Margaret River, Caves, Wine and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse Tour from Perth

Starting your day with this full-day tour from Perth is a fantastic way to see the best of southwestern Australia without the hassle of planning. For around $170 per person, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Busselton Jetty, Mammoth Cave, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, and indulge in a gourmet brewery lunch and wine tastings. With a duration of roughly 13.5 hours, this trip is packed with interesting sights and stories, guided by knowledgeable drivers who keep the atmosphere lively and informative.

One of the things we love about this experience is the seamless hotel pickup, which means no fuss trying to find meeting points, especially if you’re staying in Perth. We also appreciate that the tour offers plenty of time at each stop—from exploring the stunning limestone formations inside Mammoth Cave to enjoying the scenic views at Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the long travel day—while the sites are spectacular, expect a fair amount of time on the coach. This tour suits travelers who don’t mind spending a full day on a bus but still want a well-rounded introduction to the region’s highlights.

If you’re after an authentic, value-packed experience that covers multiple must-see spots with expert narration, this tour is perfect for you. It’s especially good for those visiting Perth for a short while or travelers who prefer to see the highlights without renting a car or organizing multiple day trips.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip covering Margaret River, caves, and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
• All-inclusive transportation and hotel pickup make logistics easy
• Guided cave tour and wine tasting add educational and flavorful elements
• Long but rewarding—expect 13.5-hour adventure with plenty of sight-seeing
• Good value for money considering the number of attractions and included meals
• Ideal for those who enjoy learning about geology, local wine, and scenic coastlines

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Morning Pickup and Journey South

The day kicks off early at the Crown Perth Food Court or a pre-arranged meeting point. From there, a comfortable, air-conditioned coach whisks you away on a scenic drive south toward Margaret River. The longer drive means plenty of opportunities for your guide to share stories about the region’s history, geology, and the best local spots. We found that the coach size is typically capped at 48 travelers, which helps keep the trip intimate yet social.

Busselton Jetty: A Southern Hemisphere Icon

The first stop is the Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere, stretching 1.8 km over Geographe Bay. It’s a classic photo op and a chance to stretch your legs. You can walk out onto the jetty and enjoy the calming views, although the admission fee for the jetty itself isn’t included. Several reviews mention being pleasantly surprised by the beauty of the bay and the impressive length of the jetty. One traveler noted, “We loved the way the jetty extends so far into the water, perfect for a quick walk and photos.”

The Brewery Lunch at Cheeky Monkey

Next, the group visits the Cheeky Monkey Brewing Co., where you’ll indulge in tastings of beer and cider paired with a gourmet platter lunch. The included lunch offers a chance to relax and enjoy local flavors in a relaxed setting. Many reviewers have praised the quality of the food and drinks, with one commenting, “Lunch was delicious, and the tastings at the brewery were a real highlight.” This stop also offers a chance for some casual socializing with fellow travelers.

Exploring Natural Wonders at Mammoth Cave

After lunch, the real highlight for many is the guided tour of Mammoth Cave. The cave features vast chambers and stunning limestone formations, reminiscent of gothic architecture. The guide here provides insights into the geological history of the region, making it a learning experience as well as a visual treat. The guided tour lasts about 40 minutes, and reviews frequently mention how spectacular and informative the cave is. One visitor said, “The cave was breathtaking, and our guide was very knowledgeable about the flora and fauna in the area.” Be aware that the inside of the cave can be damp and cool, so dress appropriately.

Scenic Drive to Cape Leeuwin and the Lighthouse

The afternoon itinerary takes you through the Boranup Forest—a lush, green landscape dotted with towering trees—before reaching the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. Standing at the most south-westerly tip of Australia, this lighthouse marks where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet. The view is spectacular—waves crashing against rocky cliffs with the lighthouse in the distance. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, and while the lighthouse itself isn’t accessible for climbing, the views and storytelling are enough to satisfy most travelers.

Many reviews note that time at Cape Leeuwin can feel a bit rushed, with some wishing for longer to explore or take photos. One traveler shared, “We would have liked more time here, but the views are unforgettable.”

Free Time in Margaret River

Before heading back, the tour offers about 30 minutes in Margaret River itself. This is enough to browse some local shops, pick up souvenirs, or grab a quick coffee. The town’s boutiques and cafes are charming, though some visitors mention that many shops close early, so plan accordingly.

Return to Perth

The journey back is typically relaxed, with the driver sharing more stories or answering questions. Expect to be dropped off late evening, around 9 or 10 pm, depending on traffic and stops. Many reviews mention feeling exhausted but satisfied, having seen a wide cross-section of the region’s highlights.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

A common theme in reviews is the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer praised “Gordon,” calling him “fantastic,” and another mentioned that the driver Luke was “wonderful” and very informative. The enthusiasm and local knowledge of guides significantly enhance the experience, making even long travel times feel engaging.

Several travelers appreciated the balance of sightseeing and leisure. One said, “There was plenty of time at each stop, and the stops were well-chosen,” while others noted that more time at certain sites—like Busselton or the lighthouse—would improve the experience.

However, the long day on the bus is a common point of mention. If you prefer shorter excursions or dislike being on a coach for hours, this might not be your best choice. One reviewer observed, “It’s a long day, but you see a lot, and the variety makes it worthwhile.”

Analyzing the Value

When considering the $169.50 price, you’re paying for a comprehensive package that covers transportation, a guided cave tour, a winery lunch with tastings, and visits to multiple iconic sites. Given the all-inclusive nature and the quality of the sights, the tour offers good value. It’s especially appealing for those who want to avoid the hassle of organizing their own trip, or for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights.

Of course, the long hours need to be weighed if you’re prone to fatigue or prefer more leisurely visits. Still, if your goal is to maximize your sightseeing in one day, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This trip is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and good food. It suits those who value guided insights and prefer not to drive themselves. It’s ideal for short-stay visitors in Perth wanting to tick multiple boxes quickly, or solo travelers who appreciate the camaraderie of a small group. If you’re a geology enthusiast, the Mammoth Cave alone makes it worthwhile. And if your idea of a good day involves seeing iconic coastlines, tasting local wines, and exploring caves, this tour hits all those notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 13.5 hours, starting early in the morning and returning late in the evening.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from Perth hotels is part of the package, making it easy to start your day without extra planning.

Are meals included?
Lunch at the brewery, including tastings and a gourmet platter, is included. Other food and drinks are at your own expense.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit Busselton Jetty, Mammoth Cave, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, and enjoy a stop in Margaret River town.

Can I climb the lighthouse?
No, the lighthouse is viewed from the outside, and the tour does not include climbing it.

Is the cave tour accessible?
The guided Mammoth Cave tour lasts about 40 minutes and is suitable for most physically fit travelers, but be prepared for some dampness and stairs.

How much free time do I get?
Approximately 30 minutes in Margaret River town, which is enough for a quick browse or coffee.

Is alcohol tasting included?
Yes, at the Cheeky Monkey Brewing Co., you can sample beers and ciders as part of the lunch stop.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is typically limited to 48 travelers, keeping it manageable and friendly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps a light jacket for cave coolness. Remember, admission fees for the jetty are not included.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to see the highlights of Margaret River in one day, this tour offers a good balance of nature, history, and local flavor. The expert guides and comfortable transport make it easier to soak up each location without stress. The included lunch and tastings add flavor to the day, whether you’re a wine lover or just curious about local brews.

While long hours on the coach might not suit everyone**, many find that the variety of sights and experiences justifies the time spent traveling. This tour is especially suited for first-time visitors or those with limited days in Western Australia who want a well-organized, engaging overview of the region.

If you’re after a value-packed day trip that mixes scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure, this is a great choice. Just be prepared for a full day, and you’ll come away with vivid memories and perhaps a few new favorite wines.

Ready to explore Margaret River’s gems? This tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to tick off major sights with ease and expert guidance.