Margaret River Weather in March

Margaret River Night Markets

March is a great time of year to visit Margaret River as the vineyards come to life for the grape harvest, luring you in to sample the first notes of this year's vintage. Adventurers can race to the water to catch the last of the summer waves, or those who prefer a little relaxation can hunt down a gorgeous sunset to enjoy over a picnic. 

Grab your mates and prepare for a full day of fun at Augusta River Festival. Photo: Russell Ord

As the heat of summer fades the crisp feel of autumn sweeps across the region, it brings with it the perfect mix of warm days and cooler evenings. Let's dive into what makes March in the Margaret River region such a great time to travel.

 

What Is the Weather Like in Margaret River in March?

If you’re someone who enjoys mild temperatures without the extreme highs and lows, then March is the ideal time to visit Margaret River. As summer fades and autumn starts to make its presence felt, the weather finds a delicate balance: not too hot, not too cold. There’s still plenty of sun to soak up during the day, without reaching scorching temperatures characterised by the summer months. 

The evenings bring a gentle coolness, inviting you to step outdoors and enjoy al fresco dining, where you can feast on the region's culinary delights under a canopy of stars. And if you're lucky, you might even need a light jumper by the time you're having dessert!

March also sees a slight shift in the winds, with breezes coming in from the south. This means that even on the warmest days, you can enjoy the cooler breeze washing over you.

Gnarabup Beach Margaret River

Average Temperatures in Margaret River in March

On average, daytime temperatures hover around the mid to high 20°C, making it the ideal time to get outdoors and enjoy the many activities. Temperatures reach an expected high of 26°C (78.8°F) during the day, making it pleasant for beach trips, winery tastings and hikes in nature.

As the sun sets, the evenings in March drop to a cool 13°C (55.4°F) at night time, making it ideal for those cosy dinners by the fireplace or stargazing sessions under the clear skies. It's this balance of warm days and cooler nights that gives Margaret River its unique charm in March.

When it comes to planning your wardrobe for the trip, think layers! A light t-shirt is perfect for the day, but at night you’ll need a jumper or a light jacket on hand. It's always a good idea to pack an umbrella or a raincoat, just in case an unexpected shower makes itself known. It is rare, but it’s better to be prepared.

Average temperatures in Margaret River in March

Region

Min °C

Max °C

Average °C

Min °F

Max °F

Average °F

Gnarabup

16.8

22.8

19.8

62.24

73.04

67.64

Redgate

16.8

22.8

19.8

62.24

73.04

67.64

Gracetown

15.4

25.2

20.3

59.72

77.36

68.54

Dunsborough

15.4

25.2

20.3

59.72

77.36

68.54

Yallingup

15.4

25.2

20.3

59.72

77.36

68.54

Sunshine Hours and Daylight in March

As we say goodbye to the long summer days and bring in the pleasant autumn weather, we are still greeted with plenty of sunlight hours to explore. At the start of March, Margaret River enjoys about 12 hours and 50 minutes of daylight, with the sun rising about 6.05am and setting at 6.52pm. This gradually decreases throughout the month to about 11 hours and 45 minutes with the sun rising at 6.26am and setting at 6.14pm. This means you've got a great window of opportunity to indulge in outdoor activities, from early morning hikes to late evening picnics. A

UV levels in Margaret River in March

In March, the average daily maximum UV index across Margaret River is 6, which indicates a high health risk from unsafe exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Be sure to bring your hat and sunscreen and reapply as you go about your adventures in the day. And if you're planning a day out, try to seek shade during the sun's peak hours, typically between 10am and 4pm.

Cape to Cape Track Margaret river

Average Rainfall in Margaret River in March

On average, Margaret River receives a moderate amount of rainfall in March. While the mornings often start off clear and sunny, the afternoons might surprise you with a brief shower or two. These showers are usually short-lived and add a touch of coolness to the warm March days. You can expect about 12.7mm (1.5 inches) of rainfall throughout the month with an average of two rainy days.

City / Region

 

Rainfall (mm)

Rainfall (inch)

Rainy days

Gnarabup

 

28.9

1.14

8.9

Redgate

 

28.9

1.14

8.9

Gracetown

 

22.8

0.89

5.6

Dunsborough

 

22.8

0.89

5.6

Best Things to Do in Margaret River in March

As summer's warmth gives way to the gentle embrace of autumn, the Margaret River region bursts into life in March with plenty of activities that cater to every kind of traveller. From art enthusiasts and nature lovers to adrenaline junkies and food connoisseurs, there's something for everyone. Read on for our pick of the best things to see and do in Margaret River in March.

Dunsborough Arts Festival

The Dunsborough Arts Festival is a huge celebration of creativity and culture set in the picturesque town of Dunsborough during March. This annual event brings together local artists, musicians, and performers, showcasing their talents through a range of art installations, live music sessions, workshops, and interactive performances. 

Wander through art installations that tell stories, attend workshops to learn from local artisans, enjoy the art market, head along to concerts and top it all off with an incredible fireworks display.

Simmos Icecream Dunsborourgh

Geographe Outriggers Jetty Regatta

Feel the adrenaline rush at the Geographe Outriggers Jetty Regatta, Western Australia’s largest outrigger canoe race with more than 20 canoes racing on the water at once. 

The race begins at 9 in the morning, so head along to the foreshore or jetty to watch the canoes in action and cheer them on. It’s quite a sight to see and will definitely be one of those memorable holiday moments.

Outdoor Movies at Lentedal Vineyard

There’s nothing better than pulling up a picnic blanket and relaxing back beneath the stars to watch a movie nestled amongst the vineyards. Lentedal Vineyard transforms into an open-air cinema in March, offering a magical movie-watching experience. Pair it with a glass of Lentedal's signature wine and some gourmet snacks, and you have the perfect evening. From romantic classics to contemporary hits, you’ll find movies for all throughout the season.

DIY Wine Tasting Tour

March in Margaret River is a wine lover's dream. As the grape harvest is in full swing, the region's vineyards are buzzing with activity, making it an ideal time for a DIY wine tasting tour. 

  • Vasse Felix: As one of the first wineries in Margaret River, Vasse Felix offers a rich history dating back to the late 60s with plenty of delicious wines to sample. While you’re visiting, enjoy a meal at their restaurant with stunning views of the vineyards. 
  • Voyager Estate: This winery stands out for its organically farmed Chardonnay and commitment to sustainability. Voyager offers a unique tasting experience complemented by cheese pairings in their garden-to-plate restaurant. The estate frequently hosts art exhibitions and seasonal events, ensuring there's always something happening.
  • Leeuwin Estate: renowned for its "Art Series" Chardonnay, the estate offers a range of wine experiences, from tastings to tours, and a high-profile restaurant that attracts visitors from all over.

Lake Cave

Ready to head on an adventure? Take a hike to Lake Cave and marvel at the stunning crystal formations surrounding you. It’s an experience like no other. As you descend into the cave, you will be immediately greeted by stalactites and stalagmites reflected in the waters of the underground lake. The play of light on the crystals, combined with the cave's natural acoustics, creates an incredible ambience.

Self guided wine tours in Margaret River

Augusta River Festival

March brings with it a festival season. Set by the banks of the river, the Augusta River Festival is a day when the community comes together to celebrate with boat races and live performances that get your feet tapping. 

The Festival offers a diverse range of activities for all ages. Food stalls serve up local delicacies, while artisan booths display handcrafted goods. As the sun sets, the festival ends with a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the night sky across the river waters. 

Visiting Margaret River in March

As the region transitions from the balmy days of summer to the mellow autumn weather, it offers a plethora of outdoor adventures. Whether you're immersing yourself in the vibrant arts scene, savouring the region's world-class wines, or exploring its natural wonders, every moment spent will be a memorable one.

Whether you’ve started planning your Margaret River holiday or not, 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 for advice and guidance on how to design your own trip. 

Felicity Frankish
By
Felicity Frankish
: 10 Oct 2023 (Last updated: 19 Aug 2024)

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