Best things to do in Western Australia

Whether you’re a foodie or a fashionista, a beach bunny or a wildlife warrior, an urban adventurer or an outback wanderer, you’ll find a sparkling array to choose from in Western Australia.

Aerial view of the coastline in Cape Naturaliste, showing clear blue water meeting the rocky shrub-dotted shore.

Jane Ormond
August 2019
Updated March 2021

Australia’s biggest state, rich in sprawling landscape and Indigenous culture, is packed full of incredible experiences. With the warm Indian Ocean lapping the coast, and the capital city of Perth glittering down south, don’t you think it’s time you booked a little Western getaway? Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends or with the family, here are some ideas to get you planning!

Discover the wines of Margaret River

On the south-west coast of Western Australia, between Cape Naturaliste to the north and Cape Leeuwin to the south, you’ll find the Margaret River wine region, with over 150 wineries dotted along the intervening 100km. If you love your wine and sampling local bites at cellar doors, take to the Small Family Winery Trail for a curated view of this very special region.

Rows of white grapes in Wilyabrup in famous Margaret River Wine Region. — Enjoy one of the many vineyards in the famous Margaret River wine region.

Take an island holiday on Rottnest

Do you fantasise about a lazy island holiday this summer? An island where you can go cycling around it or go snorkelling off its coast? An island full of lush cafes and the cutest local animal called a quokka? Let us introduce you to Western Australia’s Rottnest Island.

Quokka at Rottnest Island. — Meet a quokka at Rottnest Island.

Party in Perth on a budget

Western Australia’s capital city of Perth sure knows how to do the flash and the glamour, but it’s also pretty sweet on budget-friendly charms too. If you’re in Perth without money to burn, there's still plenty of fun to be had, from discovering the stories of the region at WA Museum Boola Bardip, to swimming at one of the city's beautiful beaches.

Aerial photograph over a busy Cottesloe Beach, Perth. — Enjoy one of Perth's many beaches, like Cottesloe.

Feed up in Fremantle

Fremantle, with its maritime history and heritage buildings, is home to a thriving, independent food and culture scene. Sip house-blend coffee with breakfast at Hush. Dip into craft breweries, such as the popular Little Creatures, and try a specialty cocktail at a hip bar like Strange Company. Stroll around Fishing Boat Harbour for seafood restaurants serving up the bounty of the Indian Ocean, or shop for delicious local produce at Fremantle Markets (Friday to Sunday).

Fremantle Markets is a public market selling food and fashion located near Perth. — The landmark Fremantle Markets is a public market selling food and fashion.

Dive into some kid-friendly fun

Thinking about taking the kids to Western Australia? Good call! With incredible wildlife experiences, perfect beaches and outdoor adventures galore, Western Australia is the ideal destination for a family holiday, and we’ve got some great tips right here for that perfectly kid-friendly getaway to WA.