Cottesloe Beach, affectionally referred to as “Cott” by the locals, is certainly Perth’s most iconic beach for good reasons.
The calm, glistening, turquoise waters make this a popular swimming spot in summer when residents and visitors flock from all over Perth to hang out in this hip and trendy beachside town.
Even when the weather doesn’t permit swimming (aside from some brave surfers and die-hard ocean lovers), Cottesloe is also a great location for winding down, enjoying a sumptuous meal or coffee and sipping on your favourite beverage overlooking the ocean. Il Lido Italian canteen, the historic Indiana Teahouse and the Cottesloe Hotel are all located directly opposite the shoreline.
Stay for the day, bring a picnic and relax on the terraced lawns while listening to the ocean waves. This is Perth at its best. Located just 15 minutes from the CBD.
Some alternative Perth beaches you might like to check out are Scarborough, Trigg, South Beach, Floreat, and Coogee, or head further north to Hillarys Marina or Yanchep Lagoon.
Find out more about Perth’s beaches here.
A visit to Perth would not be complete without spending some time in our famous Port City, Fremantle. Fremantle Estuary and Harbour is where the mouth of the Swan River meets the Indian Ocean and the entire area is a historical landmark of maritime, Victorian and Edwardian activity. Perth’s ‘second’ city is home to a rich bohemian culture with a thriving arts and culinary scene and tourist attractions like the Fremantle Markets, Fremantle Prison, and the Round House. It is also home to Notre Dame University, making the area a lively hub of events and nightlife all year round.
Find out more about things to see and do in Fremantle here.
Fremantle If you want to get onto higher ground, the Darling Ranges aka ‘Perth Hills’ sprawls from South to North of the River, separating the greater Perth area from the Rural Wheatbelt region to the East.
Here you can go hiking in the National Parks, along one of the great hiking trails, the famous Bibbulman track, with some sections offering spectacular views back across Perth. Spot a Kangaroo and other native wildlife, pack a picnic and have a BBQ or gaze across the vast Mundaring Weir (home to the infamous C.Y O’Connor pipeline).
The Darling Range can be accessed from the hill towns of Kalamunda and Mundaring, about 40 minutes drive from Perth.
At the base of the Darling Ranges, you will find Perth’s oldest, premium wine region, the Swan Valley. Ferry tours leaving from Elizabeth Quay will transport you up the Swan River to over 40 world-class wineries where you can enjoy a sit-down meal or tasting session.
The region is known for its Mediterranean climate, making it perfect for producing signature varieties of Chenin Blanc, Verelho and Shiraz. This is a popular day trip for locals and visitors alike.
To book a wine tour click here.
Swan Valley Kings Park is a 400 hectare park filled with walking routes and running tracks, surrounded with native vegetation, seasonal blooms, and rich Aboriginal heritage.
From here you can experience the breathtaking views of Derbarl Yerrigan (the Swan River), the Perth City skyline, and Darling Ranges which are even more impressive during sunrise and sunset.
Explore by yourself or join one of the many tours available.
Kings Park If you are staying on Rottnest Island following the conclusion of the WECP events and looking for the perfect place to stay, the Island has a variety of different accommodations to choose from. From an eco-sustainable resort, to boutique hotels and self-contained cottages, your holiday on the Island can be tailored to suit your preferences.
Rottnest, is almost entirely free of cars, giving it a unique and tranquil vibe.
With limited vehicles available, cycling is the primary mode of transport on the Island. Bikes and e-bikes are available to hire from Pedal and Flipper Hire who will personally select a bike for you to ensure maximum comfort and safety.
The Island also offers boat, bus, and on-demand private Island transport for those looking for a more luxurious experience.
Learn about the history of the Island at Wadjemup Museum, which dates back tens of thousands of years when the Nyoongar people occupied the land, through to colonialisation and its role as an Aboriginal prison site, and on to its present day status as a tourism hotspot. Snorkel or dive on one of the 13 shipwrecks, zip around on a Segway tour, or spend time capturing the perfect quokka selfie with the ‘happiest animal on earth’.
Rottnest is full of history and adventure and there are plenty of fabulous eateries and drinking spots to quench you when you return from a day of exploring. Click here to plan your extended visit.
Rottnest The most beautiful part of Western Australia is Australia’s Southwest, 3-5 hours drive south of Perth CBD. This coastal region of WA is home to ancient forests and caves, magnificent beaches, hundreds of wineries and cooler temperatures making it the number 1 getaway destination for Perth locals. Choose from multiple towns along the coast; Margaret River, Pemberton, Denmark, Albany and Esperance. Each area offers a unique experience and majestic landscapes to explore.
Plan your holiday in the South West here.
