Where to go for live music in the Margaret River Region

The summer months set the stage for epic outdoor gigs, with balmy evenings and starry diamond skies creating the ultimate festival feel. But the magic doesn’t stop when winter rolls in – thanks to the intimate indoor shows and dance floors that sizzle well into the night, keeping the good times flowing.

From laid-back acoustic sessions to powerhouse performances, here’s your guide to the hottest spots to catch live music in this corner of the South West.

The River is easily one of the Margaret River Region’s best spots for live music, known for hosting some of the best bands and artists performing in the area and beyond. With its cosy, intimate vibe, it boasts a gorgeous front bar, casual restaurant and courtyard, along with a beer garden out the back and a spacious undercover stage where the magic happens.

Over the years, they’ve hosted big names like Thelma Plum and The Waifs mixed in with incredible local acts. We’re really looking forward to Casey Donovan, Hockey Dad, and Death By Denim this year.

Arts Margaret River is a premier destination for live music enthusiasts, offering an impressive line-up of performances throughout the year. Located at the state-of-the-art Nala Bardip Mia – The Margaret River HEART, it hosts free 10am Monday morning concerts in the foyer, where local musicians serenade audiences in an intimate setting.

For a more immersive experience, the main theatre accommodates up to 439 guests for captivating performances by both local and touring acts. Music lovers can also enjoy the laid-back vibe of the Sunday Sundowner series, a trio of free outdoor concerts held in February at Pioneer Park in Cowaramup. With its diverse program and inviting venues, Arts Margaret River is a must-visit for anyone seeking memorable live music experiences in the region.

Settlers Tavern – affectionately known by locals as ‘The Tav’ or ‘Settlers’ – is a legendary live music venue and a pioneer of the Margaret River music scene since the 1970s. Considered by many as the home of live music in the region, it was crowned APRA Music Awards Licensee of the Year in 2018 and earned Hall of Fame status at the Australian Hospitality Awards after winning ‘Best Entertainment Venue’ from 2013 to 2015.

The Tav offers an impressive line-up of more than 150 live acts annually, with performances on the main stage every Friday and Saturday night and cruisy Sunday sessions on the verandah. Expect a diverse range of talent, from beloved local bands to national icons like Peter Garrett, Birds of Tokyo, and San Cisco. This place is a true champion of live music, and many gigs here are free unless otherwise specified.

Now, how cool is this? An intimate yoga that doubles as a live music haven, supporting local artists with monthly concerts in a stunning space. Gnarabup Yoga Studio isn’t your typical big studio – it’s boutique, cosy, and deeply community-driven.

Gnarabup Nights Presented by Party Wave Events transform the studio after dark into a warm, living-room style music lounge. Think fairy lights, ocean air, sunset views, and that relaxed, come-as-you-are energy. Each night features incredible artists from across Australia, sharing their music and stories in a way that feels personal, powerful, and unforgettable. Keep an eye out for the next session.

Poised at the foot of the famous Busselton Jetty, Shelter Brewing Co, as the name suggests, is a local brewery and live music venue. It’s a great setting for a music-filled afternoon by the bay or nighttime concert, with exceptional views of the Busselton foreshore. We recommend here after a day of sun and surf with chips and on-site brewed craft beers. Not to mention, the regular live music, which adds to the moreish atmosphere, pairs beautifully with the delicious menu of local produce, classic pub favourites, and wood-fired pizzas.

Located in the heart of Busselton, Origins Market is where community, creativity, and live music come together. Beyond being a fantastic marketplace, it’s a place to sit back, sip on a craft beer or glass of local wine, and savour a mouth-watering street food feast, all while revelling in tunes from talented local musicians. Live music sessions run every Saturday evening at The Market Bar from 5:30-7:30pm, and once a month, there’s an extended band performance from 5-8pm.

Set against the stunning Broadwater backdrop, just 10 mins from Busselton, Tonic By The Bay hosts live music every Friday and Sunday – all year long!

Proudly supporting local artists, live music sessions are designed to suit every season. During summer, performances are set up in the beer garden, where you can relax under peppy trees, ocean breezes drifting by as the sun sets. In winter, the music moves indoors, where a cosy fireplace sets the scene for intimate performances and warm, relaxed vibes.

Alongside live music, Tonic by the Bay offers delicious dining crafted with quality local ingredients and a wide range of beers, wines, and artisan gins.

If you’re looking for a buzzing live music destination in Dunsborough, Har Bar is where maritime charm meets modern-day revelry. Steeped in seafaring history, the venue brings together the region’s finest offerings – world-class wines, craft beers, and premium spirits – creating the perfect port for great tunes and good times.

Live music sets sail at (or around) 7:30 pm, so keep an eye on their socials for updates. With a cosy 60-person capacity and last entry by 10pm, arriving early is a must.

This vibey hangout at Naturaliste Terrace is another go-to spot for live music – think regular Sunday sessions, Friday night DJs, and a rotating mix of mostly free gigs with everything from reggae grooves to funky beats.

Add natural wine, great pizza, and alfresco dining, and you’ve got a buzzing local spot where people come to eat, drink, and catch up with friends and family.

Caves House has been the go-to watering hole for locals and blow-ins since its establishment in 1903. Nestled a stone’s throw from Yallingup Beach, it’s the place to be for live music, especially during the dreamy summer months. Plus, if you’re looking for an iconic Sunday session destination, Caves is one of the best, known to draw a lively crowd!

A proud supporter of local talent, live music here is a late afternoon and early evening kind of affair, so park up for a beer and a bite in the shaded beer garden as the sun makes its descent. During peak holiday periods, the crowd often spills out into the beautiful gardens surrounding the hotel. The best part? Live music is seven nights a week!

Every Saturday, and each day of the Summer Festival, the picturesque Aravina Estate comes alive with live music featuring talented local musicians.

Pull up a picnic rug, enjoy delicious local fare, and sip on fine wine or craft beer while soaking up an afternoon of great tunes and live music every Saturday afternoon.

Skigh Wine stars a blend of live music and natural wine, making it a must-visit spot for music friends in the Margaret River Region. Their regular live music events showcase the best talent in the South West, from emerging artists to seasoned performers. Here, you can expect everything from acoustic sets and DJ beats to their signature Sunday Sounds – a monthly gathering featuring live tunes and mouth-watering burgers from The Hungry Brown Cow food truck.

The Garden Sessions series also invites guests to kick back on the lush lawn under towering peppermint trees, the perfect setting for blissful summer afternoons. To top it off, music lovers can browse a curated vinyl collection in the Tasting Room, adding a nostalgic touch to their winery visit.

The Servo Taphouse has become one of the South West’s best live-music venues thanks to its intimate layout, welcoming community vibe, and consistently strong music programming. W

With a packed calendar of local and touring acts, great craft beer, and a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere, it’s a place where musicians love to play, and audiences genuinely come to discover new music.

Looking to kick back with a beer and enjoy some live tunes on the weekend? Beerfarm has live music every Saturday, 2pm-5pm all year-round. They also host a range of events throughout the year, which include live music from local and nationally loved artists – from DJ nights to Blazing Brews at Cabin Fever, keep an eye on their events calendar on their website.

The Augusta Hotel, a historic gem built in 1912, sports what is perhaps one of the most spectacular riverfront views in Western Australia, perched high above the Hardy Inlet where the Blackwood River meets the Southern Ocean. This family-friendly venue not only boasts a prime location and breathtaking scenery but also hosts groove-worthy live music events.

With its spacious lounge bar, Jimmy’s Grill slinging delightful pizzas on the regular, and expansive outdoor area, it’s the ultimate destination to lap up some great tunes while enjoying the views.

No matter the season, the Margaret River Region is forever alive with the sound of music, offering unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike. From relaxed acoustic afternoons to high-energy performances under the stars, there’s always something to tune into.

Head to the What’s On page for the latest events and festivals happening across the region.