The 30 best things to do in Perth Australia

From its sun-drenched beaches, wide-open spaces, commitment to the arts and culture, and the chance to finally snap a selfie with a quokka, Perth / Boorloo is a destination that knows how to wow.

Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend, looking to soak up Perth’s relaxing atmosphere as a break from work, or ready to experience exhilarating Western Australia on a road trip, Perth fabulous sights, attractions, and wildlife to entertain you.

We’ve selected our top 30 things to do in Perth.

1. Relax on idyllic Cottesloe Beach

No visit to Perth is complete with time spent on picture-perfect Cottesloe Beach. Swim, snorkel, surf, sunbathe, and as dusk falls, grab some fish and chips for one of Western Australia’s famous sunsets. Beachside cafes and the Marine Parade art installations enhance Cottesloe Beach’s laidback vibes.

Time: Allow 2-4 hours

Parking: Challenging on weekends

2. Soak up the rays in Kings Park

At 400 hectares, Kings Park is one of the world’s largest inner-city parks and a fabulous place to enjoy Perth’s incredible city skyline views and 3,200 hours of annual sunshine. Walk the trails, meander in the treetops on a skywalk, and sniff the 3,000+ varieties of native flora in the park’s botanic gardens. You can even take a free guided tour, running twice daily.

Kings Park is an ideal spot for motorhome travellers: grab a blanket and some treats from the fridge for a people-watching picnic.

Time: Allow 2+ hours

Parking: Plentiful and free

3. Discover Aboriginal history on a cultural tour

The Noongar people have called Southwest Australia home for 45,000 years. A cultural tour is the best way to discover more about their history, cultural practices, and traditional way of life.

Nyungar Tours offer city tours, as well as cultural weaving workshops. Go Cultural have Kings Park tours, plus an immersive Rottnest Island / Wadjemup experience.

Time: 1-2 hours

Parking: Abundant around Kings Park

4. Crawley Edge Boatshed

For Perth’s most iconic photo of a blue boathouse and long wooden jetty in the water (you know the one), head to Crawley on the edge of Kings Park.

On the Swan River, this picture-perfect 95-year-old blue boathouse is highly Instagrammable. Therefore, you may need to go early or get in line to snap the perfect selfie.

Time: 30 minutes

Parking: Available along Mounts Bay Road

5. Explore eclectic Fremantle

Situated 19km southwest of Perth, historic Fremantle awaits. Known for its rich heritage buildings, vibrant art scene, diverse cuisine, and bustling markets, a visit to Freo makes for a perfect day out.

Highlights include a night tour at the UNESCO Fremantle Prison, the Fremantle Arts Centre, and taste-testing all the yummy treats at the bohemian Fremantle Markets. Be sure to leave space for a Levi’s hot doughnut.

Time: Half to full day

Parking: Paid street parking

6. Meet Rottnest Island’s quokkas

The gorgeous shores of Rottnest Island / Wadjemup to meet the star attraction – quokkas - is a quest for many travellers to Perth. Rottnest’s car-free, protected status mean these perpetually smiling marsupials live predominantly danger-free, leaving them very relaxed around the island’s visitors. It’s not a case of if you’ll see a quokka for that must-get selfie, but when.

Besides snapping selfies, rent a bicycle or hop on a Discover Rottnest bus tour to see more of the island.

Time: Full day

Parking: Leave your motorhome in Perth

7. Swan about Swan Valley

For oenophiles, a trip to Swan Valley – Western Australia’s oldest wine region - will surprise and delight! Alongside a scenic drive northeast of Perth, there are over 40 wineries, plus craft breweries, cideries, and artisanal food producers to entice. The latter is perfect to fill your Star RV motorhome fridge with yummy local treats.

Time: Full day

Parking: Ample at most venues

8. Discover quirky attractions at Elizabeth Quay

In the heart of Perth, the lively Elizabeth Quay waterfront precinct is ideal for a stroll along the Swan River to see the fascinating public art installations. There’s plenty of dining options, too.

Activities include climbing the Bell Tower, catching WA’s only solar ferry for a Swan River tour, or taking a gondola ride, yes gondola!

Time: 1-2 hours

Parking: Paid parking

9. Swan River Cruise

Experience Perth differently on a scenic cruise along the Swan River. Departing Elizabeth Quay, you’ll enjoy views of the city, riverside parks, and luxury homes that line the waterways. Some Swan River cruises will take you to Fremantle, others include wine tastings and lunch.

Time: 1-3 hours

Parking: Limited spaces at the Barrack Street Jetty

10. Animal encounters at Perth Zoo

For a fun family day out, the interactive exhibits at Perth Zoo are a hit with all ages. Only 5km from the city centre, Perth Zoo affords an introduction to animals from around the world. This includes Australian natives, like koalas, echidnas, and a few friends from nearby Rottnest Island.

Time: 2-3 hours

Parking: Paid onsite

11. As good as gold at the Perth Mint

Learn of Australia’s gold history on a guided tour at the Perth Mint. See gold pouring demonstrations and stand in awe at one of the world’s largest collections of gold bars and coins.

Time: Allow 1-2 hours

Parking: Limited, arrive early

12. Enrich your stay at the Perth Cultural Centre

Integral to the city’s art scene, the Perth Cultural Centre is a lively precinct home to the Western Australian Museum Boola Bardip, State Theatre, State Library, Art Gallery of WA, The Blue Room, and PICA (Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts).

Match your interests to one of the six spaces, be it to discover new art, catch a show, or explore the region’s rich culture. Round out your visit with a rooftop drink atop the art gallery.

Time: Allow 2-3 hours

Parking: Street parking only; watch for height restrictions in Cultural Centre’s car parks

13. Get inspired at the Art Gallery of Western Australia

With the Perth Cultural Centre, the Art Gallery of Western Australia offers an impressive collection of Indigenous and contemporary art. The Indigenous artwork here is one of the world’s best collections. Entry is free except for all but special exhibits and events.

Time: 1-2 hours

Parking: Street parking only

14. Storytime at WA Museum Boola Bardip

WA Museum Boola Bardip is the place to go to understand more about Perth’s heritage and the stories that make it the vibrant city it is today. Boola Bardip means ‘many stories’ in Whadjuk Nyoongar.

Your ticket price includes a 1-hour Aboriginal tour on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 1 pm.

Time: 3-4 hours

Parking: Street parking only

15. Gorgeous Kitty’s Gorge

For one of Perth’s best day walks, drive to Serpentine National Park, an hour from the CBD to follow Kitty’s Gorge Trail. Your reward at the end of winding past the dramatic granite rocks, blooming wildflowers, and steep hills on this 14km return trail? A swim in the refreshing Serpentine Falls!

Time: Allow a half day, more if you want to picnic/swim

Parking: The national park entry fee includes parking

16. Holiday vibes at Hillarys Boat Harbour

For a fabulous atmosphere, loads of dining options, and fun-filled activities, drive to Hillarys Boat Harbour, 20km northwest of Perth. For the active, go snorkelling or scuba diving, rent a jet ski, kayak or paddleboard, or head out on a whale-watching cruise (September to December). For a more relaxed, the boutique shops and delectable eateries will suit. The Aquarium of Western Australia is popular with families.

Time: Allow 2-4 hours

Parking: Plentiful but fills up fast on weekends

17. Behind the scenes at Optus Stadium

Optus Stadium is a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment venue in Burswood, close to the city centre. The stadium architecture is a draw in itself, as are the views of the Swan River from the City View Café.

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Optus Stadium’s world-class facilities or discover what’s on during your visit to experience the stadium’s electric energy.

Time: 1-2 hours

Parking: Ample but go early if there’s an event on

18. Lion’s Lookout

Lion’s Lookout is an ideal spot for a stunning cityscape view without any summit hiking. For an epic sunrise, allow 30 minutes to drive there from central Perth. If you do want to walk, there are several walking trails in nearby Kalamunda National Park.

Time: Allow an hour

Parking: Plentiful

19. Zig Zag Scenic Drive

Zig Zag Scenic Drive is one of our favourite Perth road trip routes, and close to Lion’s Lookout. Take in the enchanting Swan Coastal Plain vistas in Gooseberry National Park while winding along the road’s narrow (one-way) switchbacks.

If you’d prefer to walk or bike the path, visit before 11 am before vehicles can enter.

Time: 30 minutes

Parking: There are several lookouts along the drive

20. Lake Monger

Less than 5km from the city, Lake Monger is an urban wetland destination perfect for picnicking, bird watching, and strolling or biking the 3.5km Lake Monger Walk. Head to the north side of the lake for views of the Perth skyline.

Time: 1-2 hours

Parking: Free around the lake

21. Whiteman Park

Explore 4,000 hectares of bushland at Whiteman Park, 22km northeast of Perth. There’s the peace of this lush space to enjoy, and you can also geek out at the Motor Museum, Tractor Museum, and Revolutions Transport Museum. The fun doesn’t stop there: vintage tram and train rides are also available.

Time: Half day

Parking: Plentiful and free

22. Caversham Wildlife Park

While in Whiteman Park, head to the family run Caversham Wildlife Park for an engaging wildlife experience. Hand-feed kangaroos, meet a wombat and get close to koalas at this family-friendly attraction.

Time: 2-3 hours

Parking: Free

23. Scarborough Beach Pool

Motorhomes don’t come with pools, we know that, but if you want to pretend your Star RV has one, head to Scarborough, 14km northwest of Perth. WA’s first beachfront pool, the Scarborough Beach Pool is heated year-round. The ocean views are lush, especially at sunset!

While in Scarborough, check out the beachside amphitheatre for events and markets.

Time: 1-3 hours

Parking: Busy on weekends

24. Yanchep National Park

A worthwhile 56km drive north of Perth, Yanchep National Park is home to stunning caves, native wildlife, and walking trails. Stroll the Koala Boardwalk to witness Australia’s favourite marsupial, get adventurous at Treetops Adventure Park or enjoy an informative Aboriginal cultural tour.

Time: Half to full day

Parking: Available on site

25. Cycle the Swan River Loop Trail

Take a leisurely 10km ride along the South Perth foreshore on the popular Swan River Loop Cycle Trail. The flat, well-maintained paths make it easy to take in Elizabeth Quay, Kings Park, and the picturesque bridges that cross the river. If you’re lucky, you may even see the residents at the Heirisson Island Kangaroo Sanctuary en route.

Time: 1-2 hours

Parking: Parking is available near the trail

26. Giants of Mandurah

Danish recycle artist, Thomas Dambo launched his enchanting Giants of Mandurah outdoor artwork in Mandurah, WA’s largest regional city. An hour south of Perth, your mission is to find all five of Dambo’s huge wooden giant sculptures, hiding across the wetlands and bush. Clues and coordinates found online make this an interactive day out.

Guided tours are available for more info on the art installations.

Time: Full day

Parking: Free by the trails, fills up on weekends

27. John Forrest National Park

John Forrest National Park is one of Australia’s oldest conservation areas. Located 24km east of Perth, it’s an idyllic spot for hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring waterfalls. Load your Star RV motorhome kitchen up with goodies for a picnic as there are several areas across the park.

Time: 2-3 hours

Parking: Free and effortless

28. Araluen Botanic Park

From June to November, Western Australia’s wildflower blooms add more colour and fragrance to your visit. While you can see wildflowers around the state, Araluen Botanic Park, 35km southeast of Perth, is particularly stunning due to the park’s meticulous care.

Time: 1-2 hours

Parking: Free and plentiful

29. Matagarup Bridge

More than just a scenic pedestrian bridge, Matagarup Bridge symbolises reconciliation and connects Perth to Burswood. Walk Matagarup Bridge for panoramic city and Swan River views.

If you love adventure, however, why not Zip+Climb it? You’ll walk 300 steps to the Skyview glass platform before ziplining 400m to the bottom!

Time: 1-2 hours

Parking: Available nearby

30. Penguin Island

For one of the best nature experiences close to Perth, Penguin Island is home to a colony of adorable little penguins. That the beach is pristine, the water aquamarine and sea lions are occasionally spotted only adds to the sense of wonder during a visit!

Reach Penguin Island by ferry from Rockingham, 45km south of Perth or join a wildlife cruise.

Time: Half to full day

Parking: Free onsite parking at the ferry terminal

Embrace the freedom of exploring at your own pace with an unforgettable Star RV adventure.

Our branch, located near Perth International Airport, ensures you'll be on the road quickly with your Perth motorhome hire. You’ll then be ready to discover the top 30 things to do in Perth in no time!

If you're not sure where to stay for your big Perth escape, not to worry. We've found the best free camping sites around Perth, so you don't have to.

To book your fully self-contained home-away-from-home, click BOOK NOW or call our team on 1800 875 018.