Lake Cave Margaret River
Explore the magical depths of Lake Cave, a subterranean wonder with a permanent underground lake and breathtaking limestone formations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy tranquility
Lake Cave Margaret River
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the magical depths of Lake Cave, a subterranean wonder with a permanent underground lake and breathtaking limestone formations.
"Absolutely worth the time and money with exceptional guides running the daily tours."
👟 Prepare for Stairs
325 steep steps down & up! Take your time, rest often. Not for the unfit.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Highly recommended, especially weekends/holidays. Secure your spot!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Underground Lake
Main chamber
A permanent underground lake with stunning reflections of stalactites and stalagmites.
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The 'Suspended Table'
Main chamber
A unique limestone formation that appears to float above the water.
Dazzling Stalactites & Stalagmites
Throughout the cave
Marvel at the intricate and ancient limestone formations illuminated to showcase their beauty.
The Dolines and Forest Descent
Cave entrance
Descend through a large sinkhole (doline) surrounded by regenerating native forest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Stairs and Stamina
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Prepare for Stairs
325 steep steps down & up! Take your time, rest often. Not for the unfit.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Highly recommended, especially weekends/holidays. Secure your spot!
💡 Guided Tours are Key
Guides are knowledgeable & engaging, enhancing the experience.
⚠️ Watch Your Head
Be mindful of limestone formations; no helmets provided.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Prepare for Stairs
325 steep steps down & up! Take your time, rest often. Not for the unfit.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Highly recommended, especially weekends/holidays. Secure your spot!
💡 Guided Tours are Key
Guides are knowledgeable & engaging, enhancing the experience.
⚠️ Watch Your Head
Be mindful of limestone formations; no helmets provided.
📸 Capture the Reflections
The underground lake offers incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lake Cave for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the underground lake and intricate limestone formations. The knowledgeable and engaging guides are a major highlight, making the tours informative and enjoyable. While the 325-step climb is a significant physical challenge, most agree it's well worth the effort for the spectacular underground experience.
"Absolutely worth the time and money with exceptional guides running the daily tours. Come prepared to climb down and up the many stairs which certainly is a feat but worth it. Going down is quiet fine it’s the coming back up that gets the heart pumping, but there is plenty of places to stop and enjoy the views and catch your breath before climbing the next set of stairs until you reach the top again.
The actually cave is stunning 😍 and the added lighting along the tour makes it even more special. Would definitely recommend, was my favourite of all the caves."
C W
"I booked my ticket to Lake cave in advance but couldn’t make it at the scheduled time due to unforeseen circumstances. The staff were kind enough to reschedule my session which I truly appreciated. The cave itself is stunning and so well preserved, and with the guidance of experience guide, the visit was both worthwhile and fascinating. My only regret was only visiting one cave during my trip. It definitely left me wanting to explore more!"
Yueh-Ping Yeoh
"Lake Cave is a lovely experience. It costs $75 family ticket for four. Booking can be made through the Margaret River Visitors Centre. Bookings are highly recommended, especially on weekends, public holidays, and school holidays to secure your spot.
Prepare for a bit of a workout with 325 steep steps down and back up, definitely not for the unfit. Be sure to be aware of your surroundings to avoid bumping your head on the limestone formations. There are no helmets at this cave.
Inside, the cave is absolutely stunning. The lighting creates a magical atmosphere that enhances the natural beauty of the formations. Our guide, Indigo, was both funny and knowledgeable, making the tour engaging and informative.
Overall, a fantastic adventure that combines natural wonder with exercise. Highly recommended!"
Fluffy Gamer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Cave is located about 20 minutes south of Margaret River town. It's accessible by car, and signage is generally good. Many visitors combine a trip to Lake Cave with other attractions in the Margaret River region.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Lake Cave visitor area. It's convenient for accessing the cave entrance and facilities.
While public transport options are limited in the Margaret River region, you can arrange private tours or consider ride-sharing services if available. Many visitors rent a car to explore the area at their own pace.
The drive to Lake Cave is scenic, passing through the beautiful native forests of the Margaret River region. The roads are generally well-maintained.
Due to the significant number of steep stairs (325 down and up) and uneven terrain, Lake Cave is generally not suitable for individuals with significant mobility issues or those who find strenuous climbing difficult.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A family ticket for four at Lake Cave is approximately $75 AUD. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official website or Margaret River Visitors Centre for the most current pricing.
Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekends, public holidays, and school holidays, to guarantee your spot on a guided tour.
Lake Cave typically operates daily with guided tours running at regular intervals. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening hours and tour times.
Lake Cave offers guided tours that are essential for exploring the cave. These tours are informative and led by experienced guides who share insights into the cave's geology and history.
The staff at Lake Cave have been known to be accommodating. If you miss your scheduled time due to unforeseen circumstances, they may be able to reschedule your session.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The tour is guided and takes you through the cave's chambers, highlighting the underground lake and unique formations. It involves a significant amount of stair climbing.
The guided tour at Lake Cave typically lasts about an hour, providing ample time to explore and learn about the cave's features.
Yes, there is considerable walking and climbing involved. You'll descend and ascend 325 steep steps, so be prepared for a physical experience.
Photography is generally allowed inside Lake Cave, and the lighting is set up to enhance the beauty of the formations and the lake.
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Layers are also advisable as cave temperatures can be cooler than outside.
📸 📸 Photography
The underground lake with its reflections is a prime spot. Also, focus on the illuminated stalactites, stalagmites, and unique formations like the 'Suspended Table'.
While flash photography is generally permitted, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and the cave environment. The existing lighting is designed to showcase the cave's beauty.
Given the low light conditions, a tripod can be helpful for sharper images. Experiment with aperture and ISO settings to capture the details of the formations and reflections.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, professional photography or commercial use might require special permission. Always check with the staff if unsure.
Yes, video recording is typically allowed for personal use. Be mindful of other tour participants and avoid obstructing their view or experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring snacks and water, and be prepared for the cooler cave temperatures. The visual spectacle of the underground lake and formations can be captivating for children, sparking their curiosity about nature and geology. The guided tour provides an educational element that can be very beneficial for young minds.
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts & Hikers
Combine your visit with other hikes in the Margaret River region for a full day of outdoor activity. The unique environment of the cave, coupled with the physical exertion, makes for a rewarding experience. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for the stairs.
📸 Photographers
+2Be prepared for low-light conditions; a tripod can be beneficial for sharper images. Experiment with different angles and compositions to capture the magical atmosphere. The guides are usually accommodating of photographers, but always be respectful of other visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Formation of Lake Cave
+1The cave's unique environment is maintained by a delicate balance of humidity and temperature. The surrounding native forest plays a crucial role in this ecosystem, filtering rainwater and contributing to the cave's formation and preservation. The regeneration of the forest around the cave entrance is a testament to ongoing conservation efforts.
Visitors are guided through the cave to learn about these geological processes. The formations, such as the 'Suspended Table', are not only visually striking but also offer insights into the slow, continuous work of nature. The lighting within the cave is carefully designed to highlight these natural wonders without causing damage.
Navigating the Stairs and Physical Demands
However, the experience is designed with visitor comfort in mind. There are numerous stopping points along the staircases, allowing visitors to rest, catch their breath, and admire the surrounding forest and the cave entrance as they ascend. The guides are also mindful of the pace, ensuring that everyone can complete the climb.
It's crucial for visitors to be aware of their physical limitations before booking. While the effort is considerable, most reviewers agree that the stunning beauty of the cave and the unique experience make the climb well worth the effort. Taking your time and enjoying the journey is key to a positive experience.
The Role of Guides and Conservation
Conservation is a key focus at Lake Cave. Guides often share information about the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the delicate environment within the cave and to follow the guidelines provided by the tour operators.
Many visitors express gratitude for the guides' ability to make the tour memorable. The information shared goes beyond just pointing out formations; it delves into the science and history, making the underground world come alive. This emphasis on education and conservation adds significant value to the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit