Best Day Trips from Perth
Located in Western Australia, Perth has plenty going for it. With beautiful parks along the Swan Valley, exciting nightlife, and some excellent food, Perth has everything you need for a great holiday destination.
But one of the things that makes Western Australia's biggest city so unique is how easy it is to get from Perth to some of the incredible natural attractions you'll find in this part of the country. Drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Perth, and you'll be ready to take the best day trips from Perth to explore the natural riches of Western Australia.
However you like to spend your time on vacation, you'll find something to enjoy here. Whether you're looking for a leisurely river cruise, incredible hiking through pristine forests, or encounters with the local wildlife, a day trip from Perth makes it easy to explore the best of what Australia has to offer. Once you've seen the city's cultural attractions, like Perth's best museums, get ready to explore further and see some more of this fascinating country.
How to get out of Perth
If you want to try the best day trips from Perth, you'll need to plan ahead. As a relatively young country, Australia doesn't have the transport infrastructure you'll find in European capitals. In fact, since Western Australia is so sparsely populated, Perth isn't well connected by train, even by Australian standards.
That means that if you want to head out of the city on a day trip, your best bet is probably to rent a car. That will allow you to go where you want on your own schedule and see some of Western Australia's top attractions. Some of these day trips are also accessible by long-distance bus service, so if you don't want to drive, that may be an option. But generally, escaping Perth on a weekend getaway will require you to have your own wheels.
On the other hand, if you're wondering how to navigate the city itself, check out our guide on how to get around Perth.
From Perth to Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island is one of the most popular day trips from Perth. And it's no wonder since this island paradise has everything you could want in a beach getaway. As an added bonus, it's only a short ferry ride from the city center.
Rottnest is best known for its quokkas, which are a type of small marsupial that looks like a cross between a kangaroo and a teddy bear. These friendly creatures are found nowhere else in the world, so if you're looking for an animal encounter, this is the place to go.
But Rottnest is about more than just quokkas. The island is also home to some of Western Australia's best beaches. You can relax on the sand, go for a swim, or even try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. And if you're feeling adventurous, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore.
How to get to Rottnest Island
The island is one of the few places you can easily reach by public transit from Perth. The ferry from Fremantle to the island takes 25 minutes, or you can leave from Barrack Street Jetty in Perth itself for a 90-minute boat ride to the island.
From Perth to Fremantle
Fremantle is another popular day trip from Perth. This historic city was once the center of Australia's thriving maritime trade. Today, it's a lively cultural hub with a strong arts scene.
Start your visit at the Western Australian Maritime Museum, which tells the story of Fremantle's seafaring past. Then stroll through the atmospheric streets of the city center, stopping to browse the boutiques and art galleries. If you're hungry, stop for lunch at one of Fremantle's many excellent cafes.
In the afternoon, head to Bathers Beach for a swim or just to relax on the sand. Then finish up your day with a visit to Little Creatures Brewery, where you can sample some of Fremantle's local craft beer.
How to get to Fremantle
Fremantle is only a 30-minute drive from Perth, making it one of the easiest day trips on this list. If you don't want to rent a car, there are also plenty of public transit options. You can take the train from Perth station, which takes about 30 minutes or catch one of the many buses that run between the two cities.
From Perth to Swan Valley
The Swan Valley is Perth's wine country. This region is home to more than 40 wineries, as well as breweries, distilleries, and cideries. It's the perfect place to spend a day if you're looking for a relaxing getaway from the city.
Start your day with a tour of Houghton Winery, one of the Swan Valley's oldest and most respected producers. Then head to Mandoon Estate for lunch, where you can enjoy a meal accompanied by views of the vineyards. In the afternoon, visit Lamont's Winery for a tasting before heading back into Perth.
How to get to Swan Valley
The Swan Valley is only a 30-minute drive from Perth, so it's one of the easiest day trips from Perth you can take. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the world-class wineries of Western Australia while you're in the area.
From Perth to Nambung National Park
Nambung National Park is home to the iconic Pinnacles Desert. This otherworldly landscape is made up of thousands of limestone pillars, some of which are over four meters tall. It's one of the most unique places you'll ever see, and it's only a few hours from Perth.
The best way to experience the Pinnacles is on a guided tour. You can choose a 4WD tour for an adventurous day out or opt for a camel ride for a more relaxed experience. You can also visit the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre to learn more about this unique Western Australia ecosystem. Either way, you're sure to have an unforgettable day in this strange and beautiful place.
How to get to Nambung National Park
Nambung National Park is located about 250 kilometers north of Perth, so it's best to rent a car for the day. The drive takes about three hours, but it's worth it to see this one-of-a-kind landscape.
From Perth to Wave Rock
Wave Rock is one of Australia's most iconic natural landmarks. This giant rock formation gets its name from its distinct wave-like shape. It's over four meters high and 500 meters long, and it's an amazing sight to see.
You can learn all about the history and geology of Wave Rock on a guided tour. You'll also get to explore the surrounding countryside, which is home to native wildlife like kangaroos and emus. You can also visit the ancient rock paintings in the area that are a testament to the long history of the indigenous culture here. After your hike, relax with a picnic lunch before heading back to Perth.
How to get to Wave Rock
Wave Rock is located about 400 kilometers east of Perth, so your best option is to travel by car. The drive takes about four hours, but if you leave early and come back late, you can just about make it in a day.
From Perth to Yanchep National Park
Yanchep National Park is one of the closest national parks to Perth. It's located just an hour north of the city, and it's a great place to escape for a day.
The park is home to native Australian wildlife like kangaroos and wombats. You can also see eucalyptus forests, wildflowers, and beautiful ocean views. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, or you can take a leisurely walk through the park on the boardwalk. Don't miss the chance to see the koalas at the Yanchep Koala Sanctuary, where you can learn all about these cute and cuddly creatures.
How to get to Yanchep National Park
Yanchep National Park is only an hour's drive from Perth, so it's one of the easiest days trips you can take. You can also take a tour from Perth that includes transportation and entry to the park.
From Perth to Rockingham and Penguin Island
Rockingham is a coastal town located south of Perth. It's a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and snorkeling. You can also take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the amazing marine life just offshore.
Penguin Island is one of Rockingham's most popular attractions. This small island is home to a colony of little penguins, as well as other native wildlife like pelicans and dolphins. You can take a guided tour of the island or explore on your own. Either way, you're sure to have a fun day in Rockingham.
How to get to Rockingham and Penguin Island
Renting a car is the best way to get from Perth to Rockingham and Penguin Island. The drive takes about 40 minutes, and you'll be able to explore the town and the island at your own pace. You can also take a tour from Perth that includes transportation and entry to Penguin Island.
From Perth to Serpentine National Park
Serpentine National Park is located south of Perth. It's a beautiful area with plenty of hiking trails and scenic lookouts. You can also see native wildlife like kangaroos, echidnas, and snakes.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can go camping in the park. There are several campgrounds to choose from, or you can get a permit to camp anywhere in the park. Just be sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this natural environment.
How to get to Serpentine National Park
Renting a car is the best way to get from Perth to Serpentine National Park. The drive takes about 45 minutes, and it'll be handy to have a car once you're in the park to help you get to the scenic hiking trails and the majestic Serpentine Falls.
From Perth to Caversham Wildlife Park
Caversham Wildlife Park is located just outside of Perth. It's a great place to see native Australian animals like kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. You can also feed the farm animals or take a ride on the miniature train.
If you're visiting with kids, they'll love the petting zoo and the chance to get up close and personal with some of their favorite animals. Caversham Wildlife Park is a great way to spend a day if you're looking for an educational and fun-filled outing.
How to get from Perth to Caversham Wildlife Park
Caversham Wildlife Park is only a 25-minute drive from Perth, so it's one of the easiest day trips you can take. You can also take a tour from Perth that includes transportation and entry to the park if that suits you better.
From Perth to John Forrest National Park
John Forrest National Park is located east of Perth. It's a beautiful area with plenty of hiking trails and scenic lookouts. You can also see native wildlife like kangaroos and echidnas.
The park is also home to Hovea Falls, which is the perfect place to cool off in the heat of Australian summer. Just be warned, because this park is so close to Perth, you can expect it to be busy when the weather is good.
How to get to John Forrest National Park
Renting a car is the best way to get from Perth to John Forrest National Park. The drive takes about 33 minutes, but the park feels much further away than that.
Conclusion
For all the attractions the city of Perth has to offer, it's the surrounding area that steals the limelight. With so many national parks in the area and bucket list destinations like Rottnest Island to explore, the best day trips from Perth will allow you to see what makes Western Australia so special. Drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Perth, and you'll be ready to make the most of your Australian vacation.
