Margaret River, Chocolate, Wine & Coast Day Trip from Perth

Exploring Western Australia’s Margaret River on a Day Trip from Perth
This full-day adventure from Perth, costing around $165 per person, whisks you south into the heart of one of Australia’s most beloved wine and coast regions. Led by friendly guides, you’ll visit chocolate factories, sample award-winning wines and local beers, and enjoy breathtaking views from Canal Rocks and Busselton Jetty.

What we love about this trip is how smoothly it combines culinary delights with stunning landscapes—all in just over 13 hours. The stops at Gabriels Chocolates and Margaret River Chocolate Company mean you get more than just a taste; you get a sense of the local craftsmanship and flavors. Plus, the visit to Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere, offers a memorable photo opportunity.

One consideration is the length of the day—while packed with activities, it can be a long stretch on the bus, so those prone to travel fatigue should pace themselves. This tour appeals especially to food and wine lovers eager to experience Western Australia’s finest without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. It’s also a good fit for curious travelers who want a taste of coast, countryside, and culture all in one day.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Tasting, lunch, and transportation covered, making it easy to relax.
• Diverse Highlights: From chocolate factories and wineries to dramatic coastlines and historic jetties.
• Authentic Flavors: Sample a wide range of local products, including wines, beers, chocolates, and oils.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Canal Rocks and Busselton Jetty provide memorable scenery and photo opportunities.
• Full-Day Comfort: With pickup and drop-off included, you avoid the hassle of self-driving.
• Long but Worth It: A 13.5-hour trip packs in a lot, so be prepared for a full day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Margaret River, Chocolate, Wine & Coast Day Trip

Starting from Perth: Early Morning Pickup and Travel

We begin with a convenient hotel pickup, which is included if you choose that option. The comfort of being chauffeured means you can sit back and enjoy the views as we head south out of Perth. The drive takes us through farmland and past grazing cattle—classic Western Australian scenery—setting the tone for the day ahead.

Our guide provides lively commentary about the region’s history and agricultural importance, making the journey itself part of the experience. The early start means you’ll get a full day of exploring, with the promise of many stops along the way.

First Stop: Gabriels Chocolates and Artisan Tastings

The first treat is Gabriels Chocolates, where we get to sample an array of chocolates and nougat, fresh and indulgent. The quality of the chocolates is notable, and the guide may share stories about the family-run business that’s been perfecting their craft.

Next, we make a quick stop at Cowaramup, affectionately called “Cow Town,” famous for its fibreglass Friesian cows. This quirky town is fun for photos and adds a bit of local charm. Reviewers often mention the humorous and colorful cows as a highlight, with one noting, “It’s silly, but it makes you smile every time you see a cow statue.”

A Gourmet Stop: Providore and Margaret River Chocolate Company

Back on the road, we visit Providore and Margaret River Chocolate Company—two stops that highlight the region’s gourmet appeal. At Providore, we sample oils, preserves, and other local artisan products, giving us a taste of the region’s culinary diversity. The Chocolate Company offers more sweet temptations, including free samples of chocolates, nougat, and nuts—ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth and picking up souvenirs.

This pairing emphasizes the region’s focus on quality ingredients and craftsmanship, making it a favorite for food lovers. Several reviews praise the variety and freshness of the tastings, with one reviewer excitedly noting, “The chocolate and oils were so good that we bought more than we planned!”

More Great Tours Nearby

Margaret River’s Wineries and Wineries and Wineries!

Driving into Margaret River proper, the landscape becomes lush and green, dotted with vineyards. We visit Bettenays Nougat, where you get to taste an impressive selection of different nuts and sweet treats—another highlight for those who love trying local specialties.

Lunch is included and usually served at a renowned winery or brewery, offering a chance to relax, chat, and enjoy regional wines paired with delicious food. The quality of the wine and the peaceful vineyard setting often earn praise from travelers who say it’s “the perfect way to unwind after a busy morning of tastings.”

Vasse Virgin and Coastal Views

Next, we stop at Vasse Virgin, where the focus shifts from tasting to exploring. This shop sells handmade soaps, oils, and skincare products, all made from local ingredients. Many find it interesting to see how the oils are produced and to sample the various scents—highlighting the region’s dedication to natural, artisanal products.

Afterward, it’s time to visit the coast. At Canal Rocks, you’ll walk over granite formations that have been carved by the ocean’s relentless power. The walkways over the rocks offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean, and the sound of crashing waves creates a soothing backdrop. Several reviewers mention the spectacular scenery and the opportunity for memorable photos.

Busselton Jetty: A Final Coastline Highlight

The last major stop is Busselton, home to the famous long wooden jetty. Spanning nearly 2 km, it’s the longest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. We get some free time here to stroll along the jetty, soak in the views, and snap pictures. The jetty’s historic charm and scenic setting make it a fitting end to a packed day.

Returning to Perth

As the day winds down, we head back north, with comfortable transportation and a guide sharing stories and highlights from the trip. Expect to arrive back in Perth late evening, possibly around 8 or 9 pm, depending on the group size and traffic conditions.

Why This Tour Is a Great Value

This tour offers a lot for the price. All tastings, lunch, transportation, and guide services are included, removing the guesswork and expense of organizing your own day. The variety of stops—from chocolate and oils to wine and coastal vistas—means you get a well-rounded experience of Margaret River’s finest offerings. The quality of the tastings and the scenic stops make it worth the cost, especially if you prefer not to drive and want a guided, all-in-one day of indulgence and discovery.

What We Found Most Impressive

The wine and chocolate tastings stand out as highlights, thanks to the quality and variety offered. The coastal views at Canal Rocks truly are breathtaking, with some reviewers saying it’s “the most beautiful rock formations I’ve seen in Australia.” The organized itinerary ensures you see a lot without feeling rushed, making the most of each stop.

A Few Considerations

The main drawback is the length of the day—if you’re someone who prefers shorter outings or has limited stamina, this might feel a bit long. Also, some stops like the winery might not be open on certain public holidays, so it’s worth checking ahead. The group size can vary, which influences how intimate or lively the experience feels.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip appeals most to food, wine, and nature lovers who want an introduction to Margaret River’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect for those seeking authentic tastings, scenic coastlines, and a relaxed yet rundown of the region. Travelers eager to sample some of Australia’s best wines and chocolates, combined with stunning ocean views, will find this tour especially rewarding.

It’s especially suited for visitors with a full day to spare, who enjoy guided experiences and want to maximize their time and enjoyment. If you’re traveling with friends or family who appreciate good food and scenic beauty, this trip offers a balanced mix of both.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select that option, your guide will pick you up from central Perth, Northbridge, or Scarborough hotels, making this a hassle-free experience.

How long does the trip last?
The tour runs for approximately 13.5 hours, so you should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and tasting.

Are there opportunities to buy souvenirs?
Absolutely. Many stops, like the chocolate and oils shops, offer souvenirs and products to take home, often at the end of the tour.

Can I expect to taste wines and chocolates?
Yes, the tour includes multiple tasting stops for wines, beers, chocolates, and other local products, giving you a real sense of regional flavors.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Yes, children can enjoy the scenic coastal views, chocolate tastings, and the quirky town of Cowaramup. Non-drinkers will still appreciate the variety of gourmet foods and the scenery.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the coastal and town walks. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and your camera to capture the views.

To sum it up, this Margaret River day trip from Perth offers an engaging mix of culinary delights, natural beauty, and local culture. It’s an excellent way to experience some of Western Australia’s best without the stress of planning each stop. If you’re keen on savoring regional wines, chocolates, and coastal vistas in a relaxed setting, this tour hits the mark for value and authentic experiences—perfect for those with a full day to indulge in the region’s treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: