A relaxed city on Australia's west coast with white-sand beaches, expansive Kings Park, and a revitalized waterfront. Home to quokkas on nearby Rottnest Island.
Perth, the capital of Western Australia, sits along the Swan River and Indian Ocean coastline. The city has 19 white-sand beaches, including popular Cottesloe and Scarborough. You can explore Kings Park, one of the world's largest inner-city parks, or enjoy the revitalized waterfront at Elizabeth Quay. Visit museums in the Perth Cultural Centre, sip coffee in lively Northbridge, or take a short ferry ride to meet the quokkas on Rottnest Island. With its Mediterranean climate and relaxed atmosphere, Perth offers a blend of urban experiences and natural attractions.
Exploring Perth's City Center
Perth's compact city center is easy to navigate on foot. Start your exploration at Elizabeth Quay, a waterfront precinct with restaurants, bars, and public art installations. From here, you can take a stroll along the Swan River or hop on a ferry to South Perth for views of the city skyline.
A short walk north brings you to the Perth Cultural Centre, where you'll find the Western Australian Museum Boola Bardip and the Art Gallery of Western Australia. These institutions display both local and international art and artifacts, providing insight into the region's culture and history.
Kings Park: Perth's Green Heart
Kings Park, one of the world's largest inner-city parks, overlooks the city and Swan River. This 400-hectare area contains native bushland, manicured gardens, and tree-lined avenues. You can join a guided walk to learn about indigenous plants, enjoy a picnic with city views, or visit the State War Memorial. The park is particularly colorful in spring when wildflowers bloom.
Beach Life in Perth
With 19 beaches along its coastline, Perth is ideal for swimmers and surfers. Cottesloe Beach, with its clear waters and Norfolk pines, is popular for swimming and sunbathing. For surfing, head to Scarborough Beach, which also has a lively beachfront area with cafes and bars. If you prefer calmer waters, try the sheltered cove of City Beach.
Fremantle: Perth's Historic Port
The port city of Fremantle, or 'Freo' to locals, is a 30-minute drive or train ride from Perth's center. This 19th-century town has Victorian-era buildings and a rich maritime history. You can visit the Fremantle Prison to learn about convict history, browse the stalls at Fremantle Markets, or enjoy fresh seafood at the Fishing Boat Harbour.
Rottnest Island: A Day Trip Paradise
Rottnest Island, a protected nature reserve, lies just offshore from Perth. A 30-minute ferry ride takes you to this car-free island, home to secluded beaches, cycling trails, and the famous quokkas – small marsupials known for their friendly appearance. You can spend the day exploring the island by bike, snorkeling in the clear bays, or relaxing on one of the 63 beaches.
Perth's Food and Drink Scene
Perth's culinary scene has grown significantly in recent years, with a focus on fresh, local produce and innovative cooking. The inner-city suburb of Northbridge has many restaurants serving everything from modern Australian cuisine to authentic Asian flavors. For a special experience, head to the Swan Valley wine region, just 25 minutes from the city, where you can sample local wines and artisanal produce.
