Western Australia

we are thinking of going for 2 wks around Christmas - can anyone recommend which area to stay in? Not too far from the beach? Margaret River? If anyone has good recommendations for holiday rental (3 bed) - please let me know! many thansk

Hello Idsllvn,


I grew up in Perth, so could recommend a few destinations for you.


If you would like to stay in Perth, then try out the Ocean Beach Hotel on Cottesloe Beach (www.obh.com.au). Alternatively, you could try the Rendezvous Hotel on Scarborough Beach. (http://www.rendezvoushotels.com/perth/). Both are right on the waterfront, and have decent restaurants/nightlife around them. Personally I swing towards Cottesloe, but the hotel probably doesnt offer as much as the Rendezvous.


You will then need to hire a car to drive down to Margaret River, which is 3.5 hours away. Again, being a 'local' I always stayed near Yallingup, as it is a bit quieter and less 'touristy'. I could recommend Chandler's Smiths Beach villas, as they are self contained with BBQ areas and 2 minutes walk to one of the most beautiful beaches you could find. www.chandlerssmithsbeach.com.au. Unfortunately, last time I stayed there we were next to a roudy bunch of teenagers and now the Smith's Beach Development is going ahead there may be some construction. But if you can get in before that moves forward please do so, as it is one of the most beautiful and pristine parts of the world I have seen.


For Margaret River, probably the best way to go is check out this website http://www.margaretriver.com/accommodation.asp. Again, don't limit yourself to the town as it is not 'on the beach', MR is actually a good 25 minute drive from the coast. Keep in mind Prevally and Gnarabup, or even Gracetown, which are closer to the water.


I hope that helps? I would also suggest that you book as soon as possible, as people from Perth going 'down south' for Christmas is extremely popular.

I stayed in Yallingup at a campground which had small cabins/caravans. It had a playground/BBQ area overlooking the beach - gorgeous! Beach is 3 minute walk away.


Yallingup Beach Holiday Park - you can book online.


I'd also recommend a day trip to Rottnest Island where you can rent bikes and helmets of all sizes (and with seat for small children) for touring around the island, which has gorgeous natural beaches. You can get the ferry from Perth or Fremantle and can reserve ahead of time.

brilliant - thank you both - was doing research myself and was leaning towards Yallingup as you both said. And so true - most half decent properties are gone already - crazy!! I thought I was booking early - so now the challenge is to find somehwere nice to rent! Thank you!