Located on the shores of Geographe Bay, Dunsborough is a tranquil location down south of Western Australia. From the quintessential activities to some hidden gems, you will find some best things to do in Dunsborough WA in this travel guide.
Dunsborough is a small coastal town in the Margaret River region located in South West of Western Australia. It is located 254 kilometers south of Perth and has a population of around 5000 people. Dunsborough is a popular tourist destination for Western Australians for the school holidays, the other being Rottnest Island. Because of its close proximity to some other picturesque towns including Busselton, Yallingup, and Margaret River, there is plenty to see and do here.
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Best Time to Visit Dunsborough
If you want to know the weather in Dunsborough and the best time to visit, here is a month-by-month breakup.
April – August: Both autumn and winter months are great to get the feel of the region, explore the region’s cellar doors, and enjoy the time indoors by sipping wine.
September – November: This is Dunsborough’s peak whale-watching season where you can either take a cruise to watch them closely or visit the various whale-watching vantage points throughout the town and within the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park to have a peek at them.
December – March: Thanks to warm temperatures and great surfing conditions, Summer is the most popular time to visit Dunsborough. There are plenty of beaches for various beach activities that you can enjoy.
Getting to/around Dunsborough
For most, the starting point is Perth and it takes around 3 hrs to reach Dunsborough via State Route 2 passing some major cities like Mandurah, Bunbury, and Busselton. Dunsborough is a self-drive destination and having or renting a car is the best way to move around.
Public Transport is limited to the main routes but you can take a coach from East Perth to Dunsborough. After reaching there, you will need a car to move around as there is no proper public transport but you can also join the charter tours to take you around various attractions in Dunsborough.
Best Things to Do in Dunsborough
1. Go Beach Hopping
Dunsborough is blessed with an amazing coastline and white sandy beaches. Even though there are so many incredible beaches in Western Australia, the beaches at Dunsborough are different and unusual because of the rocky coastline. The water is pristine blue, the sand is white, and despite being a popular holiday destination, Dunsborough beaches are not very crowded.
Take a coastal drive from Dunsborough Beach to Shelley Cove and you will find numerous beaches with tranquil turquoise water and amazing views for days. Some of the popular beaches and conventional choices that are worth exploring and should not be missed are Meelup Beach, Eagle Bay, and Castle Rock while Point Picquet is a hidden gem in Dunsborough. For crystal clear water and a peaceful location, visit Bunker Bay beach.
2. Watch Sunset at Sugarloaf Rock
One of the romantic things to do in Dunsborough is to watch the sunset at Sugarloaf Rock. It is one of my favorite places in Western Australia where you can feel the magic of mother nature and despite the crowds, you will still feel at peace. Though Sugarloaf Rock looks good at any time of the day, sunsets are just special here.
Sugarloaf Rock is a 50 m high gigantic granite rock emerging from the Indian Ocean and is located in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park near Cape Naturaliste. It is one of the most photographed sites in the South West region of WA and can be seen during the Cape Naturaliste to Sugarloaf Rock walk. Sugarloaf rock got its name because of its conical shape that resembles an old-style sugar-loaf.
Home to the red-tailed tropicbird which nests here from September to February each year, Sugarloaf is a designated reserve that is perfect for bird watching, seeing the playful bottlenose dolphins, and admiring the humpback whales when they migrate here.
SUVARNA’S TRAVEL TIP: Don’t forget to bring a bomber jacket during summers and a warm jacket during all other seasons as it tends to get really cold during sunset. Also, the wind is quite strong and cool.
How to get to Sugarloaf Rock: From the town of Dunsborough, drive along the Cape Naturaliste Road for approximately 10 km then turn left onto Sugarloaf Road. Drive till the end of the road, you will see a car park and a higher lookout for sugarloaf rock.
Facilities: A toilet facility is available at the car park.
Google Map Location: Sugarloaf Rock
3. Go Whale Watching
You can spot humpback whales, southern right whales, and blue whales between May and December when they migrate to Western Australia’s Coast. The whale watching season in Dunsborough begins in early September till the end of November and there are a number of operators that offer this activity.
A whale-watching tour is a must for those wanting an unforgettable experience and the best time to go on a cruise/boat in order to see the world’s largest mammal is morning. Though there is no ‘best time’ as such, the weather and ocean conditions in the mornings are calmer in general.
Usually, the whale watching tour is anywhere between 2-3 hrs as the tour operator needs to venture further out from the shores to navigate the whales based on their type. These mighty creatures look magnificent if you are lucky to see them closely. A whale watching tour guarantees the sighting but it doesn’t guarantee an up-close encounter. You may only be able to see their head from far and you would be lucky if you see them right next to your boat.
Two of the whale watching tours that are worth looking into are Naturaliste Charters and All Sea Charters.
SUVARNA’S TRAVEL TIP: If you get seasick easily then take a seasickness tablet before you go on the cruise.
4. Climb the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse
Located just 15 min from Dunsborough, in Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park, Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is a 20-m high cylindrical tower built of limestone. It is one of the most popular attractions in Dunsborough and has outstanding panoramic views of the Indian ocean and the beautiful Geographe Bay coastline.
An easy climb of 59 steps takes you to the viewing platform at the top of the lighthouse. Guided tours are available every half hour from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm with an entry fee of $15 AUD for adults and $8 AUD for children. You can also get insights into the history of this working lighthouse and hear about the ships that have wrecked off this coastline by taking the guided tour.
Cape Naturaliste is also the starting (or end) point of the 123 km long Cape to Cape track that goes all the way to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse in Augusta.
Address: Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, 1267 Cape Naturaliste Rd, Naturaliste WA 6281
Facilities: Carpark, Public Toilet, and Gift Shop
Entry fee: $15 AUD for adults and $8 AUD for children
Opening Times: 9 AM – 5 PM
Google Map Location: Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse
5. Enjoy the Coastal Walks in Dunsborough
The fact that Dunsborough is home to many beaches, it also has some wonderful coastal walks to explore. If you are a hiker or someone who loves walking trails then this is one of the best things to do in Dunsborough for you. The most famous long-distance coastal walk is the 123 km long epic Cape to Cape Track which starts in Dunsborough and ends at Augusta. In fact, the whole Margaret River region is filled with splendid walking trails but here are some great walking trails in Dunsborough.
1. Cape Naturaliste to Sugarloaf Rock
This easy 3.5 km grade 2 trail starts from the Car Park of Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and ends at the higher vantage point of Sugarloaf Rock providing stunning coastal views. It is one of the best hikes that you should do and is easy too along with many photo opportunities along the way.
The first part of the trail is a boardwalk and the rest of the path is well paved that is wheelchair accessible and pram friendly. There are wooden benches along the way to take a rest and if you are walking the trail between the months of June – October, there are high chances to spot whales.
2. Meelup Reserve Trail
The Meelup Reserve Trail is a beautiful 14 km return coastal walk that starts at Hurford Street in Old Dunsborough and ends at Eagle Bay. The trail is a Grade 3 moderate bushwalk that takes you past Castle Rock, Meelup Beach, and Point Picquet. Meelup Reserve Trail is a small part of the longer Cape to Cape Track and the quality of the track itself is very good and is clearly well maintained.
During the warmer months, most of these beaches are great for swimming, with lots of snorkeling opportunities along the reefs but I wouldn’t recommend walking the trail during summer as it gets very hot. The best time to do the trail will be cooler months of autumn or spring. To access the trail at Hurford St, leave your car at the car park facing the Dunsborough foreshore.
As it’s a long walk, bring at least 2 liters of water with you and sturdy shoes along with a hat to protect you from the sun.
3. Bunker Bay Loop
The Bunker Bay loop is a grade 3, 3.6 km loop that takes roughly around 2-3 hrs to complete. The trail starts at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse car and offers amazing views of the Indian Ocean. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, there are a number of viewing platforms throughout the trail to soak in the view. You can also deter from the trail to go down to Shelley cove if you wish. Bring good sturdy walking shoes and enough water.
4. Whalers Lookout Trail
This 2.4 km Whale Lookout walk is the shortest and most popular trail from the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. The track takes you to a lookout over the cliffs and out to sea. A spur boardwalk leads down to another lookout perched on the outer cliff top. It takes around 1 hr to complete this grade 2 trail that starts at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse car park and ends at the whale lookout.
6. Visit the Wineries & Breweries in Dunsborough
While Margaret River is the undisputed king down south to indulge in incredible wine, food, and craft beer that is produced in the world-renowned Margaret River wine region, Dunsborough also has a few wineries and vineyards to visit. These 3 places are best for wineries & vineyards in Dunsborough:
- Flametree Wines
- Mongrel Creek Wines
- Palmer Wines
Flametree Wines is the best one in the region that is worth visiting for its unique Hampton beach house architecture. With an open fireplace, inviting deck, and beautiful gardens the Flametree Cellar Door is suitable for visiting at any time of the year.
Opening Hours: 10 am – 5 pm
If you are a fan of beer don’t miss to visit Eagle Bay Brewing Co. They have got a great lunch menu, friendly staff, and a kids playground to keep the little ones occupied.
Book your wine adventures here.
7. Go shopping at Boutique Shops
Shopping lovers are in for a treat in the town of Dunsborough as it is a great place for retail therapy. From handmade homeware from Merchant & Maker, clothing, to gift shops like Eagle Bay Olives and Happ’s Pottery, there are many shops and boutique stores to go to. Dunsborough Centrepoint is a popular shopping mall to spend some time in. Art lovers can find themselves appreciating the work of Christian Fletcher at his Gallery, Christian Fletcher Gallery.
8. Dive the HMAS Swan Wreck
One of the most amazing things to do in Dunsborough if you are keen on an adventure is to explore the wreck of a 140 m long HMAS Swan (DE 50), named for the Swan River, which was a River-class destroyer escort of the Royal Australian Navy. It was purposefully sunk in the Geographe Bay in 1997 and is one of the world-class wreck dives. The HMAS Swan Wreck site is located 1.3 nautical miles off Point Piquet, Geographe Bay.
The ship is at the bottom of the ocean and the upper deck of the ship is 15 m below the surface. HMAS Swan Wreck is home to a large range of marine life with almost 200 globefish continually swimming around the ship’s bow. There is a possibility of marine life encounters inside and outside the wreck so keep an eye out for western blue gropers, dusky morwongs, Samson fish, and mulloways.
You’ll need a permit from the Department of Environment and Conservation or the Dunsborough Visitor Centre before completing this dive. The best way to explore the wreck from outside is via a charter but if you do an advanced course, it will allow you to explore the inside of the ship. Charters to the Swan Wreck are run by two local companies, Cape Dive in Dunsborough and The Dive Shed in Busselton.
9. Eat at the local Eateries
Like many other towns in Western Australia, Dunsborough is also good for fishing as it has fish-filled bays hence there is an abundance of fresh seafood in the area. Meelup Beach, Castle Rock, and Bunker Bay are the most popular fishing spots. If you love seafood and are willing to try the region’s delicious seafood, the Blue Manna Bistro is a popular local joint.
For sweet tooth lovers, you may want to visit the Dunsborough bakery as it’s always packed with both locals and tourists. Their famous surfer’s pie is something that won’t disappoint you. If you want to have a truly amazing close to nature experience then tucked away in the bush, Goanna Cafe & Gallery has great food.
10. Seek thrill with Jet Ski
For thrill-seekers and adventure lovers, spending a few hours exploring and seeing the beauty of Geographe Bay coastline on a Jetski is one of the top things to do in Dunsborough. Dunsborough Jetski Tours is the only Jet Ski Tour in the Southwest that provides an informative and scenic guided tour where you might get to see whales, dolphins, and sea lions on this incredible adventure!
They provide fully guided tours with a choice of 1 hour or 2-hour tour, and the Jetski leaves from Quindalup Boat Ramp. The return trip is filled with speed and thrill as it is a faster run out. They also give you the time to let loose and have fun on the Jetski. For prices and more info, click here.
Duration: 1 hour, 2 hours
Address: 371 Geographe Bay Rd, Quindalup WA 6281
Timing: 8 am – 5 pm
Google Map Location: Dunsborough Jetski Tours
Things to do in Dunsborough with Kids
11. Feed the Animals at Country Life Farm
Country Life Farm in Dunsborough is a part theme park and part petting zoo. Operating since 1989, it is a family-run and owned business that can prove to be a great day if you are looking for family-friendly things to do in Dunsborough. Upon entry, the staff gives a brief summary of the place and what’s included. The kids can hand feed the friendly farm animals including Rabbits, guinea pigs, kangaroos, llamas, alpacas, goats, sheep, donkeys, ponies, cows, and Stan the Highland Steer.
Admission fees:
- Adults: $24.00
- Pensioners: $22.00
- Children: $22.00 (children under 2 years old are free)
A lot of activities like a bucket of carrots for kids to feed the animals, unlimited merry-go-round rides, unlimited time on the bouncy castle, 1 boat ride pp, etc are included in the ticket. There are also BBQ facilities available and Icecream, chips, lollies shops but there are no cafes. For an additional cost of 5 AUD, you can watch a 12D cinema if this is something that interests you.
Address: 1694 Caves Rd, Dunsborough WA 6281
Google Map Location: Country Life Farm
12. Grab a Scoop at Simmo’s Ice Creamery
Simmo’s Ice Creamery has become an icon in the southwest and is famous for its delicious vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free ice cream with over 60 flavors. Apart from their ice cream, they have also a family fun park with a lot of space, several BBQs, a mini-golf course, and a modern playground. Simmo’s is open daily from 10 am – 5 pm.
Address: 161 Commonage Rd, Quindalup WA 6281
Google Map Location: Simmo’s Ice Creamery
13. Escape the ordinary at Xcape
For a jam-packed day of family fun and with a wide range of activities, attractions, and entertainment for kids of all ages, Xcape at the cape is a great place to visit. While the older children can enjoy the adventure game Amaze ‘N’ Lazer Tag, the younger ones can enjoy Jump ‘N’ Tramps, Wacky Putt Jokes ‘N’ Pranks, and Jungle Mountain. There is also an H2O water park and Xtreme – Mega Slide.
For tickets and pricing info, click here.
Address: 4 Quindalup Siding Rd, Dunsborough WA 6281
Timing: 10.00 AM – 4:00 PM
Google Map Location: Xcape at the cape
14. Next Level Monkey Business
If you are looking for some adrenaline-pumping things to do in Dunsborough then situated amongst the trees in a valley, adjacent to Clancy’s Fish Pub, Next Level Monkey Business is a zipline and ropes course for kids of all ages that will challenge them and excite them.
Whether it’s the Mega Zip 100 meters across the lake, the Tree Huggers zipline course, the Mini zipline course, or the entire monkey business experience, fun is guaranteed. It is created with safety for the enjoyment of all age groups and to help push the boundaries, and test the skills. There are swinging bridges, climbing walls, ziplines, twisty ladders, and balancing obstacles.
It also serves as a perfect venue for birthdays, school excursions, corporate groups & Christmas parties. They are open 7 days a week during school holidays and from Friday to Monday during school terms.
Address: 1710 Caves Rd, Dunsborough WA 6281
Timing: 10 am – 4 pm
Google Map Location: Next Level Monkey Business
What to Pack
If you’re visiting in summer, pack plenty of loose clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, water bottle, and snorkeling gear. If visiting in cooler months, be sure to pack plenty of layers and a good pair of walking shoes, as tracks can get muddy. Mosquito repellent is a must, especially if you’re exploring local bushland.
Accommodation in Dunsborough WA
Budget: Dunsborough Beachouse YHA – Overlooking Geographe Bay with direct access to the beach, this backpacker hostel has a choice of private and dormitory rooms. The location of this property and the friendly chilled-out vibes are what make this place great. There aren’t many places you can stay for this price with the beach at your doorstep.
Mid Range: Lanterns Retreats – Located in the Margaret River Wine Region and in the heart of Old Dunsborough it is one of the best-rated accommodations in Dunsborough and offers amazing value. All suites include either a balcony or patio offering lush garden views.
Luxury: Pullman Bunker Bay Resort – Situated on Bunker Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, this 5-star resort is the perfect luxury retreat. Whether you choose to swim in the ocean or the infinity pool is up to you!
Find other great places to stay in Dunsborough on Booking.com.
Map of Things to do in Dunsborough
Final Thoughts – Is Dunsborough Worth Visiting?
I hope after reading this guide, you have no further thoughts on what to do in Dunsborough. Whether you are making your way from Perth to Dunsborough for a weekend or if it’s just a stopover for your Perth to Esperance road trip, Dunsborough will charm you with its beauty. The area is really amazing, the vibe is relaxing and there is something for everyone so it doesn’t matter where you are a couple, traveling solo or have kids, there are plenty of things to do in Dunsborough to keep you busy.
Happy Travels!
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