Surf Travel Guide: Margaret River

Thinking about a trip to a place with world-class wine and even better waves? I've been there, and Margaret River is that spot. But you need to go with your eyes wide open—the power here is no joke, both in the waves and the wildlife.

Why Margaret River?

This rugged corner of Western Australia is one of the most consistent surf zones on the planet. With over 75 miles of coastline and 100+ breaks, it’s a global surf mecca for a reason. But let's be direct: this is famously sharky water. Your reward for that risk is access to some of the most powerful and perfect waves in the world, set against a stunning landscape.

→ The region is a magnet for massive swells generated in the Indian Ocean.
↳ These long-period swells hit the limestone reefs directly, creating heavy, world-class waves like Main Break and The Box.

Getting There & Getting Around

You'll be flying into Perth, the capital of Western Australia, and then making the scenic drive south through wine country.

• Fly into Perth Airport (PER), the main international gateway.
• → The best way to get to Margaret River is by renting a car.
  ↳ The drive south takes about 3 hours (170 miles/275 kilometers). A car is essential for getting around and exploring the different breaks, which are spread out.
• There are no reliable ride-sharing services for surf spot hopping, so having your own vehicle is key.

When to Surf

The prime surf season is autumn, from March to May, when consistent groundswells and favorable offshore winds light up the coast. This is when the Margaret River Pro typically runs. Water temperatures average a cool 66°F (19°C), so you will definitely need a good 3/2mm or 4/3mm wetsuit year-round. Most reef breaks work best on a mid to high tide to cover the sharp limestone bottom.

Surf Breaks

• Main Break (Surfers Point): The iconic, big-wave arena of Margaret River.
  → Located right at the end of Surfers Point Road. It's a powerful and often heavy reef break with a main left and a shorter right. For intermediate to advanced surfers only.
• The Box: A terrifyingly perfect, shallow, and hollow right-hand slab.
  → Located across the channel from Main Break. This is a very fast, technical wave that breaks over sharp reef. It's strictly for advanced and expert surfers who are comfortable in heavy barrels.
• Redgate Beach: A more forgiving option when the main breaks are huge.
  → A 15-minute drive south of town. This is a beautiful beach break with multiple peaks, offering fun walls for beginner and intermediate surfers. It's still powerful, so be cautious.

Where to Stay (Hotels)

→ Accommodations are centered around the town of Margaret River and the coastal hub of Prevelly.

• Budget ($): Margaret River Beach Resort
  Nightly rate: Approx. $110 USD / 165 AUD.
  Offers simple rooms and apartments just a short walk from Gnarabup Beach. Clean, no-frills, and in a great location.
• Mid-Range ($$): Margarets Beach Resort
  Nightly rate: Approx. $180 USD / 270 AUD.
  Located right across from the beach, this resort offers stylish apartments with kitchens, a pool, and is a short drive to Surfers Point.
• Luxury ($$$): Cape Lodge
  Nightly rate: Approx. $400+ USD / 600+ AUD.
  A stunning luxury lodge set on its own vineyard. It offers premium suites, a world-class restaurant, and a serene, high-end experience away from the coast.

Food & Drink

• Local Beer: Gage Roads Single Fin (Summer Ale)
  → A super popular and refreshing craft beer from a WA brewery. You'll find it on tap everywhere. Price is around $8 USD / 12 AUD.
• Local Lunch: Bakery Meat Pie
  → The essential Aussie lunch. Head to the Margaret River Bakery for a classic beef pie or a gourmet option. A proper pie will set you back about $6 USD / 9 AUD.