The gateway to the Margaret River region and Western Australia’s southwest coast, Dunsborough has it all. Surf breaks, coastal hikes, and sweeping ocean views await along the shore, while sunny vineyards offer wine tasting and farm-to-table gastronomy along the banks of the Margaret River. Further inland, vast state forests stretch all the way to the south coast, criss-crossed
Read more...The gateway to the Margaret River region and Western Australia’s southwest coast, Dunsborough has it all. Surf breaks, coastal hikes, and sweeping ocean views await along the shore, while sunny vineyards offer wine tasting and farm-to-table gastronomy along the banks of the Margaret River. Further inland, vast state forests stretch all the way to the south coast, criss-crossed with hiking and mountain biking trails. Campers can enjoy similar variety, whether you fancy glamping in a luxury tent or tiny house, checking into a rustic chalet with bed and breakfast, or getting back to nature at a remote bush camping site.
Wine Country
The Margaret River wine region stretches south from Dunsborough, through Yallingup and Margaret River, to Augusta, dotted with more than 120 wineries, as well as restaurants, breweries, and farmers markets. Camping sites range from simple unpowered sites to fully equipped holiday parks with swimming pools, all within an hour’s drive from Dunsborough. You can even enjoy a farmstay at a local farm, pitch your tent overlooking the vineyards, or park your motorhome among olive groves.
South West Coast
Just north of town, the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is the starting point of the 123-kilometre Cape to Cape Walk, which hugs the coastline all the way to Cape Leeuwin on the southern tip. You don’t have to hike to take in the highlights, which include swimming and surfing at the beaches, watching the sunset over Sugarloaf Rock, and the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, a popular spot to admire Western Australia’s famous wildflowers.
Southern Forests and Valleys
Vast swathes of forests and woodlands blanket Australia’s southwest corner, and there are around 20 national parks and state forests to explore, many within a 2-hour drive from Dunsborough. Hikers can venture into the wilderness in the Greenbushes, Nannup, and Blackwood forests, where simple bush camping sites and bunk houses welcome backpackers. Further south, Pemberton harbors popular sites such as the Yeagarup Sand Dunes and Beedelup Falls.
When to Go
From September through May, the warm weather, tempered by coastal winds, is ideal for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities in Dunsborough. The most spectacular scenery sprouts up in spring, when wildflowers blaze a colorful trail along the coast, and this is also a prime time for whale watching tours. Winter weather is generally quite mild, although campers should be prepared for regular showers, and some campsites and caravan parks close in low season.
Know Before You Go
- Dunsborough has a number of grocery stores and camping gear shops, where you can stock up on supplies before heading out.
- Having your own transport is a big plus around Dunsborough, especially if you’re planning to explore the vineyards or visit the national parks.
- Fire bans are common in Western Australia during summer and dry periods, so be sure to check local recommendations before lighting your campfire or use the designated firepits.
- A National Parks pass is required to visit, hike, or camp within Western Australia’s national parks.
The best camping near Dunsborough, Western Australia.
Sandy coves, ancient woodlands, and verdant vineyards tempt nature-loving campers to this coastal town.
Wine Country
The Margaret River wine region stretches south from Dunsborough, through Yallingup and Margaret River, to Augusta, dotted with more than 120 wineries, as well as restaurants, breweries, and farmers markets. Camping sites range from simple unpowered sites to fully equipped holiday parks with swimming pools, all within an hour’s drive from Dunsborough. You can even enjoy a farmstay at a local farm, pitch your tent overlooking the vineyards, or park your motorhome among olive groves.
South West Coast
Just north of town, the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is the starting point of the 123-kilometre Cape to Cape Walk, which hugs the coastline all the way to Cape Leeuwin on the southern tip. You don’t have to hike to take in the highlights, which include swimming and surfing at the beaches, watching the sunset over Sugarloaf Rock, and the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, a popular spot to admire Western Australia’s famous wildflowers.
Southern Forests and Valleys
Vast swathes of forests and woodlands blanket Australia’s southwest corner, and there are around 20 national parks and state forests to explore, many within a 2-hour drive from Dunsborough. Hikers can venture into the wilderness in the Greenbushes, Nannup, and Blackwood forests, where simple bush camping sites and bunk houses welcome backpackers. Further south, Pemberton harbors popular sites such as the Yeagarup Sand Dunes and Beedelup Falls.
When to Go
From September through May, the warm weather, tempered by coastal winds, is ideal for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities in Dunsborough. The most spectacular scenery sprouts up in spring, when wildflowers blaze a colorful trail along the coast, and this is also a prime time for whale watching tours. Winter weather is generally quite mild, although campers should be prepared for regular showers, and some campsites and caravan parks close in low season.
Know Before You Go