Yallingup
Though the town of Yallingup is small, it has a lot to draw in visitors. Master the wild swells of nearby surf breaks, survey the artistic offerings of local galleries, hike along scenic coastal trails, go winery-hopping and swim or snorkel in a calm lagoon.
Yallingup means “place of caves” in the Wardandi Noongar language. Take a tour of the district’s 500,000-year-old Ngilgi Cave, which is a significant spiritual site for the Wardandi people. Choose between several different tour types ranging in length and difficulty, or opt for a combination ticket that includes access to the 1903-built Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse.
One of Yallingup’s greatest delights is its proximity to stunning undeveloped coastal landscapes. Follow part of the 84-mile (135-kilometer) Cape to Cape Track, which runs between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, to see soaring cliffs, rocky headland and deserted beaches. Don’t miss the striking Canal Rocks, where a straight row of granite rocks runs along the coast, forming a canal-like waterway.
Surfers will be in heaven in Yallingup, where the coast is pummeled by large, barreling Indian Ocean waves. Join fellow wave riders or simply sit back and observe them at work at Yallingup Beach, Smiths Beach and Injidup Beach.
Yallingup is also prime wine-tasting territory, with lots of fantastic wineries to be found within 10 minutes of town. Head for tastings in wineries such as Empire Estate, Cape Naturaliste Vineyards and Rivendell Winery Estate. Should you prefer beer to wine, visit the Bush Shack Brewery instead.
Don’t leave without exploring Yallingup’s arts precinct on Caves Road. Discover local artists at Yallingup Galleries, where everything from ceramics and paintings, to glassware and jewelry, is displayed. Families will enjoy the Yallingup Maze. This kid-friendly complex includes a timber panel maze, a bouncy castle, playground, a café and a shop selling various brain teasers, puzzles, board games and toys.
Find Yallingup on the coast south of Cape Naturaliste. To get here, drive north from Margaret River for 40 minutes. Driving is the easiest way to get around the surrounding region.