From beach sunsets and day trips to free museums and galleries, these are the best activities in Perth
Written by Melissa Woodley
Editor, Time Out Australia
Perth might feel like it’s in a world of its own, but anyone who’s been there will tell you it’s absolutely worth the trip (which is a little over four hours by plane from Sydney or Melbourne).
Once solely known for its pristine beaches and perfect weather, Perth’s booming restaurant and culture scenes, and its trendy sister city, Fremantle (just 30 minutes from Perth), have put Western Australia’s capital city on the international radar. Our expert writers, including Time Out’s Editor, Melissa Woodley, have collated this mega guide on the best things to do in Perth. From a breezy stroll through Kings Park to a dip at the stunning Cottesloe Beach, the essentials are all here. We also reckon day trips to Fremantle and Rottnest Island are absolute musts. Happy exploring!
Editors’ favourite things to do in Perth:
- Best for a sunny day: Cottesloe Beach
- Best for families: Picnic in Kings Park
- Best for an adventure: Kitty’s Gorge Walk
🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth
🖼️ The best museums and galleries in Perth
⭐️ The best hotels in Perth
Best activities in Perth
5. Picnic in Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Photograph: Tourism Western Australia
What is it? One of the largest inner-city parks in the world.
Why go? Boasting uninterrupted views of Perth City and showcasing a collection of native WA flora and fauna, it’s pretty easy to get lost in the moment at Kings Park. But there’s more to this 400-plus-hectare park than meets the eye. With cultivated gardens, untamed bushland, various walking trails and plenty of lush green grass to throw down a picnic rug, it’s no surprise this popular tourist spot is visited by millions of people each year.
Time Out tip: In the warmer months, there’s even more reason to visit Kings Park with pop-up movies by Moonlight Cinema.
6. Follow Perth’s wholesome Bee Scene Trail
Photograph: City of Perth
What is it? A slow-paced, self-guided outdoor trail designed to educate visitors about Western Australia’s native pollinators.
Why go? Make a bee-line to West Perth’s Outram Street where you’ll discover ‘Forage’ – a colourful, new large-scale mural painted directly onto the road by local artist Sioux Tempestt. Drawing inspiration from the native flora and landscapes of nearby Kings Park (think banksia, bottlebrush, native hibiscus and tea tree), this pavement masterpiece is free, easily walkable and the perfect detour on your way back from the park. After exploring ‘Forage’, you can continue strolling along the broader Bee Scene Trail. Created by the WA Loves Nature initiative, the interactive route offers fantastic tips on how to protect our tiny buzzing friends and encourage them into your own backyard. You can find the trail map featuring vibrant murals, sculptures, bee hotels and wildflower gardens here.
Time Out tip: On the side of 79 Colin Street, you’ll pass the gorgeous ‘Everlastings’ installation, featuring WA’s iconic pink and white paper daisies that light up after dark.