The Best Things To Do In Perth | Australian Traveller

We’ve curated a list of absolute must-do’s for your next WA vacay.

While you’re in Perth, you’re of course going to enjoy some of the city’s best beaches, but what you may not know is there is more to Perth than just its pristine white sand and glistening turquoise water. From world-class wineries to hopping over to Rottnest, here are 22 things you need to do when visiting Perth.

1. Hire a car

Best for: Anyone with a driver’s licence.

If you really want to maximise your time in sunny Perth, the first thing you should do is hire a car. Being a smaller city than its eastern counterparts means Perth’s public transport – while decent – isn’t as well-connected as the likes of Sydney or Melbourne. Plus, Perth is really sprawling-ly long. Fun (but really inconvenient) fact – from top to bottom, Perth is longer than the entire country of Ireland. So if you’d rather spend your holiday enjoying the sunshine rather than sitting on a bus or waiting for an Uber, do yourself a favour and hire a car.

a car driving in Dwellingup — Hire a car to maximise your time in sunny Perth. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

2. Hit the wineries in the Swan Valley

Best for: Wine lovers

Speaking of cars, the oldest winemaking region in WA is only a 30-minute drive from the city (just make sure you have a designated driver.) The Swan Valley has some of the best wineries near Perth, including Mandoon, Lancaster and Nikola Estate.

Dale Tilbrook Experience and wine tasting at Mandoon Estate — Enjoy wine tastings at Mandoon Estate. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Go camping

Best for: Nature-lovers

Thanks to Perth being the most isolated capital city in the world, it’s filled with some of the country’s most bountiful landscapes – many of which are accessible a short drive from the city centre.

campers at Lane Poole Reserve, Dwellingup — Go off-grid this weekend. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

There are many free and low-cost camping spots near Perth to unwind, unplug and get amongst the great outdoors.

camping at Lane Poole Reserve, Dwellingup — Pitch a tent in the forest. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

4. Spend a day (or three) in Fremantle

Best for: Couples, families and solo travellers

The vibrant city of Fremantle is a truly unique WA destination, where cosmopolitan bars, pubs, restaurants, and cafes meet laid-back vibes and salty beach culture. Add to that the colourful tapestry of colonial, convict and Indigenous history, heritage buildings and vibrant street art, and you’ve easily filled a few days.

the exterior of Fremantle Prison — The Heritage-listed Fremantle Prison was once a convict barracks. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Check out our guide on all the things to do in Fremantle including everything you need to know about visiting the fascinating Fremantle Prison.

a look inside Fremantle Prison — The prison’s unique architecture and rich heritage make it a significant cultural landmark in Western Australia. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

5. Get a coffee (that you won’t find anywhere else in Australia)

Best for: Coffee-drinkers

Head to one of Perth’s best cafes and order a ‘long mac topped up’. For reasons unbeknown to anyone, this has become a unique coffee style evidently found only in Perth.

milk pouring over a cup of latte at Community Coffee in Perth — Get your caffeine fix at one of Perth’s cute cafes. (Image: Helm Media)

Essentially, it’s a traditional long mac served in a 6oz cup – but instead of just ‘staining’ the coffee with the milk, the barista just keeps pouring it to the rim, giving you a coffee-to-milk ratio of about 1:4.

the cafe counter at Community Coffee in Perth — Order your Community Coffee to go. (Image: Helm Media)

Does that really just make it an extra strong latte? Yes. Could we just say extra strong latte? Yes. Do we just like saying ‘long mac topped up’? Maybe.

al fresco dining at Community Coffee in Perth — Sip your coffee out in the sun. (Image: Helm Media)

6. Get the ferry to Rottnest

Best for: Snorkelling and bay-hopping

Those quokkas aren’t going to take selfies of themselves, are they? The Rottnest Ferry conveniently leaves from the heart of Perth at the Barrack Street Jetty in Elizabeth Quay.

the Rottnest Express Ferry at sea — Plan a weekend trip to Rottnest Island from Perth. (Image: Rottnest Island Authority)

It’s a 90-minute ferry ride (but if you’re prone to seasickness, consider leaving from Fremantle which is only a 30-minute trip.) Spend the night at one of the luxe accommodation options or just do a day trip.

a Quokka on Rottnest Island — Snap an ethical selfie with a quokka. (Image: (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

7. Explore Elizabeth Quay

Best for: Families and city-based exploring

Elizabeth Quay is Perth city’s glistening waterfront precinct, home to beautiful bars, restaurants and even a brewery perched on an island.

Elizabeth Quay in Perth — Elizabeth Quay is Perth’s sparkling precinct. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Take a stroll around the pedestrian-friendly zone, cross the Elizabeth Quay footbridge for a great view back over the city and admire the various sculptures and public art scattered across the quay.

a ferry sailing across Elizabeth Quay in Perth — Sign up for water-based activities at the quay. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@aeroture_au)

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

8. Visit Kings Park

Best for: Families and wildflower-enthusiasts

Perth’s iconic Kings Park is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, spanning over 400 hectares (for context, New York’s Central Park is 340.)

the Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Perth — Take an easy stroll to Perth’s iconic Kings Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

It offers stunning views of the Swan River and Perth skyline, and has many bush walking trails, nature playgrounds for kids, cafes and restaurants and one of the biggest collections of wildflowers in the country.

Aboriginal Cultural Tours of Kings Park, Nyungar Tours — The pristine park is teeming with nature and unrivalled views. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

9. Head for the hills

Best for: Nature-lovers and wine-enthusiasts

Perth Hills is an often overlooked area, but it’s home to some stunning natural scenery, beautiful trails and some of the best wineries near Perth – Myattsfield and Mandoon Estate are stand-outs. Go for a morning hike and then unwind with a winery lunch.

Mandoon Estate and Dale Tilbrook Experience, Perth — Head to Perth Hills for a winery experience like no other. (Image: Tourism Australia)

10. Get sunset fish and chips

Best for: Seafood and sunset lovers

You simply cannot visit Perth and not enjoy the spectacle of the sun setting over the Indian Ocean. Anywhere along the coast will give you a great view, but a particularly nice way to do it is to get fish and chips down at Cottesloe Beach and park up on the grassy foreshore – it’s terraced, so nobody can obstruct your view.

an aerial view of Indiana Teahouse on Cottesloe Beach, Perth — The iconic Indiana Teahouse is perched on pristine white sand. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

11. Get cultured at Perth Cultural Centre

Best for: Art lovers and culture vultures

Perth Cultural Centre lies in the heart of vibrant Northbridge, and features the State Library of WA, The Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (and its adjoining bar, PICA bar) The State Theatre, Blue Room Theatre, and the Art Gallery of Western Australia – which is also home to one of Perth’s best rooftop bars, AGWA Rooftop.

the AGWA Rooftop bar in Perth — AGWA Rooftop is one of Perth’s best rooftop bars for a tipple. (Image: Rift Photography)

12. Visit WA Museum Boola Bardip

Best for: Families and culture vultures

The recently rebuilt WA Museum Boola Bardip is also within the Perth Cultural Centre, but deserves its own special mention. The $400-million state-of-the-art museum seamlessly integrates heritage buildings with contemporary structures, and showcases the rich history, culture, and biodiversity of Western Australia.

the building exterior of WA Museum Boola Bardip — Immerse in WA’s rich history, culture and biodiversity at Boola Bardip. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@aeroture_au)

The name “Boola Bardip" means “many stories" in the local Noongar language, reflecting the museum’s mission to tell the diverse stories of the region. It has a mix of permanent exhibitions as well as special exhibits, plus interactive displays, educational programs, events and talks.

an Indigenous art painting at WA Museum Boola Bardip, Perth — Gain insight into First Nations stories through art. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

13. Catch a game at Optus Stadium

Best for: Sports fans

Optus Stadium has been recognised as Australia’s best stadium multiple times, and has been named the Most Beautiful Sports Facility in the World and was 2022’s International Venue of the Year.

an aerial view of Optus Stadium, Perth — Optus Stadium glistens from above. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@a_rich_visual)

The state-of-the-art stadium was built with a ‘fans first’ approach – as such, every seat has an exceptional view and there are more than 1,000 TV screens throughout the venue ensuring you never miss any of the action – including two of the largest super screens in Australia, each measuring 340 square metres.

14. Watch an outdoor movie

Best for: Families and couples

When you’re in one of the sunniest spots in the country, it makes sense to watch films outside. Perth is home to several great outdoor cinemas, but the best ones are the Northbridge Rooftop Movies, Somerville Auditorium on the lush University of WA grounds, and the Telethon Community Cinemas in Burswood.

an open-air cinema at Rooftop Movies, Perth — Recline in a deck chair under the stars.

15. Visit Chinatown

Best for: Asian food lovers

In the heart of Northbridge is Perth’s small but vibrant Chinatown, an iconic precinct for locals looking for a good feed at a great price. Look for the red and green pagoda archway on Roe Street with the lion statues on either side.

red lanterns dangle from above Chinatown, Perth — Walk under a canopy of red lanterns. (Image: City of Perth)

Red plastic lanterns dangle from above and the laneways are littered with plastic chairs and tables filled with locals enjoying ramen, stir fries and bao. Highlights are Billy Lees, Uncle Billy’s and Izakaya Grill.

the dining scene at Northbridge, Perth — This hipster’s paradise is bustling from morning to night. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

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16. Do a foodie walking tour

Best for: Energetic explorers

Walking tours are a great way to acquaint yourself with a city, and walking tours featuring food and drinks are even better. There are plenty of options in Perth, including Foodloose Tours, Two Feet and a Heartbeat and Eat the Street.

a cheese board at Two Feet and a Heartbeat, Perth — Take a food tour in Perth with Two Feet and a Heartbeat. (Image: Tourism Australia)

17. Explore the city in a rickshaw

Best for: Tired travellers

If you’re not a walker, Peddle Perth offers a unique and fun way to explore the city from the comfort of the back of a rickshaw.

touring the city with Peddle Perth — Peddle Perth puts you in the heart of the action. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Your ‘driver’ will take you through Perth’s hidden gems and landmarks, all while giving you a lively and informed description. It’s a fantastic way to see the city.

exploring the city on a rickshaw with Peddle Perth — Wind your way through Perth from the comfort of a rickshaw. (Image: Tourism Australia)

18. Stand-up-paddle-board in Matilda Bay

Best for: Water-lovers

Any visit to a Perth waterway would make you think every West Australian owns a SUP board, and a great place to give it a whirl is Matilda Bay. The picturesque spot along the Swan River is known for its serene waters and stunning views of the city skyline. SUP Central offer hire boards and lessons. And when you’re done, reward yourself with a picnic on the grassy foreshore or lunch at Bayside Kitchen.

the Perth city skyline as seen from Matilda Bay — Lounge on a grassy area overlooking Matilda Bay. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

19. Ride the bridges

Best for: Fitness enthusiasts

‘The bridges’ route in Perth is a 10km pedestrian and cycle-friendly loop that runs between the Narrows Bridge and the Causeway Bridge, offering beautiful views of the Swan River, city and lush South Perth.

the Narrows Bridge over Swan River in Perth, Western Australia — Pass through Narrows Bridge on two wheels. (Image: Getty/ZambeziShark)

If you’re in the CBD, jump on the ferry and cross the river to South Perth, hire a bike from South Perth Cycles, and get peddling.

an aerial view of Narrows Bridge from Kings Park, Perth, WA — Or you can cross the river to South Perth. (Image: lkonya)

20. Get amazing Asian eats in Vic Park

Best for: Foodies

The inner city suburb of Victoria Park has a vibrant immigrant community, resulting in sensational cuisine. The strip of Albany Highway that runs through the suburb is jam-packed with so many incredible Japanese, Vietnamese, Chinese and Lebanese restaurants, that you’ll think you’ve been teleported to a different continent. KUZU Japanese, Qin’s Lanzhou Beef Noodle and The Prophet Lebanese are stand-outs.

21. Make a day trip to Guildford

Best for: History buffs

Guildford is one of WA’s oldest towns, established in 1829. It boasts beautifully preserved 19th and 20th-century architecture. The James Street strip is lined with antique shops, boutiques and galleries, as well as a handful of historic pubs like the Rose & Crown and the newly renovated Guildford Hotel.

the exterior of Guildford Hotel, Perth — Pop into the 19th-century Guildford Hotel. (Image: Getty/ZambeziShark)

The quaint suburb is also home to Alfred’s Kitchen – a beloved local institution – known for serving the best burgers in Perth since way back in 1946.

the Rose & Crown Hotel, Perth, WA — The Rose & Crown Hotel is WA’s oldest operating hotel. (Image: Getty/chameleonseye)

22. Take yourself on a bar crawl

Best for: Drink-enthusiasts

There’s nothing like some warm weather to make you keen for a bar crawl, and luckily Perth has plenty to choose from.

al fresco dining at Wines of While, Perth — Sip cocktails from the al fresco bar. (Image: Emma Pegrum)

From rooftop terraces, martini bars and whiskey saloons, to cocktail basements and sophisticated wine and cheese bistros, you won’t struggle to find a bevy of great Perth bars.

bottles of wine on display at Wines of While, Perth — Pick up a bottle of your choice at Wines of While. (Image: Emma Pegrum)

Discover the top things to do on Rottnest Island.

The East Kimberley should be on every bucket list, and here’s why.

Livistona palms soar out of chasms the colour of Valencia oranges. Shady waterholes beckon travellers daring to venture off the bitumen. From the air, fruit farms give way to vast plains that meet rolling hills and fascinating geological formations centuries in the making. The East Kimberley is one of Australia’s most treasured wilderness areas, but don’t be fooled by its rust-coloured roads. This north-eastern corner of Western Australia is home to some of Australia’s most iconic stays by Discovery Resorts that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

A group of people enjoy an intimate dining experience at El Questro Homestead. — Dine in the heart of nature.

Your guide to Lake Argyle

The backstory

With rolling hills that glow amber at sunrise and glassy water that reflects the Kimberley’s bright blue sky, a visit to Lake Argyle is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As Australia’s second-largest man-made freshwater lake, travellers flock here to soak in the views from boats, helicopters and Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle.

The latter is a lakeside oasis, a resort where travellers crossing from Western Australia into the Northern Territory (or vice versa) converge. Fifty minutes’ drive south of Kununurra, the property is perched atop a cliff overlooking the sprawling Lake Argyle.

Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle was originally built in the late 1960s to provide accommodation for builders of the Ord River dam, which formed Lake Argyle. In the decades that followed it had several owners, until a Kununurra local took the reins in 2004 and reinvented the property with luxury villas and its now world-famous infinity pool. The iconic property was added to the Discovery Resorts portfolio in 2021, undergoing a major upgrade that took the resort from a beloved campground to an all-encompassing resort with premium waterfront villas.

A boat glides across the expansive waters of Lake Argyle, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Kimberley. As part of the Discovery Holiday Parks experience, this unforgettable journey offers adventure and relaxation. — Glide across the vast, shimmering waters of Lake Argyle.

The rooms

A lakeside resort like no other, Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle offers something for everyone, from campsites to villas and cabins. The Deluxe Lakeview Cabins have views of the opposing cliff and are surrounded by bush, ensuring plenty of privacy, while both the Deluxe and Standard Cabins are ideal for families, with contemporary furnishings and one, two or four bedrooms. The campsites also come in a variety of sizes.

The facilities

There’s no doubt the biggest drawcard to Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle is the lake, 20 times the size of Sydney Harbour. One of the best ways to experience it is on the Kimberley Durack Sunset Explorer Cruise, during which you’ll see freshwater crocodiles nesting along the banks (it’s home to 30,000 freshies) and even get the chance to swim in their waters. The cruise also takes in Mt Misery, towering above the original and now submerged Argyle Downs Homestead.

If you have young children who need to get to bed early, a great alternative is the three-hour Lunch Explorer Cruise. You’ll tour around the lake’s bays as you learn about the local wildlife before stopping at a remote island for a swim.

Refuel between adventures at the onsite pub-style eatery, The Lake Argyle Cafe. The cafe is the heart of the resort, bringing together friends new and old over a steak, cold beer and live music. Hours vary with the seasons, but rest assured you’ll be able to enjoy a good feed year-round, with a well-stocked general store also open during the day.

Cool off from a day of exploring in the striking infinity pool with some of the best views in the country (you’ll find sweeping views of the lake below). Or enjoy a flight with HeliSpirit, or clear your mind during a yoga class on the lawn.

Two people unwind in an infinity pool, overlooking stunning Lake Argyle at Discovery Holiday Parks. — Take a dip in the infinity pool and soak in breathtaking Lake Argyle views.

Your guide to El Questro

The backstory

One of the most famous stays in Australia is El Questro. A former cattle station, it’s evolved into one of the country’s most recognisable tourism destinations over the past 30 years, and is now embarking on a new chapter to elevate the region’s rich First Nations culture.

The property draws travellers seeking to reconnect with nature and the beauty of this country. Wild in spirit but immaculate in style, El Questro is a 283,000-hectare property like no other; surrounded by dramatic gorges, impressive mountain ranges, thermal springs, secluded waterfalls and even rainforest, it’s the perfect base for adventurous souls.

A person floats leisurely in the river at Discovery Holiday Parks, immersed in nature’s tranquillity. — Float along Zebedee Springs and immerse in nature.

The rooms

Across the sprawling El Questro are three properties catering to the wide variety of travellers who journey this way. The most impressive is the luxurious Homestead, where 10 suites perch at the edge of a burnt-orange cliff, with cantilevered bedrooms over the peaceful Chamberlain River. The adults-only, all-inclusive Homestead is a member of the prestigious Luxury Lodges of Australia collection and offers a backdrop of thick bushland; riverside, you’ll find an immaculate lawn and a shaded pool that lures guests out of their rooms.

At Emma Gorge, travellers will be immersed in the beauty of the Cockburn Ranges, falling asleep to the sounds of wildlife in safari-style tented cabins. This is where you come if you want to completely connect with your environment while retaining a few creature comforts. The Emma Gorge Tented Cabins sleep three or four people and feature private ensuites and ceiling fans.

Families also love The Station, home to simple yet comfortable air-conditioned rooms, as well as a large, leafy campground. Sitting by the Pentecost River, The Station is open from April to October and has a range of accommodation, from unpowered and powered campsites to air-conditioned tents for two people and a Gardenview Family Room for five.

Two people stand beside a suite perched on the edge of a striking burnt-orange cliff, gazing out over the serene Chamberlain River below. — Take a breather with stunning views of nature all around.

The facilities

Located in the heart of the Kimberley, El Questro retains its strong connection with its Traditional Owners, the Ngarinyin people. A highlight of a stay here is the Injiid Marlabu Calls Us experience; over two hours, guests are immersed in the soul of Country by witnessing ancient healing rituals, listening to generational stories and learning about the land’s ancestral heritage.

Other experiences include bird watching, cruising through Chamberlain Gorge, hiking through Emma Gorge, horse riding, four-wheel-driving and soaking in Zebedee Springs. At the properties, you can also cool off in the pools, and relax in the restaurants or at private dining locations. A bonus of staying at The Homestead is the exclusive service of El Questro’s dedicated reservations team, who will craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your travel tastes.

A group of people stand beside a tree, with a car parked nearby, taking in the surrounding natural beauty. — Experience thrilling nature activities.

Book your East Kimberley adventure today with Discovery Resorts.

The ultimate hit list of things to do in Perth

We’ve curated a list of absolute must-do’s for your next WA vacay.

1. Hire a car

2. Hit the wineries in the Swan Valley

3. Go camping

4. Spend a day (or three) in Fremantle

5. Get a coffee (that you won’t find anywhere else in Australia)

6. Get the ferry to Rottnest

7. Explore Elizabeth Quay

8. Visit Kings Park

9. Head for the hills

10. Get sunset fish and chips

11. Get cultured at Perth Cultural Centre

12. Visit WA Museum Boola Bardip

13. Catch a game at Optus Stadium

14. Watch an outdoor movie

15. Visit Chinatown

16. Do a foodie walking tour

17. Explore the city in a rickshaw

18. Stand-up-paddle-board in Matilda Bay

19. Ride the bridges

20. Get amazing Asian eats in Vic Park

21. Make a day trip to Guildford

22. Take yourself on a bar crawl

Wonil Hotel Perth combines riverside living with a sense of purpose

A coffee dreamland is brewing and it’s like Willy Wonka for grown-ups

You can walk through a wardrobe to Narnia at this gorgeous bookshop

First look: The all-new Lodge at Wadjemup revealed

Inspire your senses with these iconic East Kimberley stays

The East Kimberley should be on every bucket list, and here’s why.

Your guide to Lake Argyle

The backstory

The rooms

The facilities

Your guide to El Questro

The backstory

The rooms

The facilities

We’ve curated a list of absolute must-do’s for your next WA vacay.

1. Hire a car

2. Hit the wineries in the Swan Valley

3. Go camping

4. Spend a day (or three) in Fremantle

5. Get a coffee (that you won’t find anywhere else in Australia)

6. Get the ferry to Rottnest

7. Explore Elizabeth Quay

AI Prompt

8. Visit Kings Park

9. Head for the hills

10. Get sunset fish and chips

11. Get cultured at Perth Cultural Centre

12. Visit WA Museum Boola Bardip

13. Catch a game at Optus Stadium

14. Watch an outdoor movie

15. Visit Chinatown

16. Do a foodie walking tour

17. Explore the city in a rickshaw

18. Stand-up-paddle-board in Matilda Bay

19. Ride the bridges

20. Get amazing Asian eats in Vic Park

21. Make a day trip to Guildford

22. Take yourself on a bar crawl

Wonil Hotel Perth combines riverside living with a sense of purpose

A coffee dreamland is brewing and it’s like Willy Wonka for grown-ups

You can walk through a wardrobe to Narnia at this gorgeous bookshop

First look: The all-new Lodge at Wadjemup revealed

The East Kimberley should be on every bucket list, and here’s why.

Your guide to Lake Argyle

The backstory

The rooms

The facilities

Your guide to El Questro

The backstory

The rooms

The facilities