Perth, the sun-soaked capital of Western Australia, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and must-do adventures. From the iconic city skyline viewed from Kings Park and Botanic Garden to pristine beaches like Scarborough and Cottesloe, Perth attractions cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re strolling along walking trails at Serpentine National Park or enjoying wine tasting in the nearby Swan Valley wine region, this city offers endless opportunities to explore.
For outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike, Perth is packed with hidden gems and unforgettable experiences. Dive into Aboriginal cultural tours to learn about the traditional owners of this land or take a ferry ride to Rottnest Island for quokka selfies with animals native to Rottnest. Explore Perth’s cultural side with a visit to art galleries located in the heart of the city. And don’t miss whale watching along Western Australia’s stunning coastline—it’s all part of what makes Perth one of the most exciting cities in Australia!
🏡 Where to Stay in Perth
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Colony at Mandoon Estate
- ✨ 5-Star: QT Perth
- 🏨 4-Star: Quest Midland
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Kings Park Motel
- 💸 Cheap: Sanno Marracoonda Perth Airport Hotel
- 🏢 Apartment: Residence Langley Park
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Wattle Grove Motel
- 🏩 For Couples: Nightcap at Belgian Beer Cafe
🗺️ Best Guided Tours in Perth
- Pinnacles Desert Sunset Stargazing Tour from €105 (⭐ 4.8/5)
- Swim with Dolphins Day Trip from Perth from €155 (⭐ 4.7/5)
- Swan Valley Winery Experience - Full Day Coach Tour from €95 (⭐ 4.6/5)
- Perth Segway Tour from €65 (⭐ 4.5/5)
- Ultimate Swan Valley Food and Wine Day Trip from €125 (⭐ 4.9/5)
Best Things To Do in Perth
1. 🏝 Rottnest Island – Home of the Quokka
Unique Wildlife. Rottnest Island is an A-Class Nature Reserve famous for its adorable quokkas, native to Rottnest and found nowhere else in the world. A short ferry ride from Perth, this island offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling or relaxing.
Adventure. Rent a bike to explore hidden gems across the island or join a guided tour to learn about its history and Aboriginal culture. Don’t forget to snap a quokka selfie—it’s a must-do experience when visiting Perth!
⭐ Best tour
- Rottnest Island Round-Trip – Enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Rottnest Island, departing from Perth or Fremantle. Explore the island’s pristine beaches, meet the famous quokkas, and discover its rich history.
2. 🛍 Fremantle Markets – A Cultural Hub
Culture. Fremantle Markets are located south of Perth and offer a vibrant mix of food options, handmade crafts, and live music. This iconic spot has been a part of Perth’s cultural fabric since 1897, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Western Australia.
Local Flavors. Savor fresh produce, grab a coffee, or indulge in some local treats like a cinny scroll while soaking up the lively atmosphere. The markets are also an excellent place to find unique souvenirs and support local artisans.
⭐ Best tour
- Perth & Fremantle Tour – Discover Perth and Fremantle on a guided tour with a scenic Swan River cruise. Uncover iconic landmarks, rich history, and stunning views for the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation!
3. 🌊 Cottesloe Beach – Sun, Sand, and Surf
Beaches in Perth. Cottesloe Beach is one of Perth’s most famous beaches, known for its golden sands and turquoise waters. It’s an ideal spot to watch the sunset while enjoying fish and chips from nearby beachside cafes.
Relaxation. Whether you’re into swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the sand, this beach has something for everyone. Visit during March to catch Sculpture by the Sea, an outdoor art exhibition that transforms the coastline into an open-air gallery.
⭐ Best tour
- Perth and Fremantle Tour – Head to the coast to admire the famous sandy stretches of Cottesloe Beach and soak up the seaport ambiance of historic Freemantle. Upgrade to include a return cruise to Perth along the scenic Swan River.
4. 🛶 Swan Valley – Wine Tasting Paradise
Wine Region. Just a short drive north of Perth CBD lies Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region. It’s a haven for wine tasting enthusiasts with boutique wineries offering everything from crisp whites to bold reds.
Food Options. Pair your wine with gourmet cheese platters or visit local chocolate factories for sweet treats. For non-drinkers, there are plenty of family-friendly activities like wildlife parks and scenic walking trails through vineyards.
⭐ Best tour
- Swan Valley Gourmet Wine Cruise – Embark on a relaxing cruise along the Swan River to Swan Valley, where you’ll enjoy wine tastings, gourmet food, and scenic views. Perfect for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a leisurely day out.
5. 🐧 Penguin Island – Marine Life Encounters
Marine Park. Located south of Perth in Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, Penguin Island is home to the largest private collection of native wildlife, including little penguins and sea lions. A quick ferry ride takes you to this serene island surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
Outdoor Enthusiast. Explore walking trails around the island or join a dolphin-watching cruise for unforgettable wildlife experiences in Perth’s natural beauty. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch amidst stunning coastal scenery!
⭐ Best tour
- Shoalwater Islands Tour and Penguin Island – See wild dolphins, sea lions, pelicans, birds of prey and more on a cruise through Shoalwater Islands Marine Park before concluding on Penguin Island to explore and join a wildlife walk.
6. ⛓ Fremantle Prison – Step Back in Time
History Buffs. Fremantle Prison is Western Australia’s only World Heritage-listed building and offers fascinating guided tours through its historic grounds. Learn about its grim past as a convict prison while exploring underground tunnels or spooky night tours!
Cultural Tours. The prison also hosts exhibitions showcasing Aboriginal culture and stories of traditional owners who were once incarcerated here—a sobering yet essential part of Perth attractions that dives deep into history.
⭐ Best tour
- 2 Hours Culture and Street Art Tour in Fremantle – Explore Fremantle’s rich history and vibrant culture on foot. This tour will showcase Fremantle’s colonial past, featuring stories of daring prisoner escapes and Indigenous history. The tour includes visits to historic sites like Fremantle Prison and showcases local street art and cultural landmarks.
7. 🐋 Whale Watching – Nature at Its Best
Natural Beauty. From September to December, head out on whale-watching tours departing from Fremantle or Hillarys Boat Harbour to witness humpback whales migrating along Western Australia’s coastlines. It’s one of those must-do experiences you’ll never forget!
Marine Life Encounters. Spot dolphins and other marine life while cruising through pristine waters with expert guides sharing fascinating insights about these gentle giants’ behavior and habitats.
⭐ Best tour
- Perth: Swim with Wild Dolphins Tour – Fulfill your dream of swimming with dolphins in the wild and have an unforgettable experience, just outside of Perth.
Things to Do with Kids in Perth
1. 🧪 Scitech Interactive Museum – Where Science Meets Fun
Hands-On Learning. Scitech is a must-visit for families, offering interactive exhibits and exciting science shows that kids will love. Located in the heart of Perth, this museum turns learning into an adventure with hands-on experiments, planetarium shows, and even a robotics lab. It’s the perfect indoor activity to keep young minds curious and engaged.
Family Fun. Watch your kids’ faces light up as they explore the wonders of technology, space, and physics. Don’t miss the immersive planetarium experience—it’s like stepping into another galaxy!
⭐ Best activities
- Tour: Scitech Discovery Centre Tour – Unleash your family’s curiosity at Scitech, Perth’s only hands-on science museum with the largest planetarium in Australia, offering an affordable and educational adventure – rain or shine.
- Ticket online: Perth: Scitech Discovery Centre Entry Ticket – Scitech is Perth’s only hands-on science discovery centre and home to Australia’s largest planetarium, open 363 days of the year – rain or shine. It’s affordable, educational fun for the whole family.
2. 🦘 Caversham Wildlife Park – Meet Australia’s Native Animals
Unique Wildlife. Caversham Wildlife Park, located just a short drive from Perth CBD, is home to the largest private collection of native wildlife in Western Australia. Kids can hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle koalas, and even meet wombats in this interactive animal sanctuary. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with Australia’s unique wildlife.
Interactive Experiences. Take part in farm shows where children can milk cows or bottle-feed lambs. The park also offers plenty of picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family day out surrounded by nature.
⭐ Best activities
- Tour: Full-Day Perth – Explore the Swan Valley wine region, where you can enjoy wine and food tasting, spot kangaroos and koalas at the Caversham Wildlife Park, and visit Molly’s Farm.
- Ticket online: Pinnacles Desert & Caversham Wildlife Park: Ticket – Explore Pinnacles Desert, enjoy sandboarding, and see wildlife on a guided tour!
3. 🐠 Hillarys Boat Harbour – Aquarium Adventures
Marine Life Up Close. Take your kids to AQWA (The Aquarium of Western Australia) at Hillarys Boat Harbour for an underwater journey like no other. From coral reefs to shark tunnels, this marine park showcases the incredible marine life found along Western Australia’s coastline, including creatures from Ningaloo Reef.
Family-Friendly Fun. After exploring the aquarium, enjoy a variety of dining options at the harbor or let the kids run free at nearby playgrounds. It’s a day packed with both education and entertainment!
⭐ Best tour
- Hillarys Boat Harbour – Explore Rottnest Island at your leisure with round-trip fast ferry service from Hillarys Boat Harbour.
4. 🎮 Nostalgia Box – Australia’s Only Video Game Museum
Retro Gaming Fun. Nostalgia Box is a hidden gem located in Perth’s town centre that will delight both kids and parents alike. This quirky museum features classic consoles like the Atari 2600 and Nintendo Entertainment System, offering a chance to play retro games that defined generations.
Interactive Exhibits. Learn about the history of gaming while challenging your kids (or yourself!) to some old-school fun on vintage arcade machines. It’s a unique way to bond as a family while exploring one of Perth’s cultural treasures!
⭐ Best tour
- Margaret River, Caves, Wine Tour – Explore southwestern highlights on this diverse full-day tour to the Margaret River winemaking region from Perth. Along the way, visit the record-setting Busselton Jetty and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet.
Free Things to Do in Perth
1. 🌳 Walk the Lotterywest Federation Walkway – Nature and Views
Adventure. Strolling along the Lotterywest Federation Walkway in Kings Park is one of Perth’s must-do experiences, offering a mix of natural beauty and stunning views. This elevated walkway takes you through treetops, surrounded by exotic plants and native flora, with the city skyline as your backdrop. It’s completely free and perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with nature.
Relaxation. Take your time exploring the walking trails, or simply enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s many picnic areas. Whether you visit at dusk or dawn, Kings Park’s serene atmosphere makes it one of the most iconic Perth attractions.
2. 🦘 Spot Kangaroos on Heirisson Island – A Hidden Gem
Unique Wildlife. Heirisson Island, located in the heart of Perth, is a hidden gem where you can spot kangaroos lounging freely in their natural habitat. This peaceful sanctuary sits along the Swan River and offers a quiet escape from the bustling city. It’s an incredible way to experience Western Australia’s wildlife without spending a dime.
Tranquility. Pack a snack and enjoy the walking trails that circle the island while keeping an eye out for these iconic Australian animals. It’s a great place to unwind and soak up Perth’s natural beauty just minutes from the town centre.
3. 🎨 Visit the Art Gallery of Western Australia – A Cultural Treasure
Perth’s Cultural Scene. Located in the heart of Perth, this art gallery is home to an impressive collection of Aboriginal art and contemporary pieces from Western Australia and beyond. Entry is free, making it a fantastic way to explore Perth’s cultural heritage without breaking your budget.
Hidden Gems. Wander through exhibitions showcasing works by traditional owners or marvel at modern installations that bring creativity to life. It’s a quiet yet enriching experience perfect for art lovers visiting the city in Australia.
4. 🌊 Watch the Sunset at South Perth Foreshore – A Picture-Perfect Moment
Dusk Magic. The South Perth Foreshore offers some of the best views of Perth’s city skyline, especially as the sun dips below the horizon. Bring a blanket and settle in for a magical evening watching the sunset over the Swan River—it’s completely free and unforgettable!
Family-Friendly Fun. With plenty of picnic areas and open spaces for kids to play, it’s an ideal spot for families or couples looking for a relaxing outing. Don’t forget your camera to capture those golden-hour moments!
5. 🏖 Explore Scarborough Beach – Sun and Sand
Pristine Beaches. Scarborough Beach is one of Perth’s most popular beaches, offering golden sands and turquoise waters perfect for swimming or surfing. Best of all, enjoying this slice of paradise won’t cost you anything!
Vibrant Atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront promenade or relax on the sand while soaking up some sun. The lively vibe here makes it one of the top free things to do in Perth, whether you’re visiting solo or with friends and family.
Seasonal Activities in Perth
🌸 Spring Blooms at Kings Park
Natural Beauty. Spring in Perth is a feast for the senses, with Kings Park and Botanic Garden coming alive during the annual Wildflower Festival in September. Wander through walking trails surrounded by exotic plants and native flora unique to Western Australia. It’s the perfect time to soak in the vibrant colors and scents of over 3,000 species of wildflowers.
Relaxation. Pack a picnic and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline from one of the largest inner-city parks in the world. Don’t miss guided tours that delve into the traditional owners’ connection to this land—it’s both educational and breathtaking.
🎄 Christmas Lights at Mandurah Canals
Festive Vibes. December transforms Mandurah into a magical wonderland with its famous Christmas lights display along the canals. Hop on a ferry ride or join a guided tour to admire homes decked out in dazzling lights that reflect beautifully on the water.
Family Fun. Stroll through Mandurah’s town centre for festive markets and food options, or enjoy live music events by the waterfront. It’s a heartwarming way to celebrate the holiday season south of Perth!
☀️ Summer Festivals and Outdoor Cinemas
Entertainment. Summer in Perth is all about outdoor fun, with events like Fringe World Festival lighting up January and February. From comedy shows to cultural performances, it’s one of Perth’s cultural highlights that draws visitors from Sydney or Melbourne every year.
Relaxation. For something more laid-back, head to Moonlight Cinema at Kings Park and watch the sunset before enjoying a movie under the stars. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and settle in for an unforgettable summer evening!
🍂 Autumn Walks at Lesmurdie Falls
Adventure. Autumn is ideal for exploring Lesmurdie Falls, located just a short drive from Perth CBD. The walking trails here offer stunning views of cascading waterfalls surrounded by golden foliage—a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts!
Tranquility. Enjoy picnic areas near the falls while listening to the soothing sounds of rushing water. It’s a peaceful escape into Western Australia’s natural beauty that feels miles away from city life.
🐋 Whale Watching Along the Coast
Marine Life Encounters. From August to December, Perth’s coastline becomes a hotspot for whale watching as humpbacks migrate along Western Australia’s shores. Join tours departing from Fremantle or Hillarys Boat Harbour for up-close encounters with these gentle giants.
Unforgettable Moments. Spot dolphins and other marine life while cruising through crystal-clear waters, guided by experts who share fascinating insights about these majestic creatures. It’s one of those must-do experiences that will leave you in awe of nature!
Day Trips from Perth
1. 🏜 The Pinnacles Desert – Explore an Otherworldly Landscape
Natural Beauty. Located in Nambung National Park, The Pinnacles Desert is a surreal expanse of towering limestone formations that feels like stepping onto another planet. Just a two-hour drive north of Perth, it’s one of Western Australia’s most iconic natural wonders and a must-do experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Adventure. Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Lancelin Sand Dunes for sandboarding or a 4WD adventure. Stay until evening for stargazing under some of the clearest skies in the region—it’s an unforgettable way to end your day trip!
2. 🌊 Mandurah – Dolphins and Waterways
Marine Life. Mandurah is known for its stunning estuary, which is twice the size of Sydney Harbour and teeming with wildlife like dolphins and pelicans. Located just south of Perth, it’s perfect for families or anyone looking to escape the city for a day by the water.
Outdoor Fun. Take a dolphin-spotting cruise or rent a kayak to explore the calm waterways at your own pace. Afterward, stroll through Mandurah’s town centre to enjoy local crafts at the Mandjar Markets or relax on its pristine beaches.
3. 🌿 Serpentine Falls – A Hidden Gem in Nature
Natural Beauty. Nestled in Serpentine National Park, Serpentine Falls is an idyllic spot just 50 minutes south of Perth. The falls cascade into natural swimming pools surrounded by lush greenery, making it perfect for cooling off on warm days.
Outdoor Adventure. Explore walking trails like Kitty’s Gorge, where you’ll encounter native flora and fauna along the way. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch while kangaroos hop around nearby—it’s one of Western Australia’s hidden gems!
4. 🚶 Fremantle – History Meets Culture
Perth’s Cultural Hub. Fremantle is brimming with history, art galleries, and vibrant markets that make it one of the top day trips from Perth. Visit Fremantle Prison for a guided tour or explore the bustling Fremantle Markets for food options and unique souvenirs.
Relaxation by the Coast. Stroll along Bathers Beach or dine at Little Creatures Brewery while soaking up ocean views. From August to November, join whale watching tours departing from Fremantle to witness humpback whales migrating along Western Australia’s coastlines!
FAQs about Things to Do in Perth ❔
Where can I enjoy stunning views of Perth’s city skyline and nature?
Head to Kings Park and Botanic Garden, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, for walking trails, exotic plants, and breathtaking views of the city skyline, especially at dusk or dawn.
What are some must-do experiences for wine lovers near Perth?
Visit Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region, located just a short drive from Perth CBD, for wine tasting, gourmet food options, and scenic picnic areas surrounded by vineyards.
Where can I encounter unique wildlife and marine life near Perth?
Take a ferry ride to Penguin Island to see little penguins and other marine life in the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park or explore Heirisson Island to spot kangaroos in their natural habitat.
