7 Days in Western Australia: Perth, Rottnest and Margaret River

Western Australia is a vast, sun-kissed playground where city skyscrapers melt into pristine beaches, ancient forests, and world-class wine. If you only have a week, you can still experience a perfect balance of urban energy, island serenity, and epic wine country. This 7-day itinerary combines the best of Perth, Rottnest Island, and Margaret River to deliver a memorable, easily bookable Western Australia escape. You’ll move at a relaxed pace, yet feel like you’ve packed in a world of sights, tastes, and moments you’ll want to relive.

Introduction Western Australia rewards travelers who enjoy diverse landscapes within a compact footprint. In seven days you can:

• Wander the marble-lit streets and lush parks of Perth, WA’s vibrant capital.
• Escape to Rottnest Island for day-tripping bike rides, turquoise bays, and the friendly quokkas that made it famous.
• Sip and savor along the Margaret River wine trail, where award-winning wines meet pristine beaches, rugged coastline, and ancient caves.

Whether you crave postcard-perfect beaches, world-class wines, or dramatic coastlines, this itinerary keeps things balanced and enjoyable. It’s designed for travelers who want a seamless mix of sightseeing, nature, food, and wine, with practical tips to make the most of your time.

H2: Why Western Australia makes a great 7 day escape

• Proximity within a manageable loop: Perth acts as a convenient gateway to Rottnest Island and the Margaret River region, minimizing long overland days.
• Diverse experiences in one week: city culture, wildlife encounters, island waterfronts, caves, and top-tier wine all in one itinerary.
• Excellent weather for most of the year: spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures for outdoor adventures, while summer shines for beaches and boating.
• Family-friendly and adult-friendly options: spacious beaches, calm bays, and guided wine tours suit all ages and interests.
• Efficient day trips from Perth: Rottnest Island and nearby coastal towns are perfect for planned day trips or short overnight stays.

H2: Getting there and getting around

• How to reach Perth: Most travelers arrive via Perth's international airport. Direct flights connect major hubs from around the world; domestic flights from other Australian cities are frequent.
• Getting around Perth: The city has a compact CBD with good public transport, plus easy access to car rental if you plan to venture into Margaret River’s wine country.
• Rottnest Island access: A short ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle to Rottnest Island is the standard route. No cars are allowed on the island; bicycles or public shuttles are the best way to explore.
• Margaret River access: A scenic drive south from Perth takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Renting a car gives you flexibility to visit multiple wineries, beaches, and groves at your own pace.

Best time to visit Western Australia

• Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes.
• Summer (December to February) is ideal for beach days and Rottnest Island snorkeling, but can be hot.
• Winter (June to August) brings cooler nights and a different mood, with whale watching opportunities along the coast.

H2: Day by day itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Perth – City highlights and a laid-back evening

• Morning: Start in the heart of Perth with a stroll through Kings Park and Botanic Garden. The sweeping views of the Swan River and the city skyline are iconic, and the park is a perfect entry point to Western Australia.
• Lunch: Eat in the CBD or Northbridge, where a mix of casual cafes and modern eateries offer something for every palate.
• Afternoon: Explore the Perth Cultural Centre, home to art galleries, museums, and the State Library. From here you can easily reach Elizabeth Quay for a riverside stroll and photo-worthy views.
• Evening: Dine at a riverside restaurant or sample fresh produce in the local markets. If you’re up for a stroll, the late-night vibe in Northbridge makes for an easy, enjoyable end to day one.
• Quick tips: Book any high-demand city tours in advance, and consider a sunset walk along the Swan River for stunning City of Perth photos.

Day 2: Rottnest Island adventure – Quokkas, beaches, and bikes

• Morning: Take a ferry to Rottnest Island from Perth or Fremantle. The journey is a pleasant 25–40 minutes, depending on the service.
• On the island: Hire a bike or join a guided island tour. Rottnest is car-free, making for a relaxed, family-friendly exploration.
• Highlights:
  • The Basin: a calm, clear bay perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Pinky Beach: iconic for its pink-tinted sands and clear water.
  • Wadjemup Lighthouse: climb for a panoramic look at the island and coastline.
• Wildlife and fun: Meet the famous quokkas, take plenty of photos, and keep a respectful distance to preserve their natural habitat.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic or stop at one of the island’s seasonal eateries.
• Return: Ferry back to Perth in the late afternoon or early evening.
• Pro tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, water, and a hat. The island’s sun can be strong, and shade is precious in summer.

Day 3: Perth to Margaret River – Drive to wine country

• Morning: Depart Perth for Margaret River, a journey of about 2.5 to 3 hours by car. Consider a scenic stop in the coastal town of Bunbury or Busselton if you want a quick stretch.
• Arrival: Check into your Margaret River base. This region offers a relaxed vibe with friendly locals and a strong food scene.
• Afternoon: Explore the Margaret River town precinct. Browse for local chocolate, cheese, and honey. A stroll along the Margaret River Main Street reveals boutiques, cafés, and scenic views.
• Evening: Dinner at a winery restaurant or a farm-to-table eatery. The area’s seasonal menus showcase fresh produce and regional flavors.
• Why base here: Margaret River is ideally positioned for quick winery hops, shorelines, and cave explorations the next day.

Day 4: Margaret River wine and nature tour

• Morning: Start with a winery tour. Options range from small family-run estates to large, globally renowned wineries. If you’re a wine lover, this is the day to book tastings at several stops along the famous Margaret River wine trail.
• Lunch: Enjoy a long lunch at a winery or in the town center. Many venues offer terrace seating with vineyard views.
• Afternoon: Include a cave visit. Ngilgi Cave is a popular choice for its dramatic formations and informative tours. Alternatively, Mammoth Cave offers a longer, more adventurous spelunking experience for enthusiasts.
• Optional add-ons: Boranup Forest for a forest walk, or a stop at Lake Cave for a crystal-clear subterranean experience.
• Evening: Return to town for dinner or a second winery stop if your energy allows. Margaret River’s culinary scene shines with produce-driven dishes and regional wines.

Day 5: Cape Naturaliste coast and beyond

• Morning: Head to the Cape Naturaliste region. Stop at the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse for panoramic coastal views and potential whale sightings during migration seasons.
• Meelup Beach and Eagle Bay: Two of the region’s most photogenic beaches. Meelup Beach is great for a relaxed swim or a picnic, while Eagle Bay offers pristine sands and clear water.
• Lunch: Meander along the coast for lunch at a beachside cafe or winery restaurant offering fresh seafood and local wines.
• Afternoon: Visit Busselton Jetty, one of Western Australia’s iconic structures. If you’re up for more sea air, you can stroll along the jetty and consider a short underwater observatory experience.
• Evening: Return to Margaret River, or spend the night in a cozy retreat along the coast to experience a quieter side of WA.

Day 6: Dunsborough, Yallingup, and the Mecca of beaches

• Morning: Explore the wind-sculpted coastline around Dunsborough and Yallingup. These towns are famous for their golden beaches and excellent surf breaks.
• Beach highlights:
  • Smiths Beach or Yallingup Beach for calm waters and family-friendly swims.
  • Injidup Natural Spa (where the sea forms natural rock pools) depending on the season.
• Lunch: Grab a casual lunch at a beachfront cafe or market stall offering local seafood, cheeses, and baked goods.
• Afternoon: If you’re visiting during migration seasons (roughly June to October), consider a whale-watching excursion from Augusta or a coast-driven wildlife cruise. If not, enjoy a scenic forest walk in Boranup Forest or a chocolate and wine pairing at a local producer.
• Evening: Return to your Margaret River base. Opt for a sunset wine flight or a quiet dinner that highlights regional produce.

Day 7: Return to Perth and depart

• Morning: Take a leisurely morning in Margaret River, perhaps a last stroll on the beach or a quick shopping stop for souvenirs.
• Afternoon/Evening: Drive back to Perth. Depending on your flight time, it’s wise to allow extra time for traffic and airport procedures.
• Departure: Fly home with memories of Western Australia that blend city culture, island charm, and winery culture into a single unforgettable week.

H2: Top experiences you shouldn’t miss

• Rottnest Island quokkas: The selfie-worthy, friendly marsupials are a must-see. Remember to keep a respectful distance and never feed wildlife.
• Margaret River wine region: Expect world-class Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Semillon Sauvignon Blanc blends. Shortlist a few cellar doors to ensure you don’t miss top labels.
• Ngilgi Cave and Lake Cave: Both offer compelling underground experiences. Ngilgi Cave is known for dramatic limestone formations and immersive guided tours; Lake Cave is famous for its reflective ceiling and crystal formations.
• Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse: A scenic spot for sunrise or sunset photography with sweeping coastal views.
• Busselton Jetty: One of WA’s most recognizable icons, with a long wooden jetty and an underwater observatory.
• Meelup Beach and Meelup Regional Park: A protected cove perfect for swimming, picnicking, and serene coastal walks.
• Dunsborough and Yallingup beaches: World-class swimming, snorkeling, and surfing options in a more relaxed, small-town setting.

H2: Where to stay

• Perth: A balanced choice for the first and last nights. Look for CBD hotels near Kings Park or the riverfront for easy access to city sights.
• Rottnest Island: If you want a night on the island, select accommodations near Thompsons Bay or on Residence Island. Expect a tranquil, car-free environment with limited but charming lodging.
• Margaret River region: Options range from boutique hotels in Margaret River town to vineyard stays in rural settings. For a true wine-country experience, choose a property near the Wilyabrup or Margaret River towns, with easy access to cellar doors and gourmet eateries.

H2: Practical travel tips

• Book ferry tickets to Rottnest Island well in advance during peak seasons. Rottnest Island ferries can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
• Reserve winery tours in Margaret River ahead of time if you want a specific winery or a particular experience, such as a food-and-wine pairing or a private tasting.
• Rent a car for Margaret River: The region is best explored by car, giving you the freedom to tailor timing around winery visits and beaches.
• Pack for sun and water: Sunscreen, hats, lightweight clothing, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. If you plan to snorkel or swim, bring your own gear or check if your accommodation offers rentals.
• Wildlife safety: Keep a safe distance from wildlife in Rottnest and coastal areas. Follow local guidelines to protect both animals and yourself.

H2: Suggested packing list

• Light, breathable clothing for daytime
• Swimwear and a cover-up
• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher)
• Comfortable walking shoes and water shoes if you plan to snorkel
• A light rain layer or compact jacket for coastal winds
• Reusable water bottle and a small backpack for day trips
• Chargers, power adapters if needed, and a camera or smartphone for photos

H2: What makes this itinerary work

• It combines city life with nature, wildlife, and wine experiences in a compact, logical loop.
• You don’t overcommit to long travel days. Perth serves as a convenient hub for Rottnest Island and Margaret River with minimal backtracking.
• It’s flexible: swap activities based on weather, preferences, or seasonal events like whale watching.

H2: Frequently asked questions

• Is 7 days enough for Perth, Rottnest, and Margaret River? Yes. This itinerary focuses on highlights while allowing time to relax and savor each place without rushing.
• Do I need a car in Perth? For city exploration, public transport and ridesharing are fine. For Margaret River, a car is highly recommended to visit multiple wineries and beaches at your own pace.
• Can I visit Rottnest Island if I’m traveling with kids? Absolutely. The island is family-friendly with bike rentals and gentle beaches. Pack extra water and snacks for a day of exploration.

H2: Final thoughts

A 7 day journey through Western Australia, weaving Perth’s urban energy with Rottnest Island’s sea-sprayed serenity and Margaret River’s wine-tue of landscapes, creates a well-rounded adventure. This itinerary is designed to be both inviting and practical, giving you a taste of WA that will entice you to return for longer. If you’re looking for a trip that balances culture, coastline, and cask-aged wines, this Western Australia itinerary won’t disappoint.

Conclusion Western Australia offers a compelling combination of city, coast, and countryside—perfect for a 7 day escape. From the postcard-perfect shores of Rottnest Island to the luxuriant vineyards of the Margaret River region, you’ll discover a part of Australia that feels both intimate and grand. By starting in Perth, you can easily connect to Rottnest for a day on the island, then wind south to Margaret River for wine, caves, and breathtaking beaches. This itinerary keeps you moving at a pace that feels relaxed yet invigorating, ensuring you leave with a collection of stories, flavors, and memories you’ll want to share long after you return home.

If you’re ready to turn this plan into a booking, consider the time of year you travel, book tours early, and choose accommodations that place you close to your preferred activities. Western Australia awaits with sunshine, friendly locals, and an itinerary that makes the most of seven unforgettable days.