More than a half million visitors a year flock to this gorgeous coastal area. Surfers, wine aficionados, cave explorers, whale watchers and eco-tourists alike are drawn like moths to a flame by the incredible opportunities offered in this region. An easy three-hour drive from Perth brings you to this breathtaking region with its Mediterranean type climate.

This surfer’s paradise stretches over 130 km of incredible coastline and produces some of the most consistent, high quality waves found anywhere. Thirty years or so ago, this area was mainly dairy farms that were struggling. Once the surfers discovered the magnificent breaks offering a range of difficulty from novice to advanced, they started coming to the area in droves.

As wine growing techniques and knowledge got more advanced, a substantial planting was done in 1967 and the wine business has grown steadily ever since. This region is the largest geographic wine area in Australia with more than 5500 ha planted in vines. The 120+ wine producers in the Margaret River Wine Region account for about 20% of Australia’s premium wines however just 3% of the country’s wine is produced here. That is quite an accomplishment for one of the newer wine regions.

For those that are staying for an extended period and are looking for a variety of things to do, whale watching in this area is spectacular. From June to September, Augusta’s Flinders Bay provides an excellent opportunity to experience the unique opportunity of watching Humpback whales and South Right whales interacting. Geographe Bay in the north of the region offers great whale watching between September and December. Blue whales, another endangered species, have been seen visiting these waters. Watching these graceful, endangered mammals is truly magical.

Exploring caves is another activity that will captivate you. More than 150 stunning caves lie under towering Karri forest. These cave develop with the rapid drainage of underground water. Many of the caves have an almost mystical quality. Mammoth Cave, Jewel Cave and Lake Cave are just three of the caves that will transport you into a magical world that exists only in each cave. In each of these caves, the name is very appropriate. The incredible size of Mammoth Cave and the presence of so many fossils will astound you. Lake Cave’s lake, amazing light and the calcite formation called Suspended Table will take your breath away. Jewel Cave has stunning formations and it is a rare jewel among tourist caves.

Margaret River has all of this and so much more. A holiday destination that is well worth a visit, you will find your days filled with wonder and awe as you enjoy all that the region offers.

Before you pack those bags and head out for your Australian getaway, take a minute to learn about these fun facts that you are sure to find handy on your memorable vacation. These fun facts are sure to be a hoot that I bet you didn’t know about. So, it’s time to clear your throat and polish up on your Australian accent mate!

There is an array of exotic delicacies to choose from when in Australia. From basic pancakes served during dinner to a meal called the “bush-tucker”. Beware; this dish includes kangaroo, turkey and lizard meat which are popular amongst the locals. Eat it if you dare but, be sure to pack your Tums. When in doubt, pick the pancakes. Breakfast for dinner doesn’t sound too bad now does it?

When in Australia, visitors should be sure to visit the Great Barrier Reef. This reef is the largest in the world. It is a major tourist attraction and for good reason. You can actually mail your postcards directly from the reef itself. The reef has a mailbox that tourist can use when they ferry out to it. How cool is that?

Australia has one of the flattest terrains around and is the only country that takes up the entire continent. No wonder why we get confused. Is Australia is a continent or a country? I don’t doubt that you are aware that Australia has many species of animals but, did you know that there are about 1500 hundred species of spiders in Australia? Yes, I said 1500 hundred. That number is sure to bring out the arachnophobia in all of us. Oh yeah, and the Tasmanian devil’s jaw is just as strong as a crocodile. There go those Looney Toon images where the Tanzanian devil is just running around looking confused. Oh contraire, when they bite down, they mean business. But the koala bears are still cute and cuddly right? Don’t be so sure and don’t distract them from eating their favorite eucalyptus leaves they get really cranky.

It sounds like all fun and games with these facts but, they can prove quite useful when navigating around the country. Don’t be surprised and please don’t complain if you receive a plastic bill. There is no joke being played. You will avoid a potential argument if you simply remember that Australian money is actually made of plastic. Now when it comes to fashion and hairstyles, everyone has their own “flair” sort of speak. If you’re looking to get a trim, I’d advise that you make it very clear as to what you’re expecting in your haircut. The outdated Mullet and Mohawks are common haircuts and considered to be sexy and cool to those in Australia. If not careful you may walk out thinking you got stuck in a time warp.

Going to Australia to party with the locals? Yeah, well I hope you have big wallet. Alcohol is ridiculously expensive landing you in the poor house before you know it. It doesn’t mean that you can drink but, be wary of what you order. If you wish to save some green, you could always try the “goon”. It is much cheaper than the alcohol you are used to but it is still potent. This local “goon” is an Australian wine that is pretty decent considering.

So go ahead and finish packing. Now that you are equipped with some new facts about Australia, you can rest assure you won’t’ get yourself into too much trouble and you won’t die of culture shock. Finding your way shouldn’t be a problem anymore but, you can always rely on a little help from some friendly blokes to point you in the right direction as well.