Summer is the perfect time to shake up your usual South West itinerary and discover what’s fresh on the scene. From brand-new restaurants to revamped wineries and stays to make your getaways a little more magical, there’s plenty to explore.

Dive into our roundup of what’s new and see what’s waiting for you this season.

EAT

Supper Club

A stylish addition to Busselton’s dining scene, Supper Club is an intimate, sophisticated 30-seat space blending food, culture and creativity. Led by acclaimed Chef Brendan Pratt and running Fridays and Saturdays only, the venue hosts seasonal menus, chef residencies and a lineup of one-off events already locked in for summer. Think collaborations with UK chef Oliver Brown, food journalist Max Veenhuyzen, Paul Bentley of Casa, and celebrated chef Matt Stone.

Indulge in insanely tasty seasonal dishes at Supper Club. Photo: Peggy Vior

Slow Summer Moments at Cape Lodge

This December, Cape Lodge’s Slow Summer Moments is a trio of sun-drenched lakeside Saturday gatherings celebrating the flavours of summer, and all soundtracked by relaxed live tunes. On 6 December, they’re kicking things off with Oysters & Sparkling with Howard Park Wines and fresh Albany Rock Oysters shucked live on the deck. 13 December is a bright, breezy afternoon all about spritz and local cheese. Think Aperol, limoncello and local vermouth alongside charcuterie and artisan cheeses. Rounding out the series on 20 December, they’re putting Margaret River rosé in the spotlight, showcasing the region’s treasure trove of rosés.

For leisurely afternoons and spontaneous get togethers, head to Cape Lodge. Image: supplied.

Linner at Wise Wine

Wise Wine are introducing a new summer ritual to the region with Linner at Wise, for those days when lunch feels too early, and dinner comes too late. Every Friday and Saturday from 4–8 pm, enjoy a Mediterranean-style long lunch before drifting into golden-hour cocktails, coastal tunes and sunset views. With a menu carefully curated by Chef Matt Wright, paired with signature Wise cocktails, it’s a dreamy way to spend a summer evening – just be sure to book ahead.

The South West's newest summer ritual. Image: Ophelia Creative.

Swings & Roundabouts Margaret River

Swings & Roundabouts are making the most of summer with relaxed, seated, educational wine tastings at their Margaret River venue, perfect for those wanting to deepen their wine knowledge while soaking up the easygoing Swings vibe. Delicious antipasto boards are available alongside your tasting, then stay a little longer with their full menu from 4 until late.
Swings & Roundabouts Margaret River
Enjoy summer at Swings' stunning main street venue. Image: Kelly Harwood.

Summer Dining at Rustico at Hay Shed Hill

Rustico at Hay Shed Hill is adding to the region’s vibrant summer atmosphere with its Summer Dinner Series. Every Saturday in January, they’re pairing live music with a generous five-course Rustico degustation. For mid-week, laid-back afternoons, their Freestyle Tapas offers the perfect grazing-and-sharing lunch, while the signature degustation remains a favourite for big flavours and award-winning wines.

Rustico
Experience wine country dining at its finest with Rustico at Hay Shed Hill. Image: Emma Baxter.

DRINK

Borrello Vineyards

Tucked away in Witchcliffe, Borrello Vineyards is a charming new cellar door bringing a fresh, family-grown touch to the region’s wine scene. After decades of tending vineyards, the Borrello family are now sharing their own low-intervention, fruit-driven small-batch wines. Drop in for a tasting and meet the makers as you explore their range of exceptional wines.

Craftsmanship over volume and a genuine commitment to creating exceptional wines. Image: supplied.

The Grove Distillery

Heading the region in December? You’re in luck,  The Grove will be unveiling their brand-new Whiskey Den. It’s moody, intimate and inspired by classic whiskey lounges. Head Chef Augy Ortega has been crafting a menu of refined small plates and hearty dishes that pair beautifully with the distillery’s award-winning spirits.

Wrights Vineyard

A Margaret River classic has been reimagined, with Wrights Vineyard reviving their iconic white port in a fresh, modern form. Wrights Fortified Chardonnay has been brought back to life by Ian Wright and award-winning winemaker Julian Langworthy, using Chardonnay cuttings from the original family vines. Scientifically reverse-engineered from a cherished bottle of the cult 1980s drop, with only 300 bottles available, this limited release is a delicious nod to regional heritage.

The ‘80s after-dinner favourite reimagined. Image: Daniela Tommasi.

Flowstone Wines

Flowstone Wines’ new experience, Vineyard Tour & Tasting, is a behind-the-scenes tour taking visitors on an educational vineyard walk followed by a bespoke tasting inside the winery. Taste wines directly from the barrel, ceramic vessel, alongside their already bottled wines. The tour is personally hosted by owners and winemakers Stuart and Janice, who supply gumboots to ensure that biosecurity measures are met, plus hats and sunscreen.
Taste straight from the barrel at Flowstone. Image: supplied.

Record Coffee Roasters

Coffee lovers have a new spot to discover with Record Coffee Roasters, a micro-roastery that’s shaking up the local roasting scene. The team boasts brewing styles rarely seen in the South West, offering alternative methods and signature drinks alongside the classics. Chat with the crew about the journey from bean to brew, or watch the roasting magic unfold before you.

Grab a takeaway before hitting the trails, beaches or main street. Photo: supplied.

PLAY

Hole 19

First-timers to seasoned players, tee off at Hole 19, Busselton’s new indoor golf venue. With four cutting-edge Foresight Sports Falcon simulators, it’s perfect for friends, families, and even corporate events. Refuel with coffee, chilled drinks and snacks between swings and for those looking to level up their game, browse premium apparel and TaylorMade pro gear.

Hole 19 is the ultimate indoor golf venue for golfers of all levels. Photo: Supplied.

Eclipse Expeditions

Eclipse Expeditions’ South West Cruise is the freshest way to experience the region. Hop on board their premium catamaran for a private luxury cruise taking you to hidden coves and secluded bays you can only reach by boat. With room for up to 12 guests, enjoy chef-prepared dining, panoramic views from the Star Deck, the gentle sway of the Sea Net, or a dip from the hydraulic swim platform.

Eclipse Expeditions - Catamaran
Hop on board the brand-new luxury catamaran Eclipse. Photo: Jackson Hawson

Swan Dive Freedive Course

Curious about free diving? Discover the ocean in a single breath with Swan Dive’s freediving basics course. Designed to teach you the fundamentals, including breathing and relaxation techniques and safety skills, this course is ideal for snorkellers or ocean enthusiasts wanting to improve their comfort, confidence, and control underwater.

Swan Dive
Discover the freedom of exploring underwater on a single breath. Photo: Supplied.

Movies at Cape Mentelle

Cape Mentelle’s outdoor movies are back for another summer of stellar cinema under the stars. From 18 December 2025 through to 31 January 2026, they’ll be screening nightly from Monday to Saturday, partnering with Little Hand Dumplings, plus sweet treats like popcorn, chocolates, and ice creams.

Watching the outdoor movies at Cape Mentelle, Margaret River.
There is no better way to spend a summer’s night. Photo: Supplied.

SHOP

Botanik Yallingup

Tucked away in the bush is Botanik Yallingup, a beautifully restored old stable reborn as a serene haven for natural wellness and conscious living. Filled with native-ingredient skincare, artisan soaps, bush teas and handmade gifts, everything is crafted with local flora like Fragonia, Sandalwood and Honey Myrtle. Breathe in calming native botanicals, enjoy a herbal tea tasting, and soak up the peaceful rural views.

Botanik Yallingup is a space for calm, connection and conscious living. Image: supplied.

The Margaret River Chocolate Company

The Margaret River Chocolate Company have just unveiled a swag of mouth-watering products just in time for the festive season. New products include chocolate panforte, minty chocolate mousse powder and the always popular Christmas cake, this year coated in their silky milk chocolate. Topped off with their make for perfect gifts – that is, of course, if they survive the journey home.

Make The Margaret River Chocolate Company a must stop on your trip. Image: Supplied.

STAY

Waterscape Floating Apartments

Boutique accommodation on the water? Waterscape Floating Apartments offers a unique way to stay in the South West. Choose between docked floating apartments moored in-town or at scenic secluded spots on the river, or hire a self-drive houseboat to explore the Blackwood River. Each houseboat includes all your modern amenities, and extras like kayaks, paddleboards and fishing gear.

Immerse you in the beauty of the Blackwood River. Image: supplied.

Baywatch Retreat

The more the merrier! Augusta’s Baywatch Retreat now welcomes group bookings. More than just a place to sleep, they can take groups up to 35 people with a fully equipped commercial kitchen, indoor and outdoor entertaining areas and ample onsite parking for cars, trailers, and minibuses.

A 13-bedroom guesthouse with a garden, dining, and catering facilities. Photo: Supplied.

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