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The Margaret River region stretches along 140 kilometres of Western Australia’s most stunning coastline. You’ll find everything from calm turquoise swimming bays to world-famous surf breaks that draw riders from across the globe.
The beauty here isn’t just about picture-perfect sands and crystal waters – it’s about variety. In a single day, you can swim with your kids in a sheltered bay, watch surfers tackle massive barrels, then finish with a sunset that looks surreal.
The region spans from Busselton’s gentle Geographe Bay in the north down to dramatic Cape Leeuwin in the south and gives you dozens of beaches to explore. Each one has its own personality, and honestly, that’s what makes this coastline so special.
What are the Best Margaret River Beaches by Location?
We’ve carefully ranked the best Margaret River Beaches by location so you can pick the locations for your coastal adventure.
Eagle Bay & Bunker Bay Area: Your Northern Beach Paradise
These northern beaches sit in the sheltered embrace of Cape Naturaliste, which means calmer conditions and that stunning turquoise water you see in Instagram photos. This is your go-to area when you want safe swimming and snorkelling without sacrificing scenery.
Eagle Bay Beach
Photo source: Pixabay
Eagle Bay gives you that rare combination of accessibility and tranquillity. The long stretch of white sand rarely feels crowded, even during peak summer months. The waters here stay calm most of the year, and it’s brilliant for swimming, snorkelling, and stand-up paddleboarding. Families love the gentle shore break, while couples appreciate the quiet atmosphere. After your beach session, Eagle Bay Brewing Co. is literally across the road, serving cold craft beer and excellent pub food.
Best for: Swimming, snorkelling, families, romantic walks
Facilities: basic parking (arrive early in summer), no lifeguards, basic facilities
Insider tip: The southern end offers better snorkelling around the rocky outcrops
Bunker Bay Beach
When people say Margaret River has the most beautiful beaches in Australia, they’re probably thinking of Bunker Bay. Those limestone cliffs rising from powder-white sand create a backdrop that’s pure magic. The protected bay means calm, clear water that’s perfect for snorkelling. You’ll spot colourful fish darting between rocks, and on a good day, the visibility stretches for metres. The walking trail from the car park down to the beach winds through coastal bush.
Best for: Snorkelling, photography, sunset viewing, special occasions
Facilities: Ample parking, toilets, and a nearby resort café
Insider tip: Low tide reveals extensive rock pools at the northern end
Meelup Beach
Photo source: Wallpaperflare
Meelup earns its reputation as one of Western Australia’s best family beaches every single day. The shallow, sheltered bay lets little ones paddle safely while parents actually relax. Grassed picnic areas with shade trees and free BBQs mean you can set up camp for the day. The vibrant turquoise colour photographs beautifully, but looks even better when you’re floating in it.
Best for: Families, swimming, picnics, safe paddling
Facilities: Excellent parking, toilets, BBQs, picnic shelters, playground nearby
Insider tip: Visit at low tide when rock pools appear, perfect for young marine biologists
Where to Stay: Base yourself in our boutique Eagle Bay and Bunker Bay accommodations to wake up minutes from these pristine northern beaches.
Dunsborough Beaches: Geographe Bay’s Gentle Giants
Dunsborough sits right on Geographe Bay, which has protected waters, safe swimming, and beaches that work beautifully for families. The bay’s gentle conditions make it ideal for first-time snorkellers and nervous swimmers.
Geographe Bay Beaches
Photo source: Unsplash
The Dunsborough foreshore stretches along Geographe Bay, offering multiple beach access points. You’ll find calm, clear water perfect for swimming and paddling. The flat, sandy bottom extends well out from shore, so kids can wade comfortably. Local families gather here year-round because the conditions stay consistently good. You’ll love it here because the foreshore trail connects multiple beaches, and it’s easy to stroll from one to another.
Best for: Swimming, families, walking, safe conditions
Facilities: Multiple access points, toilets, playgrounds, cafés nearby
Insider tip: The stretch near the Dunsborough Park offers the best facilities and shade
Quindalup Beach
Quindalup is a quieter alternative to the main foreshore beaches. The long stretch of soft sand rarely gets crowded, even in peak season. Its shallow waters and minimal wave action make it perfect for young swimmers building confidence. If you’re a dog owner, you’d love the designated off-leash areas where pups can run free along the sand.
Best for: Quiet beach days, dog walking, families seeking space
Facilities: Basic parking, limited facilities
Insider tip: Check local regulations for designated dog off-leash areas
Where to Stay: Our Upscale Dunsborough accommodations put you within walking distance of these family-friendly shores.
Yallingup Area: Where Surf Culture Thrives
Yallingup is surf central in the Margaret River region. The consistent Indian Ocean swells create world-class breaks that attract surfers from around the globe. Even if you’ve never touched a surfboard, the dramatic coastal scenery here is worth the visit.
Yallingup Beach
Photo source: Unsplash
This is the beach that put Margaret River on the international surf map. The main break offers challenging waves for experienced surfers, while the inner lagoon provides a calm refuge for swimmers and snorkellers. The long, white-sand beach stretches for over a kilometre, giving everyone plenty of space. The facilities here are excellent, with a playground, BBQ areas, and the famous Caves House nearby for post-surf refreshments.
Best for: Surfing (all levels), families, swimming in the lagoon
Facilities: Good parking, toilets, playground, BBQs, and a nearby café
Surf conditions: Best on incoming low tides, April to October peak season
Insider tip: Surf schools operate from here, so you can visit one if you’re interested in learning surfing
Smiths Beach
Photo source: Unsplash
Smiths Beach is a serious surf territory. Multiple breaks, including A-frames, Main Break, and the famous Supertubes, give surfers options for different skill levels. The Main Break suits intermediate riders, while Supertubes (also called Supers) challenge advanced surfers with fast, hollow barrels over shallow reef. If you’re not surfing, just watching the action from the beach is entertainment enough. The dramatic coastal scenery, with granite boulders and sweeping ocean views, makes this spot incredibly photogenic.
Best for: Surfing (intermediate to advanced), photography, coastal walks
Facilities: Good parking, toilets, and a nearby resort
Safety note: Wear reef booties for Supertubes, and never surf alone
Insider tip: Check surf cams before heading out
Injidup Beach
Injidup rewards those who make the effort to reach it. This more secluded beach offers dramatic coastal views and excellent hiking trails. The crystal-clear coves are perfect for swimming when conditions allow. The Yallingup to Injidup Natural Spa trail leads through bushland to a secluded cove with a natural rock pool that’s pure magic. You can also easily head to Moses Rock from Indulup Beach for some fun snorkelling time.
Best for: Hiking, secluded beach days, photography, snorkelling
Facilities: Basic parking, limited facilities
Insider tip: Visit the natural spa at low tide for the best experience
Where to Stay: Our elegant Yallingup accommodation places you in the heart of surf culture with easy access to multiple breaks.
Margaret River Town Area: Iconic Surf and Sunset Spots
The beaches near Margaret River town combine surf culture with stunning sunset viewing. These are the spots where locals gather after work to catch the evening light and watch the waves roll in.
Prevelly Beach
Prevelly is Margaret River’s main surf beach and the spiritual home of the region’s surf culture. The beach hosts major competitions, including stops on the World Surf League tour. But you don’t need to be a pro to appreciate Prevelly. The long stretch of sand offers excellent swimming when the surf is manageable, and the beach breaks provide waves for surfers of all abilities. The nearby Prevelly Park has BBQ facilities and grassed areas perfect for post-surf picnics.
Best for: Surfing (all levels), swimming (when calm), surf watching
Facilities: Ample parking, toilets, BBQs, and nearby Margaret River Mouth
Surf conditions: Consistent year-round, check flags for safe swimming areas
Insider tip: The south end typically offers more protected swimming conditions
Gnarabup Beach
Gnarabup perfectly blends surf culture with café lifestyle. The beach itself offers reliable surf breaks and beautiful swimming conditions. What sets it apart is the vibrant beach precinct with cafés, restaurants, and bars right on the sand. You can grab excellent coffee before your morning swim, enjoy lunch with ocean views, then return for sunset drinks. The relaxed atmosphere draws everyone from families to surfers to couples seeking that perfect sundowner moment.
Best for: Surfing, swimming, sunset viewing, beach dining
Facilities: Excellent parking, toilets, showers, multiple cafés and restaurants
Insider tip: Book a sunset dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants for unforgettable views
Where to Stay: Our luxurious Margaret River accommodation offers easy access to surf beaches and the vibrant town centre.
Busselton Area: The Jetty and Beyond
Busselton anchors the northern end of the region with its famous jetty and protected bay beaches. This is where you come for calm swimming, family activities, and that iconic jetty walk.
Busselton Beach and Jetty
Photo source: Unsplash
The Busselton Jetty is one of the longest timber-piled jetties in the Southern Hemisphere; it stretches 1.8 kilometres into Geographe. Walking out to the end takes about 20 minutes and offers incredible views of the bay. The Underwater Observatory at the jetty’s end lets you descend eight metres below the surface to see marine life without getting wet. The beaches flanking the jetty provide safe, shallow swimming. And the foreshore park offers playgrounds, BBQs, and shaded picnic spots.
Best for: Families, safe swimming, jetty walks, underwater observatory
Facilities: Extensive parking, toilets, change rooms, cafés, playgrounds
Special attraction: Walk or catch the jetty train, visit the Underwater Observatory
Insider tip: Early morning jetty walks offer the best light for photography
Where to Stay: Our high-end Busselton accommodation positions you perfectly for calm bay swimming and jetty adventures.
Beach Activities Guide
Match your beach day to your vibe with this quick guide to swimming, surfing, and exploring:
Best Swimming Beaches
The region’s swimming beaches cater to different preferences and skill levels. Meelup, Bunker Bay, and Eagle Bay offer protected conditions with stunning scenery. Geographe Bay beaches, including Dunsborough foreshore, provide consistently safe, shallow waters perfect for families. When ocean beaches are calm, Prevelly and Gnarabup also offer excellent swimming in beautiful settings.
Here are some swimming safety essentials:
- Always swim between red and yellow flags at patrolled beaches
- Check the Surf Life Saving WA app for real-time beach conditions
- Respect rip current warnings and never swim alone at isolated beaches
- Download the SharkSmart WA app for marine life alerts
Top Surf Breaks
Margaret River’s surf reputation is built on consistent swells and variety. Yallingup Beach offers waves for all levels, from the protected lagoon for beginners to challenging outside breaks. Smiths Beach delivers multiple options, including the famous Supertubes for advanced riders. The Main Break at Smiths Beach suits intermediate surfers, while Margaret River Mouth offers powerful reef breaks for experienced riders only.
Peak surf season: April to October
Best conditions: Incoming low tides, early morning for clean conditions
Gear rental: Available at Hillzeez Surf Shop, Dunsborough, Smiths Beach Resort Surf Centre, and Yallingup Surf School
Snorkelling Paradise
The region’s snorkelling spots rival tropical destinations for clarity and marine diversity. Bunker Bay’s limestone reef systems shelter colourful fish and coral. The Aquarium lives up to its name with calm, protected waters teeming with life. Canal Rocks offers adventurous snorkelling when conditions allow. And Moses Rock near Injidup provides excellent reef snorkelling for confident swimmers.
Best months: December to March for the warmest water and best visibility
Essential gear: Reef booties protect against shallow rocks and sea urchins
Family-Friendly Favourites
Family beach days succeed when facilities and conditions align. Meelup tops the list with shallow water, grassed picnic areas, BBQs, and rock pools at low tide. Busselton Beach combines safe swimming with the jetty attraction and extensive foreshore facilities. Eagle Bay offers calm conditions and that rewarding brewery across the road. Geographe Bay beaches provide multiple access points with playgrounds and cafés nearby.
Seasonal Beach Guide
| Season | Conditions | Best Activities | What to Know |
| Summer (Dec-Feb) | Warm weather (25-30°C), calm seas, peak crowds | Swimming, snorkelling, and family beach days | Book accommodation early, and arrive at popular beaches before 10 am for parking |
| Autumn (Mar-May) | Mild temperatures (20-25°C), fewer crowds, excellent conditions | All beach activities, photography, and romantic getaways | Golden light for photos, comfortable weather, and better accommodation availability |
| Winter (Jun-Aug) | Cool weather (15-20°C), dramatic seas, whale migration | Whale watching, storm watching, coastal walks, surfing | Bring layers, check whale watching tour schedules, and best surf conditions |
| Spring (Sept-Nov) | Warming temperatures (18-24°C), wildflowers, whale season continues | Whale watching, surfing, swimming, and coastal hiking | Peak whale watching in October, wildflowers bloom along coastal trails |
Top 3 Properties for Beach Lovers
If beach time is your priority, start with these standout properties designed for ocean lovers.
Surfside 3a, Yallingup
Waking up to ocean views never gets old, and Surfside 3a delivers them in style. This chic modern retreat sits just steps from Yallingup Beach, putting you within walking distance of world-class surf breaks and that stunning coastal scenery. The contemporary design maximises those sweeping ocean views, while the location means you can surf before breakfast and watch the sunset from your private deck.
Ideal for: Couples, surfers, ocean lovers
Nearby beaches: Yallingup Beach (2 minutes walk), Smiths Beach (5 minutes drive)
Clearwater Wander, Dunsborough
Location matters, and Clearwater Wander nails it. A short walk gets you to sparkling Geographe Bay waters, while the buzzing town centre with its cafés and restaurants sits equally close. This modern, welcoming property suits families or groups who want beach access by day and dining options by night. The three bedrooms provide everyone with space, while the modern kitchen handles those post-beach BBQs with ease.
Ideal for: Families, groups, beach and town access
Nearby beaches: Geographe Bay beaches (walking distance), Meelup Beach (5 minutes drive)
Charlie Bravo, Margaret River
When you want it all, Charlie Bravo delivers. This waterfront chalet combines architectural flair with pure comfort in the heart of wine country. While not directly on the beach, its location gives you easy access to both Prevelly and Gnarabup beaches while keeping you close to wineries and town attractions. The hydro spa and outdoor fire pit create that perfect après-beach atmosphere. You can wind down with a glass of local red after your beach day, perhaps tickling the ivories on the baby grand piano.
Ideal for: Couples, small groups, wine and beach lovers
Nearby beaches: Prevelly Beach (10 minutes drive), Gnarabup Beach (12 minutes drive)
Where Will You Go First?
The beaches are waiting. Crystal-clear waters, pristine sands, and that famous Margaret River lifestyle are just a booking away. Search through our curated selection of Margaret River stays and find your perfect beachside escape. From surf breaks to swimming bays, your ideal beach day starts with the right base.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best beach in Margaret River for families?
Meelup Beach wins hands down for families. The shallow, sheltered bay keeps kids safe while they paddle and swim. You will find free BBQs, grassed picnic areas with shade, and rock pools at low tide that turn into natural aquariums.
Are Margaret River beaches safe for swimming?
Bay beaches like Meelup, Bunker Bay, and Eagle Bay are mostly calm and safe for swimming. However, ocean beaches like Prevelly and Yallingup may have strong currents and bigger surf. So always check the Surf Life Saving WA app before swimming and stick to patrolled areas when possible.
Which Margaret River beaches are dog-friendly?
Quindalup Beach has designated off-leash areas for dogs. The northern end of Yallingup Beach (north of Dawson Drive access) also allows off-leash dogs. All other beaches require dogs on leads, and regulations can change seasonally, so check with local councils first.
When is the best time to visit Margaret River beaches?
December to February brings peak swimming weather, but there are bigger crowds. March to May offers mild conditions with fewer people. September to November delivers warming temps plus whale watching, especially in October.