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.
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