Down-to-earth yet bursting with culture and breathtaking scenery – once you get a taste of Busselton you will never want to leave.

Nicely sheltered in Geographe Bay on Western Australia’s south-west coast, the town is blessed with a Mediterranean climate that allows for plentiful days by the beach and long, balmy nights.

Who can resist the soul-recharging sunshine on your skin while strolling along dreamy, white beaches and splashing in a sapphire sea?

“I just spoke to a lady the other day who was visiting her sister here and she said she ‘had to pinch herself’ because she felt like she was in paradise everyday,” says businessman Bill O’Byrne, who has lived in “paradise” for more than 60 years.

“It was just one of those perfect mornings along the beach.”

Located 220km south-west of Perth, Busselton has been one of the fastest-growing regions in Australia in the past decade, with a population of about 20,000.

The main street thrives with alfresco restaurants, cafes, pubs and boutique shops. There are loads of activities for lively kids, including sheltered beaches, whale watching and animal farms. Take the train along the iconic 1.8km jetty which will take you to the Underwater Observatory.

Busselton City Council has focused on developing amazing spaces for the more than 138 events hosted by the town – which is now known as the ‘events capital’ of the state. Get along to the Ironman Triathlon Western Australia, Southbound Music Festival, Busselton Jetty Swim, Geographe Bay Race Week, festivals, an agricultural show, surfing and volleyball events.

For the foodies out there, the Culinary Escape brings first-class chefs to the region who expose local produce to the rest of the world. Or, why not take a tour though the Margaret River wine region and sample some of Earth’s best drops.

According to Mayor Grant Henley, plans are underway to connect the region with the rest of Australia by expanding the airport to offer flights direct to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. There are also plenty of primary and secondary schools to choose from for those families thinking about a sea change.

Video: Your Margaret River Region | Brad Gross | Victor Galea
Photos: Your Margaret River Region | City of Busselton | Mike Archer | Getty
Reporting: Kaitlin Thals