Dunsborough Paradise gets busy too!

If you don't turn left when the signs direct you to Margaret River from Bussell Highway, you'll reach Dunsborough, one of the most popular holiday places in the South-West. How the town has been able to retain its appeal under such constant attention is testament to its natural beauty. Sitting at the western end of Geographe Bay, it is a beach town with a difference. Characterised by its holiday homes, Dunsborough straddles the road out to the northernmost point of the Cape, Cape Naturaliste, with its own lighthouse, spectacular coastal scenery, and a select number of idyllic beaches. It's an ideal stepping off point to many of the Cape's attractions. It has its own golf course, a wildlife park, its own caves, and the bay is ideal for windsurfing, water skiing and swimming. Dunsborough has reached a stage of development that hasn't quite hit Margaret River and Augusta yet, but you're still able to stay in cottages and chalets tucked away in their own little parts of the forest. On the bay itself is a series of chalet resorts, some of them comprising examples of superb architectural design, more akin to millionaires' retreats than holiday homes. Despite the busy nature of Dunsborough, it is a truly relaxing place; a paradox you can only understand by visiting the town. The centre of Dunsborough contains a variety of shops shops, a tourist bureau, police station, a tavern, restaurants and take-away food shops, bakeries and some galleries. A small park in the middle of town is a popular haunt for families. On the outskirts of Dunsborough are some of the best attractions on the Cape, among them probably the Cape's most ideal swimming beach, Meelup. Located on Geographe Bay, it is protected from the powerful swells which strike the Cape's western coast, and is visited by young families safe in the knowledge their kiddies can swim safely. Dunsborough also boasts several vineyards, some fine galleries, and an adventure playground that opens up the raw beauty of Cape Naturaliste.