Perth is one of the 4 largest cities on the Australian continent. Unlike other populated parts of the country, the city on the west coast with over 2 million inhabitants is quite isolated. After exploring the city, visit the places around Perth, where you will discover extraordinary landscapes and places to explore. The city is also the starting point for travelling the wildest coast of Australia …
Fremantle
Fremantle is one of the most popular places to visit around Perth. This colonial town is situated 18 km south of Perth and is famous for its trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Fremantle Arts Centre, a former psychiatric hospital, traces the history of the city. Also visit the Western Australian Maritime Museum, which is dedicated to maritime discoveries.
The old prison, built by convicts in 1850, was used as a prison for almost 140 years. Today, you can travel back in time to experience the living conditions of former prisoners.
The Fremantle Market in a huge Victorian lobby is a must-see (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays). You will find clothes, fresh produce, jewellery, local art, artists and much more there.
Find out if there’s a festival on. In fact, the city is known for the many festivals that enliven the streets all year round.
For more information visit visitfremantle.com.au or fremantle.wa.gov.au/festivals
Rottnest Island
Everyone that plans to travel to Perth, has heard of that place. This is one of those places around Perth you have to visit. The island paradise of Rottnest Island, just 19 km from the coast, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Perth!
The island was discovered in 1696 by a Dutch navigator who called it Rat’s Nest! This is the only place where we can see the little adorable Quokkas.
To get there, take a ferry (about 30 minutes). Rottnest Express departs from Fremantle, Barrack Street Jetty (in town). The price varies depending on the place of departure, but it’s about 80 AUD return on the weekend. During the week it is cheaper. On Tuesdays, you get tickets for 40 AUD.
There are no cars on the island, only beautiful white sand beaches! On site, you can decide if you want to take the bus or explore the island by bike. We recommend renting a bike when you buy your ticket for the ferry. By the way, there are also special combo deals, including cross-country, bicycle and snorkelling gear, which are often cheaper.
The tour is 22 kilometres long, with fairly hilly roads. It’s going to be an active day. But the scenery and beautiful beaches will motivate you and you will marvel at The Bassin, Little Armstrong Bay, and Little Salmon Bay.
Take enough food and water! Except in Thomson Bay you won’t find much on the island and everything is expensive. Also remember to take your snorkelling equipment and sneakers with you.
More information: Rottnest Island, a one-day experience
South of Perth
Rockingham, 45 minutes south of Perth, is known for its marine attractions, especially swimming with dolphins. You get the opportunity to observe dolphins from transparent boats (55 AUD / person).
Further south you can observe the underwater world of humpback whales from June onwards.
About 3 hours drive south you can explore the area around the Margaret River. With world-famous surf spots and renowned vineyards, you will experience the beauty of this wild and picturesque region. In the area you can also visit the limestone caves of Mammoth, Lake or Jewel.
If you have time, you drive a bit further towards Hameln Bay. There are stunning and huge Manta Rays on the beach. An unforgettable experience!
East of Perth
We follow the Swan River and discover the picturesque area of Perth Hills just 45 minutes from the centre. It is the ideal place to discover green landscapes and explore the trails. Less than an hour east of Perth, Swan Valley and the Avon Valley are ideal destinations for a gourmet break.
In the oldest wine region of Western Australia you can enjoy delicious local wines at one of the many farms. It is also a good place to look for a seasonal job between July-August.
North of Perth
If you head north, you should definitely stop in Cervantes and the famous Pinnacles. Just 2 hours’ drive from Perth, the Nambung National Park is an incredible sight. This vast desert has a variety of rock formations shaped by nature. These limestone rocks with a height of up to 5 meters and a width of 2 meters emerged about 30,000 years ago! Entry to the National Park is 13 AUD. We recommend visiting the Pinnacles Desert at sunset. It’s the best time to take amazingly beautiful pictures.
Nambung National Park has the beautiful beaches of Kangaroo Point and Hangover Bay. North of the National Park, next to Cervantes, you can see the rock formations on a trail to Lake Thetis.
Don’t miss the Jurien Bay Marine Park a little further north. From a vast system of limestone reefs, a huge shallow lagoon has formed, where sea lions, dolphins and a variety of fish frolic. The marine park is surrounded by dozens of beautiful islands with many rare and endangered species that can’t be found anywhere else.
Updated on the 04/12/2019. Initially published on the 30/04/2019.
