This Coastal Wine Region in Australia Was Just Named a Top 2026 Destination

Located in the far southwest corner of Western Australia, about a three-hour drive south of Perth, the Margaret River region isn’t well-known outside of the country. Most foreign visitors head to the beaches along the Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne, and destinations near the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland. But if you’re looking to escape the crowds while enjoying abundant sunshine, spectacular beaches, surfing, microbreweries, gourmet restaurants, wineries and vineyards, Margaret River is well worth a look. 

In fact, CN Traveler named this region among the best places to go in 2026, highlighting vineyard hopping and food festivals. But you’ll also want to come for its idyllic beaches and rich culture. This area has supported one of the longest, continuous human occupations, and is the traditional land of the Wadandi (or Saltwater) people, who have an incredibly deep connection to the land. 

In the north, you’ll find some of the best beaches for swimming in Busselton and Dunsborough, which are lapped by the warm, calm waters of Geographe Bay, with everything from long stretches to fine white sands tucked into secluded coves. Further south along the Indian Ocean, there is powerful surf for riding the waves as well as sections that have calm lagoons and limestone reefs, including Yallingup Lagoon, Eagle Bay, and Bunker Bay near Yallingup and Dunsborough. 

Beyond the beach, Margaret River is one of the best places in the country for caving. There are several that are easily accessible, including Jewel Cave with one of the world’s longest straw stalactites at more than 19 feet in length. Mammoth Cave boasts a wide range of formations angling in all different directions, while Lake Cave requires descending a staircase to reach a primeval “lost” world with mirrored reflections. 

The food and wine are top draws for visitors to Margaret River. There are some outstanding events coming up in 2026, including the highlight of winter, Cabin Fever. It’s held over 10 days from July 17–26, with endless feasting, wine, dancing, and open fires. If spring in Australia sounds more appealing, you might plan your trip around Pair’d in November, an impressive celebration of wine and food. 

No matter when you go, you can look forward to touring and tasting at world-renowned wineries. This region hosted the World’s 50 Best Vineyards 2025 awards, and in early 2026, the storied winery Vasse Felix will be debuting some exciting new experiences. Most notably, the immersive tastings and a behind-the-scenes look at traditional winemaking at Idée Fixe, its offshoot dedicated to Blanc de Blancs.

The Wadandi, or Saltwater people, have lived in the region through the last ice age, adapting and surviving over tens of thousands of years, thanks to their extensive knowledge of how to care for, and benefit from the land. Their intense connection can be experienced through stories, songs, personalities, and “Dreaming.” Guided cultural tours will bring you to learn more about the flora, fauna, and Dreaming spirits while discovering bush medicine and tasting native foods. 

October through April offers the best overall weather for beach time, surfing, hiking, caving, and other outdoor activities. September through November (spring) is great for whale watching and wildflowers; plan around the Pair’d wine and food event by visiting in November. December through February (summer) is the peak tourist season, optimal for beaches and swimming, although the area will be at its busiest and costs will be higher. June through August (winter)  isn’t the best time for beaches, but you’ll enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere for winery visits and forest walks. Plus, visiting in July means you can take advantage of the Cabin Fever feasts.

How to get there: The Margaret River region is just over a three-hour drive from Perth, or you can fly with Jetstar to Busselton-Margaret River Airport, which is only 45 minutes away.