With sunny beaches, stunning wildlife, and spectacular gardens, parks, and islands, Western Australia is a nature-lover’s paradise with Perth at the heart of the action.
#1 Rottnest Island
True bliss is relaxing on Rottnest Island surrounded by gorgeous beaches and the sparkling Indian Ocean. Explore fantastic underwater worlds when you go snorkeling above coral reefs and shipwrecks, and say hello to adorable native quokkas, cat-sized wallabies found nearly everywhere on the island. With 20 different bays to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding your spot on the shore, but no matter how much time you spend here, you’ll always want to come back for more.
#2 Cottesloe Beach
Cottesloe Beach is just a short drive up the coast from Fremantle, and it’s one of Perth’s most popular spots for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. It’s easy to see why: with shady pine trees, crystal clear waters, and pristine white sands, “Cott” is the perfect place for a lazy afternoon or family day out. Just steps away from the shore is a boulevard of restaurants and cafés, so you can enjoy a beachside breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
#3 Penguin Island
The Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is teeming with dolphins, sea lions, sting rays, and seabirds, and Penguin Island is right in the center of it all. At the Discovery Centre, visitors can get up close to the smallest species of penguin in the world, the aptly named little penguin. Snorkelers can explore the coral reefs for colorful fish, and beachgoers can go for a swim or try to spot animals in their natural habitat.
#4 AQWA Aquarium and Hillarys Boat Harbor
With more than 4,000 fish and 40 astounding exhibits, the Aquarium of Western Australia is a sight to behold. Travel down an underwater tunnel to the ocean floor and catch breathtaking views of sharks, rays, and turtles (or even swim with the sharks if you’re brave enough). Next, head to Hillarys Boat Harbor to shop, grab a bite to eat, or just relax in the fresh ocean air. Dine at a waterfront restaurant for dinner to catch a magnificent sunset on the horizon.
#5 Swan Valley
For a taste of adventure and award-winning wines, take a day trip to the Swan Valley, the oldest wine region in Western Australia. Many of the vineyards are owned by the descendants of early European settlers, who are happy to share their stories and passion for winemaking. Once you’ve tried every wine under the sun, hang out with koalas, wombats, and kangaroos in Caversham Wildlife Park or explore the region by hiking, cycling, or horseback riding. Finally, end the day with local gourmet ice cream and a visit to the beer gardens and historic pubs of colonial Guildford.
#6 Perth Zoo
Home to 1,300 animals from around the globe, Perth Zoo is an eye-opening escape into the wildest parts of the world. Explore the rainforests of Asia to see elephants, tigers, and orangutans, or go on safari through the African savannah to find lions, giraffes, and rhinoceroses. Spot local wildlife in the Australian Bushwalk and Australian Wetlands exhibits, and if you book a Close Encounter, you can get up close and personal with dingos, lions, red pandas, and many other captivating creatures.
#7 Kings Park and Botanical Garden
At Kings Park and Botanical Garden, you’ll find an oasis of greenery stretching so far you’ll forget you’re in the center of a city. Visit during the month-long Kings Park festival in September to witness beautiful carpets of wildflowers blooming across the park. Wander through flowers, exotic plants, and 3,000 species of fascinating native flora in the Western Australian Botanic Garden and learn about aboriginal culture on the self-led Boodja Gnarning Walk. Whether you want to explore every path of the park or simply relax on an afternoon picnic, you’ll find that Kings Park is truly fit for royalty.
#8 Elizabeth Quay
Along the Swan River, you’ll discover bustling Elizabeth Quay, a shopping haven where you can indulge in alfresco dining, outdoor markets, and the city’s lively festival scene. Take a boat tour around the area for a unique look at Perth, and be sure to visit the Bell Tower, one of the few places on Earth where visitors can see the ancient art of bell ringing in action.
#9 Burswood Park
On the banks of the Swan River, you’ll find Burswood Park, a sprawling parkland full of meticulously pruned gardens and pathways to explore. This scenic park is just minutes away from some of Perth’s most iconic destinations including the Matagarup Bridge, Optus Stadium, and Crown Towers. Stay a night in the luxurious Crown Towers hotel to experience incredible views and easy access to the city. Once you take a dip in the pool with the jaw-dropping skyline ahead of you, you’ll never want to leave.