Things to do in Bunbury: Where to Eat, Stay and Explore

The vibrant port city of Bunbury is often overlooked by those heading to the renowned vineyards of the Margaret River Region. While the allure of wine is undeniable, Bunbury is just two hours from Perth and easily explored as a day trip. However, once you arrive, you’ll likely find yourself wanting to stay longer.

As you immerse yourself in the local dining and art scene, you'll quickly discover how the fertile landscape fuels the creativity of the region's artisans. One of the best ways to get your bearings is by heading to Marlston Hill Lookout for panoramic views of Bunbury and to understand why it’s known as the City of Three Waters. Extend your visit to explore the Collie River Valley, admire the giant mural on Wellington Dam, or visit the wineries of the Ferguson Valley.

We’ve got you covered with this guide to the best things to do in Bunbury, including recommendations for where to eat, stay, and explore.

Mojo's Kitchen Bar & Bottleshop

At Mojo's Kitchen Bar & Bottleshop, every dining space promises a distinctive experience, from the laid-back charm of the Main Dining Room to the stylish, weatherproof Shipping Container with retractable blinds. The menu offers an array of local delights, with the seafood dishes standing out as true showstoppers. The bar is a haven for discerning drinkers, boasting an ever-evolving selection of premium beers, wines, and cocktails. Whether you’re enjoying a refreshing pint or perusing the interactive "wine list," Mojo's delivers an unforgettable, flavour-packed experience every time.

Hoyts Cinema Complex, 2/33 Clifton Street, Bunbury

Last Slice 

Last Slice has quickly become a favourite family-friendly restaurant in Bunbury, where holiday vibes are met with a drool-worthy feast of pizzas, tacos, crunchy wings, and share plates. A fantastic place to hang out after a big day of exploring, where you can watch a sports game as you sip on refreshing cocktails and local brews. The outdoor seating is perfect for sundowner tipples, there are excellent happy hour deals and the pepperoni pizza, with hot honey and chilli flakes, is a must-try. 

2/32 Clifton Street, Bunbury

Market Eating House

With a charcoal grill and wood-fired oven taking pride of place in the kitchen at Market Eating House, diners are given a hint of the sharing plates to come. However, they might not expect the exotic spice twist, featuring dishes like Persian dhal, BBQ Hellim cheese, and BBQ Middle Eastern lamb ribs. So many flavours, so little time. Why not opt for the Feed Me menu, starting at $68 per person, showcasing seasonal delicacies like truffles, inventive cocktails, and wines from local vineyards in the Geographe Wine Region?

9 Victoria Street, Bunbury

Paddy's Patties

Filling the burger niche in Bunbury, Paddy's Patties has become a local favourite, particularly for those craving takeaway gourmet creations. All the beef, chicken, and vegetarian classics are on offer, alongside a few surprises like fish katsu on a rice bun, the Clucky Cow with chicken and beef, and poutine—a Canadian favourite of chips, cheese, and gravy. Serving the ultimate comfort food in more ways than one, Paddy's Patties supports small local businesses while spreading feel-good vibes all around.

98 Stirling Street, Bunbury

The Townhouse

Those warm and fuzzy vibes continue at The Townhouse, where their quest to support Western Australian businesses includes a collaboration with West Perth coffee roasters, Mano a Mano. Surrounded by murals hand-painted by local artists, the breakfast and lunch menu is equally heartwarming. Open seven days a week in a character building in the heart of town, it’s hard to choose between the courtyard or propping yourself up at one of the window seats inside to admire the passing scene.

30 Victoria Street, Bunbury

Coughlan Estate 

One of the best things to do in Bunbury is to take a scenic drive just over half an hour inland to discover Coughlan Estate. The cellar door not only showcases the vineyard’s wines but the onsite cafe also celebrates local art, photography, and produce. The cafe offers a beautiful menu perfect for daytime dining.

The menu is a delightful smorgasbord of the region’s finest ingredients. Honey flows in from the bottom paddock, herbs are grown onsite, and fresh fruits and vegetables are sourced from a nearby farm store.

The signature beef and shiraz pie shines alongside seasonal salads, homemade soups, quiche, and exceptional cheese and charcuterie boards.

39 Upper Capel Road, Donnybrook

Witts End

The perfect escape with friends or family awaits at Witts End, just 30 minutes outside Bunbury. This spacious country retreat is nestled among rolling green hills, an orchard of fruit trees, and surrounded by beautiful native birds. With three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a modern kitchen, and open-plan living, the home blends texture and elegance, providing a peaceful backdrop for rejuvenating both mind and body.

The experience begins as soon as you arrive, walking under the wisteria-covered porch and soaking in the valley views from the spectacular deck. Sheer countryside bliss!

Wellington Mill, WA

The Sunshine House

Make yourself at home just a stroll away from town at the character-filled Sunshine House. Built in the early 1900s and set in Bunbury's heritage precinct, this renovated cottage features two bedrooms, open-plan living and dining, and a private garden. Painted in bright yellow to suit its name, it exudes cheer and charm. You’ll find yourself yearning for a longer getaway and dreaming of a tree-change to this idyllic region.

Bunbury, WA

The Farmhouse 

Doesn’t this look like absolute heaven? Welcome to The Farmhouse, a countryside retreat just outside Bunbury, offering the perfect place to unwind. This restored 1940s fruit pickers’ rest tells a story with every detail – from the large sash windows and antique bank doors to the original clawfoot bathtub. Even the lights above the dining table were once work lights from the packing shed.

What does a trip to The Farmhouse look like? It’s wine by the fire, a well-earned shower, crisp linens, and the smell of fresh bread or plum harvest jam in the kitchen. It’s country charm and invigorating air.

Kirup, WA

Peppermint Lane Lodge

Swap the coast for treescapes just 15 minutes inland in the Ferguson Valley, renowned for its wineries, galleries, walking and cycling trails, and the quirky Gnomesville, a neighbourhood dedicated to gnomes. The adults-only Peppermint Lane Lodge offers a luxurious retreat with stunning views of Wellington National Park. Be sure to book dinner in advance, as owner Kim serves French-inspired classics on antique china and crisp linens, creating the perfect setting for relaxed, memorable evenings.

351 Wellington Mill Road, Wellington Mill

Tasting Tour of the Geographe Wine Region

Throw caution to the wind and add this 4 hour wine adventure tour to your list of things to do in Bunbury. The Geographe Wine Region is one of WA’s most diverse yet underappreciated wine areas, waiting to be discovered. This Bunbury-Geographe Tour includes tastings and a shared gourmet platter lunch in the picturesque Ferguson Valley. You’ll be picked up from your chosen location in Bunbury and driven in air-conditioned comfort by an experienced guide. The tour includes scenic stops, wine and beer tastings, with up to five stops in total.

The Bunbury Lighthouse 

Standing tall with its striking black-and-white checkered exterior, it’s no wonder the iconic Bunbury Lighthouse is a popular photography spot. Not only is it super pretty, but it also offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. Take a stroll along the nearby Marlston Hill Lookout for an elevated perspective of Bunbury’s pristine beaches and busy harbour. As the sun sets, the lighthouse becomes a stunning silhouette against the sky. 

The Bunbury Wildlife Park 

A fun family favourite, the Bunbury Wildlife Park is home to loads of native Australian animals, like kangaroos and emus. Spread across beautiful, well-maintained grounds, it’s a safe and welcoming place to interact with the animals.

One of the highlights is the opportunity to hand-feed kangaroos. The park also features a spacious aviary where you can observe native birds up close. For families, the shaded picnic areas and on-site playground make it an ideal spot to spend the afternoon. The staff are extremely knowledgeable and always on hand to share insights about the animals and their habitats.

7 Prince Philip Drive, South Bunbury

Mangrove Walk & Boardwalk

The Mangrove Walk and Boardwalk offers a unique journey through the remnants of mangroves that thrived around 20,000 years ago. Situated on Leschenault Estuary, this picturesque trail provides a close-up view of the distinctive vegetation now growing within the mangroves. While the boardwalk itself is just 200 metres long, the entire walk spans 5.3 kilometres, so be sure to allow plenty of time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The Mangrove Boardwalk is just a five-minute drive from Bunbury’s centre, located opposite the Dolphin Discovery Centre.

Sitchu Tip: Bring along your binoculars and play spotto to over 60 species of water birds that inhabit the area.

Bunbury Farmer's Market

A visit to the Bunbury Farmer's Market is almost a rite of passage when heading south from Perth, especially before settling into self-contained accommodation. Be warned: resistance is futile, so come prepared with a list and at least a shred of discipline. The market is laid out like IKEA, with a meandering path guiding you through each section, making it easy to avoid retracing your steps and giving in to temptation. Supporting over 150 local growers, it’s always buzzing with locals and travellers.

2 Vittoria Road, Glen Iris

Image credit: Silvertone Photography

Dolphin Discovery Centre

What began in the 1960s with a resident feeding dolphins in the Leschenault Inlet has evolved into the internationally renowned Dolphin Discovery Centre. A popular tourist destination, it offers a unique opportunity to interact with the Bottlenose dolphins of Koombana Bay. While feeding or touching the dolphins is prohibited, visitors can enjoy the Interaction Zone for free.

For a more immersive experience, join an eco-cruise, swim with the dolphins, or visit the Interpretive Centre’s aquariums and 360-degree Digital Dolphinarium.

Sitchu Tip: The onsite cafe offers excellent dolphin spotting opportunities.

Koombana Drive, Bunbury

Bunbury Regional Art Gallery

Housed in an iconic pink building and former convent, the Bunbury Regional Art Gallery has earned its reputation as the premier gallery in the southwest. Known for its year-round regional, state, and national exhibitions and festivals, including Bunbury Biennale, Noongar Country, and South West Art Now, this cultural hotspot is home to the City of Bunbury Collection. It also offers art classes, workshops, and prizes to support budding artists inspired by the surrounding Geographe landscape. After visiting, explore Bunbury's street art and local galleries, such as the Stirling Street Arts Centre or the unique Wiccan Hare Gallery, set on 24 acres with roaming alpacas.

64 Wittenoom Street, Bunbury

After reading this guide on the best things to do in Bunbury, you might even contemplate what living in this region is like. We've already done the groundwork for you with our Bunbury and Busselton suburb guides.