When To Go · Destination Guide

Busselton Jetty and Margaret River Region

Jetty pilings, a legendary wreck, and cape-to-cape reefs with world-class wine country in between

Updated Jan 23, 2026 • 16 sources

When to go

Best time to visit Busselton Jetty and Margaret River Region

The South West has a Mediterranean pattern: drier, warmer summers and cooler, wetter winters.

Best overall window

Comfortable air temperatures, fewer heat extremes, and better flexibility for both ocean and inland plans.

Outside that window

Cooler water (down to about 15°C), more rain, and larger swell. Great for whales and dramatic coastline views.

Start with the overall answer, then switch only when scuba, freedive, snorkel, or topside timing changes the trip in a meaningful way.

The overall row stays visible so you can compare it against the currently selected scope.

BestGoodTradeoffsMore variable

Scope	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Overall	Overall - Jan: Good	Overall - Feb: Good	Overall - Mar: Best	Overall - Apr: Best	Overall - May: Best	Overall - Jun: Tradeoffs	Overall - Jul: Tradeoffs	Overall - Aug: Tradeoffs	Overall - Sep: Best	Overall - Oct: Best	Overall - Nov: Best	Overall - Dec: Good

These do not replace the overall planner. Use them only if a specific animal or event is driving your trip dates.

Humpback and southern right whales on the migration corridor
Best for Topside, Snorkel, Scuba
May to Nov
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Ngari Capes Marine Park sits on major migration paths.
Blue whales in Geographe Bay
Best for Topside, Scuba, Snorkel
Nov
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Ngari Capes guidance notes that blue whales frequent Geographe Bay, particularly during November.
Busselton Jetty Swim
Best for Topside
Feb
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
An iconic openwater event with a signature 3.6 km swim around the jetty.
WSL Margaret River Pro
Best for Topside
Apr
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
A major professional surfing stop at Surfers Point.
Spring wildflowers and shoulder-season hiking
Best for Topside
Sep to Nov
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Spring brings wildflowers and comfortable hiking weather for Cape to Cape Track day segments and coastal headlands.

If you want a trip that mixes ocean time with wineries and hiking, target autumn (Mar to May) or spring (Sep to Nov).

Dec to Feb: Warmest water (up to about 23°C under the jetty) but peak holiday crowds and more afternoon sea breeze.
Jun to Aug: Cooler water (down to about 15°C), more rain, and larger swell. Great for whales and dramatic coastline views.

Built from climate references, access rules, and destination operators. Wildlife timing and route flexibility can shift year to year.