Chocolate pit stops from Perth

If your road trips are planned around snacks (no judgement), this one’s for you. From rich, velvety hot chocolates in the Karri forest to free tastings and chocolate-lined counters in the Swan Valley, WA is packed with sweet stops that turn a simple drive into something worth savouring.

1. Little Otto's Big Choc Shop, Busselton

On the Busselton foreshore, this colourful chocolate haven is impossible to miss, and even harder to leave. Everything here is handcrafted on-site, from creamy gelato to loaded chocolate treats, all served in generous portions. The shop’s playful personality is inspired by Otto, a 24-metre blue whale discovered in the Vasse River inlet in 1897. Today, his story lives on through a space packed with rocky road, coconut blends and rich dark chocolate creations.

2. Margaret River Chocolate Company, Margaret River and Swan Valley

Few chocolate destinations in WA are as iconic as Margaret River Chocolate Co. Since opening in 1999, this much-loved spot has grown from a humble tin shed into a must-visit for generations of travellers. Across its locations, including Margaret River, the Swan Valley, you’ll find free tastings, viewing windows to watch chocolatiers at work, and more than 200 products to choose from. Add in a café serving decadent desserts and ice cream, and it’s easy to see why this is a staple on any itinerary.

3. Denmark Chocolate Company, Denmark

Part chocolate shop, part experience, this rural retreat near Denmark invites you to linger. Known as WA’s first licensed chocolate lounge, it pairs handmade chocolates with local wine, beer and liqueurs, alongside coffee and indulgent drinks. There’s plenty for kids too, including their much-loved deconstructed hot chocolates and ice-cream chocolate drinks. Wander through the cottage gardens, join a guided tasting, or simply sit back and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

4. Temper Temper Fine Chocolate, Cowaramup and Margaret River

For something a little more adventurous, Temper Temper pushes the boundaries of flavour. Think wasabi and coconut, Szechuan pepper with sesame, or honeycomb with dukkah milk chocolate, alongside classics like salted caramel and peanut brittle. Their store in Margaret River also features a tempting treat counter with soft serve, frozen yoghurt and a build-your-own toppings bar (yes, including a chocolate fountain).

5. Whistler's Chocolate Company, Swan Valley

With more than 50 years of chocolate-making behind it, Whistler’s is all about tradition and doing the classics well. Expect nostalgic favourites like rocky road, coconut rough, chocolate liquorice and honeycomb, all made using recipes passed down through generations. The Swan Valley location also features free samples, a café, a gift store and a family-friendly garden area, making it an easy (and delicious) day trip from Perth.

6. Pawprint Chocolate, Denmark

A lesser-known gem in Denmark, this family-run chocolatier specialises in handmade, small-batch chocolates crafted with premium ingredients and native Australian flavours. Visitors can stop in for tastings and hot chocolate available in-store, making it a rewarding detour for those exploring the Great Southern.

7. Southern Forests Chocolate Company, Karri Forest

Tucked among towering Karri trees just outside Pemberton, this small, family-run chocolate maker feels like a true hidden gem. Housed in a converted distillery, the focus here is on artisan, small-batch chocolate made with local ingredients from the Southern Forests region. Settle in with a proper hot chocolate (ranging from white to 70%) and enjoy it under the canopy, it’s a slower, more immersive chocolate experience that pairs perfectly with a forest escape.