From local acts to huge headline names, the Margaret River Region is a hotspot for live music all year round, and there are a myriad of venues that play host.

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 charming corner of the South West.

Skigh Wines

Margaret River

The River

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. But what sets The River apart is its knack for bringing legendary acts to town – think Ed Kuepper and The Whitlams gracing the stage in 2021.

Arts Margaret River

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.

People having picnic at Pioneer Park, Cowaramup
The Sunday Sundowner series in Cowaramup. Photo: Supplied

Settlers Tavern

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.

Busselton

Shelter Brewing Co

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.

Choose from laid-back live music sessions to exciting nighttime concerts at Shelter Brewing Co. Photo: Supplied

Origins Market

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 at Origins run every Saturday evening from 5pm until 8pm – tickets are free but be sure to reserve your spot online.

Dunsborough

Har Bar

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.

DJ Mandy B holding records
Har Bar is where maritime charm meets modern-day revelry. Photo: Supplied

Yallingup

Caves House Hotel

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!

Skigh Wine

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 newly launched 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.

Skigh Wines
Skigh Wine stars a blend of live music and natural wine. Photo: Supplied

Metricup

Beerfarm

Looking to kick back with a beer and enjoy some live tunes on a 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.

Augusta

Augusta Hotel

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.

Cabin Fever Busselton 2024 live music

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.

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