Guide to Margaret River Town

If you’re travelling to the Margaret River region, you can’t miss a wander down the main street of the town itself. Affectionately known as “Margs”, it’s not hard to see why the south west WA place is so loved. If you love a stroll around gift shops and cafes, then there are plenty up and down Bussel Highway. Since the Perimeter Road (bypass) opened in 2018, this has taken most of the trucks and heavy vehicles from rumbling through the heart of town, making a wander even more pleasant. Plus, in recent years the streetscape has been redeveloped.

Get Your Bearings

The Margaret River Visitor Centre is always my first port of call in the country town. I try to park nearby and walk up one side of the street, then back down on the other side. I can’t leave this place without a handful of brochures and leaflets. And it’s also handy to find out what’s new in the area.

The visitor centre, as well as being the best spot to find out which wineries and attractions to visit, is a brilliant stop for souvenirs, Many featurie local wildflowers and wildlife, like the sweet splendid fairy wren.

Gift Shops in Margaret River

Ok, so it’s time for a stroll up Bussel Highway. There’s plenty of shops to explore. Here are just a few:

Local icon Lloyds of Margaret River is great for homewares, clothing, garden and giftware.

It’s hard to leave without something new for your kitchen, or yourself. I’ve found cute hats and earrings there in the past.

There are two or three bookshops in Margs, including a secondhand bookshop. I love the Margaret River Bookshop, which has an excellent selection of just about every genre. Come for a browse, and grab a few holiday reads.

Local olive oil company, Vasse Virgin, have a lovely gift shop in town. There’s lots of EVOO (that’s extra virgin olive oil) based gourmet goodies and beauty products (soaps, moisturising lotions, massage oils, and skin balms) on offer. Many are a great addition to a cheese platter.

Of course there are many surf shops and clothing boutiques, plus art galleries. If you are a lover of art, the galleries on Bussel highway feature art of many mediums, photography, sculpture, paintings and more.

Casual Places to eat in Margaret River

By night, the heart of Margaret River is buzzing with wine bars, taverns and acclaimed restaurants. But where should you stop during the day, when many of these foodie spots are closed? As you stroll along the street, you’ll pass by many places to enjoy a bite or coffee. Here’s just a bite of what’s on offer:

Stalwart Margaret River Bakery is found at the northern end of town. This quirky spot is not only great for its freshly baked pastries, cakes and bread, they serve up a dam fine brunch.

Fancy a pub lunch? The popular Settlers Tavern is your best bet, since the Margaret River Hotel is still under renovations. As well as hearty pub meals and a local pint or drop of wine to enjoy, this spot is famous for its excellent barbequed meats.

A buzzing brunch spot in the center of town is Riversmith. They serve up good coffee too.

My personal favourite is Drift Cafe, which is found just a few meters off Bussel Highway. This eclectic cafe is very popular for brunch and coffee. Pull up a chair and listen to a vinyl playing over breakfast, or grab a take away coffee (like me) for your wander around town.

And of course, what trip to Margaret River would be complete without a tasting at the Fudge Factory or an ice cream on the go from the Milk Shack?

Be sure to explore the heart of Margaret River, next time you’re visiting the area.

Get more ideas on places to visit in the Margaret River region here.