About South West

The South West region, one of the nine regions in Western Australia, encompasses more than 24,000 square kilometres of the mainland. Within this expansive area, you'll find an awe-inspiring coastline stretching over 1,000 kilometres. Housing over 24 massive national parks, there’s plenty of nature and wildlife to be explored, while rich fertile lands offer foodies the perfect combination of local flavours and gourmet experiences.

From pristine beaches to rugged coastlines, ancient forests to picturesque vineyards, South West boasts a diverse and breathtaking landscape. One of its crown jewels is the renowned Margaret River wine region, where visitors can embark on vineyard tours, indulge in wine tastings, and experience the art of winemaking.

In addition to the world-class wines, you'll find a thriving culinary scene. Indulge in fresh local produce, farm-to-table dining experiences, and a range of gourmet delights. Many restaurants in the region emphasise using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a unique and delicious dining experience.

Hiking in national parks like Leeuwin-Naturaliste, exploring the Bibbulmun Track, and engaging in water sports such as surfing, swimming, and snorkelling along the coast are popular options for outdoor adventurers. Not to mention, the myriad wildlife that you can see during these experiences – kangaroos, wallabies, dolphins, or even killer whales!

South West also offers cultural and historical experiences, with opportunities to dwell deep into the indigenous heritage of the region. Cultural centres, guided tours, and local events provide insights into the rich traditions and stories of the indigenous communities.

South West Cruise Experiences

Dolphin Watching cruises

2 Cruises

From $65

Lunch Cruises

3 Cruises

From $119

Sightseeing Cruises

2 Cruises

From $99

Whale Watching Cruises

6 Cruises

From $95

Featured Cruises

13 Cruises

Naturaliste Whale Watching Eco Tours Augusta

Embark on a whale watching journey like no other amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Augusta to see the majestic giants up close

Duration 2hr

From $95

1.5 Hour Dolphin Discovery Eco Cruise

Get ringside views of the playful dolphins of Koombana Bay frolic, fight, and feed in their natural environment from the comfort of a cruise.

Duration 1hr

From $65

Naturaliste Dunsborough Whale Watching Eco Tours

Brace yourself for a captivating whale watching expedition to witness the phenomenal beings of the ocean in their graceful splendour.

Duration 2hr

From $95

Naturaliste Bremer Canyon Killer Whale (Orca) Expedition

Embark on an adventure like never before and come face-to-face with the majestic rulers of the deep - the killer whales (orcas) of Bremer Bay Canyon.

Duration 8hr

From $399

2 Hour Augusta Whale Watching Cruise

Join a veteran captain and his loyal crew as they navigate the sparkling waters of Augusta in search of the migrating whales! Sightings guaranteed.

Duration 2hr

From $95

2.5 Hour Busselton Whale Watching Cruise

Get ready for an adventurous cruise – packed with breaching, tail-whipping, wave-riding, spy-hopping, and fin-slapping by the mighty Humpbacks.

Duration 2hr

From $95

Swim with wild Dolphins

Award-winning dolphin swim tour in Bunbury offering close-up encounters with dolphins in their natural environment. Snacks included.

Duration 4hr

From $140

Naturaliste Busselton Whale Watching Eco Tours

Venture out on a scenic adventure cruise to meet the world’s largest mammals (and other marine life!) in their natural habitat.

3.5Hr Scenic Wildlife & Island Cruise

Exciting cruise along 8 islands of the Recherche Archipelago to get up close and personal with exotic wildlife. Enjoy morning tea and a snorkel tour.

Duration 4hr

From $130

3.5Hr Wild Seafood Catch & Dine Cruise

Fresh Mandurah lobster from ocean to plate – enjoy a chef’s special 7-course seafood lunch paired with free-flowing drinks on the Reel Affair II.

Duration 3hr

From $299

4Hr Murray River Lunch & Sightseeing Cruise

Cruise by the RAMSAR-listed Creery Wetlands and down Murray River – the longest, undammed river in Australia. Cooper’s Mill walking tour & lunch incl.

Duration 4hr

From $119

2Hr Mandurah High Tea Cruise

A deluxe high tea cruise around Mandurah – voted Western Australia’s Top Tourism Town for 2022. Gourmet delicacies, glass of bubbles & tea/coffee.

Duration 2hr

From $99

4Hr South West Taste of The Bays Cruise

Enjoy South West on a plate – a chef’s special 7-course menu with live BBQ as you cruise along Geographe Bay. Premium Margaret River wines included.

Duration 4hr

From $299

See All Cruises

Know Before You Go

Best Time To Visit

You can visit the South West any time of the year. Although summers are great for beach getaways, accommodation should be booked well in advance. Winter months are ideal for whale watching, with January being the perfect month to watch the killer whales up close. Spring and Autumn bring out the ideal time to explore the many bushwalks and national parks.

Public Holidays

National Public Holidays:
Sunday, 1 January: New Year's Day
Monday, 2 January: Additional public holiday for New Year's Day
Thursday, 26 January: Australia Day
Friday, 7 April: Good Friday
Saturday, 8 April: Day following Good Friday
Sunday, 9 April: Easter Sunday
Monday, 10 April: Easter Monday
Tuesday, 25 April: Anzac Day
Monday, 25 December: Christmas Day
Tuesday, 26 December: Boxing Day

Other public holidays declared by the state and territory governments:

Western Australia
Monday, 6 March: Labour Day
Monday, 5 June: Western Australia Day
Monday, 25 September: King's Birthday

Events & Festivals

Whale Watching Season
Though not an event in itself, it’s a time of the year that both locals and visitors look forward to. May to early December is the best time to spot the Humpback Whales, Southern Right Whales and Minke whales in their natural habitat.

CinefestOZ Film Festival
Held in Busselton, Bunbury, Dunsborough and Margaret River, this film festival celebrates Australian and international cinema. It features screenings of acclaimed films, red carpet premieres, industry workshops, and opportunities to interact with filmmakers and actors.

Nannup Flower & Garden Festival
This festival celebrates the beauty of nature, showcasing a stunning array of flowers, plants, and garden designs. Expect garden exhibitions, workshops, interactive studios, & more.

School Holidays

TERM 1 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2023
Western Australia: 7 April to 23 April


TERM 2 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2023
Western Australia: 1 July to 16 July


TERM 3 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2023
Western Australia: 23 September to 8 October


TERM 4 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2023 - 2024
Western Australia: 15 December 2023 to 30 January 2024
 

Accommodation

Depending on your city or town of visit, you can choose from a large number of accommodation options in the South West. Holiday parks, riverside retreats, waterfront resorts, luxury hotels, private properties, and lodgings are spread throughout the South West region. Airbnbs are plenty down south.

Dining

With its stunning beaches, caves, and vineyards, the South West invites visitors seeking a unique taste of drinking and eating. With an undeniable focus on fresh seafood, ocean-to-plate experiences, brewpubs and winery fine diners, the list is long, and the quality is high.

Transport

Best explored by car, the South West region starts just 2 hours south of Perth and extends as far as Bremer Bay to the east. If you’re short on time, catch a flight to the Busselton regional airport.
 

South West Tourist Information

Shopping & Market Hours

Busselton’s Origin Market brilliantly showcases the very best of the state’s top artists, farmers and producers. Discover unique cellar doors, stalls or go on adventure tours with the market's top professionals. The Village at Margs located in the heart of the Margaret River is open seven days a week and has major supermarkets, cafes, specialty stores and everything in between.

If you’re in Bunbury, there’s no need for a second thought – head to Primewest Bunbury Centrepoint, you can easily spend a day there exploring the many shopping sites like Target, Coles and more.

Medical Services

There are hospital and medical services throughout the South West region including in Bunbury, Buesselton, Bridgetown etc.