If you’re planning to visit Jewel Cave in Western Australia, this guide gives the practical information you need. That includes how to reach it, when tours run, how to book in advance, what to expect, and what else to do nearby in the Margaret River / Augusta region.
A short history and overview of Jewel Cave
The cave earned its name from a smaller chamber called the “Jewel Casket,” famed for its crystal formations, lending the entire system its evocative title. Over millennia, mineral-laden water trickled and deposited limestone to form the spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, shawls, and flowstone that define the chambers. (The cave boasts of having the longest straw stalactite in a tourist cave, over 5.4 m in length.)
Today, Jewel Cave is the largest show cave open to the public in Western Australia, with three grand chambers accessible via a guided tour. The tour route winds through dramatic caverns, passing “The Frozen Waterfall,” “Organ Pipes,” and other formations illuminated to highlight textures and crystal detail.
Guides tell the geological story of the cave system and recount local lore, including accounts of animals that fell into the sinkhole long ago, such as Tasmanian Tigers, whose fossil fragments have been discovered. In addition, many visitors pair the cave experience with the optional self-guided Karri Walk aboveground, through ancient towering forest trees near the cave entrance.
The site also offers interpretive displays, a visitor centre, café and gift shop, making it more than just a subterranean tour but a nature and heritage stop.
How to get to Jewel Cave
Jewel Cave is located on Jewel Caves Road, Deepdene WA 6290, approximately 10 km north of Augusta along Caves Road. From Margaret River or Perth, follow Caves Road via the Leeuwin–Naturaliste ridge and signage for Jewel Cave.
If you prefer public or guided transport, many regional tours and shuttle services include Jewel Cave in their itinerary. Book a guided tour here.
Jewel Cave opening hours and ticket prices
Opening hours: The cave is open daily from 9.00am to 5.00pm, with last entry at 4.00pm. (Closed Christmas Day.) Guided tours depart hourly within that window.
Ticket prices (as of most recent published rates):
- Adults (17+): AUD 25
- Seniors: AUD 23
- Children (4–16): AUD 12.50
- Children 0–3: free (must be accompanied by adult)
Because tours are limited in size, it is strongly advised to book your guided tour in advance to secure your preferred time slot. During peak tourism seasons, walks in without booking may be sold out.
Best times to visit Jewel Cave
The calmest periods tend to be early morning (from 9.00am) and late afternoon (after 3.30pm). Midday tours often see the largest groups. Arrive 10 minutes early to check in at the visitor centre.
The lighting effects in the chambers are more striking when fewer people are around, reducing reflections and allowing better views of subtle crystal detail. If your schedule permits, plan your visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds.
Access, facilities and visitor tips at Jewel Cave
The guided tour involves some stairs and uneven surfaces. Visitors should be steady on their feet. The temperature inside the cave is cool and humid, so bring a light jacket.
The visitor centre offers a café, interpretive displays and a gift shop. Restrooms, shaded seating and picnic areas are available nearby. The self-guided Karri Walk trail begins outside, shaded by towering native eucalypts.
Photography is allowed, though flash or tripods might be restricted in certain cave zones. Check signage or follow guide instructions. Carry a small backpack with essentials (water, jacket, camera). Limit bulky bags, which may be constrained by narrow passages.
Nearby attractions to combine with Jewel Cave
The Augusta–Margaret River region has plenty to fill out a day around your cave visit:
- Lake Cave — another spectacular show cave with reflective water surfaces.
- Ngilgi Cave — located further north, with semi-guided experiences and more adventurous sections.
- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse — where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet, and whale watching may be possible in season.
- Hamelin Bay — known for its friendly stingrays and laid-back beachfront vibes.
A suggested itinerary: take a morning guided tour at Jewel Cave, enjoy lunch in Augusta, then drive to Cape Leeuwin or Hamelin Bay for afternoon views and beach time.
FAQ
How long is the tour at Jewel Cave?
The guided tour takes about one hour.
Are stairs or steep sections involved?
Yes. The tour includes some stairs and uneven terrain. Visitors should be steady on their feet.
Are wheelchairs or prams allowed?
Because of stairs and narrow cave passages, full wheelchair or pram access may be limited. Parts of the visitor centre and walk trails are more accessible.
Can I bring my own food?
Light snacks may be eaten in picnic or shaded areas outside. Eating inside cave chambers is not allowed. The café near the visitor centre is a good option for meals and refreshments.
Are there restroom and café facilities?
Yes. The visitor centre includes restrooms, a café offering light meals, and a gift shop.
Is photography allowed?
Photography without flash is generally permitted; in sensitive cave zones, flash or tripods may be restricted. Always follow guide direction and posted signs.
When should I book tickets?
Book your tour in advance to secure a spot and preferred time. Tours often sell out in peak season. Book your Jewel Cave tour now.
Tip: aim for an early or late tour, pair your cave visit with nearby natural attractions, and book the Jewel Cave guided tour well ahead to avoid missing out.
Disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. Book through them, and I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
More Western Australia travel
Other Western Australia travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Why you should see the Pinnacles at night.
- What it’s like to swim with whale sharks.
- Why I enjoyed the notorious drive across the Nullabor.
- A practical guide to the Museum of the Goldfields in Kalgoorlie.
- An eye-opening drive along Western Australia’s Golden Pipeline.
