While many travelers flock to Australia’s well-trodden east coast, the western part of the country, particularly around Perth, offers a wealth of experiences worth exploring. In Perth, you’ll discover a delightful blend of vibrant city attractions and serene natural spaces, all wrapped in a relaxed vibe. If you’re visiting Perth for the first time, be sure to check out these must-see highlights during your trip!
Go on a River Cruise
What Is It?: Perth boasts a stunning location along the Swan River, making scenic river cruises a popular choice. Your cruise might take you past notable sights like Kings Park and the Bell Tower.
Why Do It?: A river cruise offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy picturesque city views, savor a delicious meal, and sample local wines.
Good to Know: Many cruises feature live commentary from the captain, providing interesting insights about the sights you’ll encounter along the way.
Sample the Local Wines
What Is It?: The Perth region, particularly the Swan Valley, is renowned for its winemaking. With numerous wineries offering tastings paired with cheese, it’s a great destination for wine enthusiasts. Wine tours in the area provide hotel pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a safe and convenient experience as you savor the local wines.
Why Do It?: Swan Valley is a historic and significant wine region in Australia, making it a must-visit for enjoyable wine tastings and tours, whether you choose a full-day or half-day excursion.
Good to Know: Spring (September through December) is an ideal time to explore the Swan Valley wineries, thanks to the pleasant weather and the vibrant display of wildflowers.
Relax in Kings Park & Botanic Garden
What Is It?: Kings Park, the primary city park in Perth, is also home to the Western Australian Botanic Garden. It plays a crucial role in conservation and horticultural research and offers stunning views from the top of the steps overlooking the gardens, which cover 17 hectares.
Why Do It?: Visiting Kings Park allows you to explore plant life and gain insights into both European and Aboriginal cultures, while also appreciating the natural beauty of Perth.
Good to Know: Besides the botanic garden, Kings Park features several other areas to enjoy, including the Rio Tinto Naturescape, Saw Avenue Picnic Area, Lotterywest Family Area, May Drive Parkland, and the Bushland. Entry to the park and botanic garden is free.
Visit the Perth Zoo
What Is It?: Perth Zoo has been a staple of the city for over a century, providing visitors with a chance to get up close with Australia’s distinctive wildlife, such as kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies. The zoo also features exhibits showcasing animals from around the globe.
Why Do It?: It’s a great family-friendly activity in Perth, offering an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Good to Know: The zoo is easily accessible by bike, car, bus, or train, making it convenient to visit from various parts of Perth.
See Wildlife from a Kayak
What Is It?: Beyond boat rides, renting a kayak or joining a guided kayak tour offers a thrilling way to experience Perth from the water.
Why Do It?: Kayak adventures provide an excellent opportunity to spot Australian wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and seabirds, up close.
Good to Know: Many kayak tours include picnic lunches and offer some free time for swimming or hiking, allowing you to explore nature with friends and family.
Experience the Local Food Scene
What Is It?: Perth boasts a vibrant food scene, and a food tour is a fantastic way to explore it. Local pubs offer delicious meals and are a favorite dining spot for residents.
Why Do It?: Dive into Perth’s culinary delights and immerse yourself in Australian culture by sampling local favorites such as fish and chips and Yorkshire pudding.
Good to Know: Barbecue is a big hit in Perth, so many tours focus on the city’s barbecue scene, often paired with local beers and ciders.
Hang Out at Cottesloe Beach
What Is It?: Perth is renowned for its stunning beaches featuring vibrant blue waters and pristine white sand. A standout spot is Cottesloe Beach, just 20 minutes from the city and easily reachable by public transport. Its clear waters make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and there are several lovely beach hotels nearby.
Why Do It?: Perth’s beaches are typically less crowded than those in other parts of Australia, offering a tranquil setting where you can unwind and enjoy the space.
Good to Know: Other great beaches to explore include family-friendly Mullaloo Beach, the revamped Scarborough Beach, and City Beach, which is ideal for surfing.
Take a Day Trip to Rottnest Island
What Is It?: Rottnest Island, just a short ferry ride from Perth, makes for an ideal day trip. You can take in beautiful views, bike around the island, snorkel in the bay, relax on the beach, or dine at local restaurants.
Why Do It?: The island’s breathtaking scenery and car-free, relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for outdoor activities and unwinding.
Good to Know: Rottnest Island is famous for its friendly quokkas, small marsupials that are best admired from a distance. The area is also home to dolphins and seals.
