Are you looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Perth City? Why not take a day trip from Perth and explore the beautiful surroundings that Western Australia has to offer. With so many amazing destinations to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. To make things easier for you, I’ve put together a list of the best day trips from Perth that you won’t want to miss.
Perth, the sun-soaked capital of Western Australia, is a vibrant city that effortlessly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. Nestled along the banks of the Swan River and framed by the pristine beaches of the Indian Ocean, Perth offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers.
From exploring the lively cultural scene and dining at world-class restaurants to enjoying outdoor adventures in Kings Park or the nearby Rottnest Island, Perth promises a unique and unforgettable journey. Its relaxed atmosphere, coupled with a backdrop of stunning sunsets and a Mediterranean climate, makes it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.
I have written these Perth day trips with different categories below.
Day Trips from Perth By Train
Perth has an extensive train network operated by Transperth, which provides convenient access to several popular day trip destinations. This means that you can easily take a day trip from Perth by train and explore the surrounding areas. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, nature, history, or just a relaxing day at the beach, there’s something for everyone. The train network is convenient and affordable, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas without a car.
Perth has an extensive train network operated by Transperth, which provides convenient access to several popular day trip destinations. This means that you can easily take a day trip from Perth by train and explore the surrounding areas. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, nature, history, or just a relaxing day at the beach, there’s something for everyone. The train network is convenient and affordable, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas without a car. So, if you are looking for day trips from perth without a car, read on.
1. Fremantle
One great option for a day trip from Perth city by train is to visit Fremantle, which is only a 30-minute ride from Perth. Fremantle is a historic port city with plenty of charm and character. Visitors can explore the Fremantle Markets, sample some craft beer at Little Creatures Brewery, or visit the Fremantle Prison for a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history. The train journey from Perth to Fremantle takes approximately 30 minutes.
2. Mandurah
Another popular day trips from perth wa is Mandurah, a coastal city located about an hour south of Perth. Visitors can take a relaxing cruise along the canals, visit the Dolphin Quay markets, or explore the Mandurah Ocean Marina. The train journey from Perth to Mandurah takes approximately one hour.
3. Perth Zoo
For those interested in wildlife and nature, the Perth Zoo is another great destination accessible by train. The zoo is home to over 1,500 animals, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. Visitors can also take part in animal encounters, such as feeding the penguins or patting a kangaroo. The train journey from Perth to the Perth Zoo takes approximately 15 minutes.
Where should i go 2 hours from Perth?
4. Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island is one of the best Perth day trips accessible by train and ferry. Visitors can take a train from Perth to Fremantle, and then catch a ferry to Rottnest Island. The island is home to stunning beaches, unique wildlife (including the famous quokka), and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as snorkeling and cycling. The train journey from Perth to Fremantle takes approximately 30 minutes, and the ferry journey from Barrack Street Jetty (which is located in the heart of Perth’s central business district and serves as a major hub for river cruises and ferries) to Rottnest Island takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on the ferry service.
5. Bunbury
Finally, for those interested in history and architecture, a day trip to the city of Bunbury is a great option. Bunbury is a coastal city located approximately 175 km south of Perth. Visitors can explore the historic Bunbury Tower House, visit the Dolphin Discovery Centre, or take a stroll along the scenic Koombana Bay. The train journey from Perth to Bunbury takes approximately two and a half hours.
6. Yanchep National Park
Moving on, for those looking for a bit of adventure and natural beauty, Yanchep National Park is a must-visit day trip from Perth. Located about 50 kilometers north of Perth, Only a short 45-minute train ride from Perth, the park is known for its caves, kangaroos, and koalas. Take a leisurely stroll around the park’s pristine wetlands, and you may even spot some of the park’s famous Western Grey Kangaroos grazing or sunbathing. If you’re up for some adventure, take a tour of the park’s underground limestone caves, which are over 10,000 years old.
Perth Day Tours
If you prefer to leave the planning to the experts, Perth day tours are a great option. One of the best day tours is the Swan Valley Wine Tour. This tour takes you on a journey through the stunning Swan Valley region, where you can enjoy wine tasting, visit local artisanal shops, and enjoy a delicious lunch. Pls see below for more recommended tours from trusted get your guide.
How many days in Perth is enough?
For a balanced visit to Perth, spending 3 days in the city itself and an additional 2 to 3 days for day trips to nearby attractions is ideal. This allows you to explore the main highlights of Perth and enjoy some of the beautiful destinations just outside the city. So, a total of 5 to 6 days in the Perth area is generally sufficient for a fulfilling trip.
Self-drive day trips from Perth
1. Caversham Wildlife Park
One of the best self drive short road trips from perth is Caversham Wildlife Park. Located only a short 20-minute drive from Perth, this Park is home to over 200 species of animals including koalas, kangaroos, and wombats.
In season, you can also enjoy some of the park’s unique experiences, such as feeding the penguins or cuddling a koala and watching a farm show that features sheep shearing and cow milking. For a truly unique experience, you can book a “Close Encounters” tour and interact with the park’s koalas and wombats up close.
Alternatively, take bus 345 from Bennett Springs or you can take a train to Bassendean Station and then a taxi or a bus to the park.
2. Nambung National Park
Another self-drive day trip from perth, is Nambung National Park. Located just a 2 hour drive from Perth, this park is known for its iconic natural limestone formations, known as the Pinnacles. These tall, limestone pillars rise from the sand dunes and create a stunning, almost otherworldly landscape. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to observe the Pinnacles up close or take a scenic drive through the park’s sand dunes and bushland.
3. The Perth Mint
This is where visitors can learn about the history of the Western Australian gold rush and see the impressive gold bar collection. Take a guided tour to learn about the minting process and see the machinery in action. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop, which has a wide selection of gold and silver coins for purchase.
4. Kings Park and Botanic Garden
This is another perth tourist attractions, the gardens are particularly stunning when the flowers are in full bloom. Take a leisurely stroll through the park and enjoy the fresh air while admiring the breathtaking views of the city. The park also offers a range of events and activities, including guided walks, concerts, and outdoor cinemas.
6. Swan Valley
If you’re in the mood for some gourmet food and wine, head to Swan Valley. Located just a 30-minute drive from Perth, the Swan Valley is home to over 40 wineries, as well as a range of restaurants, cafes, and breweries. Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the many vineyards, indulge in some delicious food at the local cafes and restaurants, go on a swan river cruise, and take in the beautiful scenery. Be sure to visit the Chocolate Factory and sample some of the delicious chocolates on offer.
7. Shoalwater Islands Marine Park
For those interested in marine life, a visit to the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is a must. Located about an hour south of Perth, the park is home to the popular Penguin Island, where you can observe the world’s smallest penguin species, the Little Penguin. Visitors can take a short 5-minute ferry ride to the island and explore its stunning beaches and scenic walking trails. You can also go snorkeling, kayaking, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to observe the diverse marine life of the park, including sea lions, dolphins, and tropical fish.
Day Trips from Perth with Dogs
Shoalwater Islands Marine Park
If you’re a dog owner, you know how important it is to include your furry friend in your adventures. Fortunately, there are plenty of day trips from Perth Australia that you can take with your dog. One of the best destinations in the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. Just a short 45-minute drive from Perth, this marine park is a dog-friendly destination where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach with your furry companion.
Yanchep National Park
Additionally, Yanchep National Park is another great day trip option for dog owners. The park is just a short 45-minute drive from Perth and features beautiful hiking trails, picnic areas, and even a dog-friendly beach.
Lancelin Sand Dunes
For a more adventurous day trips perth wa, consider visiting Lancelin Sand Dunes. The dunes are just over an hour’s drive from Perth and if you’re looking for a bit more flexibility, self-drive day trips from Perth are a great option. You can go sandboarding, quad biking, take a walk along the beach, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery.
Black Diamond Lake
If you’re looking for a place to let your dog run off-leash, consider heading to Black Diamond Lake in Ellenbrook located just an hour’s drive from the city. This picturesque lake is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a swim. Visitors can also hike around the lake and observe the diverse birdlife of the area. Also, it is surrounded by parkland and features a designated off-leash dog area where your furry friend can play and socialize with other dogs.
Margaret River region
Lastly, the Margaret River region is also a great option for dog owners. With its stunning beaches and wineries, the Margaret River region offers a variety of dog-friendly activities. Enjoy a wine tasting at a dog-friendly winery or take your dog for a walk along the beach.
It’s important to note that when traveling with your dog, it’s always a good idea to check if the destination is dog-friendly and if there are any specific rules or regulations you need to follow.
Alternatively consider these day tours in Perth for ease and connivence.
Weekend Trips from Perth
If you perfer to go on day trips out of Perth on the weekends then read below.
1. Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Western Australia. Located in Augusta, it’s about a three-hour drive from Perth. While it’s possible to make this a weekend trip and stay in Augusta overnight, it’s also possible to do it as a day trip if you leave early in the morning.
The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and the Southern Ocean, and you can even climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, and explore the adjacent maritime museum.
The surrounding area is also home to some stunning natural scenery, including the Jewel Cave and Hamelin Bay, where you can see stingrays up close and making it an excellent spot for whale watching during the migration season.
2. The Pinnacles
This unique natural wonder is located around 2.5 hours north of Perth and can easily be explored on a day trip or a weekend trip. The towering limestone formations rising out of the yellow sand dunes are a unique sight and make for some great photo opportunities. You can take a scenic drive through the Pinnacles Desert, hike the trails to explore the formations up close, or even take a guided tour to learn about the area’s geological and cultural history.
3. Wave Rock
If you’re up for a longer adventure, consider a weekend trip or a 3 day trip from Perth to Wave Rock. Located around 3 hours east of Perth, this natural rock formation is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and exploring. You can also visit nearby attractions such as the Hippo’s Yawn and Mulka’s Cave, which are rich in Aboriginal culture and history. Camping at Wave Rock is also a popular option for those who want to spend more time in nature.
For accommodation, I recommend using booking.com and sorting with price, then consider the ones with highest reviews plus within 1km of center/old town. Below I have researched and linked the best ones with this filter (at the time of writing)
For tours, I recommend using get your guide and walking tours available in most places
4. Albany
Another places to go to in perth is Albany. The travel time of around 4.5 hours makes it a manageable journey for a long weekend, and you can plan your route to take in other attractions along the way. Once in Albany, there are plenty of things to see and do, from whale watching to hiking and exploring the town’s history. And if you’re looking for a place to stay, there are plenty of options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels.
5. Esperance
Another places to visit in Perth is Esperance which is a must-do for nature lovers. This picturesque coastal town is located around 7 hours south of Perth and is home to stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and snorkeling. With plenty of accommodation options available, it’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
6. Kalgoorlie
If you’re interested in learning about Western Australia’s gold rush history, consider a 3 or longer day trip to Kalgoorlie. This historic gold mining town is located around 6 hours east of Perth and offers a unique glimpse into the rugged outback scenery.
In addition to its gold rush history, Kalgoorlie is also home to a number of other attractions, including the Super Pit, which is one of the largest open-cut gold mines in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the mine to learn about the mining process and see the massive trucks and equipment used in the mining industry. The town also has a rich cultural history and is home to a number of museums and galleries, as well as some great restaurants and pubs where you can sample local cuisine and craft beer.
7. Jurien Bay
If you’re looking for a shorter trip, another places to go in perth is Jurien Bay. This popular seaside town is located around 2.5 hours north of Perth and is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundance of marine life. Take a stroll along the beach, go for a swim or snorkel, and enjoy a picnic lunch with your family or friends.
8. Busselton
Another great option for a places to go Perth is Busselton, a charming coastal town located around 2.5 hours south of Perth. It’s home to the famous Busselton Jetty, which is the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere, stretching out 1.8 km into the Indian Ocean. Visitors can take a train ride along the jetty and admire the beautiful ocean views. Busselton is also known for its wineries, breweries, and gourmet food, making it a great destination for food and wine enthusiasts.
9. Margaret River
For those who want to hit the road and explore Western Australia’s stunning countryside, there are many fantastic road trip itineraries to choose from. One of the best places to visit perth is the Margaret River Region, located around 3 hours south of Perth; known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and excellent wineries. Visitors can explore the many local wineries, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and take in the natural beauty of the area. Another popular route is a trip to Lancelin Sand Dunes, where you can go sandboarding, take a 4WD tour, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views of the sand dunes and the Indian Ocean.
In conclusion, there are plenty of amazing day trips in Perth wa that you can enjoy, whether you’re looking for quick day trips from Perth, a short getaway, or a weekend adventure. Whether you prefer a self-drive adventure, a day tour, or a leisurely stroll through one of the region’s stunning national parks, there’s something for everyone.
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