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About South West
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
Featured Cruises
9 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
Wednesday, 1 January: New Year's Day
Monday, 27 January: Australia Day holiday
Friday, 18 April: Good Friday
Saturday, 19 April: Day following Good Friday
Sunday, 20 April: Easter Sunday
Monday, 21 April: Easter Monday
Friday, 25 April: Anzac Day
Thursday, 25 December: Christmas Day
Friday, 26 December: Boxing Day
Other public holidays declared by the state and territory governments:
Monday, 3 March: Labour Day
Monday, 2 June: Western Australia Day
Monday, 29 September: King's Birthday
*Regional areas in Western Australia may celebrate the King's Birthday Public Holiday on an alternative date
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 2025
Western Australia: 14 April to 28 April
TERM 2 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2025
Western Australia: 7 July to 21 July
TERM 3 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2025
Western Australia: 29 September to 13 October
TERM 4 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2025- 2026
Western Australia: 22 December 2025 to 2 February 2026
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.
Blogs & Articles
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Best Places For Whale Watching In The South West Region
Did you know South West holds the record for Australia’s longest whale-watching season? Every year as it gets colder in Antarctica, about 30,000 Humpbacks and Southern Right whales swim past the southwest corner of Western Australia.
Posted on Aug 07, 2024
