The South West—Western Australia's most popular destination, with 2.4 million visitors annually—should not be missed if you are coming to this state, a fact well known by Perth residents, who flock here year-round for the wines, beaches, surfing, marine wildlife, forests, locally produced crafts and artisan products, and the country vistas.

The region stretches from the port city of Bunbury—about two hours south of Perth by freeway and highway—through Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River (1½ hours farther south), and on to Augusta, at the tip of Cape Leeuwin.

Margaret River is best known for its fabulous wines—Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are the standout varieties—but the South West has wineries from well north of Bunbury to the south coast. Busselton, Dunsborough, Yallingup, Prevelly, and Margaret River are all suitable places to stay if you want to visit wineries; all but Margaret River are on the coast with easy beach access.

The best surfing beaches are on the coast between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin.

All major South West towns have visitor centers that can arrange tours, book accommodations, and provide free information.