The Margaret River region is spectacular for many reasons.
World-class wineries, whale watching, and gorgeous beaches. You name it, Margaret River has it.
But you knew that already, didn’t you?
That’s why you’re here - to discover what lies beneath this small town south of Perth in Western Australia.
Well, get ready.
Beneath the surface, you’ll find a whopping 100 ancient limestone caves.
They all sit beneath the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, a coastal geological formation stretching from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin.
But enough about that.
Here are the best caves in Margaret River to visit - and how to make the most of your experience.
How Were the Caves Around Margaret River Formed?
The caves around Margaret River are around one million years old, and they have an interesting formation process.
These caves were formed when water dissolved through ancient limestone, which was created from coastal sand dunes.
Westerly winds blew beach sand, sea shells, and corals into large dunes, and over time, rainfall mixed with natural acids, which cemented these materials together, turning them into limestone.
Over thousands of years, rainwater seeped through the limestone, mixing with natural acids, which slowly carved out the passageways and shaped the stunning underground formations we see today.
Even now, land use and changing rainfall patterns continue to shape the caves.
In the future, who knows?
The next generations will definitely see something completely different from us.
Ngilgi Cave (Yallingup)
One of the best Margaret River tourist attractions is also one of its oldest.
Introducing the stunningly decorated Ngilgi Cave (pronounced Nil-gee), discovered back in 1899.
Once known as Yallingup Cave, it was the first cave to open to tourists in the Margaret River region.
But that's not all.
You can even reach it via a scenic walk from the charming Cave House Hotel, which cuts through the forest.
The cave is located on Caves Road in Margaret River, a busy road between Dunsborough and Yallingup. And it's about a half-hour's drive north of Margaret River.
Tours will take you through native bushland before leading you to super cool interactive installations that bring the caves to life.
Photo: @brianagoodchild on Instagram
Here, feast your eyes on unique formations like hanging stalactites, rising stalagmites, twisted helictites, and delicate shawls.
Cave tours range from the Ngilgi Cave Ancient Lands Experience above ground (which we definitely recommend pre-booking) to a self-guided tour of Ngilgi. It's entirely up to you which type of tour you'd like to choose.
Either way, you're in for a great cave adventure, no matter how you choose to explore.
Pro tip: Book a stay at the cosy Caves Road Chalets nearby for a homely, loft-style experience in the bushland.
Address: 76 Yallingup Caves Rd, Yallingup WA 6282, Australia (map)
Getting there: To get there by car, head west on Bussell Highway, take the exit onto Caves Road, and turn left onto Yallingup Caves Road.
Mammoth Cave (Boranup)
No visit to Margaret River is complete without a detour to Mammoth Cave.
And trust us, these caves live up to their colossal reputation.
They stretch an awe-inspiring 500 metres in length and plunge to depths of 30 metres.
Fun fact: At one point, the cave held 10,000 ancient fossil remains, including 50,000-year-old megafauna fossils, specifically jawbones from a zygomaturus, an ancient giant marsupial.
Pretty cool, huh?
Unlike other caves in the region, Mammoth Cave is the only cave with exclusively self-guided tours.
You’ll just get a headset with commentary, but that’s actually great. It means you can explore at your own pace.
Photo: @_austravel on Instagram
Another big plus? It’s accessible.
There’s wheelchair-friendly access, and there aren’t too many steep stairs.
So, it’s definitely one of the more kid-friendly Margaret River caves around.
Oh, and the route inside the cave is one-way.
When you exit (which is a different point from the entrance), you’ll enjoy a lovely bushwalk through the karri and marri forest, eventually reaching a spot near where you started.
Pro tip: Visit in winter to see a stream flowing through the cave, stained red from natural tannins. It’s an ethereal sight to behold.
Address: Caves Rd, Forest Grove WA 6286, Australia (map)
Getting there: Drive 15 minutes south from Margaret River on Caves Road to reach Mammoth Cave.
Lake Cave (Augusta)
If you only have time to visit one Margaret River cave, make it this one.
We're talking about Lake Cave - an out-of-this-world chamber surrounded by gorgeous karri trees.
It’s one of the smaller caves in the region. But without a doubt, it’s the most photogenic.
And it’s not just about the views. There’s plenty of adventure too. Get ready to stretch those calves and feel the burn.
You'll descend 350 wooden steps into a giant sinkhole (known as a doline), and then climb back up again.
Photo: @d.r.adventures on Instagram
But trust us, the breathtaking natural beauty makes it all worth it.
Your reward? Epic mirrored lake views at Lake Cave’s permanent lake - the only one of its kind in the region.
Another highlight?
The incredible Suspended Table formation, which appears to hover over the water’s surface - absolutely stunning.
Located at the bottom of a crater, Lake Cave is the deepest cave open to tourists in the South-West, plunging a whopping 62 metres - booking a guided tour is definitely worth your while.
Once you’re done exploring, stop by the Lake Cave Eco Interpretive Centre to learn more about cave formations and their fascinating history.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring a jacket - it gets chilly inside!
Address: Caves Rd &, Conto Rd, Forest Grove WA 6286, Australia (map)
Getting there: By car, head to Caves Road and Conto Road in Boranup, then descend 350 steps into the cave’s giant sinkhole.
Jewel Cave (Augusta)
Ah, the Jewel Cave – a true Margaret River must-see.
Just a 10-minute drive north of Augusta, it’s the largest tourist cave in Western Australia.
If you love a bit of a show, you’ll be entering the cave in style.
Your entrance will include stepping into the cave mid-air on a suspended walkway in the main chamber.
That’s when you’ll come across the star of the show – some of the longest straw stalactites found in Australia, hanging more than 5 metres from the ceiling.
The cave then splits into three massive chambers with incredible crystal formations.
Think beautiful helictites, cave corals, pendulites, and massive stalagmites.
Photo: @thealcalloughbys on Instagram
Oh, and if you join a fully guided tour, you can learn tales of the now-extinct Tasmanian Tigers that once prowled these cave walls. Don’t miss the skeleton of these thylacines on display at the Jewel Cave centre.
Feeling peckish? There’s a cafe serving light bites and a solid cuppa.
Pro tip: If the weather’s good, check out Hamelin Bay. You might spot stingrays that frequent the shoreline – it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Margaret River!
Address: Jewel Caves Rd, Deepdene WA 6290, Australia (map)
Getting there: To reach Jewel Cave near Augusta, just head north on Caves Road for about 10 minutes. You’ll find the cave just a bit further up, and it’s only accessible through a guided tour.
Adventure Caves in the Margaret River Region
Calgardup Cave (Margaret River)
So, you're looking to level up your cave adventure?
We've got just the suggestion for you.
Make a beeline for Calgardup Cave, which almost feels custom-made for a self-guided adventure.
Photo: @jr_z07 on Instagram
You'll find the usual well-maintained boardwalks and platforms.
But what really ups the ante here is that your only lighting will come from torchlight.
Don't worry; you'll be given torches and headlamps at the entrance.
Just like all the caves in the Margaret River region, Calgardup is spectacular underneath the surface.
Photo: @jr_z07 on Instagram
The cave itself is filled with impressive formations of stalactites and stalagmites, along with calcite shawls adorning the enormous chambers.
Best of all, no bookings are required to visit, making it one of the few free caves in Margaret River.
Just remember to visit between 9am and 4pm daily (as of 4th March 2025), and you're all set.
Address: 7199 Caves Rd, Forest Grove WA 6286, Australia (map)
Getting there: Head west from Margaret River on Boodjidup Road, turn left onto Caves Road, and drive for about 5 km. Keep an eye out for signs to Calgardup Cave, follow the limestone road to the car park, and take the pathway to the main building.
Giants Cave (Boranup)
Here's where the adventure really picks up pace.
For a proper caving experience in Margaret River, head straight to Giants Cave in Boranup.
Not only is Giants Cave the deepest in the region, but it's also where you'll (literally) get hands-on.
You'll be climbing vertical ladders, scrambling over rocks, and wiggling through tiny spots - all while navigating the natural cave floors and constructed walkways of the gigantic chambers in this 86-metre-deep cave, which spans over half a kilometre.
Like Calgardup Cave, you'll be provided with headlamps and equipment at the start of your journey.
Price-wise, exploring this cave will set you back AUD $19 for adults, $12.50 for concessions, and $9.50 for children.
Photo: @gjuniorbjj on Instagram
Ultimately, Giants Cave is the best Margaret River cave for thrill-seekers.
If you're looking for an adventure (and a challenge), this cave experience is for you.
Pro tip: Young children under 6 are not allowed in this cave. For those looking for a kid-friendly cave in Margaret River, there are other options to explore in the area.
Address: 7769 Caves Rd, Forest Grove WA 6286, Australia (map)
Getting there: Just a short 2.5 km drive south of Forest Grove Road on Caves Road. Giants Cave is easy to find, with clear signs along the way.
Beyond Caves in the Margaret River Region:
Have you visited all the show caves already?
Well, there’s no shortage of other Margaret River activities for you to enjoy.
Here are some great alternatives for you to check out:
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
So, you've explored all the caves in Margaret River and are looking for something a little different?
Good news: Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is an epic option.
Located at the south-western tip of Australia, where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet, it's the tallest lighthouse on the mainland.
You can join guided tours that will take you to the top, where you'll be treated to jaw-dropping views of the rugged coastline and wild ocean.
It’s definitely worth a visit and a great way to mix things up.
Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse
If you're looking for another fun alternative to cave exploration in Margaret River, the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is definitely worth checking out.
It’s no surprise that it’s one of the top spots in the Geographe Bay and Margaret River region.
You can reserve a guided tour that takes you to the top of the tower with just 59 easy steps - perfect for little ones too.
While you’re up there, soak in the breathtaking views.
Afterward, head to the Lightkeepers’ Museum to learn about the fascinating maritime history.
Capes Raptor Centre: Bird of Prey Encounter & Forest Walk
The Capes Raptor Centre (formerly Eagles Heritage) is a haven for injured, orphaned, or displaced birds of prey.
It's a fantastic place to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures during their twice-daily flight shows.
You can also take a stroll along the one-kilometre walk through the peaceful native forest.
Catch the impressive flight shows, and you might even have the chance to snap a photo with one of these amazing birds.
How to Plan Your Visit to the Margaret River Caves
Commonly Asked Questions
How much does it cost to go to Margaret River caves?
Here’s the breakdown for cave tickets in the Margaret River area:
Jewel Cave costs AUD 24 for adults, AUD 12 for kids (4–16), AUD 22 for seniors, and it’s free for children under 4.
Mammoth Cave is AUD 25 for adults, AUD 12.50 for kids, and AUD 23 for seniors.
Ngilgi Cave will set you back AUD 32 for adults, AUD 16 for children, and AUD 30 for seniors.
If you're looking for fully guided tours, you can visit Lake Cave or Jewel Cave through Pelago from AUD 21, plus earn 3 miles per SGD spent.
Just a quick note: ticket prices can change, so it's always a good idea to double-check before you go.
How many caves are there in Margaret River?
There are over 100 caves in the Margaret River Region.
And all of them are hidden beneath the stunning Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge.
Is Ngilgi Cave worth visiting?
Yes, Ngilgi Cave is definitely worth a visit.
It's a stunning cave packed with beautiful crystal formations, after all.
Families will love visiting here during the school holidays.
There's a a fun crawl tunnel for the kids and a nature playground outside.
Plus, can explore the cave at your own pace, enjoy the fresh air, and marvel at the sparkling crystals.
It’s also perfect for school groups or anyone looking for a bit of adventure and learning.
Are there caves suitable for families with young children?
Yes. Caves like Mammoth Cave and Jewel Cave have well-marked paths. And both of them are suitable for families with children.
What should I wear when exploring the caves?
When you’re exploring caves in Margaret River, it’s a good idea to wear closed-in, waterproof shoes.
Hiking boots are a solid choice since some tours involve a lot of steps.
Dress in long pants and a long-sleeved shirt to stay comfy. And be sure to bring along a warm jacket, raincoat, or windbreaker - just in case.
Go for synthetic or wool clothing instead of cotton, as they’ll keep you warm and dry even if you get a bit wet.