Month: November 2025

Turn Your Trip Into an Unforgettable Road-Trip Experience

Margaret River is one of Western Australia’s most loved destinations—known for its wineries, beaches, forests, caves, craft breweries, gourmet food, and outdoor adventure. The drive from Perth to Margaret River takes around 3 hours, but with so many incredible places to explore along the way, it’s worth turning the journey into a full-day road trip.

With a comfortable and reliable hire car from Burswood Car Rentals, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, stop where you like, and make the most of this scenic route. Whether you need a compact car for two or a spacious people mover for a group trip, there’s a perfect ride for your Margaret River adventure. View the full range here: Our Vehicles.

Recommended Route: Perth → Bunbury → Busselton → Dunsborough → Margaret River

This route allows you to experience coastal viewpoints, wildlife parks, iconic landmarks, and delicious local food.

Stop 1: Mandurah — Waterfront Coffee & Dolphin Spotting

Distance from Perth: 1 hour

Start your road trip with a relaxing stop in Mandurah. Enjoy a coffee or brunch by the waterfront, stroll along the foreshore, or join a dolphin cruise if time permits.

Top Highlights
✔ Mandurah Foreshore Boardwalk
✔ Dolphin Quay Markets
✔ Estuary & canal views

Ideal for: Breakfast, scenic walk, and family-friendly activities.

Stop 2: Bunbury — Wildlife Encounters & Street Art

Distance from Mandurah: 1 hour

Bunbury is a vibrant coastal city where you can stretch your legs and enjoy art, nature, and wildlife.

Don’t Miss:

• Bunbury Wildlife Park — get close to kangaroos & native animals
• Marlston Hill Lookout Tower — beautiful city & ocean views
• Bunbury Street Art Trail — colourful laneways & murals

Optional Detour: Swim with wild dolphins at the Dolphin Discovery Centre.

Stop 3: Busselton — Home of the Famous Busselton Jetty

Distance from Bunbury: 45 minutes

A must-stop location on any Margaret River road trip. The Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere.

Must-Do Experiences:

• Stroll or catch the train along the 1.8km jetty
• Visit the Underwater Observatory
• Enjoy fish & chips on the foreshore

Great for: Families, couples, and first-time WA visitors.

Stop 4: Dunsborough & Yallingup — Beaches, Caves & Coastal Walks

Distance from Busselton: 25 minutes

This region is packed with natural beauty and fantastic attractions. If you have time, it’s worth spending a few hours (or a night) here.

Highlights:

• Meelup Beach — crystal-clear water for swimming
• Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse — panoramic coastal views
• Ngilgi Cave — incredible underground adventure
• Yallingup Lagoon — safe snorkelling spot

Perfect for nature lovers, beachgoers, and families.

Final Stop: Arrive in Margaret River

Distance from Dunsborough: 30 minutes

Welcome to wine country! Once you arrive, you’ll find endless attractions to enjoy.

Top Things to Do in Margaret River:

• Wine tasting at world-class wineries (Vasse Felix, Voyager Estate, Leeuwin Estate)
• Explore beaches like Hamelin Bay & Surfers Point
• Enjoy gourmet food, chocolatiers, breweries & farmers markets
• Bushwalking, mountain biking & coastal hikes
• Meet kangaroos in the wild at dusk

Choosing the Best Car for a Margaret River Road Trip

Traveller Type	Recommended Vehicle
Couple or solo traveller	Compact or mid-size car
Family	SUV or people mover
Group of 6–8	People mover
Wine-tasting weekend with luggage and eskies	Mid-size or full-size SUV

Check availability here: Car Hire Perth
Want to save on your rental? See current special offers.

Road Trip Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Start early to maximise sightseeing time
• Book lunch or wine tasting experiences in advance
• Drive carefully at dawn/dusk due to wildlife
• Carry water & snacks for between-town stretches
• Plan your music/podcast playlist in advance

If you need assistance planning your hire or have questions, the Burswood Car Rentals team is here to help.
Reach out here: Contact Us

With a reliable rental car from Burswood Car Rentals, your journey to Margaret River becomes more than a drive — it becomes one of the best parts of the holiday.

Discover WA’s Natural Wonders with the Freedom of a Burswood Hire Car

Western Australia is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks in the country—and many of the best are just a short drive from Perth. Whether you’re looking for coastal views, wildlife encounters, towering forests, or walking trails with scenic lookouts, hiring a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

With a reliable vehicle from Burswood Car Rentals, you can make unforgettable day trips or plan a multi-day nature getaway. Before you hit the road, browse car hire Perth options and choose the ideal vehicle for your trip, including spacious people movers for group travel.

1. Yanchep National Park

Distance from Perth: 45 minutes north

A nature-lover’s paradise, Yanchep is one of Perth’s most accessible national parks. It’s perfect for a half-day trip or relaxing picnic outdoors.

Highlights:

• Koala boardwalk (one of the best places near Perth to see koalas)
• Native wildlife including kangaroos and bird species
• Crystal Cave guided tours
• Peaceful walking trails and wetlands

Best for: Families, wildlife lovers, and short trips.

2. John Forrest National Park

Distance from Perth: 30 minutes east

As one of Australia’s oldest national parks, John Forrest offers stunning scenery, waterfalls, and heritage trails.

Top Things to Do:

• Hike the Eagle View Walk Trail (15 km loop with epic lookouts)
• Visit National Park Falls and Hovea Falls (best in winter/spring)
• Stop for lunch at the historic tavern
• Spot kangaroos roaming freely

Ideal for: Hikers and nature photographers.

3. Serpentine National Park

Distance from Perth: 1 hour south-east

Known for its breathtaking waterfall, natural swimming spots, and picnic areas, this is a popular day trip choice—especially during warmer months.

Must-See:

• Serpentine Falls – a stunning natural swimming hole
• Kangaroos grazing in picnic areas
• Bush trails suitable for various fitness levels

Tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends—parking fills quickly.

4. Avon Valley National Park

Distance from Perth: 1 hour north-east

A peaceful escape with rolling hills, bushland, and river views. Perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and camping.

Highlights:

• Avon River views and picnic spots
• Scenic lookout drives
• Bushwalking and seasonal wildflowers

Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts and campers looking for tranquillity.

5. Nambung National Park (The Pinnacles Desert)

Distance from Perth: 2 hours north

A bucket-list destination, the Pinnacles Desert offers one of WA’s most unique landscapes. If you only have time for one road trip—make it this one.

Top Experiences:

• Self-drive desert loop to see limestone formations
• Sunset viewing for incredible colours and photo opportunities
• Combine with Lancelin Sand Dunes for a full day trip

Best for: First-time WA visitors, photographers, and families.

6. Lane Poole Reserve (Dwaarlindjirraap)

Distance from Perth: 1.5 hours south

Not a national park, but one of WA’s most popular nature reserves—often included in nature itineraries.

Popular Activities:

• Swimming, kayaking, and canoeing
• Cycling and bushwalking trails
• Camping and BBQ facilities

Great for: Adventure seekers and family camping weekends.

Choosing the Right Vehicle for National Park Trips

The right car will enhance your comfort and safety, especially if you’re carrying camping gear or travelling as a group.

Travel Type	Best Vehicle Option
Couples / Solo Travellers	Compact or mid-size car
Families	SUV or people mover
Group trips	People mover
Overnight trips with gear	SUV or spacious sedan

Explore the full range here:
Our Vehicles
Looking to save? Check seasonal special offers.

Tips for Visiting National Parks Near Perth by Car

• Start early to find parking at popular parks
• Pack water and snacks, especially on long walking trails
• Check park entry fees – some require a day pass
• Avoid driving at dawn or dusk to reduce wildlife collision risk
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy shoes

Ready for Your Perth Nature Road Trip?

A rental car gives you the freedom to explore WA’s most beautiful national parks with comfort and convenience. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with a group, Burswood Car Rentals has the perfect vehicle for your adventure.

Have questions or need help planning your hire?
👉 Contact Us

Explore the Best of WA at Your Own Pace

Western Australia is made for road trips—wide open roads, breathtaking coastlines, wildlife experiences, and charming regional towns. With a rental car from Burswood Car Rentals, you can explore WA’s most iconic destinations with total flexibility and comfort.

This 7-day self-drive itinerary starts and ends in Perth, making it ideal for visitors flying into Perth Airport or locals craving an unforgettable getaway.

Before You Start: Choose the Right Car for the Trip

A reliable and comfortable vehicle is essential for long-distance driving. Families or groups may prefer a people mover, while couples might enjoy a compact or mid-size SUV.

Explore the full range on the Our Vehicles page and secure your booking with Car Hire Perth. Don’t forget to check current special offers before booking.

Day 1: Perth to Cervantes (Pinnacles Desert)

Distance: 200 km | Drive Time: ~2.5 hours

Start your journey north along WA’s Indian Ocean Drive.
Highlights:

• Lancelin Sand Dunes (sandboarding or quad biking)
• Nambung National Park – Pinnacles Desert
• Sunset on Cervantes Beach

Overnight in Cervantes.

Day 2: Cervantes to Geraldton

Distance: 220 km | Drive Time: ~2.5 hours

Continue north to Geraldton, a coastal city known for beaches, history, and seafood.
Highlights:

• Pink Lake at Hutt Lagoon (optional detour via Port Gregory)
• HMAS Sydney II Memorial
• Geraldton Foreshore

Overnight in Geraldton.

Day 3: Geraldton to Kalbarri

Distance: 155 km | Drive Time: ~1.75 hours

Head to one of WA’s most scenic national parks.
Highlights:

• Kalbarri National Park
• Natures Window and Skywalk Lookout
• Red Bluff & Pot Alley Coastal Cliffs

Tip: Start early to beat the heat for hikes.

Overnight in Kalbarri.

Day 4: Kalbarri to Monkey Mia (Shark Bay)

Distance: 390 km | Drive Time: ~4.5 hours

A longer driving day, but full of unique stops.
Must-See Stops Along the Way:

• Shell Beach (made entirely of tiny shells)
• Hamelin Pool Stromatolites (living fossils)
• Meet wild dolphins at Monkey Mia

Overnight in Monkey Mia.

Day 5: Explore Shark Bay Region

A relaxed day of exploration.
Activities:

• Dolphin feeding experience
• Boat wildlife cruise—spot turtles, rays & dolphins
• Visit François Peron National Park (4WD recommended)
• Scenic sundowner in Denham

2nd night in Monkey Mia/Denham.

Day 6: Monkey Mia to Dongara or Jurien Bay

Distance: 350–450 km | Drive Time: 4–5 hours

Start heading back south. Choose between:
✅ Dongara for a quiet coastal town stay
✅ Jurien Bay for snorkelling and beach fun

Optional Stops:

• Eagle Bluff Lookout
• Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs (revisit favourites)

Overnight in Jurien Bay or Dongara.

Day 7: Return to Perth

Distance: 220–350 km | Drive Time: 2.5–4 hours

Enjoy a leisurely drive back to Perth.
If staying in Jurien Bay, consider these stops:

• Jurien Bay Sea Lions Tour
• Moore River in Guilderton
• Yanchep National Park (koalas + caves)

Arrive back in Perth and return your rental car to Burswood Car Rentals.

Best Time to Take This Trip

✔ August–October: Wildflower season
✔ September–April: Best swimming and beach weather

⭐ Why Self-Drive with Burswood Car Rentals?

• Convenient pickup close to Perth CBD & airport
• Clean, reliable, sticker-free vehicles
• Wide range of cars suitable for short or long road trips
• Great value with seasonal special offers

Have questions or need help choosing the right vehicle? Contact the Burswood team for personalised advice.

Final Tips for Your WA Road Trip

Tip	Why It Matters
Book accommodation early	Popular WA towns sell out fast in peak seasons
Fill up fuel regularly	Some regional stretches have long gaps between fuel stops
Carry water & snacks	Especially on long driving days
Check road conditions	Some national parks require 4WD

With the open road ahead and a reliable rental car from Burswood Car Rentals, this 7-day WA itinerary offers the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and coastal charm.