Most shops, butchers, cafés, restaurants, supermarkets and medical centres are located along the main street, Bussell Highway. The vibe is laid-back.

If you’re in the market for a new surfboard, this is the place to get it – surf shops are dotted along the main drag.

An arterial network of back roads links wineries, microbreweries and local providores. All are well signposted. Take at least a day to explore – two would be better.

Fantastise about decking out your home with decor from Empire Homewares,Remedy carries exquisite printed sheet sets, knitted toys and handmade jewellery. For clothing go to Milc.

In a rural setting overlooking a lake, off Caves Road, south of Yallingup, Gunyulgup Galleries houses a diverse collection of contemporary West Australian art and design. The Studio Gallery and Bistro opened here late last year.

At Ngilgi Cave, Yallingup, semi-guided tours are available through the day. Mammoth and Lake Caves are south of Margaret River in the Boranup Karri Forest, which lies between Caves Road and the coast. The drive is magical as the sun illuminates the red bark of these trees, which grow to over 60m tall. Jewel Cave, further south, recently underwent a large redevelopment.

From the south end of Smiths Beach, it’s only 2km to Wyadup along cliff tops offer superb coastal views.

New features include swimming and diving platforms. Best of all, the unique Underwater Observatory has reopened. Access to one of Australia’s most unusual ecotourism sites and greatest artificial reef is no longer limited to divers and snorkellers.

If you’re on a budget, take a picnic hamper, roll out a blanket and enjoy the setting. Alfresco concerts are hosted here in summer.

Wander through the pristine gardens before enjoying a tasting of exclusive, limited-release wines at this stunning Cape Dutch-style cellar door.

Stay for lunch on the balcony overlooking Wilyabrup valley. Kids can play cricket or boules on the lawn below – the equipment is free to use.

The vines are within arm’s reach.

Take in an art exhibition, enjoy an insightful tasting, then linger over a signature tasting plate.

This shady riverside location has excellent picnic and barbecue facilities.

You can’t miss it on the way to the bay. The café offers amazing breakfasts and casual lunch or dinner. Better still, you can grab takeaway pizza or fish and chips and head to the beach.

The pub restaurant is renowned for its impressive wine list and use of local produce. Most nights, music sets range from blues, roots, rock, pop, reggae and dub.

Select from local wines complemented by tapas dishes. Open from 2pm to 11pm.

Guests and visitors can try and buy Petra’s award-winning Extra Virgin Olive Oils, gourmet deli products and a stunning range of EV Olive Oil Skincare at the Shed Door Tasting Room & Farm Shop located on the estate.

No-one reaches their car without tearing off the warm, robust crust.

Fruit and veg are sold here, but you’ll leave with items you had no intention of buying: delightful kids’ aprons made from vintage fabrics, wrapping paper, cards and the world’s best ginger fudge.

Its massive swell hosts up to 200 of the world’s top surf pros for the Margaret River Drug Aware Pro surfing competition each April. Just south in Prevelly Park you will find a protected beach, a jetty for fishing and a pontoon in the summer.

Popular surf spots include Windmills (ideal for the less experienced surfer), Three Bears (for the more experienced) and Shallows, a sand-covered reef break that’s great for all levels.

The southern corner offers sheltered conditions, a small lagoon and easy swimming.

Their north-facing location usually counts out surfing, but swimming, snorkelling, sailing and lazing are high on the agenda. The beaches here provide the perfect sanctuary from the prevailing winds that set in by 11am most days all along the west coastline.

Or check out the ever-changing timber Yallingup Maze.

Visit the cold-bloods at Naturaliste Reptile Park, cnr Bussell Highway and Wildwood Road, Carbunup, or go to the birds at Metricup Bird Park, Metricup Road, off Bussell Highway.

Expect to pay $90-120 for a deluxe cabin.

Superior cabins for two are in the range $100-$200.

Van/tent sites cost from $10 to $20, whilst ensuite cabins for two range from $115 to $260.

With a restaurant, bar and grocery store, you need not venture further than the beach. Expect to pay around $335 for a two-day stay in autumn for a room with bay glimpses.

A free-standing two-bedroom, two-storey, Balinese-style villa that boats a spa with a view. Autumn rates are from $260 per couple mid-week.

Tucked discreetly into the hillside above Injidup Beach, all ten villas offer uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean and their own plunge pools.

It is just minutes away from beaches and its lakeside restaurant is firmly established as one of Australia’s truly great culinary experiences.