Western Australia's food scene is as diverse as its stunning landscapes. From the pristine waters yielding world-class seafood to the renowned wine regions of Margaret River, WA offers unforgettable culinary experiences. This comprehensive guide explores the state's iconic foods, regional specialties, and the best places to discover authentic Western Australian flavours in 2025.
World-renowned Western rock lobster (crayfish) from pristine waters
Shark Bay and Exmouth Gulf prawns famous worldwide
Premium wines from 150+ boutique wineries
High-quality truffles from Manjimup and Pemberton
Artisan cheeses and butter from South West farms
Unique honey from native jarrah and marri trees
Grass-fed beef from the Kimberley and Gascoyne
Vegemite, Tim Tams, and ANZAC biscuits
Western Australia's premier food and wine destination, just three hours south of Perth.
The seafood capital of Western Australia with vibrant markets and waterfront dining.
Perth's oldest wine region, just 25 minutes from the city centre.
Home to truffles, premium wines, and diverse agricultural produce.
Western Australia's 13,000 kilometres of coastline provide some of the world's finest seafood. The cold, clean waters of the Indian and Southern Oceans create ideal conditions for premium catches.
Summer (Dec-Feb): Rock lobster season, prawns, blue swimmer crabs
Autumn (Mar-May): Abalone, oysters, whiting
Winter (Jun-Aug): Dhufish, snapper, salmon
Spring (Sep-Nov): Sardines, squid, octopus
The iconic Western rock lobster (locally called crayfish) is WA's most valuable single-species fishery. Best enjoyed simply grilled or in a fresh roll at Fremantle's Fishing Boat Harbour. Other must-try seafood includes succulent Shark Bay prawns, sweet Exmouth Gulf prawns, delicate abalone, and fresh oysters from Albany and Coffin Bay.
For the freshest catches, visit Fremantle Markets on weekends, explore Perth's seafood restaurants along the coast, or join a Fremantle seafood tour for an insider's experience.
Margaret River produces over 20% of Australia's premium wines despite representing less than 3% of the country's total crush. The region's Mediterranean climate, ancient soils, and coastal influence create exceptional conditions for viticulture.
The region is particularly renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, with Cabernet Merlot blends and single-vineyard Chardonnays winning international acclaim. Many wineries offer cellar door tastings paired with local cheese, chocolate, and produce.
Beyond wine, Margaret River offers gourmet experiences including artisan cheese from the Margaret River Dairy Company, handmade chocolates, olive oils, and farm-fresh produce. The region hosts food festivals throughout the year, celebrating local flavours and producers.
Book Margaret River Food & Wine TourWhile exploring WA's regional specialties, don't miss these classic Australian foods available throughout the state:
The iconic Australian yeast spread is a breakfast staple. Try it on toast with butter for an authentic Aussie experience. Available in all supermarkets and cafes.
Australia's favourite chocolate biscuit. Try the "Tim Tam Slam" by biting off opposite corners and using it as a straw for coffee or hot chocolate.
Traditional oat biscuits with golden syrup, created during WWI. Find homemade versions at farmers markets and bakeries across WA.
Sponge cake coated in chocolate and desiccated coconut. A beloved Australian afternoon tea treat available in most bakeries.
Experience the best of WA's culinary scene with expert-guided tours. Our small group experiences include:
All tours include expert guides, tastings, and transportation. Perfect for food lovers wanting insider access to WA's best producers and restaurants.
Explore All WA ToursWestern Australia is renowned for its fresh seafood including rock lobster (locally called crayfish), Shark Bay prawns, and Fremantle sardines. The state is also famous for Margaret River wines, black truffle production in the South West, honey from native wildflowers, and premium grass-fed beef and lamb. Iconic Australian foods like Vegemite, Tim Tams, and ANZAC biscuits are popular throughout WA and make great souvenirs.
Margaret River is WA's premier food and wine region with world-class wineries and gourmet producers. The Swan Valley offers accessible wine tasting just 25 minutes from Perth. Fremantle is the seafood capital with its famous markets and harbour dining. The South West produces premium truffles, dairy products, and wines. The Wheatbelt and inland regions showcase grain production and farm-to-table experiences.
Yes, Western Australia offers diverse food tours including Margaret River wine tours with cellar door tastings, Fremantle seafood market experiences and harbour walks, Swan Valley food and wine trails, Perth city food walks exploring multicultural cuisines, truffle hunting tours in Manjimup during winter, and farm-to-table experiences throughout regional WA. Most tours include transportation, expert guides, and multiple tastings.
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer ideal weather and coincide with harvest seasons in wine regions. Summer (December to February) is peak rock lobster season and perfect for coastal seafood dining. Winter (June to August) is truffle season in the South West and excellent for Margaret River wine tours with fewer crowds. Year-round, WA's Mediterranean climate ensures fresh produce and comfortable touring conditions.
Must-try WA seafood includes Western rock lobster (in season November-June), Shark Bay prawns, Exmouth Gulf prawns, Fremantle sardines, abalone, blue swimmer crabs, coral trout, and fresh oysters from Albany and Shark Bay. Visit Fremantle Markets for the freshest daily catches, or dine at waterfront restaurants along the Perth coast. Many seafood tours include market visits and cooking demonstrations.
Yes, you can drive yourself and visit cellar doors independently, but joining a guided wine tour is highly recommended. Tours allow you to taste freely without driving concerns, provide expert insights into winemaking, and often include access to premium tastings and behind-the-scenes experiences. Most wineries welcome drop-in visitors during opening hours, though some premium estates require reservations. If self-driving, designate a driver or plan to stay overnight in the region.
Western Australia's vast size means careful planning ensures you experience the best culinary highlights. Most visitors base themselves in Perth and take day trips to nearby regions like Swan Valley (25 minutes) and Fremantle (30 minutes). Margaret River requires a full day or overnight stay, located three hours south of Perth.
For a comprehensive food experience, consider a multi-day tour combining wine regions with coastal experiences. The journey from Perth to Margaret River via the South West offers opportunities to stop at farm gates, local markets, and regional producers along the way.
Day 1: Perth city food walk and Fremantle Markets
Day 2: Swan Valley wine and food trail
Day 3-4: Margaret River wine region with overnight stay
Day 5: South West truffle region or coastal seafood experiences
Book wine tours and restaurant reservations in advance, especially during peak season (October-April). Many wineries and premium restaurants have limited capacity and require advance booking.
Join Cooee Tours for authentic food and wine experiences across Western Australia. Our small group tours are led by knowledgeable local guides who share insider access to the best producers, hidden gems, and regional specialties.
What's included: Expert guides, all tastings and entries, comfortable transportation, and plenty of time to savour each experience.
View All Western Australia Tours Contact Us for Custom Food Tours