West Coast, best coast? Heading out west to Perth provides the opportunity to indulge in picturesque excursions, original restaurants and bars, and a wide variety of oceanic aesthetics. Check out our fundamentals of travelling to Perth, for a synopsis of the must-do's, good eats, beach hangs, and exotic places to journey to.
Must Do's
1) Top of the Perth "must do" list is to take a drive to Kings Park and Botanic Garden. As one of the world's largest and most attractive inner-city parks, enjoy the unique design and striking views of the Swan and Canning Rivers. Lotterywest Federation Walkway is a short hike we recommend.2) Head to Elizabeth Quay for art exhibitions, delicious food, markets, shopping, history, and more. This area is relatively new to Perth, and its restructured design proves to be an ideal one stop shop for all of your leisurely activities.
3) The Northbridge boutique scene isn't one to miss. This is where the nightlife lives and the eclectic shops call home. With a plethora of cafes, bars, and restaurants, as well as museums and stimulating cultural events, Northbridge is a great place to stay or to frequent on a night out on the town.
4) Drive a mere 30 minutes from the Perth CBD and you'll discover the charm of Fremantle. Take a tour through the Fremantle Prison, or explore the fishing boat harbour and the local markets for a fresh, authentic port city experience on the Indian Ocean.
5) A few other must do's throughout Perth include Jacob's Ladder if you're looking for an exercise fix, the Perth mint if you crave an educational experience on WA's enterprises, or the WA Museum for enlightening cultural experiences through various research pieces and exhibitions.
Restaurants
Eat your way through some of the best restaurants in Perth and the surrounding areas. With a zesty combination of international and local cuisines, your tastebuds won't be disappointed.1) Long Chim/ Tuck Shop Café
Thai inspired, the Long Chim restaurant surpasses expectations, bringing the heart of Bangkok to the Perth CBD. Experience authentic dishes, signature drinks, and eclectic creations of Thai cuisine. Not to mention, the Tuck Shop Café - a new addition to the establishment, but in the form of Thai Street Food/Takeaway. Eat your heart out.
2)Lalla Rookh
Just a stone's throw away from Central Park and Saint Mary's Cathedral, this underground bar and restaurant's forte is in traditional Italian cuisine. Perfect for any occasion (a casual dinner, after work scene, or group function), Lalla Rookh charms each guest with creatively designed meals. The Wine Store is also available for takeaway or a cheeky glass to sip on.
3) Meat Candy
Located in Northbridge, this restaurant has some lip smacking dishes to please. Think smoked meats and fried chicken galore. With a touch of Nashville's cuisine appeal plus American-style burgers, you can't go wrong with this hearty menu. Side note: get ready for one of the best Bloody Mary's around and a boozy milkshake to devour.
4) Run Amuk
Casual but cosy. Take a short 30-minute drive to South Fremantle for the best hot dogs in town. The bratwurst sausages served in this trendy shop are locally sourced, hidden underneath an assorted collection of delicious toppings. Enjoy a relaxed and funky atmosphere, suitable for any crowd.
5) Annalakshmi
Close to the Rottnest Ferry on the Swan River, this eatery is perfect for the traveller(s) on a budget or for the veggie lovers. Their approach to gastronomy: "Eat to your heart's content and pay what your heart feels." Focused on health and wellness, this is the perfect place to have an exceptional meal while paying it forward. Not to mention, the sunsets add an invaluable natural touch.
Bars
1) Oyster BarThis new hot spot at Elizabeth Quay will bring your seafood expectations to new heights. Oyster Bar only serves the best molluscs from the freshest farms in Coffin Bay, South Australia, near Port Lincoln. Indulge in a couple Oyster shots, your new favourite alcoholic beverage. You might want to swing by on a Wednesday, when the menu is discounted from 11am to 12am or at Oyster Hour on Friday nights.
2) Sneaky Tony's
A sneaky speakeasy within the alleyways of Northbridge welcomes you - but only if you know the password (found on their Facebook page). With a hankering for rum, you'll find 300 varieties occupying the shelves. If that's not your cup of "tea," have no fear; there are plenty of other beverages to go around.
3) The Flour Factory
A little bit of this, a little bit of that. This 100-year-old flour mill was revamped into three floors of satisfaction. The cuisine fuses modern Australian with a Spanish twist, plus the largest gin and fortified wine collection in the CBD. Not to be forgotten: The Sherry, a hidden rooftop bar on the top floor of the Flour Factory for private functions.
4) Little Creatures Brewing
Does this need an introduction? Famous for their ales and ciders, the home of Little Creatures is right in the heart of Fremantle. Step beyond the brick walls of the Brewing Company into a vast 'Great Hall' by the Fishing Boat Harbour for a mouth-watering pizza and a buzzing environment. With five different spaces to check out throughout the brewery, one of these hangs will match the atmosphere you're after.
5) Ellington Jazz Club
Sway to the beat and feel the jazzy vibes. With the top Australian jazz talent in a chilled setting, drop in for a tune or spend the whole night absorbing the pulsating compositions. To be sure you get one of the best seats in the house, book in advance or scoot on over the bar area for your fix of soul food.
Beach Day
…Or week. Might as well make it a year with the variety of beaches Perth has to offer.1)Port Beach
Coined as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Perth area, Port Beach is a relaxing spot to bring your family, snack on a picnic, or enjoy the powdery white sand and clear, turquoise water.
2) Cottesloe Beach
The most popular seaside destination at your fingertips. Have a swim, snorkel, or surf-off the famous shoreline, known for its shady pine trees and grassed promenades.
3) Leighton Beach
Welcome to a peaceful abode just around the corner from the city. Dog lovers, this one's for you, too. With tranquil vibes, enjoy the ebb and flow of the small waves during a long walk or striking sunset.
4) Scarborough Beach
Happening, trendy, and lively. This spot is ideal for sports, has the swell for surfing, and provides a variety of shopping options. There are copious restaurants and cafes, fitting for a morning coffee or afternoon snack.
5) Trigg Beach
Ride the waves all day long. One of the main beaches for surfing, the swell is suitable for all body boarding, boogie boarding, and surfing proficiencies. Enjoy the hues of ocean blues, collect a few shells, or grab a bite at the local café.
Other beaches to check out: City Beach, Swanbourne Beach, Mullaloo Beach, Mettam's Pool, and North Beach.
Day Trips
For a scenic journey within the Perth vicinity, take a look at the day-trip opportunities Western Australia has to offer:1)Swan Valley
About an hour outside of Perth is the stunning Swan Valley, boasting WA's finest wineries, artist studios, and sweeping landscapes. The Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail is a 32km loop that winds through 150 wineries, breweries, distilleries, cafes, local farms, and more. In between copious indulgences, check out the Maalinup Gallery for a cultural experience and exquisite aboriginal art. For a family oriented activity, enjoy Supa Golf - golf with an entertaining twist (oversized clubs, golf balls, and putting cups).
2) The Pinnacles
The Pinnacles Desert is a renowned Aussie destination with thousands of natural limestone structures. With varying colour schemes, the panorama will leave you in awe. Just a two-hour drive north of Perth, travellers can trek through Nambung National Park for an up close and personal experience, or see The Pinnacles from the comfort of their vehicle. On the way to the Pinnacles and beyond, there are opportunities to explore the Yanchep National Park walking trails, Lancelin, and Cervantes regions.
3) Margaret River Wines
A three-hour drive south of Perth will transport you to the Margaret River region, known for premium wines and high-quality food. This area is also famed for its surfer friendly coastline, boasting striking beaches that inspire (such as Surfers Point near Prevelly). Other destinations to explore nearby include: Boranup Karri Forest, Ngilgi Cave near Yallingup, Mammoth Cave, Dunsborough Rail Carriages and Farm, Meelup Beach, Eagle Bay, and Bunker Bay.
4) Rottnest Island
One of the most popular and famous destinations in WA, this island is only a short 25 to 45-minute ferry ride from Fremantle or Perth. Free guided walking tours throughout the Island will provide a historic, fulfilling excursion. We recommend climbing the Wadjemup Lighthouse (think insane panoramic views), or following one of the many paths along Wadjemup Bidi. Take advantage of the 83 beaches scattered throughout the island, and have a snorkel/swim with an abundance of wildlife. Don't forget to take a few selfies with the friendly, adorable quokkas (think cat sized wallaby) roaming around the island, which are only found in a few locations in WA.
5) Rockingham & Penguin Island
Drive 45 minutes south of Perth to explore the town of Rockingham, with just a 5-minute ferry ride to Penguin Island. Turquoise waters, soft, sandy beaches, and experiences with sea lions, and dolphins - Penguin Island resembles a celestial paradise; and of course, travellers have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the world's smallest penguins. Be sure to explore the rest of Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, offering impressive bushwalking views, plentiful fishing, diving, kayaking, and more. Traveller's Trip: be wary of the large Great White's that tend to roam the surrounding seas.
Western Australia Excursions
Below is a list of places that take a bit more than a day to visit, but are worth checking out if you have more time to explore Perth and the surrounding WA region:• The picturesque drive from Perth to Exmouth
• Karijini National Park to indulge in the natural wilderness
• Ningaloo Reef for breathtaking aquatic scenery and snorkelling
• Monkey Mia to swim with dolphins up close and personal
• Explore Broome - and don't forget to ride a camel
• The Kimberley, including Cygnet Bay on the shoreline
• Discover Esperance to bask in the coastal sunshine
• Take a drive to Albany to relax in the Greens Pool
