Where to enjoy the region’s art & cultural scene

Although Busselton and the wider Margaret River region is more commonly known for its wine, surfing culture and forests – there’s a growing (and thriving!) art and cultural scene that should be explored on your next visit down.

From fascinating museums and interpretive centres to beautiful galleries, lifelike murals and giant sculptures – there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.

Galleries

1. Busselton Cultural Precinct

In the meantime, before Saltwater opens, you’ll find the Old Courthouse Complex, which is home to a collection of cultural facilities including the ArtGeo Gallery, the Old Courthouse and a jail.

Over 50 celebrated local and regional artisans are featured throughout the gallery including ceramicists, jewellers and more. With the aim to showcase local talent through exhibitions, workshops and an artisan shop, there’s always something interesting on for the whole family to enjoy. Check out what’s on here.

2. Yallingup Galleries

Nestled in bushland on Caves Road, Yallingup Galleries is a long-standing icon in the region. First opened in 1987, the gallery continues to showcase an inspiring mix of Australian and international art. New owners have reinvigorated the space, including the delightful sculpture walk and seasonal Vallee du Venom popup winery cellar door.

Perfect for art lovers and curious wanderers alike, it’s home to a diverse range of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, jewellery and more.

3. Ian Daniell Art Studio and Gallery

Step into the vibrant world of local artist Ian Daniell at his Art Studio and Gallery, where bold life-sized ocean animals come to life on canvas. Known for his bright colour palettes, Ian’s work captures the beauty of marine life – right down to their true scale.

Get the chance to meet Ian and see his creative process in action.

4. REDSEA Gallery

REDSEA Gallery is a new (ish!) gem to open in Margaret River and should be added to your holiday to-do list. The 100-year-old heritage building has been transformed into a beautiful gallery filled with thoughtfully curated artistic finds from across the globe. Presented by experienced gallery owners, Chris and Charlie Churcher, REDSEA is the perfect place to spend a few hours admiring art.

Museums

1. Busselton Jetty Marine Discovery Centre

A visit to Busselton wouldn’t be complete without a stroll along the heritage-listed Busselton Jetty, but why not also take some time to explore the new Marine Discovery Centre?

Located right next to the Busselton Visitor Centre, the centre offers an unforgettable peel beneath the water’s surface – no snorkel required! As Australia’s first onshore marine park interpretive experience, the space brings our underwater world to life through interactive exhibitions and displays. The perfect post-stroll activity for visitors of all ages.

2. Busselton Museum & Railway House

Take a journey back in time to Busselton’s fascinating history. Visit Railway House at the Busselton Visitor Centre where you can admire the 150-year-old restored Ballaarat Steam Engine that was the first steam engine to operate in Western Australia. The centre also has a number of other interactive exhibits to explore too.

If you’re interested in learning about the town’s social, civic, commercial and maritime history, head to Busselton Museum in the Old Butter Factory. Wander the display rooms packed with photographs, equipment and memorabilia.

3. Cape Naturaliste & Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse museums

Although Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouses may be on opposite ends of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, they both offer a fascinating insight into the history of a working lighthouse, the extraordinary maritime history of the region and what life was like as a lighthouse keeper.

Take a trip out, climb to the top and spend some time learning in either the Cape Naturaliste Lightkeepers’ Museum or Cape Leeuwin’s Interpretive Centre.

4. Margaret River Old Settlement

Located just over the bridge from Rotary Park, the Margaret River Old Settlement is a fascinating insight into the region’s early days. Established in 1977 by members of the local Rotary club, this re-created Group Settlement village tells the stories of the 1920s settlers and the beginnings of the local dairy industry, with many of the original buildings on site.

With native birdlife, seasonal wildflowers and the lovely Brook Trail nearby, stop by for a visit, walk and a dose of local history.

Local art

1. Margaret River region’s public art trails

Art is everywhere you look in the southwest – on laneways, sheds, park benches, and coastal paths. Stretching across towns from Busselton to Augusta, there’s plenty of self-guided trails with artwork from a number of local and national artists.

From vibrant murals to striking sculptures, and intricate mosaics, each piece offers a unique perspective that invites the curious to admire and enjoy.

Check out the Near-Me mapping feature to find the Busselton artworks near Mandalay! And Margaret River Art Trails further south.

2. Margaret River Region Open Studios

Held yearly in September, Margaret River Open Studios offers art lovers the chance to meet creatives from the region in their own backyards, homes and studio spaces. The 16-day event showcases art across many mediums, allowing visitors to experience creativity through paint, canvas, kilns, fabric, fire, timber, charcoal, pencils, clay, metal, and millinery.

This year’s event is from 13 to 28 September, and with 151 artists taking place, including 29 new to the event – this year is sure one to not be missed! For more information see our MROS Blog

New for 2026

1. Saltwater Busselton

A new addition to Busselton’s thriving art scene is coming with The Saltwater Gallery, opening its doors next year. Perfectly positioned in the heart of the town, Saltwater will host a range of entertainment, exhibitions and conferences across its three levels.