Beneath the picturesque vineyards and rolling landscapes of Margaret River lies a world of ancient beauty and mystery. The Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge is home to over 150 limestone caves, many of which are open to the public for exploration. From stunning crystal formations to rich Indigenous history, these caves offer visitors a unique opportunity to step into another world and discover the hidden wonders beneath the surface. Whether you're an adventurer or a history enthusiast, this guide will help you explore the best caves in Margaret River.

Jewel Cave: The Largest Show Cave in Western Australia

Jewel Cave is a true gem of Margaret River, boasting the title of the largest show cave in Western Australia. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be greeted by towering stalactites, delicate helictites, and massive columns that have taken thousands of years to form. The cave is illuminated to highlight its most striking formations, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.

The guided tour takes you through several large chambers, each with its own unique formations and features. One of the highlights of Jewel Cave is the Frozen Waterfall, a massive flowstone structure that looks like a cascade of stone frozen in time. You'll also encounter fossils of long-extinct creatures, including the Thylacine, or Tasmanian Tiger, adding a fascinating prehistoric element to the tour.

What we love: The sheer size and grandeur of Jewel Cave, along with its intricate crystal formations that seem to defy gravity.

Good to know: The cave has a 500-step tour route, but the pace is gentle, making it accessible to most visitors.

Location: Jewel Caves Rd, Deepdene, WA 6290

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Lake Cave: A Subterranean Wonderland

For a truly enchanting experience, Lake Cave offers visitors a rare opportunity to see an underground lake reflecting stunning crystal formations. The entry into the cave is an adventure in itself, with a descent down a large doline (a collapsed cave roof) that opens up into the beautiful, hidden world below.

Once inside, the cave’s most iconic feature is its Suspended Table, a massive limestone structure that hangs over the still, mirror-like waters of the underground lake. The lighting in Lake Cave is carefully designed to accentuate the reflections, creating a magical experience for all who visit. The guides provide fascinating information on the cave’s formation, the history of its discovery, and the delicate ecosystem that exists within.

What we love: The ethereal beauty of the reflections on the underground lake, which makes Lake Cave feel like a scene from a fantasy world.

Good to know: Lake Cave requires descending and ascending around 300 steps, so be prepared for some exercise, but the tour is family-friendly.

Location: Caves Rd, Forest Grove, WA 6286

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Mammoth Cave: A Self-Guided Exploration of Prehistoric Times

Mammoth Cave offers a more flexible, self-guided experience, making it perfect for families or those who want to explore at their own pace. This ancient cave system is famous for its enormous chambers and impressive limestone formations, but what sets it apart is its connection to the prehistoric era. Fossils of long-extinct animals, including megafauna, have been discovered here, and visitors can see these fossils embedded in the cave’s walls.

As you wander through the cave with your audio guide, you’ll learn about the fascinating history of the area, the formation of the caves, and the significance of the fossils found within. The tour concludes with a scenic walk through the surrounding forest, adding a natural element to the underground adventure.

What we love: The flexibility of the self-guided tour and the opportunity to learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the area.

Good to know: Mammoth Cave is one of the more accessible caves in Margaret River, with boardwalks and ramps making it suitable for prams and wheelchairs.

Location: Caves Rd, Forest Grove, WA 6286

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Ngilgi Cave: A Blend of Natural Beauty and Indigenous Culture

Located near Yallingup, Ngilgi Cave offers visitors not only the chance to explore stunning underground formations but also to learn about the Indigenous history and mythology tied to the cave. Named after the Aboriginal spirit Ngilgi, the cave has deep cultural significance to the Wardandi people, who have shared stories of its creation for generations.

Ngilgi Cave is known for its impressive array of stalactites, stalagmites, and shawls, many of which are illuminated to showcase their intricate details. The semi-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace after an introductory talk by the guide, giving you the freedom to marvel at the cave’s natural beauty. One of the highlights is the Amphitheatre, a spacious chamber filled with delicate formations and soft, glowing lights.

At the cave’s entrance, you can also learn more about the local Indigenous culture through interactive exhibits and storytelling sessions, making Ngilgi Cave a holistic experience that combines nature and heritage.

What we love: The blend of Indigenous culture and stunning natural formations, offering a deeper connection to the land and its history.

Good to know: The cave has a mix of guided and self-guided sections, allowing for both structured learning and personal exploration.

Location: Caves Rd, Yallingup, WA 6282

Calgardup Cave: An Adventurer’s Dream

For those who want a more hands-on, adventurous caving experience, Calgardup Cave is an exciting option. This wild cave is self-guided but provides helmets and torches for explorers to navigate its tunnels and chambers. Unlike the more commercialized caves, Calgardup offers a raw and rugged experience, perfect for families or thrill-seekers looking to get a little off the beaten path.

The cave has two levels, and the journey involves scrambling over rocks and ducking through narrow passages, making it a fun challenge for older kids and adults alike. The reflective pools and stunning formations inside Calgardup Cave make it a rewarding adventure for those willing to explore its depths.

What we love: The sense of adventure and discovery as you explore the cave with nothing but a headlamp and a sense of curiosity.

Good to know: Calgardup Cave is best suited for families with older children or adventurous adults who don’t mind a bit of physical activity.

Location: Caves Rd, Boranup, WA 6286

Final Thoughts

The caves of Margaret River offer a truly unique way to explore the region’s rich geological and cultural history. From the grand chambers of Jewel Cave to the serene beauty of Lake Cave, and the adventure-filled corridors of Calgardup, there’s a cave for every type of explorer. These underground wonders provide a fascinating glimpse into the natural world, far below the surface, while offering opportunities to connect with both the ancient past and the stories of the land’s first inhabitants.

Whether you’re seeking awe-inspiring formations, interactive learning experiences, or the thrill of adventure, Margaret River’s caves will leave you with lasting memories of this spectacular underground world.