When is the Best Time to Visit Margaret River?

Margaret River enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit depends entirely on what you want to experience during your trip to Western Australia's premier wine and tourism region.

The peak tourist season runs from December to April when the weather is warmest and driest, perfect for beach activities and outdoor wine tasting. However, each season in Margaret River offers unique experiences that might make off-peak travel even more appealing—from winter whale watching to spring wildflowers and autumn harvest festivals.

⚡ Quick Answer

  • Best Weather: December - March
  • Best for Wine: February - April (Harvest)
  • Best Value: May - August (Winter)
  • Whale Watching: June - December
  • Wildflowers: September - November

Margaret River Weather by Month

Understanding Margaret River's climate will help you pack appropriately and plan activities. The region averages 1,200mm of rainfall annually, with most falling between May and August.

Month Avg High Avg Low Rain Days Best For
January 29°C 16°C 3 Beaches, outdoor dining
February 29°C 16°C 3 Wine harvest begins
March 27°C 15°C 5 Harvest festivals, perfect weather
April 24°C 13°C 8 Autumn colours, fewer crowds
May 20°C 11°C 12 Truffle season begins
June 17°C 9°C 14 Whale watching, Cabin Fever festival
July 17°C 8°C 15 Cosy cellar doors, waterfalls
August 17°C 8°C 14 Truffle hunting, whale watching
September 19°C 9°C 12 Wildflowers bloom
October 21°C 10°C 9 Spring weather, whale watching peak
November 24°C 12°C 7 Gourmet Escape festival
December 27°C 14°C 5 Summer holidays begin

Season-by-Season Guide

🌞 Summer (December - February)

Summer is peak season in Margaret River, offering long sunny days perfect for exploring the region's stunning beaches and enjoying outdoor cellar door experiences. Expect warm temperatures averaging 27-29°C and minimal rainfall.

Summer Highlights

Drawbacks: Accommodation prices are highest, popular restaurants require advance booking, and beaches can be crowded during school holidays.

🍂 Autumn (March - May)

Many locals consider autumn the best time to visit Margaret River. The harvest season is in full swing, temperatures are comfortable (20-27°C), and summer crowds have dispersed. This is wine lover's paradise season.

Autumn Highlights

  • Wine harvest and vintage experiences at 200+ wineries
  • Autumn colours in the vineyards
  • Truffle season begins (late May)
  • Margaret River Pro surfing competition (April/May)
  • Reduced accommodation rates from April

❄️ Winter (June - August)

Winter transforms Margaret River into a cosy retreat. While rainfall increases, this is the perfect time for whale watching, truffle hunting, and enjoying the region's exceptional restaurants with roaring fires. Accommodation offers excellent value.

Winter Highlights

  • Whale watching season begins (June) - see humpbacks and southern rights
  • Cabin Fever festival celebrating winter food and wine
  • Truffle hunting experiences (June-August)
  • Waterfalls at their most spectacular
  • Up to 40% off accommodation
  • Cosy cellar doors with fireplaces

🌸 Spring (September - November)

Spring brings wildflower season and the return of warmer weather. This shoulder season offers a beautiful balance of good weather, manageable crowds, and unique experiences like the famous Gourmet Escape festival in November.

Spring Highlights

  • Wildflowers blanket the region (over 8,000 species)
  • Whale watching continues through November
  • Margaret River Gourmet Escape (November)
  • Perfect hiking weather on the Cape to Cape Track
  • Shoulder season rates on accommodation

Best Time for Specific Activities

Activity Best Months Why
Wine Tasting Year-round (Feb-Apr best) Harvest season offers special experiences
Beach & Swimming December - March Warmest water temperatures (20-22°C)
Whale Watching June - December Peak: Sept-Nov for humpbacks
Cave Tours Year-round Constant 17°C underground
Hiking March - November Avoid summer heat
Surfing Year-round (Apr-Oct biggest) Winter swells for experienced surfers
Wildflowers September - November Spring bloom season
Truffle Hunting June - August Black truffle harvest season

Peak Season vs Off-Peak: What to Expect

Peak Season (December - April)

Shoulder Season (September - November)

Off-Peak Season (May - August)

💡 Insider Tip

For the best balance of weather, prices, and experiences, visit in March or early April. You'll catch the tail end of summer weather, experience harvest season, enjoy autumn colours in the vineyards, and benefit from reduced accommodation rates after the school holiday rush.

Events Calendar 2026

Planning your visit around Margaret River's events can enhance your experience significantly. Here are the major events to consider:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to visit Margaret River?
March is often considered the best month to visit Margaret River. You get excellent weather (average 27°C), the grape harvest is underway, summer crowds have thinned, and accommodation prices start dropping. It offers the perfect balance of great weather, unique wine experiences, and good value.
Is Margaret River worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely! Winter (June-August) offers unique experiences you can not get in summer: whale watching, truffle hunting, dramatic waterfalls, cosy cellar doors with fireplaces, and accommodation savings of up to 40%. The region's restaurants and caves are just as enjoyable in winter, and there are virtually no crowds.
When is whale watching season in Margaret River?
Whale watching season runs from June to December. Humpback and Southern Right whales migrate along the coast, with peak viewing from September to November. Augusta is the main whale watching hub, though you can spot whales from many coastal points along the Cape to Cape Track.
How far in advance should I book accommodation?
For peak season (December-January and Easter), book 3-6 months ahead. For autumn and spring, 4-6 weeks is usually sufficient. In winter, you can often book just 1-2 weeks ahead and find great deals, except during school holidays.
What should I pack for Margaret River?
Year-round: layers, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. Summer: swimwear, light clothing, sunglasses. Winter: warm jacket, rain jacket, and closed shoes. Always bring a light sweater as evenings can be cool even in summer, and cave tours maintain a constant 17°C.

Ready to Plan Your Visit?

Explore our comprehensive guides to make the most of your Margaret River holiday.

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