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.
+1The '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.
"I visited this cave today and had a fantastic experience. The tour lasts around 40 minutes, and every minute was worth it. Our guide was incredibly attentive and managed the group exceptionally well, making sure everyone felt safe, informed, and engaged throughout the visit.
The cave itself is fascinating, with impressive formations and a cool, mysterious atmosphere that makes the whole walk feel like an adventure. Thanks to the guide’s clear explanations and friendly attitude, the tour was both educational and enjoyable.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience. 🕯️✨"
Lis Beloscar
"We had the most wonderful time exploring Lake Cave! My family visited back in 2002 and highly recommended it to us, and we were definitely not disappointed. We arrived at 11.45am just in time to
attend the 12pm tour. Ticket cost per adult was $25 and worth every cent. Our tour guide, Tiahni-Rose, was a fantastic source of knowledge, learning about the cave’s history and seeing that it’s still a very active cave was absolutely mind-blowing.
The walk down (and back up) the staircase was a bit of a challenge, but the rest points along the way made it very manageable. There’s no rush, just take your time and enjoy the incredible scenery.
This experience is a true gem of Australia’s natural beauty. We loved every bit of the tour and highly recommend taking the time to visit and support this amazing piece of living history."
A T
"Lake Cave is an absolute marvel and easily the most breathtaking natural wonder I've ever experienced in the Margaret River region. The descent into the cave through the towering karri forest sets an incredible, almost mystical tone, but the sight inside is truly unforgettable. The Suspended Table formation is genuinely awe-inspiring, looking as if it's floating magically just above the water. Our guide was fantastic—knowledgeable, humorous, and passionate about the geology. If you are anywhere near Western Australia, this is a non-negotiable, must-see natural attraction."
Nathan K
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