Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/105266
Sun, Sea and Surf First thoughts of Margaret River always lend themselves to wine, from the Cabernets of old to the emerging Semillon Sauvignon Blancs. Yet these stars of the region are only the beginning of an epic journey of discovery; where one is led on a passage through the stunning contrasts of landscapes and experiences that make this region so truly amazing. With 138 kilometres of sparkling coastline the aquatic western border of the region is abundant with life and colour, historic shipwrecks and diverse marine life. From rugged rocky bays, dramatic limestone cliffs, secluded white sandy beaches, calm crystal clear waters to thunderous surf - it's a dazzling and captivating aquatic playground waiting to be explored. SuRF hERiTAgE Margaret River was a little known dairy town, until nearly forty years ago some intrepid surfers started a pilgrimage which has turned the region into a world-renowned surf haven. With over 75 surf breaks (not including the secret spots) peppered along the coastline, anyone from a beginner to a pro can enjoy the surfing lifestyle. This corner of the indian Ocean is blessed with some of the cleanest water anywhere and the maddening crowds of other surf regions around the world will become just a memory. Year-round the powerful ground swells generated in the notorious Roaring Forties, 1000 kilometres to the south of Cape Leeuwin, march north-east and meet with the reefs and beaches of the region. The result is some of the most consistent, spectacular, high-quality surf anywhere on earth. A visit to Surfer's Point is a must – from here you can watch the surfers carving up the waves and mingle amongst the locals on the lawn. it's also home to the Margaret River Pro, a world championship event that draws the very best surfers from around the world. A visit to Margaret River is hardly complete without a surfing lesson and there are several professional surf schools that can help you experience the magic of riding a wave. WORLd CLASS WAVES windmills – small left and right over reef and sand Three Bears – one of the premier surf spots Yallingup – big left hander break with a protected lagoon for swimming Injidup – couple of peaks that handle size and a slight onshore North Point – world class right South Point – long left that keeps walling up forever Surfer's Point – internationally known as the premier big wave of the area, with a great view from the carpark Lefthanders – a well known classic left Margaret River Mouth – great beginner's wave grunters – righthander that needs a bit of a paddle SPOT ThAT WhALE gas Bay – popular with the body boarders humpbacks are renowned for their spectacular water acrobatics and magical songs. Southern Rights are one of the rarest of the large whales. You can identify them by looking for these distinguishable features; Redgate – holds a good smaller swell, and is a popular learning spots for one of the local surf schools Boranup – a good break with a gorgeous beach 8 | SUN, SEA AND SURF

