Logistics · Destination Guide
Jetty pilings, a legendary wreck, and cape-to-cape reefs with world-class wine country in between
Use this travel brief to set arrival flow, local transit, and gear movement before you lock your itinerary.
Most international visitors arrive via Perth Airport (PER) and drive south to Busselton and Margaret River. For the shortest transfer, fly directly into Busselton Margaret River Airport (BQB) and start the trip in Busselton, then loop south to Margaret River and Augusta. Driving is the most flexible way to combine dive charters, bay snorkels, wineries, and trailheads.
Busselton Margaret River Airport
BQB • YBLN
7 km • 7 km drive
Regional airport serving Busselton, Dunsborough, and Margaret River. Jetstar operates direct services from Melbourne and Sydney on selected days.
Rental car (recommended), Pre-booked shuttle or taxi
Perth Airport
PER • YPPH
220 km • 220 km drive
Western Australia's main international gateway with extensive domestic and international connections. Use it if you want the widest range of flight options, then drive or coach to the South West.
Transport: Rental car, Coach services (limited schedules), Private transfer
A rental car is the default choice and gives the most flexibility for dive charters, beach hopping, and winery touring. Town centers are walkable, but public transport between Busselton, Dunsborough, and Margaret River is limited and schedules can be infrequent. If you are not driving, base closer to your priority activity and use pre-booked transfers for day trips.
Australia requires most non-citizens to hold a valid visa or electronic travel authority before arrival. Many passport holders use the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601) or eVisitor (subclass 651), while others need a Visitor visa (subclass 600). Australia also enforces strict biosecurity controls: declare food, plant material, and any outdoor gear that may carry soil.
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Cards are widely accepted in Busselton, Dunsborough, and Margaret River. Keep some cash for small markets, food trucks, and tips on tours.
ATMs are easy to find in town centers. If you are heading to remote trailheads or beaches, withdraw cash in Busselton or Margaret River first.
230V • 50Hz • I
Australia uses plug type I. Most modern chargers are dual-voltage, but check your travel adapter needs before you fly.
Communications
Mobile coverage is strong in the main towns, but can be patchy on remote stretches of the coast and inside forests. Download offline maps and save key addresses (dive shop, accommodation, hospitals) before you head out. A waterproof phone case is useful for shore-diving logistics.
Language
English is the primary language. The coast is within Wadandi Noongar Country, and you will see Indigenous place names and cultural interpretation at some sites.
Insurance
Choose travel insurance that explicitly covers scuba and freediving, including evacuation and hyperbaric treatment. If you are diving the HMAS Swan or doing repeated days, confirm depth limits and exclusions before departure.
Packing list