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Margaret River Caves: Your guide to its caves & underground formations

What are Margaret River Caves?

The Margaret River Caves are a series of spectacular limestone caves hidden beneath the forests of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge. Formed over hundreds of thousands of years, these underground chambers are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, crystal formations, and ancient fossils.

Visitors can explore dramatic show caves like Jewel, Lake, Mammoth, and Ngilgi, each offering unique features such as underground lakes, towering chambers, or preserved megafauna remains. Whether you join a guided tour or wander at your own pace, the caves provide an unforgettable glimpse into the region’s natural history and geological past.

Plan your visit to Margaret River Caves

Timings 
Getting there
  • Opening hours: 9am – 5pm (last entry around 4pm).
  • Duration: Single-cave tours take 60 minutes, while combo tours visiting multiple caves last 2–3 hours.
  • Best time to visit: The best months are September to November when wildflowers bloom and temperatures are mild. Sunset and stargazing tours are ideal for golden light and clear desert skies.

The Margaret River cave network sits along Caves Road between Yallingup and Augusta in Western Australia’s southwest. Home to Ngilgi Cave, Mammoth Cave, Lake Cave, and Jewel Cave, this region features some of the state’s most spectacular limestone show caves and forest scenery. The caves are located 15–50 minutes from Margaret River town, and around 3 hours’ drive from Perth.

Address: Caves Road, Margaret River Region, WA (exact location varies by cave). Find on Map.

  • Distance: Margaret River Caves are about 270–300 km south of Perth, around a 3-hour drive via Forrest Highway and Bussell Highway.
  • Transfers: Most tours require self-drive. Public transport options are limited. Once you arrive, tours proceed on foot (guided or self-guided) through cave interiors and forest paths. 

How Margaret River is conserving its caves

Margaret River is dedicated to protecting its unique natural and cultural treasures, including the region’s iconic caves. Sustainability is at the heart of every initiative, ensuring these wonders can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Eco-friendly tourism

All tours are designed to minimize impact. Visitors are guided along marked paths, ensuring that delicate formations and habitats remain untouched.

Energy & resource efficiency

They use low-energy lighting to preserve cave conditions and implement water-saving practices in visitor facilities.

Wildlife protection

The caves are home to rare and sensitive species. The team monitors wildlife activity and ensures that habitats are undisturbed.

Research & education

They partner with geologists, ecologists, and local Indigenous communities to study and protect the caves. Visitors can learn about the geology, ecology, and cultural significance through educational programs.

Responsible visitor guidelines

Guests are encouraged to follow simple yet impactful rules. No touching formations, no littering, and respecting wildlife to ensure the caves remain pristine for generations to come.

Tips for visiting Margaret River Caves

  • Use the visitor centres for planning: Each cave hub has boards displaying tour times, difficulty levels, and accessibility info to help you choose the right cave.
  • Watch for wildlife near carparks: Possums, birds, and kangaroos are common around the forest edges—drive slowly and enjoy the sightings safely.
  • Look for tiny details: Many formations are easy to miss—shimmering crystal “popcorn,” flowstone ripples, or micro-stalactites reward those who look closely.
  • Ask guides about cave stories: Each cave has unique local legends, discoveries, and quirky history—guides often share stories not found on signs.
  • Stop at lookouts you might overlook: Several caves have forest or sinkhole lookouts nearby—short paths lead to fantastic views people often skip.

Read More

Plan Your Visit

Timings

Getting There

Lake Cave

Frequently asked questions about Margaret River Caves

How many caves can you visit in Margaret River?

There are over 100 known caves in the region, with key show caves open to the public including Jewel, Lake, Mammoth, Ngilgi, Giants, and Calgardup.

Which cave is the most popular?

Jewel Cave is the largest and most visited, known for massive stalactites and towering chambers.

Which cave is the easiest to explore?

 Mammoth Cave is the easiest, offering a self-guided walk with boardwalks and gentle slopes.

How deep are the caves?

Depth varies—Lake Cave sits deep within a collapsed doline, while Mammoth Cave has large walk-through chambers.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Booking is recommended for guided tours at Jewel, Lake, and Ngilgi Caves, especially during weekends, school holidays, and peak seasons.

How long does a cave visit take?

Most tours take 45–60 minutes, while self-guided caves like Mammoth or Giants can take 30–90 minutes depending on your pace.

Are the caves suitable for children?

Yes. Caves like Mammoth and Ngilgi are family-friendly, with boardwalks and easy paths. Adventure caving sections are optional.

Are the caves cold inside?

Caves stay cool year-round (around 12–15°C), so bringing a light jacket is recommended.

Do the caves have parking?

Yes, each cave has on-site parking, usually free, with additional space for larger vehicles during peak periods.

Are food and drinks available at the caves?

Most cave sites do not sell food, so bring snacks and water. Some visitor centres have small cafés or vending options.

Can I join a guided tour without pre-booking?

Walk-ins are accepted when space allows, but pre-booking ensures you don’t miss your preferred time.