Best Time to Visit Margaret River

Seasons and weather in Margaret River:

• Summer (December - February): these are the warmest days in Margaret River and they are perfect for long days at the beach or soaking up the festival vibe. The vineyards also make a great stop to sample wines and experience the scenery.
• Autumn (March - May): a season of transition, autumn in Margaret River brings mild temperatures, paving the way for cooler evenings and misty mornings. The vineyards are now ripe and ready for harvest as the leaves turn shades of amber, gold, and crimson.
• Winter (June - August): the air is crisp, as the hustle and bustle of tourists start to disappear. With a glass of rich red wine in hand, you can truly appreciate the cosy warmth of the region.
• Spring (September - November): Wildflowers bloom in abundance and vineyards begin their new cycle, with mild temperatures making a pleasant backdrop for adventure.

Summer (December - February)

Summer in Margaret River is a sun-soaked affair of pristine beaches offering up surfing, swimming, and coastal walks. The vineyards are the perfect stop for refreshing wine tastings, often paired with alfresco dining experiences that showcase the region's fresh produce. Summer also hosts a number of events, from music festivals to gourmet escapes, reflecting Margaret River's vibrant cultural scene. The longer days provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Beach Activities

The coastline of Margaret River offers up glistening waters and golden sands. Whether you're keen on catching a wave, indulging in a sun-soaked afternoon, or taking off on a coastal walk, summer is the season to make a splash. Surfers Point, Prevelly is a haven for surfers. Known for its consistent waves and hosting international surfing competitions, it's the perfect spot for those looking to ride the waves or simply watch professionals carve through the water. For something a little more laid back, Yallingup Beach is a favourite among families with sheltered lagoons that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. 

Vineyard Tours

The vineyards are in full swing, with grapes reaching their peak ripeness. Head off on guided tours, where you can wander through rows of grapevines, learn about the wine-making process, and, of course, indulge in tastings. Vasse Felix Winery holds the title of Margaret River's founding wine estate. Along with exceptional wines, the estate offers an award-winning restaurant, which pairs the region's freshest produce with its finest wines. Celebrated for its Chardonnay, Pierro is also a must-visit. The vineyard offers guided tours that take you into the process of wine-making, followed by delicious tastings.

Music and Cultural Festivals

Summer in Margaret River hosts an array of festivals. Margaret River Gourmet Escape brings food and wine enthusiasts from all over the world. Celebrated chefs host workshops, wine tastings, and gourmet feasts. Leeuwin Estate’s annual concert is a mix of fine wine, gourmet food, and world-class music set against the backdrop of the vineyards. Celebrating the region's craft beer scene, the South West Craft Beer Festival festival brings together local brewers, offering a chance to sample a diverse range of beers. While not exactly a cultural festival, Margaret River Pro is a world-renowned surfing competition that attracts elite surfers worldwide. The event celebrates the region's surfing culture and involves beachside music gigs and community events.

Autumn (March - May)

Autumn in Margaret River is a season of transformation. The vineyards are busy with the grape harvest, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the wine-making process and sample the freshest vintages. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for exploring the outdoors, from leisurely walks to picnics by the riverside. Plus, with the summer crowds dwindling, you can enjoy a more relaxed experience.

Grape Harvest

Experience the magic of the harvest season. Join local vineyards in the grape-picking process, and perhaps even try your hand at some wine-making techniques. Leeuwin Estate offers harvest experiences where visitors can join the picking teams, learn about grape varieties, and understand the harvesting process. You can also head over to Cullen Wines and explore their commitment to biodynamic farming.

Foliage Tours

Autumn in Margaret River is full of colours. Taking a walk or driving through the surrounding nature is the perfect opportunity to see the colours of the season up close. A drive through the Boranup Karri Forest is a must. The towering Karri trees, some of the tallest in the world, shed their bark during this season, revealing a smooth, multi-hued trunk beneath. Margaret River Heritage Trail follows the old railway line and is great during the autumn months. As you walk or cycle along, take note of the informative signboards that provide insights into the region's flora and history. Finally, check out the Lake Cave Treetop Walk leading to Lake Cave as it provides some gorgeous, panoramic views.

Truffle Season

Autumn marks the start of truffle season which spans from June through to August, offering a fun culinary adventure. You can join a truffle hunting tour at The Truffle & Wine Co. Accompanied by trained dogs, visitors can hunt for the elusive black truffle. Post-hunt, indulge in a truffle-infused meal at their on-site restaurant. Or simply head to the local markets in the region and pick up the delicious truffle that you can add to your own cooking back home.

Winter (June - August)

Winter in Margaret River brings with it a cosy atmosphere. The chill in the air is perfectly complemented by warm fireplaces in local wineries and restaurants. There's something special about sipping a delicious red wine in a rustic cellar door. Many wineries also release their new vintages during this season, offering visitors a first taste of their latest creations. Winter sees fewer tourists in Margaret River compared to the peak summer months. This means more intimate wine tasting sessions and a more relaxed pace.

Cosy Winery Visits

The chill in the air is best met with a glass of Margaret River's finest red. Nestle into the cosy corners of local wineries and enjoy wine tastings by the fireplace. Leeuwin Estate offers a grand stone fireplace and rustic interiors, where visitors can sample their famous 'Art Series' wines while soaking in the warmth and enjoying views of the vineyards. The intimate setting of Woodlands Winery, with its wooden interiors and panoramic windows, offers the perfect backdrop for winter wine tastings. Their range of Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its rich flavours, is especially delicious during the colder months.

Gourmet Experiences

Winter is the season for comfort food and Margaret River doesn’t disappoint. From slow-cooked meats to rich soups, hot pots, tempura and grilled meats, you’ll find a touch of everything in this foodie heaven. Head to Morries for delicious cocktails that will warm you from the inside out and tapas-style dining. For something different, check out Miki’s Open Kitchen for Japanese with a twist using local ingredients.

Indoor Attractions

While the winter weather might be a bit nippy for outdoor adventures, Margaret River offers plenty of indoor attractions. Head to Margaret River Chocolate Company and sample a range of chocolates while enjoying the chocolate-making process. Explore beyond the wines at Margaret River Distilling Company where you can take guided tours and tastings and sample a range of spirits.

Spring (September - November)

Spring in Margaret River bursts into life with a vibrant display of wildflowers. The vineyards come alive with budding vines, making it a great time to dive into the early stages of the wine-making process and witness the upcoming harvest. The temperate climate of spring is perfect for outdoor explorations, from hiking trails adorned with seasonal blooms to leisurely strolls along the riverbanks and beaches. With fewer crowds than summer it’s a great time to travel.

Wildflower Tours

Spring sees Margaret River covered in a blanket of wildflowers. You can head to Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, where you can take a guided tour of the diverse flora, including orchids, kangaroo paws, and banksias. Along with its towering Karri trees, Boranup Forest is carpeted with blooms, from delicate orchids to vibrant wattles. The coastal Cape to Cape Track offers a unique blend of sea views and wildflower sightings. 

Wine-making Process

Spring is a time of rejuvenation for the vineyards, making it an ideal season to delve into the early stages of the wine-making process. Apart from its wines, Vasse Felix offers guided tours that take you into the vineyard's spring activities. From pruning to understanding growth cycles, it's an educational wine experience. Spring at Woodlands brings plenty of growth over their 10 hectares of certified organic and 17 hectares of Woodlands Brook Vineyard. There’s lots to explore.

Outdoor Activities

With the weather turning pleasant, spring is the perfect season for outdoor adventures. For adrenaline junkies, spring is the ideal time for rock climbing and abseiling. Margaret River Climbing Co. offers guided adventures, catering to both beginners and seasoned climbers.

If you’re after something a little more relaxed, explore the serene waters of the Margaret River with a guided canoe tour. Spring sees the riverbanks adorned with wildflowers along the way.

Best Time to Visit Margaret River

Each season, with its distinct charm and offerings, brings something unique to the Margaret River Region. Whether you're a wine connoisseur seeking the perfect vintage, a nature lover chasing the bloom of wildflowers, or a culture enthusiast eager to immerse in local festivities, Margaret River promises an experience tailored just for you.

The Margaret River Region is calling, and there's no better time to answer. Check out First Light Travel’s Margaret River blog for any further information you might need. Or, you can contact FLT’s Margaret River travel team to design your own trip