Choose from 45 Fun Things to Do in Perth
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 45 listings.
Perth Mint
The Perth Mint holds a wealth of gold history in its vaults, with gold dust and many a miner's yarns embedded in its 100-year-old walls. A guided tour of this grand heritage building reveals fascinating insights into the 19th- and 20th-century gold rushes that transformed Western Australia forever, plus the immense booty of bullion that was mined.
You’ll also see how gold is melted into bars, along with the mint’s rare collection of gold bars, nuggets and coins from around the world.
Practical Info
The Perth Mint is on Hay Street in the city center. You can catch the free red CAT bus, or take an easy stroll from the city’s central shopping malls.
Address: 310 Hay Street, Perth 6000, Australia
Hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (until 1pm on weekends and public holidays)
Admission: Adults: AU$15, Children (4-15yrs): AU$5
From $ 14
Yanchep National Park
With its lush wetlands, limestone caves, and wildflower-filled plains, Yanchep National Park makes an attractive retreat from nearby Perth, and at less than an hour’s drive from the city, it’s a popular choice for a day trip. Established in 1957, Yanchep is also one of Australia’s oldest national parks.
The Basics
It's possible to take in the highlights of Yanchep National Park on a day trip from Perth. Most tours include a visit to one of the park’s stunning natural caves, the most famous of which are the Cabaret Cave and the Crystal Cave, named for its majestic stalactites and stalagmites. Additional attractions include the Wangi Mia Meeting Place, where visitors can learn about and experience the park’s Aboriginal heritage; the wetland areas around Loch McNess, Yonderup Lake, and Wilgarup Lake; and the 9-hole bush golf course.
Many day tours combine a visit to Yanchep with nearby natural wonders, such as the Lancelin Sand Dunes (a popular spot for sandboarding) and Scarborough Beach, or the Nambung National Park, home to the Pinnacles.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a fee (per vehicle) to enter the park.
- Dining options in the park include the Yanchep Inn, the Chocolate Drop Tearooms, and a variety of picnic areas.
- Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and plenty of water.
- The boardwalk and many of the park’s walking trails are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Yanchep National Park is located in Western Australia, about 30 miles (50 kilometers) north of Perth or an around 45-minute drive. There is no public transport to Yanchep, so it’s best to join a guided tour unless you have your own vehicle.
When to Get There
It’s possible to visit Yanchep National Park year-round, but the most beautiful time is spring (September–November) when the weather is ideal for bushwalking and the trails are lined with colorful wildflowers. For hiking and wildlife watching, the best times are in the early morning and late afternoon, when the animals are most active.
The Wildlife of Yanchep National Park
Yanchep National is also renowned for its wildlife, and there are more than 28 miles (45 kilometers) of bushwalking trails to explore. The highlight is the 787-foot-long (240 meter) koala boardwalk, where the park’s sizable population of koalas can be spotted in their natural habitat. Western grey kangaroos are another common sighting, and there are ample bird-watching possibilities, including pelicans, kingfishers, honeyeaters, parrots, and endangered Carnaby’s cockatoos.
Address: Yanchep, WA 6035, Australia
From $ 100
Trigg Beach
Just eight miles north of Perth, Trigg Beach is a white sand haven for surfers, boogie boarders, swimmers, snorkelers, and visitors just watching the waves. One of the best places in Perth for surfing, the swimming here can also be good on days when the surf is down—just be sure to stay between the flags that mark the designated swim zone. The beach is separated into two different parts by a large, limestone “island,” which in reality is connected to the coastline by sand but is nevertheless known as Trigg Island.
The southern side of the limestone island is the best for surfing and wave riding, whereas the beach just north of the limestone point is the southern boundary of Marmion Marine Park and better for snorkeling and swimming. On shore, there’s a scenic and popular beach café with a view looking out at the waves, or you can also picnic at the neighboring park, complete with BBQ grills.
Insider's Tip: For unforgettable views of Trigg Beach, hop in a helicopter and cruise the coast to see the beach from the air.
Practical Info
Trigg Beach is about 20 minutes from the center of downtown Perth. Mornings are usually the best time to visit since the afternoon sea breezes blow most afternoons and the sun can be hot at midday. Parking can sometimes be difficult in summer, and while professional lifeguards help keep everyone safe, only strong, confident swimmers should consider getting in the water.
Address: Trigg Beach, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
From $ 73
Swan River
Swan River carves its way through the middle of the city of Perth before joining with the sea.
Fed by the Avon, Canning and Helena Rivers, the Swan River itself is only around 60km long. Over 130 species of fish inhabit the Swan River, including bull sharks, catfish, rays and bream. Bottlenose dolphins are also regularly seen in the estuary.
One of the easiest ways to appreciate the beauty of the Swan River is simply to take a walk along its banks. Cycling and walking paths line the foreshore, and parklands along the water’s edge keep things interesting. Circuiting the river by the Narrows Bridge and the Causeway is a casual 10km walk well worth undertaking.
Cruises along the Swan River are also popular, often lasting a few hours – or simply take the ferry across the harbour for a cheaper option. Jet boating and parasailing are activities less suited to appreciating the quiet beauty of the river, but guaranteed to get your heart pumping. Windsurfing is another popular option for getting on the water, but hiring a canoe will allow visitors to see more of the river itself.
Fed by the Avon, Canning and Helena Rivers, the Swan River itself is only around 60km long. Over 130 species of fish inhabit the Swan River, including bull sharks, catfish, rays and bream. Bottlenose dolphins are also regularly seen in the estuary.
One of the easiest ways to appreciate the beauty of the Swan River is simply to take a walk along its banks. Cycling and walking paths line the foreshore, and parklands along the water’s edge keep things interesting. Circuiting the river by the Narrows Bridge and the Causeway is a casual 10km walk well worth undertaking.
Cruises along the Swan River are also popular, often lasting a few hours – or simply take the ferry across the harbour for a cheaper option. Jet boating and parasailing are activities less suited to appreciating the quiet beauty of the river, but guaranteed to get your heart pumping. Windsurfing is another popular option for getting on the water, but hiring a canoe will allow visitors to see more of the river itself.
Practical Info
The Swan River is hard to miss. Visitors arriving by plane to the city cross it on their way from the airport to the CBD, and with so many popular attractions lying on or near the Swan River, it’s highly unlikely that a visitor to Perth will leave the city without spending some time on its banks.
Address: Perth, WA, Australia
From $ 13
Supreme Court Gardens
Perth is known for its dozens of gardens, and Supreme Court Gardens in the heart of downtown is arguably one of its best. Located on land that was once underwater and reclaimed from the Swan River shallows, Supreme Court Gardens is now the city’s premiere palm-lined gathering spot. Stretch your legs on a sunny day or admire the colorful flowers, and keep an eye out for kangaroos, which are sometimes spotted in the park. You’ll often find events here on weekends, or evening events around the holidays like opera or Carols by Candlelight.
Just steps away from Stirling Gardens and numerous government buildings, Supreme Court Gardens are also flanked by bustling Elizabeth Quay—home to The Bell Tower, Rottnest Ferry, and riverfront restaurants and shops. In 2016, the city spent over $2.5 million on renovations to the gardens, and the manicured walkways and open green lawns are popular stops on walking tours of the history and heritage of Perth.
Practical Info
Supreme Court Gardens has public restrooms, drinking fountains, and picnic tables. It’s a 2-minute walk to The Bell Tower and 9 minutes away from Elizabeth Quay train station.
Did You Know? Portions of the gardens were home to a botanical garden in 1845. This officially makes it Perth’s oldest garden, and one of its most historic.
Address: Riverside Drive, Perth, Western Australia 6000, Australia
Hours: Open 24 hours
From $ 37
Stirling Range National Park
With its rugged peaks, forested plains and lush valleys carpeted with wildflowers, the Stirling Range National Park has no shortage of impressive scenery. A popular choice for hikers and climbers, the park is home to some of Western Australia’s highest peaks, with the Stirling Range stretching for some 65km and harboring a vast network of marked walking trails.
The ultimate challenge for hikers is scaling the 1,095-meter peak of Bluff Knoll, the park’s highest point, while the 26km Ridge Walk runs all the way from Ellen Peak to Bluff Knoll. For visitors who don’t fancy hiking, there’s also the Stirling Range Drive, a dramatic 42km route winding through the heart of the park and passing lookout points and landmarks like Red
Gum Spring, Bluff Knoll and White Gum Flat.
Wildlife enthusiasts will also find plenty to get excited about, with opportunities to spot kangaroos, wallabies and emus, plus an incredible variety of birds, including rare sightings like short-billed black cockatoos, western whipbirds and purple-gaped honeyeaters. During the summer months (October-December), the mountain valleys are also renowned for their magnificent array of wildflowers. Over 1,000 varieties of banksias, mountain bells and orchids bloom throughout the park, many of which can’t be found anywhere else in the world.
Practical Info
Stirling Range National Park is located around 300km southeast of Perth in western Australia.
Address: 8580 Chester Pass Road, Borden WA 6338, Australia
From $ 697
The Nostalgia Box Museum
In the grand scheme of human development, gaming consoles and video games seem too young to be part of history. The reality, however, is entire generations of travelers were born after video games were invented, and some of the early gaming consoles really seem very…old. Enter Perth’s Nostalgia Box Museum, a collection of vintage gaming consoles dating all the way back to the Magnavox Odyssey—released in 1972. Try your hand at classic Pong or channel Sonic the Hedgehog, before choosing your driver as Donkey Kong in a fast-paced session of Mario Kart.
Though not all consoles are connected for playing, over 100 historic video game consoles are spread throughout the museum, where adults can quickly revert to their youth while playing their favorite games, and new generations will be amazed at just how far we’ve come.
Insider's Tip: Some of the consoles can often get crowded, so visit around opening time to maximize the time you can spend on the various consoles.
Practical Info
Advance reservations made by booking online are highly recommended. The Nostalgia Box often hosts parties on weekends, during which time the visitor experience is capped at only an hour.
Address: 16 Aberdeen Street, Perth, Western Australia 6000, Australia
Hours: 10:30am-5pm daily
Admission: $15 for adults, $10 for children under 15, or $45 for a family of 4.
From $ 12
Valley of the Giants
The Valley of the Giants sits in the Walpole-Nornalup National Park and is home to hundreds of ancient Red Tingle Trees. The main attraction is the Treetop Walk that sets visitors 130 feet (40 meters) up among the forest canopy on a lightweight bridge for a bird's-eye view. The Ancient Empire Walk is a series of boardwalks at ground level that weave around–and occasionally through–the massive tree trunks. Red Tingle Trees are among the world’s tallest trees, some of which are over 400 years old, with trunk circumferences up to 50 feet (15 meters) around.
Both the Treetop Walk and the Ancient Empire Walk are around 650 yards (600 meters) in length and both are suitable for walkers of all skills. The Ancient Empire Walk does contain some sections of earthen paths that may become muddy after rain, but the walks are otherwise suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The Valley of the Giants also has barbecue areas for picnicking and public toilets available.
Practical Info
The Valley of the Giants is located about 4.5 hours by car south of Perth, just off the South Coast Highway. The Treetop Walk is open daily, closing only on Christmas Day and in hazardous conditions. Opening hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., although the last entry to the Treetop Walk is at 4:15 p.m. Entry to the Treetop Walk is $15 for adults and $7.50 for children, while the Ancient Empires Walk is free.
Address: Walpole-Nornalup National Park, Denmark, W.A., Australia
Hours: Open daily, except Christmas Day and during bad weather
Admission: Adults: $15, Children: $7.50
From $ 159
Perth Cultural Center
The Perth Cultural Centre is a hotbed of activities, events, collections, art and all things cultural.
Clustered under one roof are a handful of different exhibition spaces and Western Australia’s key cultural institutions. Explore history, nature and anthropology at the Western Australian Museum, from dinosaurs to butterflies and humans.
Browse one of the best collections of Aboriginal and early European artworks at the Art Gallery of Western Australia. Watch cutting-edge video installations, sculpture and performance art at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art. Finally, browse books at the State Library of Western Australia.
Clustered under one roof are a handful of different exhibition spaces and Western Australia’s key cultural institutions. Explore history, nature and anthropology at the Western Australian Museum, from dinosaurs to butterflies and humans.
Browse one of the best collections of Aboriginal and early European artworks at the Art Gallery of Western Australia. Watch cutting-edge video installations, sculpture and performance art at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art. Finally, browse books at the State Library of Western Australia.
Practical Info
The cultural center is in central Perth’s Northbridge area, reached via a pedestrian bridge from the Perth train station or via the free Blue CAT bus.
The complex is spread over several city streets between Aberdeen Street, Francis Street, James Street Mall and Roe Street. William and Beaufort streets border the complex to west and east.
The complex is spread over several city streets between Aberdeen Street, Francis Street, James Street Mall and Roe Street. William and Beaufort streets border the complex to west and east.
Address: James Street Mall, Perth 6000, Australia
Hours: Open daily, hours vary for each museum/gallery
Admission: Free
From $ 30
Nambung National Park
Covering more than 17,000 hectares, the massive Nambung National Park is one of Western Australia’s most popular attractions. In addition to the protruding limestone pillars of its Pinnacles Desert, the park boasts white sand beaches, rich plant life, and trails to please every type of adventurer.
After admiring the intriguing 13-feet-high Pinnacles in the desert, go for snorkel, swim or surf at Hangover Bay beach. History buffs will love exploring the thrombolites built by tiny micro-organisms at Lake Thetis, and finish with the mild loop trail bushwalk. The best time to visit the park between September and October, when the native vegetation is in full bloom.
Practical Info
Nambung National Park is located 124 miles (200 kilometers) north of Perth in Western Australia. Park entry fees for vehicles may apply. The office opening hours are from 9:30 a.m.-4:40 p.m. every day except Christmas.
Address: Nambung National Park, Western Australia, Australia
Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. every day except Christmas (office hours)
Admission: $12 standard vehicle entry fee, $6 concession vehicle entry fee
From $ 118
Pinnacles Desert
Although otherworldly in appearance, the Pinnacles Desert is 100 percent on planet earth, located along the Indian Ocean's Coral Coast in Nambung National Park in Western Australia (WA). This vast sandy expanse is filled with towering limestone pillars, and at only a few hours' drive from the city of Perth, the site makes for a popular and totally doable day trip.
The Basics
To the Pinnacles, and beyond! Most day tours combine a visit to the 35,000-year-old limestone formations with stops at other popular attractions in the area, making it easy to heed the siren call of nearby massive sand dunes, white sandy beaches, and even a lobster farm. Nature lovers can catch sight of kangaroos, koalas, and wombats on tours that stop at Caversham Wildlife Park and Yanchep National Park, while adrenaline junkies love adventure-packed tour options that include revving up a 4WD vehicle or sand boarding across the Lancelin sand dunes, some of which stretch up to 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) wide.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Pinnacles
When to Go There
- Most day tours provide round-trip transportation from Perth and last roughly 10 hour.
- Tours to the Pinnacles are kid-friendly with outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
- Travelers should dress in layers and wear plenty of sun protection.
- For both private tours and small-group tours, upgrades are dependent upon group size.
- Fuel a long day of exploration with a meal in the coastal town of Cervantes (included in some tours), where you can get a behind-the-scenes look at the local lobster fishing industry and chow down on a picnic lunch, Aussie style barbecue, or a sausage sizzle lunch.
Nambung National Park is a 2- to 3-hour drive from Perth along Indian Ocean Drive, making it an easy day trip from the city. The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm and can provide insightful information about the park.
When to Go There
The best time to visit is spring (September to October) when Western Australia's native wildflowers paint the desert with vibrant colors. Book a sunset tour to see a light show across the Pinnacles, or maximize your time by heading out early in the morning; you'll want the extra time to explore the many parks and beaches along the way.
Address: Nambung National Park, Pinnacles Drive, Cervantes 6511, Australia
Admission: Varies
From $ 100
Perth Bell Tower
Home to the historic Swan Bells, Perth's Bell Tower dominates the city skyline and makes for a fun Perth activity. Housed in a 271-foot (83-meter) tower, 12 of the existing 18 bells originally hung in London's St Martin-in-the-Fields church, where they announced events for centuries.
Now that the bells have found their way to Perth, visitors can learn the art of bell-ringing on guided tours, or simply stop in to hear the bellringers practice their art of chiming on Monday, Thursday or Sunday from noon to 1pm. For the opportunity to chime a bell yourself, book an interactive bell-chiming demonstration and receive an official certificate as proof of your new skill.
Travelers can also head up the towering glass-and-copper spire to its three observation decks and look out over much of downtown Perth and the Swan River (the sixth-floor deck offers 360-degree views). The famous tower can also be admired from afar, perhaps as part of a photography tour that wanders the streets of Perth.
Practical Info
General admission simply grants access to the tower's interior and costs $9 for adults and $7 for children between the ages of 5 and 14. There are additional fees for the chiming demonstration, also known as the Bell Tower Experience, which is offered Monday through Saturday at every half hour between 10:30am and 2:30pm. The site opens daily from 10am, and the bells are rung every Monday, Thursday and Sunday from noon to 1pm.
Did You Know? With a history dating back to the 14th century, the Swan Bells are the only royal bells to have ever left England.
Address: Barrack Square Riverside Drive, Perth, Western Australia 6000, Australia
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
York
The oldest inland town in Western Australia, York is one of the adventure capitals of the country. York is self-nominated as one of the most picturesque towns in Western Australia, and sitting in the Avon Valley, the town has a very long history. It is known for its celebrations, including annual events and festivals revolving around arts and crafts, music, vintage cars, sports and its historic gardens.
York’s historical attractions–including the Railway Station, Post and Telegraph Office and Town Hall–date from the late 1800s. The town once served as a farming hub and then a base for gold miners but has since changed into a tourist destination for its historical elements.and served as a farming town, and then a base for goldminers.
York is one of the best places for adventure sports in Australia and is a great spot for skydiving and paragliding; it even boasts the title of Australia’s largest skydiving center. York is also known for its motocross, but for those who prefer their activities a little less adrenaline-filled, there’s also a town pool, pony club and huge network of hiking trails.
Practical Info
York is located 60 miles (97 kilometers) east of Perth, amounting to a driving time of about an hour and a half. York has hot summers and mild winters, with spring and autumn also featuring warm weather.
Address: York, W.A., Australia
From $ 159
Perth Cruise Port
Despite being one of the world’s most remote capital cities, Perth remains amazingly livable thanks to a easy-going attitude, fantastic weather, beautiful beaches and thriving dining and nightlife scene. With the rapid growth of the cruising industry in Australia, Perth’s Fremantle Port welcomes dozens of cruise calls per season.
How to get to Perth
The Port of Fremantle, Perth’s busy commercial port, sits 12 miles (19 kilometers) to the south of the city. The town of Fremantle, a place known for its art galleries, cafes and historic buildings, is easily accessible on foot from the passenger terminal or by way of the Central Area Transit hop-on, hop-off bus. Passengers wanting to visit Perth can take the 30-minute train ride from Fremantle station or catch a taxi just outside the terminal.
One Day in Perth
There’s enough to see and do in Fremantle alone to fill up your day. Start by walking to the Western Australia Maritime Museum to see the exhibits on Perth’s maritime heritage or tour the UNESCO-listed Fremantle Prison dating back to 1852. On the weekends, the Fremantle Markets are a great place to pick up artisan foods, antiques or locally handcrafted items.
Perth also has plenty to offer the visiting cruise passenger. If you only have time for one attraction, make it King’s Park, a beautiful hilltop botanical garden that offers some of the best views in the city. Shoppers will find a little bit of everything at Subiaco at the intersection of Rokeby Road and hay Street.
If you’re feeling energetic, use your time in Perth to explore the Swan River Valley on the water. Rent a kayak or canoe, go offshore for a bit of snorkeling or diving, or take a leisurely boat trip along the Swan River.
Or, spend your day relaxing at one of Perth’s lovely beaches, like the white sand Cottesloe or surfer-friendly Scarborough.
Port Information
The Fremantle
passenger terminal offers free wi-fi when ships are in port, as well as a
cafe and bar where you can find refreshments. Besides the two ATMs in
the Port of Fremantle, you’ll find plenty more in the town of Fremantle
and all over Perth. The local currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD).
Address: Perth, Australia
From $ 21
Swan Valley
ht on Perth’s doorstep, Swan Valley offers an idyllic retreat from city life. Renowned as one of Western Australia’s oldest wine regions, its expanse of vineyards and scenic waterways are home to numerous wineries, breweries, and distilleries, and an excellent selection of artisan shops and gourmet restaurants.
The Basics
Locals flock to Swan Valley on sunny weekends. It’s the ideal backdrop for wine tasting at award-winning wineries, sipping beer at a boutique brewery, or enjoying a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant.
Set sail on a wine tasting cruise along Swan River, take a walking tour of historic Guildford, or join a tasting tour and get the inside scoop on the region’s best artisan products, from cheese, nuts, and honey to handmade chocolate, ice cream, and macarons.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The legal drinking age of 18 applies for all Swan Valley wine tastings.
- Most Swan Valley wineries don’t have a dress code, but smart-casual dress is required at the region’s more upmarket restaurants.
- Phone and internet coverage vary throughout Swan Valley, but the Swan Valley Visitor Centre in Guildford offers free Wi-Fi.
- Sunscreen, plenty of water, and comfortable shoes are a must if you plan on walking through the vineyards.
- Many Swan Valley wineries are wheelchair accessible, although tours of the vineyards are not always possible, and it’s best to check in advance to avoid disappointment.
How to Get There
Swan Valley lies along Swan River, around 16 miles (26 kilometers) northeast of Perth. Trains run from Perth to Guildford, but the most convenient way to travel is with your own transport or a guided tour.
When to Get There
The best time for Swan Valley wine tours is from September to December, when the warm weather is ideal for walking, cycling, or wine tasting amid the vineyards. It’s possible to visit the Swan Valley wineries year-round—in the summer months (December to February), it’s recommended to book ahead for tastings as it can get crowded, while the winter months (June to August) often mean cheaper prices on accommodation and activities.
Swan Valley Wine Tasting
Wine lovers are spoiled for choice with Swan Valley’s more than a hundred family vineyards, wineries, and cellar doors. The best-known wineries include Sandalford, Upper Reach, and Olive Farm. Must-try varieties include Verdelho, chenin blanc, and shiraz wines, and Verdelho and shiraz liqueurs. Head to Coward & Black for wines paired with Margaret River chocolates; Mandoon Estate’s restaurant, brewery, and art gallery; or Harris Organic Wines, Perth’s only certified organic winery.
Address: Swan Street, Guildford 6066, Australia
Admission: Free
From $ 52
Wave Rock
A huge granite wave that towers over the bush landscape below, Wave Rock is stunning to behold. Believed to have formed more than 27 million years ago and at about 46 feet (14 meters) high and 360 feet (110 meters) long, it's the largest example of the "flared slope" structure in Australia.
Wave Rock is characterized by vertical stripes of varying shades of red, yellow and grey, each formed by rain washing chemical deposits down over the rock face. Visitors to the Hyden Wildlife Park where Wave Rock exists can also see sites of indigenous rock art, spend time bird watching, visit the wildlife park and see the rare white kangaroo. There's also a pioneer museum to explore and an original Aboriginal outlaw's cave to see, while the surrounding region is home to further rock formations, including Hippo’s Yawn, Mulka’s Cave and The Humps.
Practical Info
Wave Rock is situated about 200 miles (340 km) inland from Perth–about four and a half hours away by car. Visiting the Hyden Wildlife Park costs $10, and the park is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: Hyden Wildlife Park, Hyden, W.A., Australia
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
Admission: $10
From $ 159
Rottnest Island
Fringed with rocky coves, white sandy beaches, and sun-soaked shores, Rottnest Island’s natural pleasures are numerous—whale-watching, snorkeling, hiking and wildlife spotting along the coast, and taking in the ocean sunsets. At less than an hour from Perth, Rottnest Island, or “Rotto,” makes for an idyllic retreat from the city.
The Basics
The car-free shores of Rottnest Island lend themselves well to a guided island tour, and it’s possible to check off the highlights on a day trip from Perth. Pedal your way around the shores on a bike tour, stopping at attractions such as Wadjemup Lighthouse, Henrietta Rocks, Oliver Hill, and Cathedral Rocks; or set sail around the island on a snorkeling or whale-watching cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is no public transport on the island, and the only way to get around is by tour bus or rental bike.
- Cell phone coverage can vary throughout Rottnest Island, but free Wi-Fi hotspots are dotted around the island.
- Kayak, paddleboard, and bike hire is available at the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre.
- Most boat cruises, accommodation options, and ferries on the island are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm in advance.
How to Get There
Rottnest Island is located off the coast of Western Australia, 11 miles (18 kilometers) from Perth in the Indian Ocean. Ferries run from Hillarys Boat Harbour north of Perth (around a 45-minute journey), from Fremantle to the south (25 minutes), or from the Barrack Street Jetty in the city center (90 minutes). The closest airport is Perth, which offers regular flights to Sydney, Melbourne, and other Australian cities.
When to Get There
Blessed with a Mediterranean-style climate, Rottnest Island has sunshine and warm waters year-round. The most popular time to visit is during Australia’s summer (December-February), when tours, ferries, and accommodation can be more expensive and advance bookings are advised. Alternatively, a winter (June-November) visit can save money and avoid crowds; it’s also the best time to spot humpback whales on their annual migration.
Wildlife Watching on Rottnest Island
Look out for Rottnest’s famous quokkas on a guided wildlife-watching tour, spot humpback and southern right whales during their annual migration, or look out for wedge-tailed shearwaters and ospreys along the West End boardwalk. Other common sightings include New Zealand fur seals, white-striped freetail bats, marbled geckos, green turtles, and numerous exotic birds, including banded stilts, crested terns, and red-capped plovers.
Address: Maley Street, Thomson Bay 6161, Australia
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 45
Scarborough Beach
Characterized by bright white sand, the clear azure waters of the Indian Ocean and relatively still waters, Scarborough Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Perth.
Scarborough Beach is a long, wide strip of sand along the coastal town of Scarborough north of Perth. The wide expanse of sand is perfect for the hundreds of people that descend on the beach come summertime for picnics, sun bathing, beach volleyball and more, whilst the immense length of the beach ensures there’s plenty of room for everyone.
The water off the beach deepens slowly and on a calm day has very little surf, making it perfect for families and those who prefer to frolic without huge waves. When it’s windy however the surf comes alive, drawing surfers and kiteboarders alike to take advantage of the waves. Do be aware that strong currents can run down the beach, so pay attention to where the flags are placed – this is usually the safest area of the beach.
Behind the beach lies a grassed area, freshwater showers and the Esplanade streetscape. Head here after you’ve washed off the day’s sand to have dinner in one of the restaurants or bars that look back towards the ocean. A number of cafés provide a fantastic brunch spot if you fancy starting your day that way.
Scarborough Beach is a long, wide strip of sand along the coastal town of Scarborough north of Perth. The wide expanse of sand is perfect for the hundreds of people that descend on the beach come summertime for picnics, sun bathing, beach volleyball and more, whilst the immense length of the beach ensures there’s plenty of room for everyone.
The water off the beach deepens slowly and on a calm day has very little surf, making it perfect for families and those who prefer to frolic without huge waves. When it’s windy however the surf comes alive, drawing surfers and kiteboarders alike to take advantage of the waves. Do be aware that strong currents can run down the beach, so pay attention to where the flags are placed – this is usually the safest area of the beach.
Behind the beach lies a grassed area, freshwater showers and the Esplanade streetscape. Head here after you’ve washed off the day’s sand to have dinner in one of the restaurants or bars that look back towards the ocean. A number of cafés provide a fantastic brunch spot if you fancy starting your day that way.
Practical Info
Scarborough Beach is a 20 minute drive northwest from the Perth CBD, or 40 minutes from the airport. The beach is ‘open’ 24/7, but be aware that the lifeguard station is only manned during certain hours. Never swim at night.
Address: Scarborough Beach, Perth, WA, Australia
From $ 137
Penguin Island
Penguins are one of those wild animals you simply can’t help but love, and here on aptly named Penguin Island, just 45 minutes from Perth, over 1,000 lovable Little Penguins all call the island their home. It’s Western Australia’s largest colony of the world’s smallest species of penguin, although since they spend their days at sea, Little Penguins can actually be pretty tough to spot in the wild. Luckily there’s much more to do on the island than search for waddling penguins, as sea caves, trails, and white sand beaches are also part of the attraction. Keep an eye out for clusters of sea lions that often sun on the shorelines, or dolphins splashing just offshore in the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. Aside from the popular Little Penguins, the island is also home to over 50 species of seabirds, as well as a thriving pelican rookery full of clumsy, curious birds. While it’s possible to visit the island on your own, many visitors opt to take part in a guided kayak or boat tour, where dolphins splash in the wake of the boat and you snorkel in search of marine life. From there it’s off to the Discovery Center to see the Little Penguins, and join in one of the ranger-led feedings that take place three times per day.
Insider's Tip: For the best chance of spotting a wild penguin, look under boardwalks and wooden sets of stairs where they will sometimes hideout in the daytime.
Practical Info
Penguin feedings take place at the Discovery Center at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:30pm. There are minimal facilities on Penguin Island, so visitors should pack their own food and drink to enjoy at one of the picnic areas. Since the waters offshore are part of a marine park, visitors are encouraged to bring their own snorkeling gear, or hire some gear on shore, and ferries to the Mainland run every hour, with the last one at 4pm.
Address: 153 Arcadia Drive, Shoalwater, Western Australia 6169, Australia
Hours: 9am-4pm daily from September 15-early June. The island itself is closed in winter, although boat tours still run offshore. Discovery Center hours are 10am-3:30pm daily.
From $ 63
St George's Cathedral
Often thought of as the main street of Perth, St George’s Terrace is the major arterial road through the heart of the city.
Named after St George’s Cathedral, the terrace was initially home to a number of the cathedral’s staff. These days, St George’s Terrace is a must-see attraction for visitors to the city – both in its own right, and for the number of other attractions that line it.
Marked in the west by Barracks Arch, the terrace runs parallel to the Swan River. Historic buildings including the Old Treasury Buildings hint at the history of the streetscape. St George’s Square, London Court, His Majesty’s Theatre, Stirling Garden, Government House, St George’s Cathedral, and the Perth Concert Hall are just some of the key attractions that sit upon the terrace.
At just under 2km long, St George’s Terrace is easily navigable on foot. The Eastern end of the terrace continues on to become Adelaide Terrace, or walk down to the Esplanade and the water of the Swan River to take in the rest of what the area has to offer.
Named after St George’s Cathedral, the terrace was initially home to a number of the cathedral’s staff. These days, St George’s Terrace is a must-see attraction for visitors to the city – both in its own right, and for the number of other attractions that line it.
Marked in the west by Barracks Arch, the terrace runs parallel to the Swan River. Historic buildings including the Old Treasury Buildings hint at the history of the streetscape. St George’s Square, London Court, His Majesty’s Theatre, Stirling Garden, Government House, St George’s Cathedral, and the Perth Concert Hall are just some of the key attractions that sit upon the terrace.
At just under 2km long, St George’s Terrace is easily navigable on foot. The Eastern end of the terrace continues on to become Adelaide Terrace, or walk down to the Esplanade and the water of the Swan River to take in the rest of what the area has to offer.
Practical Info
St George’s Terrace is barely a few minutes’ walk from Perth Train Station, and is a part of the Perth CBD. Visitors can also access the terrace via a few minutes’ walk from Esplanade Station.
Address: 38 St Georges Terrace, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
From $ 48