7 Best Sights in The South West Wine Region, Western Australia

This winery's Art Series wines—especially the Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon—have a deserved reputation as some of the best in the country, and feature on Australia's "most collected" list. Complimentary tastings (Art Series wine imposes a fee) are conducted on the property daily, introducing you to the extensive art gallery in the cellar. Setting aside the entire afternoon is the way to go at Leeuwin's fine-dining restaurant, open daily for lunch.

In summer the estate holds its iconic Leeuwin Concert Series; many international superstars—including Tom Jones, Diana Ross, Sting, and the late Ray Charles—have performed here against a backdrop of tall, floodlit karri trees.

Sheltered from wind, this soft-sand haven makes for a gorgeous coastal escape. Its aquamarine blue waters attract many a visitor. Bring food with you because there are barbecue facilities and picnic tables. Amenities: showers; toilets. Best for: solitude; swimming; walking.

Near Yallingup, this is a main site for adventure caving. In between crawling through tight spots, sliding down smooth rock surfaces and gazing at stalactites, you'll learn about the fascinating history of this special cave, explored by candlelight in the 1900s. Semi-guided cave tours take about one hour, cost A$22.50 and run every half hour from 9:30 to 4. Highly recommended adventure caving tours operate at either 9:30 am or 1:30 pm on various weekdays. Prebooking at least 48 hours in advance is advised. Adventure tours cost from A$60 to A$158, and vary from 45 minutes to four hours in length, depending on the tour.

In a state of extraordinary beaches, this one rates high on the list. Bookended by rounded granite boulders, the caramel-hued sand sinks beneath your feet and the gentle, rolling waves beckon, daring you to cool off in the clean ocean. Edged by native bush, it's secluded and quiet but has plenty of accommodation options nearby, all hidden behind sand dunes. Amenities: food and drink; parking; toilets. Best for: solitude; sunset; swimming; walking.

You'll find some unique blends of red wine and humorous gift items at this small country road winery. Steer down the long driveway, through the vineyard to arrive at this rustic, but welcoming cellar door and gift shop. It's hard to pass up a T-shirt with glittery wine glasses with sentiments such as “wines constantly” or “group therapy.” You'll also find funny cocktail napkins, artisan pottery, local artworks, and, of course, lots of wonderful wine. 

What's not to love about this 1.3-km (1-mile) beach at the hillside town of Yallingup? Picture-perfect views; transparent water; clean, sun-baked sand; and a gentle pool of ocean at the southern end that protects you from the waves beyond. On any given day you'll see a tribe of surfers riding the waves, while wannabes and newbies take lessons (yallingupsurfschool.com) in the lagoon. There are limited food and drink options nearby, so come prepared. Amenities: lifeguards; parking; showers; toilets. Best for: snorkeling; surfing; sunset; swimming; walking.

High waves and rips increase north of the parking lot.