Dunsborough & Yallingup
The gentler, family-friendly gateway to the region — calm Geographe Bay swimming at Dunsborough, and surf, caves and clifftop drama around Yallingup and Cape Naturaliste.
Dunsborough & Yallingup
At the northern end of the region, where the coast curves into sheltered Geographe Bay, sit the twin drawcards of Dunsborough and Yallingup. Dunsborough is a relaxed seaside town with calm, clear swimming; Yallingup, just south, is all surf, caves and clifftop drama around Cape Naturaliste. Together they’re the gentler, family-friendly gateway to Margaret River. Here’s what to see and do.
What to See & Do
Geographe Bay
Sheltered, clear swimming beaches around Dunsborough and Meelup — great for families.
Cape Naturaliste
The lighthouse, coastal walks and whale lookouts at the region’s northern tip.
Ngilgi Cave
A beautiful, accessible show cave near Yallingup.
Sugarloaf Rock
A dramatic granite sea stack — a favourite sunset and photo spot.
North-End Tips
- Base here for calm-water swimming and the northern wineries
- Watch whales in Geographe Bay in season — see whale watching
- Visit Ngilgi Cave and drive out to Cape Naturaliste
- Catch sunset at Sugarloaf Rock
- It’s ~45–60 min to Margaret River town — explore both ends by car
Dunsborough & Yallingup — FAQ
Where are Dunsborough and Yallingup?
They’re at the northern end of the Margaret River region, on and near Geographe Bay, about 2.5 hours south of Perth. Dunsborough is a relaxed seaside town; Yallingup, just south, is famous for its surf, Ngilgi Cave and Cape Naturaliste.
What is there to do in Dunsborough?
Swim in the calm, clear waters of Geographe Bay, walk or drive to Cape Naturaliste and its lighthouse, watch whales in season, and use it as a base for the northern wineries and beaches. It’s more sheltered than the surf coast to the south.
What is Yallingup known for?
World-class surf, the beautiful Yallingup Beach, Ngilgi Cave, and dramatic Sugarloaf Rock nearby. It’s a scenic, laid-back spot at the northern end of the Cape to Cape coast.
Is the north end good for families?
Very — Geographe Bay’s calm, shallow water (around Dunsborough and Meelup) is ideal for children, and the whales, caves and easy walks add plenty to do. See Margaret River with kids.
How far is it to Margaret River town?
About 45 minutes to an hour south of Dunsborough, so many visitors base themselves at either end and explore the whole region by car.
Margaret River, Planned Around You
World-class cellar doors and surf, ancient caves, karri forests and the wild Cape-to-Cape coast — with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
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