Packing your raincoat instead of your bikini is never usually the first choice when you’re looking forward to a long overdue holiday. But lucky for you, the gloomy weather doesn’t need to mean a gloomy experience with the wide array of activities on offer in the Margaret River region! After you settle in to your True South Escape, you may enjoy an extended stroll on the beach between clouds or immerse yourself in the cosy comforts of a nearby couch or lounge room as you watch the storms dance across the coastline. Beyond eating your way around the area, (see our must-try spots to do this), we’ve put together a handful of our favourite activity ideas so you can still make the most while mother nature does her thing. From enjoying a pamper day at the long list of spas and recovery centres across the region, to getting amongst 1 million year old crystal formations below the ground, or perhaps learning about the local surf legends, these are just some of the best activities to do when it pours in the South West. So kick back at your True South Escape by the fire with a glass of locally produced vino, and peruse this list of 5 things to do in margaret river when it’s raining - with some ideas to keep the kids occupied too!
Notes: Kid friendly, but not suitable for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia
Time to complete: Guided tours operate on a schedule and can sell out - see website for tickets in advance
Not only is the South West blessed with a jaw dropping coastline of white sand beaches, underneath it, a breathtaking below-surface experience awaits for adventurers and little ones alike, too. Explore the depths of the Margaret River caves, which includes a series of spots along the region including Lake Cave and nearby Mammoth Cave in Boranup, Jewel Cave in Deepdene, and Ngilgi Cave in Yallingup. While some tours are guided and some are self-guided, it’s a family friendly experience that everyone will be in awe of as you take in the ancient stalactites, stalagmites, uniquely coloured shawls and helictites that have been forming for over a million years.
Notes: Kid friendly, free entry
Time to complete: 1-2 hours, with time added on to explore the estate afterwards or have lunch
Home to iconic breaks including Yallingup and Injidup, it’s no surprise you’ve chosen to visit a region with a rich surf history. And thankfully, there’s a place that wants to pay homage to it in a fun, colourful space that even lets you try their own minimal intervention wines while you do it. Um, say no more! Located at Aravina Estate, a family-run winery that spans across an expansive 180 acres, the WA Surf Gallery is the very first and only one of its kind in Western Australia. Exploring the history of the sport throughout the state, you can look at rare memorabilia including snaps from renowned surf photographers including Ric Chan and Greg Howard and even see surfboards in the flesh that date back to the 1950s.
Notes: Chocolate tastings are kid friendly, coffee can always be modified to hot chocolates for the kids
Time to complete - choose your own adventure, but allow 1-2 hours at each destination
Sweet tooths in the group are going to be very happy about this one! Allow the sweet scent of hand crafted chocolate ooze into your senses as you step foot into either one of our local favourite artisan chocolate shops - Yallingup Chocolate or Margaret River Chocolate Company. With free tastings available, you can try some of the shop’s most popular chocolate flavours including Rocky Road with Macadamias, Ruby & Pistachio bars and more.
As for those more caffeine inclined, why not check out Commonage Coffee Co right beside Yallingup Chocolate next door to taste their expertly roasted beans - done in small batches to ensure the smoothest, most delicious cup. If you prefer to grab your coffee in Dunsborough - expect to have some tough decisions to make. Local heroes include Tiny Coffee, Merchant and Maker, Local and the notable Yallingup Coffee Roasting also roast their beans in-house!
Notes: teenagers & older, extreme temperatures may not be suitable for certain health conditions (always consult your doctor)
Time needed to complete - sauna and ice bath sessions usually last for 45 minutes, allow 15 minutes before and after to regroup after your zen
Cold, wet, moody weather drizzles outside, while you, on the other hand, prefer to step into a world much more luxurious for the next hour. Nothing beats the serene escapism of the many sauna and recovery facilities located around the South West. And we simply can’t blame you for that! From infrared saunas at the Dunsborough local Tama Wellness (and not to mention, facials and massages too!), you can also book in at Sama Wellness, Base MMA or The Movement South West. Mend in Margaret River is another new kid on the block, allowing you to swim, sweat, freeze and repeat in a bespoke recovery space that also incorporates massage. No matter where you end up our pro tip is booking in for an evening session to have you hitting the hay with ease as soon as you curl up into your True South Escape master bedroom later that evening.
Notes: not for the faint of heart, kid friendly
Time needed to complete - 2 to 3 hours, reptile talks are at 10:30am and 1:30pm
While it may not be conventional, we have another idea of how you might want to… slip away when the weather doesn’t agree with your courageous beach plans. If you’re squeamish, you might want to hold your breath, because Discover Deadly is where the reptiles take centre stage! This fun, educational place is home to over 40 different species including snakes, lizards, turtles and frogs, with a focus on conservation to help protect these incredible critters. Make sure to time the occasion for the reptile talks so you can watch the feeding and learn about some of the world’s most misunderstood creatures, and of course, bring the camera to capture the python holding at the end for an additional price!
You know how the saying goes, right? We can’t enjoy the sunshine without the rain, so while the moodiness keeps you indoors - we hope this list has you finding the very best ways to enjoy our special region. If you’re ever short of any food or winery recommendations, True South Escapes is always here to help!
Dreaming of your next getaway? Book your next stay with us now - we can't wait to have you back!
