to experience everything the Margaret River region has to offer. It is an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions, wineries, beaches, and natural landmarks. Many of the region’s most popular destinations are just a short drive away.

The town boasts a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries, offering everything from gourmet dining to casual fare. You’ll also find boutique shops, art galleries, and markets where you can browse for souvenirs and local products.

Margaret River Town offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a self-contained apartment, you’ll find plenty of choices within the town and its outskirts.

Best places to stay in Margaret River Town for first-timers:

Mid-range ($$): Prideau’s of Margaret River, 4-star modern accommodation located in the heart of Margaret River town center, very  convenient for eating and shopping, 2 mins walk to a range of local cafes and restaurants. It has free car parking and apartments with a kitchen or kitchenette.

Budget ($): Peppermint Brook Cottages, 3-star hotel located within only a few mins walk from the heart of the Margaret River township, 10 mins drive from the mouth of the Margaret River, the Cape to Cape walking trails, and Prevelly Beach. Each self-contained cottage comes with a fully equipped kitchen.

Luxury ($$$): Grand Mercure Basildene Manor,  Beautiful restored historic manor in the Margaret River wine region, central for access to everything Margaret river has to offer. It is only a few mins drive into the town center. The hotel features clean and peaceful grounds, spacious rooms and suites, a pool, exceptional Breakfast, and free parking.

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN MARGARET RIVER

2. Dunsborough

Dunsborough is an excellent choice for tourists looking to experience the best of the Margaret River region. Dunsborough has a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for travelers with children.

Dunsborough is renowned for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and pristine white sands. You’ll have easy access to beautiful spots like Meelup Beach, Eagle Bay, and Castle Rock Beach, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Whale watching at Dunn Bay is possible from September to November period.

Best places to stay in Margaret River in Dunsborough:

Luxury ($$$): Pullman Bunker Bay Resort Margaret River, 5-star beachfront hotel located in a quiet location in Bunker Bay and nature all around. It is only a short walk down to a gorgeous beach, within driving distance of all Margaret River has to offer. It has an outdoor pool, a fitness center, spa facilities, and very good breakfast.

Mid-range ($$): Bayshore Beachside Resort, great 4-star beach hotel located in a quiet area, right across from Dunsborough Beach, 5-10 min drive from Dunsborough town center and the surfing beaches at Yallingup. It features self-contained villas with a well stocked kitchen. Rooms are spacious and clean.

Budget ($): Lanterns Retreats, good value for money accommodation located in the heart of old Dunsborough, a few mins walk from beautiful beaches, coastal walks, cafes and galleries.They provide Comfortable beds and pleasant outdoor areas.  Easy distance from  Geographe Bay, Ngilgi Caves, Naturaliste Lighthouse. 

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN DUNSBOROUGH

3. Yallingup

Yallingup is one of the best places to stay in the Margaret River.  It is a small coastal town renowned for its stunning beaches, excellent surf breaks, limestone caves, and picturesque landscapes. The name Yallingup is said to mean place of love in the local Aboriginal language.

The town is particularly popular among surfers due to its consistent waves, with some of the most famous surf breaks in the area, such as Yallingup Main Break and Smiths Beach. Additionally, Yallingup offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and exploring the surrounding natural beauty.

The Yallingup region is home to several fascinating limestone caves, including Ngilgi Cave. You can explore these ancient formations on guided tours, marveling at the intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological features.

In addition to its outdoor activities, Yallingup is also home to several wineries, breweries, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, making it a haven for food and wine enthusiasts.

Best places to stay in Margaret River in Yallingup:

Luxury ($$$): Smiths Beach Resort, 5-star beachfront hotel located in the heart of Western Australia’s Margaret River Region, featuring one, two, three, four-bedroom apartments that can accommodate up to 8 adults, a great base for families and groups of friends. Easy drives to supermarkets and cafes.

Mid-range ($$): Canal Rocks Beachfront Apartments, 4-star self-catering accommodations at Smiths Beach, 10 mins drive from Ngilgi Cave, Yallingup Beach, and Injidup Beach. It features a garden, barbecue facilities, free on-site parking, and comfortable family rooms.

Budget ($): Tasman Holiday Parks – Yallingup Beach, 3-star condo hotel located near Yallingup Beach and Smiths Beach. Easy drive from Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, Maritime Museum, and Busselton Jetty. It features units with a fully equipped kitchenette, so you can prepare your own meal.

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN YALLINGUP

4. Busselton

Busselton is a fantastic area to stay for tourists visiting the Margaret River region. It is a coastal town located in the South West region and is known for its picturesque beaches, the iconic Busselton Jetty, and its proximity to the Margaret River wine region.

The Busselton Jetty is one of the town’s main attractions, stretching almost 2 kilometers into Geographe Bay, making it one of the longest wooden jetties in the southern hemisphere. You can take a leisurely stroll along the jetty, go fishing, or even take a train ride to the end.

Busselton is a great destination for families, with attractions like the Busselton Jetty and the Busselton Foreshore playground providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Busselton boasts beautiful beaches along Geographe Bay, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and water sports like snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding.

Best places to stay in Margaret River in Busselton:

Luxury ($$$): Busselton Beach House, 5-star good value for money beachfront holiday home, great base for families, or friends,  featuring a  terrace and a garden with a barbecue. The rooftop area overlooking the bay.

Mid-range ($$): Amalfi Resort, 4-star accommodation situated in Australia’s beautiful South West, a short walk from the beach. It has  fully self-contained villas with 2 and 3 bedrooms. The hotel offers free airport shuttle services which is a bonus for those who don’t drive.

Budget ($): Gale Street Motel & Villas, popular 3-star hotel located in a quiet area, away from the highway, central to everything, 5 mins walk from Busselton’s town center and Geographe Bay. Walking distance to the Jetty and the restaurants.

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN BUSSELTON

5. Prevelly Beach

Choosing to stay in Prevelly during your visit to the Margaret River region offers a unique coastal experience with stunning scenery and plenty of outdoor activities.

Prevelly is nestled along the coast, offering easy access to some of Margaret River’s most beautiful beaches. Surfers Point is a famous surf break known for its powerful waves, making it a popular spot for experienced surfers.

Other nearby beaches, such as Gnarabup Beach and Prevelly Beach, are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach walks.

The coastline around Prevelly Beach features scenic walking trails that offer stunning views of the ocean, cliffs, and surrounding landscape. You can explore trails like the Cape to Cape Track, which passes through Prevelly, and enjoy leisurely walks or more challenging hikes.

Prevelly Beach is renowned for its spectacular sunsets, with the sun sinking below the horizon in a blaze of colors over the Indian Ocean. Watching the sunset from the beach or nearby viewpoints is a must-do experience for visitors to the area.

Prevelly Beach is just a short drive from Margaret River town, where you can find a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Staying in Prevelly offers a peaceful coastal retreat while still being close to all the amenities of Margaret River.

Best places to stay in Margaret River in Prevelly:

Mid-range ($$): Aquatic Visions Studio Apartments, 4-star seafront accommodation, 5 minutes walk from Gnarabup Beach. Quiet location with views of the breaking ocean waves.

Mid-range ($$): Margarets Beach Resort, 4-star apartment accommodations close to Gnarabup Beach. It features self-contained apartments with beautiful views of the ocean. Easy distance  to Prevelly, Gnarabup, Witchcliffe, and Margaret River.

Budget ($): Surfpoint Resort, 3-star seaside accommodations, conveniently located only 10 mins walk from Gnarabup Beach and Prevelly Beach. Great base to explore all of the attractions of the region. The tour desk can help you with tours and wineries.

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN PREVELLY

In conclusion, Margaret River Town, Dunsborough, Yallingup, Busselton, and Prevelly are the best places to stay in Margaret River for first-timers and tourists. Regardless of which area you choose, you’ll be surrounded by plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, wine tasting, and relaxation.

You can continue reading about other destinations in Australia in these articles:

There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Margaret River. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. This means that, at absolutely no additional cost to you, I'll earn a small commission if you click through and purchase something I've recommended. I only recommend products that I use myself or firmly believe in. Thank you!

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