About Dunsborough
Dunsborough is one of Western Australia's most beloved coastal towns, located on the shores of stunning Geographe Bay. With crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and a relaxed holiday atmosphere, Dunsborough attracts visitors year-round for its natural beauty, excellent swimming, and world-class whale watching.
Just 254km south of Perth (approximately 3 hours' drive), Dunsborough serves as the perfect base for exploring the northern end of the Margaret River region. The town offers easy access to Meelup Beach, Bunker Bay, the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, and the famous wineries of the Margaret River.
Dunsborough Quick Facts
- Population: ~6,000
- Distance from Perth: 254 km (3 hours)
- Distance from Margaret River: 50 km (40 min)
- Best For: Beaches, whale watching, families
- Peak Season: December - April
- Whale Season: September - December
Best Beaches in Dunsborough
Dunsborough is blessed with some of Western Australia's most beautiful beaches, all within the protected waters of Geographe Bay and the stunning coastline of Meelup Regional Park.
| Beach | Best For | Features | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meelup Beach | Swimming, snorkeling, families | Crystal clear, calm, white sand | 5 min |
| Bunker Bay | Swimming, relaxation, resort | Sheltered bay, turquoise water | 10 min |
| Eagle Bay | Snorkeling, fishing, kayaking | Rocky headlands, reef | 8 min |
| Point Picquet | Snorkeling, diving | Marine sanctuary, reef fish | 10 min |
| Castle Rock | Photography, exploring | Rock formations, secluded | 7 min |
| Old Dunsborough Beach | Families, swimming | Town beach, facilities | Town centre |
💡 Beach Tip
Meelup Beach is consistently rated as one of Australia's best beaches. Arrive early in summer to secure parking, as it fills up quickly. The crystal-clear water and gentle slope make it perfect for children.
Things to Do in Dunsborough
🐋 Whale Watching
Dunsborough is one of Australia's premier whale watching destinations. From September to December, humpback whales migrate along the coast, and boat tours offer incredible close encounters. The calm waters of Geographe Bay make for comfortable viewing.
- Season: September to December
- Peak: October - November
- Tours: Multiple operators from Dunsborough and Busselton
- Duration: 2-3 hours
🏠 Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse
Just 13km from Dunsborough, the historic Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse offers stunning coastal views and is the northern starting point of the Cape to Cape Track. Climb the lighthouse for panoramic ocean views.
- Tours: Guided tours available
- Views: 360-degree ocean and forest views
- Walks: Several short walking trails nearby
- Whale watching: Good land-based viewing point
🌊 Water Activities
- Snorkeling: Point Picquet Marine Sanctuary, Eagle Bay
- Kayaking: Geographe Bay, calm conditions
- Stand-up paddleboarding: Meelup Beach, Old Dunsborough
- Diving: HMAS Swan wreck, Cape Naturaliste
- Fishing: Charter boats available, jetty fishing
🥾 Walking & Hiking
- Cape to Cape Track: Northern sections accessible from Dunsborough
- Meelup Regional Park: Multiple trails through bushland
- Cape Naturaliste walks: Lighthouse loop, Sugarloaf Rock
Where to Eat in Dunsborough
Dunsborough has a vibrant dining scene ranging from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants.
Top Restaurants
- Bunkers Beach Cafe: Beachfront dining at Bunker Bay
- Occy's Dunsborough: Popular local seafood
- Artezen: Modern Australian fine dining
- Dunsborough Bakery: Famous pies and pastries
- Meelup Beach Cafe: Casual beachside meals
Where to Stay
Dunsborough offers accommodation for all budgets, from caravan parks to luxury resorts.
| Type | Options | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Resort | Pullman Bunker Bay, Cape Lodge | $350-800/night |
| Holiday Rentals | Beach houses, villas | $200-500/night |
| Hotels/Motels | Dunsborough Central, Newberry Manor | $150-250/night |
| Caravan Parks | Dunsborough Lakes, RAC Parks | $40-120/night |
Booking Advice
Dunsborough accommodation books out quickly during summer holidays, Easter, and school holidays. Book 3-6 months ahead for peak periods, especially beachfront properties.
Getting to Dunsborough
- From Perth: 254 km via Forrest Highway (3 hours)
- From Margaret River: 50 km via Caves Road (40 min)
- From Busselton: 21 km (20 min)
- Nearest Airport: Busselton Margaret River Airport (BQB)
See our complete driving guide for detailed directions.
Best Time to Visit Dunsborough
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Dec-Feb) | 25-32°C, sunny, calm seas | Swimming, beaches, water sports |
| Autumn (Mar-May) | 18-25°C, mild, less crowded | Hiking, wine tasting, relaxation |
| Winter (Jun-Aug) | 10-17°C, rainy periods | Storm watching, cozy dining |
| Spring (Sep-Nov) | 15-22°C, wildflowers | Whale watching, wildflowers, hiking |
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Dunsborough Trip
Explore more of the Margaret River region from Dunsborough.
View Sample Itineraries