Why we Love Margaret River!
The Margaret River region is well known for its natural beauty, wineries, and surfing beaches. Today it’s also
foodie heaven with farmers’ markets and world-class restaurants. Enjoy locally crafted beer, gin, and even nougat.
For adventure take walks in local parks including Boranup Karri Forest, canoe down Margaret River at the start of a wine tour, discover crystal caves, and take a bike tour to the vineyards including Cape Mentelle, Xanadu, and Leeuwin Estate.
The shopping is divine with chic boutiques, artisan jewellers, and art galleries not to be missed.
30 minutes north of Margaret River at Busselton, you’ll find a calm swimming beach on the foreshore and the
incredible Busselton Jetty and Underwater Observatory. You can walk or take the jetty train to the end of the
jetty to the underwater observatory for a look at a magnificent artificial reef and marine life.
Near Busselton, at Yallingup you’ll discover beautiful Yallingup Beach, a mecca for surfers, with also a calm
beach area for swimming.
- Heritage and Luxury at Grand Mercure Basildene Manor
- 6 of The Best Margaret River Vineyard Accommodation
- Stunning Eco Margaret River Accommodation – WA
- Best Margaret River Glamping in Western Australia
- Unique Lodging WA
- Cape Nelson Lighthouse Cottages – a Maritime Victorian Adventure
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unique lodging WA, unique hotels WA, unique hotels wa state, quirky accommodation western australia
Goombaragin Eco Retreat (TripAdvisor) is in the Kimberley – better than Broome’s busy beaches – not taking bookings https://goombaragin.com.au/. and Gumbanan Wilderness Retreat (https://gumbanan.com.au/)
1. Djarindjin Campground – Dampier Peninsula
Djarindjin Campground and Brian Hunters Creek Tagalog Tour, 190kms from Broome (also include AC singles and doubles) – booking https://djarindjin.com.au/ Broome to Cape Leveque
Coconutz Eco Tents – https://www.stayz.com.au/holiday-rental/p9034481 Cable Beach – put in kimberley
1. Coconutz Eco Tents – Cable Beach
Best for: Luxe Safari Tents, Breakfast, Swimming Pool, Beach, Pizza, Stunning Sunsets
If you’re looking for an unforgettable stay at the beach near Broome, look no further than Coconutz Eco Tents!
These unique safari tents are set up on an elevated site surrounded by lush gardens with stunning ocean views. You’re only a short walk to Coconut Wells Beach and incredible rock pools.
Each eco-luxe tent comes with its own private deck, queen-sized bed, and outdoor seating area. There’s even a hammock for you to relax in while you take in the breathtaking views. Inside, you’ll find all the comforts of modern living, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a kitchenette with an outdoor BBQ to do your cooking.
And if you want to explore your surroundings, have a go at fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, and jump in the pool for a refreshing dip.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family holiday, Coconutz Broome is the perfect spot for your adventure. Read more: The Best Kept Secret in Broome: Coconutz Eco Tents
2. Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm – Dampier Peninsula
Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm https://www.booking.com/hotel/au/cygnet-bay-pearl-farm.en-gb.html – Dampier Peninsula
Best for: Safari Tents & Historic Cottages, Hot Breakfast, Infinity Pool, Pearl Farm Tour, Cruises,
“The opportunity to stay on a working pearl farm was magnificent“
Located on the spectacular Dampier Peninsula in Western Australia, Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm is a must-visit destination. The pearl farm is a unique combination of farm, wilderness and tourism – with a beautiful inlet and white sand beaches, surrounded by ancient mangroves and an abundance of wildlife.
Accommodation includes luxury safari tents and cabins, surrounded by lush bushland and native wildlife, giving you the perfect mix of comfort and wilderness. There’s something for everyone – from snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the inlet, to visiting the pearl farm and learning about the production process. And when you’re done exploring, you can cool off in the freshwater infinity pool or relax in the landscaped gardens. Whether you’re looking for a nature-filled adventure or a relaxing holiday, Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm has it all!
You can take a tour of the pearl farm and learn about the fascinating process of cultivating and harvesting pearls. You can also explore the wilderness and experience the local culture. There’s a range of activities on offer, from fishing and kayaking to bird watching and bushwalking.
Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm is a pearl farm located on the tip of the Dampier Peninsula, one of the last untouched marine wilderness frontiers in the world. The pearl farm offers visitors the opportunity to purchase pearls direct from the waters in which they were farmed. It also features a restaurant, BBQ area, and unique accommodations such as secluded wilderness accommodation with an outback feel. Visitors can take part in the Pearl Farm Tour, which includes a visit to the oyster farm and a guided tour of the pearl farm.
Offering safari tents Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm is a working pearl farm in a wilderness coastal location. You can also choose from Pearl Farm tours and boat cruises where you’re sure to see wildlife like dolphins, whales and (gulp) crocodiles! link to viator tour. The tents are for two guests or a family tent accommodates up to four.
New Pearler’s Eco Tents have an ensuite, Aircon, super comfy king size bed and a lovely front deck to sit.
Coral Coast – https://www.australiascoralcoast.com/region/ningaloo
Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef – https://www.booking.com/hotel/au/sal-salis-ningaloo-reef.en-gb.html?
Best for: Sunrise Yoga, Chef-prepared meals, Snorkelling,
Ningaloo Reef is part of the UNESCO Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Site and is the world’s largest fringing reef (source). Another part of this site is the Cape Range National Park where you’ll find an exclusive safari camp at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, one of the most incredible places to visit in Australia. Yes, it’s expensive but this is a bucket list stay you’ll always remember!
Each safari tent sits on the white sand dunes near the sea with peaceful ocean views.
copied: All-inclusive details Wilderness tent with eco-friendly ensuite. Chef prepared meals & beverages from a select open bar. Daily guided activities
Review: “Breakfast was delicious! Overlooking the Ningaloo Reef watching whales breach…Location in a national park is excellent and Marine Biologists on staff facilitate great insights – like when we came across loggerhead turtles hatching.
Good to Know at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef
- Stand Up Paddle Boards (SUPs), kayaks, and snorkelling gear, gorge walks, wildlife viewing, sunset walks, and star gazing
- Daily housekeeping
- Each tent has its own private bathroom
- No WIFI, TV or shops just you and nature
Copied: White sand beaches, turquoise waters, red rock ranges, blue skies by day and the most stars you will ever see by night. Whale sharks and dolphins, humpback whales and orcas, manta rays and more swim past Sal Salis every day. Turtles nest on our beach and kangaroos find shade around the camp. There are no shops and no televisions but there is snorkel gear and kayaks and guides who love to take you into the Ranges for a sunset walk, or an early morning paddle out to the Blue Lagoon ….
Swim with whale sharks – April to July only (get affiliate link): https://www.viator.com/en-NZ/tours/Exmouth/Whale-Shark-Snorkelling-Adventure/d4752-18155P1
South West
3. The Lilly Dutch Windmill – Stirling National Park
The Lilly Dutch Windmill and Unique Accommodation (no affiliate) Tripadvisor instead – Stirling National Park
The Lily Dutch Windmill is an authentic 16th-century design brick ‘ground-sail’ mill located near the towns of Amelup and Borden in the Great Southern region of Western Australia. The five-story full-size windmill has a 22-ton cap and a sail length of up to 73 feet. It’s one of the largest windmills ever built in Australia and is fully operational, producing wholemeal stone-ground flour. The windmill is part of a larger park which includes cottages, a 1944 Dakota airplane, and a restaurant.
4. The Premier Mill Hotel Katanning
You’ll see history around every corner, beam, and brick when you stay at this industrial-chic hotel! Built in 1891, The Premier Mill Hotel Katanning was formerly a flour mill, power station, and even a cordial factory. Today heritage architecture is displayed boldly while incorporating modern design and comfort.
Take your pick of luxury rooms cleverly reimagined from old grain silos, wheat purifiers, steam boilers, and packing rooms. Even the foyer is an old loading gantry.
Best for: 3.5 Star Industrial Boutique Hotel, Tapas Bar, Guides and Maps, Chic Rooms, $$
Review: “I was very surprised by the interior design! A lot of the original working of the Mill is still in place. This creates an element of interest that makes you want to explore the hotel’s steam-punk feel.
Good to Know at this Unique Western Australia Hotel
- Guest valet on each floor with tea and coffee facilities, extra shampoo, soap, pillows, etc
- The hotel has a café and underground bar with share plates/tapas, local beer, and wine on-site.
- Rain showers with Aesop products
- Some rooms have balconies
- Small fridge, baby cots available, wireless Bluetooth speaker
- Parking is on the street
- Book your historical stay at the Premier Mill Hotel
Explore the Country around Katanning
Although a quiet country town, Katanning is centrally located for lots of wilderness and scenic sightseeing. The hotel reflects the heritage of the Great Southern region and in keeping with this, your hosts have created informative guides to explore the fascinating areas beyond Katanning. You’ll find the guides in your suite.
Beaches, Vineyards, Parks, Outback…
- Drive southwest to the Frankland River wine trail
- The stunning coastal regions, including King George Sound
- Head south to the Esperance plains and the Stirling Ranges National Park, where you can climb Bluff Knoll and Talyuberlup
- Head east you’ll see Mallee and the dry and massive country farms, the doorstep to the outback, lakes and the Yongergnow Australian Malleefowl Centre, and Salmon Gum Trees
- North – See the Avon Wheatbelt, the outback, Lake Grace, and the Rabbit-Proof Fence
- West – See Jarrah Forests, Lake Dumbleyung, and the town of Carrolup where sadly the stolen generation was housed
- Southeast – Bremmer Bay which includes Bremer Beach, Short Beach, Blossoms Beach, Native Dog Beach, and Banky Beach
- Drive south and follow the mountain wine trail at Porongurup National Park
Why we Love Margaret River!
The Margaret River region is well known for its natural beauty, wineries, and surfing beaches. Today it’s also
foodie heaven with farmers’ markets and world-class restaurants. Enjoy locally crafted beer, gin, and even nougat.
For adventure take walks in local parks including Boranup Karri Forest, canoe down Margaret River at the start of a wine tour, discover crystal caves, and take a bike tour to the vineyards including Cape Mentelle, Xanadu, and Leeuwin Estate.
The shopping is divine with chic boutiques, artisan jewellers, and art galleries not to be missed.
30 minutes north of Margaret River at Busselton, you’ll find a calm swimming beach on the foreshore and the
incredible Busselton Jetty and Underwater Observatory. You can walk or take the jetty train to the end of the
jetty to the underwater observatory for a look at a magnificent artificial reef and marine life.
Near Busselton, at Yallingup you’ll discover beautiful Yallingup Beach, a mecca for surfers, with also a calm
beach area for swimming.
The Stewart – Margaret River
website: https://www.booking.com/hotel/au/the-stewart.en-gb.html?
Best for: Affordable one-bedroom Villa for Two, Private, Near Town, Garden, BBQ, Patio, $$
Settle in for a comfortable stay at this quirky and rustic cottage surrounded by trees overlooking a brook. You’re only a 10-minute walk into town and bars, restaurants, and shops. The cottage has lots of little extra touches that guests love. You’ll find home-baked bread, butter and jam, and milk, in the fridge when you feel like sustenance and fluffy luxe bath robes for lounging around.
Review: “One of the nicest places we’ve ever stayed. The architectural design was top-class, with stunning views to the trees and foliage outside.”
Good to Know at this Quirky WA Cottage
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Lounge, Free WIFI, TV
- All linen included
- Busselton Jetty is 49 km from The Stewart, while Bramley is 8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Busselton Margaret River Airport, 54 km from the accommodation.
Grand Mercure Basildene Manor – Margaret River
Best for: 4-star Luxury Hotel, All Accor, Gardens, Breakfast, Swimming Pool, Tennis Court, $$$
Live like a millionaire in majestic style at the Grand Mercure Basildene Manor. With stately gardens and palatial interiors step back in time at this heritage hotel, one of the All Accor range of luxury hotels. Guests adore the breakfast and afternoon tea, and the recently refurbished spacious suites with freestanding baths.
Review: “The little extras really made the stay enjoyable, such as great selections of coffee and tea available
anytime to enjoy in the conservatory overlooking the beautiful gardens. Delicious cakes for afternoon tea.”
Good to Know
- Choose from suites or double rooms. The suites have a private patio or balcony
- Airconditioning, daily housekeeping
- 2 BBQs in the garden for use
- 2 km from Margaret River town centre. 15-minute drive to Leeuwin Estate and a 20-minute drive to Lake Cave. Busselton is a 45-minute drive away.
Chittering Heights – A Luxurious Romantic Tree House Retreat
Best for: Tree House Holiday Home, Jacuzzi, Wildlife, Billiards, Privacy, Up to 6 guests $$$
https://www.expedia.co.nz/Lower-Chittering-Hotels-Chittering-Heights-A-Luxurious-Romantic-Tree-House-Retreat.h36374133.Hotel-Information? (change
this to expedia au)
This rustic tree house offers spectacular views across the Chittering Valley, tall gumtrees, Brockman river, and country fields. You’re sure to see wildlife including kangaroos, emus, native birds, and
maybe, echidnas!
With no WIFI it’s time to relax, play billiards, read, and soak in the spa pool. In winter the ‘state of the art’ log fireplace envelopes you in a cozy ambiance.
Review: This is a place to be savoured for its peacefulness and beauty. The pyramid-style construction of the house and the woodwork in the kitchen are something to see. At night the whole valley feels like your own.
Good to Know at this Tree House Retreat
- 2 bedrooms with 2 queen beds and 2 single beds, 1 bathroom with toiletries
- No air conditioning, fans only
- The kitchen includes a fridge, microwave, stove, crockery, utensils, coffee, tea
- Book your peaceful stay at Chittering Heights
5. Hidden Valley Forest Retreat – Carbunup
Hidden Valley Forest Retreat: https://www.booking.com/hotel/au/hidden-valley-forest-retreat-and-day-spa.en-gb.html? Carbunup
6. Eight Willows Retreat
Eight Willows Retreat: 20 minutes from Margaret River: https://www.booking.com/hotel/au/willy-bay-resort.en-gb.html?
7. Esperance Chalet Village – South Coast
Esperance Chalet Village – https://www.booking.com/hotel/au/esperance-chalet-village.en-gb.html?
I’m sure the interior designer was given a brief to turn little chalets into darling luxury hideaways and they
succeeded beautifully. Modern white-on-white interior décor… with touches of rustic wood furnishings create an idyllic escape. After a day exploring the gorgeous beaches and national parks of Esperance, you’ll adore the peace and relaxation in the village.
Review: Words to describe this property are generous, luxe and well thought out. Quiet and good place for star gazing.
Good to Know
- Adult chalets and family-friendly cottages
- Kitchenettes in some chalets and also shared kitchen, private bathroom, Air conditioning, WIFI, Netflix and YouTube on TV
- Esperance must be voted number 1 for the most beautiful beaches in Australia! Stark white sand and turquoise waters around every bay, not to mention the fun fact that kangaroos enjoy sunbathing here too!
- Book your beach vacay now!
Don’t Miss these Things to Do in Esperance:
Esperance must be voted number 1 for the most beautiful beaches in Australia! Stark white sand and turquoise waters around every bay, not to mention the fun fact that kangaroos enjoy sunbathing here too!
- Lucky Beach (kangaroos and swimming)
- Cape Le Grand National Park, and swimming in the aquamarine waters.
- Cape Arid National Park and Stokes National Park
- Twilight Bay and Hellfire Bay
- Climb Frenchman’s Peak
- 1 and Half Hour Walk on Country Cape Le Grand National Park (https://www.viator.com/en-GB/tours/Western-Australia/Walk-on-Country-Cape-Le-Grand-National-Park/d126-327763P3)
- Lucky Bay Brewery
- Book a flight over Pink Lake
- Discover native flowers at Helms Arboretum
- Munglinup Beach for snorkelling
Nyola Beach House – Peppy Beach Retreat – Peppermint Grove Beach
website: https://www.stayz.com.au/holiday-rental/p9320271
Best for: Quirky Holiday Home, BBQ, Swimming Beach, Wineries, fully fenced, Dog-friendly, Near Tuart Forest, 6 guests
Looking like an airport at the beach this quirky beach retreat is comfy on the inside with plenty of room for 6 guests and your pet! At Peppy Beach (short for Peppermint Grove Beach), the house has open-plan living with a kitchen, dining and lounge, a chill-out room, two bedrooms, and a bathroom with a separate toilet.
Peppy Beach is perfectly positioned in the Southwest for bush walks at Tuart Forest, caves, surfing, snorkelling, adventure activities, restaurants, and wineries around Margaret River, Yallingup, Busselton, and Dunsborough, plus 24 national parks!
Review: We loved that the sleeping and living area was separate so the kids weren’t disturbed after bedtime.
Great sized yard for the dogs, it’s so nice to find such a lovely location where the dogs can come on holidays with us. We encountered a sea lion on our morning beach walk.
What’s Near Peppy Beach?
- Tuart Forest National Park is 1.2km away
- The next beach along to the south is Forrest Beach, a 5 minute drive
- The closest vineyard is Capel Vale Winery 3.8km
- Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory is 20km away to the south
Good to Know:
- The laundry is in the bathroom
- The fully equipped kitchen has a dishwasher
- Air conditioning in the living area
- Bedroom 1 has a queen-size bed, bedroom 2 has a double bed and a single bed
- Shop and bar/restaurant at Peppy Beach Caravan Park nearby
- Supermarket and other food stores at Capel, a 10-minute drive away
- 20 km north of Busselton and just over a 2-hour drive south from Perth
- Book this Beach Retreat today








