What’s on in Perth: The 10 Best Things To Do
The warm, coastal city of Perth is one of Australia’s best kept secrets! With climate comparable to California, world class restaurants, countless Instagram-able locations and professional sporting events for every sport imaginable, there’s something for everyone in the city of sun.
1. Head to one of Perth’s sublime beaches
It wouldn’t be a list of things to do in Perth without mentioning the beach. Boasting some of the whitest sands and clearest water in the world, there’s a place for you whether you’re looking to surf, soak up some sun, or have your own secluded bay. Check out Scarborough or Trigg beach if you’re into surfing, with Cottesloe beach great for lazing about on the shore and enjoying the good life.
2. Catch a game of sport in a world class stadium
Like the rest of Australia, Perthites are obsessed about sport. If you’re new to Australia, why not head to the newly constructed Optus Stadium and catch a game of Australian rules football. It’s a unique and fast paced sport unlike anything else in the world! The best description would be a mix between basketball and rugby – but you’ve got to check it out for yourself!
3. Check out Elizabeth Quay
Perth is currently undergoing a construction renaissance! Make sure you get down and check out the newly completed riverside area. Complete with restaurants and cafes, a mini golf course, and an elevated bridge to walk out over the picturesque Swan River and glance back at the shining high rise buildings. It’s a stunning location and ideal for a few Insta posts – perfect.
4. Take a day trip to Rottnest Island
Why not check out a local favourite and head across on the Rottnest Express for a day trip to Rottnest Island. Hire a bike for the day (there’s no cars on Rotto!) and check out the beaches and laid back island life. Oh and did we mention the quokkas only found on the island? They’re probably the cutest animal ever. It’s worth the trip just for them!
5. Head down south to an award winning winery
If you’re looking for a short weekend break, you’ve got to check out the south-west region. Home to award winning wineries and eateries, the Margaret River region is perfect for you to kick back, relax, and enjoy some of the finer things in life. You’ve (hopefully) worked hard, so you deserve it! Find out more information including itineraries, accommodation, and transport on the Margaret River region website.
6. Discover WA’s nautical history
About half an hour south of Perth is the City of Fremantle. Originally a separate city, Perth’s growth has resulted in the two becoming connected. With a rich maritime history, the city affectionately known by locals as ‘Freo’ is a great place to check out even for a day. Have a look at the WA Maritime Museum and learn about Australia’s convict past – there’s fascinating stories of pirates too at the WA Shipwrecks Museum!
If you’re feeling hungry, make sure to visit the popular venue for fish and chips, Cicerello’s, just up the road from the WA Shipwrecks Museum. Sit out on the dock and enjoy the sound of the water under your feet while you devour some delicious food and appreciate the view. It’s even better at sunset!
For more information, check out the Visit Fremantle website.
7. Have something to eat at the newly completed Yagan Square
If you’re hungry, there’s no better place to be than the recently completed Yagan Square on the outskirts of the Perth CBD. Less than a 5-minute walk from our Stirling Street building Perth City, it’s an ideal place for all things food. Unlike a typical food hall, there’s no fast food chains here – every eatery is independently owned and offers brilliant food. I’m getting hungry thinking about it! Check out a full list of attractions on the Yagan Square website.
8. Relax in the beautiful Kings Park and botanic gardens
In a prime position right next to the city, Kings Park is one of the largest inner city parks in the entire world. Enjoy sweeping views of the Swan River and Perth city while amongst immaculately cared for gardens with lots of grass and native plants. If you’re going with friends, consider bringing along some sausages to cook up on the free barbecues scattered throughout the park. For more information, check out the Kings Park website.
9. Experience some adrenaline at the Lancelin sand dunes
About an hour and a half drive north of Perth, the Lancelin sand dunes offer an opportunity for thrill seekers to sandboard down some massive sand dunes, and believe me, once you try it once you’ll be racing back to the top of the dune to go back down! If sandboarding isn’t really your thing, why not try it on a dirt bike or four-wheel drive.
It’s not all about doing though, because the top of the dunes gives an amazing 360-degree view that is absolutely breathtaking. If you can, make sure to take it in at sunrise or sunset. If it sounds up your alley, check out some more information including how to get there here.
10. Listen to some live music at some of Perth’s blossoming venues
Perth is having a real moment when it comes to music. If you’re in the mood to discover some fresh new sounds, check out some of Perth’s great live venues such as The Bird in Northbridge and Mojo’s in Fremantle.
Bands like Tame Impala have sprung to prominence from the Perth area and gone on to work with massive industry names like Mark Ronson and Lady Gaga. They all still live locally, so it’s not uncommon to see them playing a small local set or DJing Perth parties – there’s something for everyone when it comes to the local music scene!
Mojos in Freo even have an open mic night every Monday, so if you’ve got some musical talent you’re encouraged to share it!
So, what’d you think? Did we miss your favourite thing to do in Perth? Feel free to contact us for any questions you may have about student life in Perth!
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