Looking at the map of Australia, it’s easy to understand why many travelers don’t include Perth in their itineraries when visiting Australia. Located in the southwestern part of Australia, Perth is less than 4,000 kilometers away from Sydney, making it one of the most remote capital cities in the world with a population of over 1,000,000. Due to its isolated position as the capital of Western Australia, many people wonder if there’s any reason to visit Perth.1,600,000 people happily call Perth their home – yes, there are plenty of reasons to visit and live in Perth! Those who travel there will be rewarded with Australia’s most beautiful beaches, a thriving coffee culture, kangaroos, and coastal hikes.
Five Compelling Reasons to Visit Perth
Perth’s Epic Journey
If you take a train journey across Australia, the trip between Sydney and Perth is one of the most spectacular routes in the country. This cross-continental adventure spans four days and three nights, often ranked as one of the world’s greatest train journeys. Considering that this trip starts at 759 Australian dollars, you might consider purchasing an Australia Rail Pass, allowing you to travel on any train within Australia, including the renowned Ghan train, all for just 990 Australian dollars, valid for six months – it’s the most comfortable way to explore the Land Down Under to the fullest. The 65-hour train ride from Sydney to Perth offers the country’s most beautiful landscapes, kangaroos, the Blue Mountains, and the continent’s tiniest town – Cook, with a population of just four people. They say the journey is the destination, and that’s absolutely true when you arrive in Perth on board the Ghan.
Embrace the Relaxed Ambiance of Perth
Perth, situated along the scenic Indian Ocean with the Swan River at its core, stands out as one of Australia’s most breathtaking cities. While Perth is home to 1.6 million people, making it the country’s fourth-largest city, it exudes a distinctly laid-back atmosphere in contrast to the hustle and bustle of Sydney and Melbourne.
One of Perth’s standout features is its reputation for top-quality coffee. The city boasts a plethora of coffee shops that take pride in the art of brewing exceptional coffee. With hundreds of cafes to choose from, coffee enthusiasts will find their taste buds thoroughly satisfied.
In addition to its vibrant coffee culture, Perth offers an array of large markets and shopping districts to explore. Locations like King Street, London Court, and Northbridge provide excellent retail therapy opportunities for visitors seeking everything from unique local crafts to high-end fashion.
Moreover, Perth’s climate is nearly perfect, making it an ideal destination for those looking to bask in the sun and explore the many stunning nearby beaches. Whether you’re into surfing, sunbathing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, Perth provides an array of seaside experiences to enjoy at your own pace.
Explore Perth’s Incredible Beaches
Perth undeniably boasts some of Australia’s most stunning beaches, and due to its location on the west coast, the sunsets here are always magnificent. In fact, if you’re a fan of sunsets and beaches, you already have two compelling reasons to head to Perth and Western Australia, as the west coast excels in this regard. Here are some reasons to visit Perth’s beautiful beaches:
- Cottesloe Beach: Cottesloe Beach is easily accessible by public transport (take the Fremantle Line to Cottesloe Station). It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, known for its soft sands and crystal-clear waters.
- Scarborough Beach: Scarborough Beach is another gem that can be reached conveniently (take the Clarkson Line to Glendalough Station and transfer to bus 400). With its vibrant atmosphere and excellent amenities, it’s a great place to enjoy the sun and surf.
- Swanbourne Beach: If you’re interested in naturism, Swanbourne Beach is your best choice, being Perth’s only nudist beach.
Just an hour’s drive south of Perth, you’ll find the Shoalwater Marine Park, an excellent snorkeling spot. Besides sunken ships and cave reefs, you can also spot dolphins, sea lions, and penguins in this marine park.
For an untouched beach experience, head to Rottnest Island, located 18 kilometers off the coast of Perth, which is easily accessible by ferry. This small island, measuring 11 kilometers in length and 4.5 kilometers at its widest point, features some of the most remote and unspoiled beaches on the Australian continent, with clear, emerald waters.
As you move farther from the ferry terminal on Rottnest Island, the beaches become increasingly secluded. We recommend renting a bicycle for a leisurely island tour (the island’s circumference is about 25 kilometers). If you plan to stay overnight, be sure to make accommodations in advance, as options are limited on the island. The island is also known for its adorable short-tailed quokkas, which are a major draw for travelers to Western Australia. These friendly marsupials are sure to make your visit to Rottnest Island even more memorable.
Kangaroos and Koalas
If, like me, you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to know that if you visit Perth and want to see some of Australia’s beloved animals such as kangaroos, koalas, and wombats, you have several options:
- Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park: At Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park, you can spot kangaroos in a more natural setting, right within the city! Although it’s actually a cemetery, some might find it eerie to visit to see kangaroos. However, the park is quite popular with runners and people seeking a moment of tranquility. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic with kangaroos, and you’ll likely see other picnickers there as well. It’s also the most budget-friendly way to observe these marsupials up close – it’s completely free! You can even get there by public transport: Take the Joondalup railway line in the direction of Clarkson and alight at Whitfords. Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (gates locked outside of opening hours).
- Caversham Wildlife Park: You can also head to Caversham Wildlife Park, where you can cuddle koalas, meet wombats, and feed kangaroos. The park is easily reachable from Perth’s city center, with an admission fee of 32 Australian dollars. It’s about a half-hour drive to the park if you’re driving yourself, or approximately 75 minutes by bus (with one transfer – check the route from your accommodation to Caversham Wildlife Park). There are different ways to get there, so you have options. Opening Hours: Open every day, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (except on Christmas). Last entry is at 3:30 PM.
- Perth Zoo: Perth Zoo offers designated Australian Bushwalks where you can stroll along paths in their natural habitats. You can walk along visitor pathways for up-close encounters with native Australian animals, including dingoes, emus, koalas, echidnas, quokkas, red kangaroos, numbat, southern hairy-nosed wombats, Tasmanian devils, and western grey kangaroos. The entrance fee is 34.60 Australian dollars (children 17.30 Australian dollars). Opening Hours: Perth Zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Beyond Perth:
If you’re road-tripping through Western Australia (with Perth as an excellent starting point), you’re bound to encounter kangaroos in the wild. The vast, open landscapes of Oz often lead to empty roads, making it a common sight.
Natural Wonders Around Perth
Perth and its surroundings are a paradise for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The diverse landscapes in Western Australia offer a wide range of natural wonders, making it an essential destination for those who appreciate the great outdoors. Here’s a closer look at these attractions:
- Lancelin Sand Dunes (approximately 90 minutes north of Perth): The Lancelin Sand Dunes are a thrilling playground for those seeking an adrenaline rush. You can access these massive sand dunes, which seem to stretch on forever, with a 4WD vehicle, sandboard, or even ride a motorbike. The sensation of sliding down these towering dunes on a sandboard is a unique and exciting experience.
- Nambung National Park (around two hours north of Perth): Nambung National Park is home to the famous Pinnacles Desert. This surreal landscape is dotted with limestone pillars that rise from the golden sands, creating a truly otherworldly scene. The Pinnacles are best explored on foot, allowing you to get up close to these natural wonders. Tip: If you prefer not to drive or want a guided experience, you can join an organized tour from Perth that will take you to the Pinnacles Desert, typically including sandboarding and the chance to see kangaroos.
- Bibbulmun Track: The Bibbulmun Track is a renowned long-distance hiking trail that stretches over 1,000 kilometers from Perth to Albany. It’s considered one of the world’s most beautiful tracks, offering diverse landscapes, from coastal trails to dense forests. While completing the full hike is a remarkable achievement, you can also choose one-day or overnight hikes to experience a section of this incredible trail.
- Munda Biddi Cycle Trail: Cyclists will appreciate the Munda Biddi Cycle Trail, a 332-kilometer trail that runs along the coastline, starting in Mundaring (northeast of Perth) and ending in Collie in the south. The trail is well-maintained and showcases the stunning natural beauty of the region.
- Hills of Perth: For a relaxing escape in the hills surrounding Perth, consider staying in Armadale. This area offers proximity to regional parks, gardens, and an array of local wildlife. While you can enjoy the tranquility of nature, Armadale also provides a variety of dining options, bars, and shopping opportunities. The Heritage Country is a highly recommended accommodation choice in this area.
These natural wonders around Perth and Western Australia are a testament to the state’s breathtaking landscapes and provide countless opportunities for adventure, exploration, and relaxation amid nature’s splendor. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a hiker, a cyclist, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Perth and its surroundings have something for everyone to enjoy.
