3-Day Winter Holiday Itinerary in WA's South West
The July school holidays are just around the corner, and what better way to make the most of the break than with a getaway to Western Australia's stunning South West? We’ve curated the ultimate 3-day family-friendly itinerary that blends cosy indoor adventures with outdoor experiences, so all you have to do is pack the bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!
Day 1: Ease Into the Escape
Start your South West adventure with a slow, relaxing morning. Soak in the peaceful vibes and settle into your accommodation - no school lunches to make or morning rush to navigate!
Head out for a delicious lunch at one of the region’s beloved family-friendly venues. Bailey Brewing Co, Eagle Bay Brewery, Swings & Roundabouts and Cheeky Monkey Brewing are crowd-pleasers, offering everything from woodfired pizzas and hearty burgers, to share plates and cheese boards - plus excellent wine or craft beer for the adults. Tip: Be sure to book ahead, especially during school holidays.
After lunch, head underground for an awesome cave tour. Pick from:
Ngilgi Cave - Located in Yallingup, with semi-guided tours and interactive experiences for kids.
Lake Cave - A magnificent sinkhole into a crystal-clear lake with suspended formations.
Jewel Cave - WA’s largest cave, known for its massive chambers and towering stalactites.
Mammoth Cave - Ideal for self-guided tours, this cave is known for it’s fossils and history.
Each cave offers a unique perspective into the region's ancient past, and are a perfect option for staying dry on a winter’s day!
Day 2: Whale Watching & Coastal Wonders
Rise a little earlier today and hit the road for a scenic one-hour drive south to Augusta, where the Southern Ocean meets the Indian Ocean, and where the annual whale migration is in full swing during winter.
From May to August, Humpback and Southern Right whales can be spotted from a distance splashing and diving, or for a truly memorable experience book a tour with a charter boat such as Naturaliste Charters to see these gentle giants up close.
You can’t visit Augusta without trying the local Fish & Chips! Grab a late lunch at OG Café, known for their fresh seafood, or an early dinner at the much-loved Augusta Fish & Chips.
Day 3: Family Fun & Local Favourites
Your final day is all about family-friendly fun, animals, and chocolate!
Start with a visit to Scoops Farm, located along scenic Caves Road. This new farm is the highest rated animal farm in the region, and offers hands-on experiences with friendly farm animals, making it a hit with kids (and adults too!). They also serve house-made frozen yoghurt, a must-try even in winter.
Just a short drive away is Yallingup Maze & Mini Golf, a favourite for kids and grown-ups alike. Tackle the ever-changing wooden maze or play a round on the 18-hole mini golf course. With different challenge levels, it’s perfect for all ages and abilities. There’s also a café and puzzle shop on-site, making it easy to spend a few hours here.
Wrap up your day with a visit to a nearby chocolate factory (think Margaret River Chocolate Company, Gabriel Chocolate & Yallingup Chocolate), the perfect way to end your winter holiday in the South West.
Final Tips:
Pack for all weather – it’s winter, so expect crisp mornings, potential rain, and sunny breaks.
Book ahead – accommodation, caves, and tours can fill up fast during school holidays.
