Daytrip Dunsborough & Yallingup

If you’re heading down south, there’s a fair bit of ground to cover. You’ve got Margaret River, Busselton, Dunsborough, Yallingup and some spots tucked in between. Twin coastal havens Dunsborough and Yallingup are close enough to explore together in a day, making them a pretty easy addition to a South West trip. This is how we'd do it.

Head into Dunsborough Town for Brekkie

Image: Local Dunsborough

Dunsborough town centre is a cafe-lover’s delight. There’s something to choose from on every corner and you really can’t go wrong. Little Iris has a lovely garden setting, Local Dunsborough does acai and all sorts of beverage creations, Merchant & Maker is a community hub with great coffee and Sora Café sits right down by the water. Plus heaps more! Once you’ve had your fill, you can wander around the local stores and boutiques and spend up your dosh.

Take a Dip at Yallingup Beach

Image: Tim Campbell courtesy of margaretriver.com

You’ve got to hit the beach while you’re here, and Yallingup is a pretty special one. The drive down Yallingup Beach road alone is enough to blow your mind. In summer, this beach offers up crystal blue waters and plenty of sand to share, even when crowds pick up. Come winter, it’s the perfect spot to watch the huge winter swells roll through and anyone crazy enough to brave them.

Head Back Into Dunsborough for Lunch

Image: The Pour House Bar and Kitchen

Hope you’re hungry, because our pick for lunch serves up a mighty feed. The Pour House Bar and Kitchen is right in the heart of Dunsborough and it’s got plenty of character and a relaxed pub atmosphere. They’re also big supporters of the local craft beer scene, with plenty of regional brews across the taps. Might as well try a few.

A Little More Sightseeing at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse

Image: Tim Campbell courtesy of margaretriver.com

Come on, you can squeeze in one more activity before dinner. Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse sits right at the tip of the cape and has been guiding ships along the coast since 1903. There’s the option to go a guided tour up through the lighthouse and stand on its balcony to soak up panoramic views of the coastline. The lighthouse also marks the northern end of the Cape to Cape Track, so you can set off along the trail for a little while before turning back. Be sure to keep an eye out for whales passing through during migration season!

Turn it Up a Notch for Dinner

Image: Yarri Restaurant and Bar

Settle in for an intimate dinner at Yarri Restaurant and Bar to get a proper taste of the South West. The menu is built around Western Australian produce, with herbs, fruit and veggies coming straight from their own garden into the kitchen each day. You’ll find local flavours throughout the menu, alongside Snake + Herring wines and locally brewed beers.

Cap Off the Day With a Couple Cocktails

Image: Bungalow Social

The night is still young, so head over to Bungalow Social to party on. The tropical beach-house-meets-’60s-disco vibe makes it a pretty fun place to finish up, with cocktails, local beers and an Italian-Mediterranean menu if you’ve somehow found room for another feed.

Head on Further South

Well that’s your Dunsborough and Yallingup daytrip all wrapped up. Surely the fun doesn’t end there, right? Dunsborough and Yallingup are just one part of this special region. If you’re heading on further down the coast, check out our guide to spending a day in Margaret River.

Main Image: Elements Margaret River