Jetstar’s latest route is opening up the South West to east coast travellers hungry to discover the best of Western Australia.
A new direct flight from Sydney to Busselton Margaret River unlocks the vibrant South West region known for its fresh produce, award-winning wineries, and diverse dining that celebrates the best of West Australian cuisine.
The first-ever service now operates three times per week and offers more than 50,000 low-cost seats each year between NSW and WA’s fabled wine and surf region, flying direct in around five hours. Its launch comes just ahead of the second anniversary of Jetstar’s Melbourne to Busselton Margaret River route, making a trip west easier than ever.
Pearl Margaret River
Busselton serves as a gateway to the South West
Touch down in Busselton, and don’t be too hasty to leave. This oceanside gateway to the Margaret River wine region offers a heady list of venues to eat and drink, and upgraded tourism spots to explore. Car hire from Busselton Airport carries all the big names—Avis, SIXT, Europcar, and Budget. Grab the keys and head into town for the escapism to begin.
Busselton’s food scene has evolved from traditional seaside town vibes to a culinary hotspot in recent years. Seafood is a high point, especially when it’s coming straight from the pristine waters of Geographe Bay. New to the scene, Busselton Pavilion is offering more than your standard pub fare with dishes like cured scallops with fenugreek and sesame, and rôtisserie squid with XO and lemon. Fans of humble veggies should book a table at The Banksia Tavern, and off-menu specials at Burger Bones can’t be beaten. Grab a beer at local craft brewer Rocky Ridge’s taphouse or oceanside at Shelter.
Read more: The WAGFG Guide to Busselton
The Banksia Tavern
In between dining, Busselton also has plenty of sites to explore
A recent upgrade on the Busselton Jetty, which stretches almost two kilometres into the waters of Geographe Bay, has a new underwater observatory eight metres below the ocean (one of only six underwater observatories in the world). Jump on the train to ride along the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere and take in the views.
Wondering where to stay? The Timothée Resort is a WAGFG favourite for its palm-tree-lined pool, airy rooms filled with terracotta-and-cream stylings, and terrazzo bathroom floors.
The Timothée Resort
Onwards from Busselton to Margaret River
Venture further into the Margaret River wine region. Dining amongst the vineyards is one of the key drawcards, with award-winning wineries vying to showcase their talents. From Wills Domain to Vasse Felix, Cullen Wines to Glenarty Road, who all use the region’s rich terroir with innovative culinary techniques.
In Margaret River town, the recent opening of de’sendent with its wood grill, to the Burmese spice and Southeast Asian leaning at Dahl Daddys, prove that the region excels after dark as well as at long-lunching. The bar snacks and detail-driven cocktails at Pearl’s Bar are another reason to head to its centre.
Or be a foodie on foot and take a Brunch-to-Lunch or Evening Tour with Walk Talk Taste Margaret River. These private group tours not only explore the local produce but also give you the chance to meet the artisanal talents behind the region’s world-class food scene. Beyond the plate, Margaret River Open Studio in September adds visual artistry to an area already bursting with colour and creativity.
Where to stay: Southcamp Dunsborough, Chambré, Chimes, Cherubino Guest Houses
Vasse Felix
Travel Facts
Getting there – Sydney to Busselton Margaret River via Jestar operates three times per week jetstar.com
Car hire – Avis.com.au, SIXT.com.au, Europcar.com.au, Budget.com.au
Where to stay – WAGFG Stays
Read more: The WAGFG South West Guide
Pearl Margaret River
