The best free things to do in Perth

Sure, Sydney and Brisbane may hog the limelight when it comes to famous beaches, but here in Perth, the scorching summer temps, azure waters and pearly-white sands make our shores a natural wonder in a class of their own. Hit up any of Perth’s 19 city beaches for a swim, snorkel or surf and it’s fair to say you won’t be disappointed. Cottesloe, City and Leighton Beaches are all crowd-pleasers, but you’ll also lap up Mettam’s and Hamersley Pools. Every day is beach weather, so be sure to add an Indian Ocean sunset and an impromptu seaside picnic to your bucket list. 

Finding free things to do in Perth is an absolute walk in the park – and you can bet a leisurely stroll is how our list is gonna start. The verdant greenery of Kings Park — one of the world’s largest and most beautiful central parks covering 400 hectares – is a pretty city escape, boasting mesmerising panoramic vistas of the Swan River and city skyline. You’ll be in good company as you venture down one of the many bush walking trails or rest on the immaculate lawns, as Kings Park is one of WA’s most visited tourist destinations and home to 3,000 species of unique flora.

If you were lucky enough to embark on a hot girl European summer in your mid-20s, chances are you tagged along on a free walking tour. Yet, Aussies tend to forget about them when exploring their own country. Strap on your shoes and stretch your legs with a free guided tour where you’ll learn about Perth’s interesting history while discovering our city’s top arts and cultural gems. Departing from the Perth City Visitor Kiosk, these 90-minute history and art tours are completely free. 

There’s always something happening by the seaside in ‘Freo’, a cultural hub where the Swan River kisses the Indian Ocean. Stroll along the foreshore to South Fremantle, cool down in the free museums (WA Maritime Museum, WA Shipwreck Museum or Fremantle Arts Centre), potter the Fremantle Markets (one of only two surviving market buildings in WA) and enjoy a swim at the beautiful Bathers Beach. It’s worth mentioning that Bathers is WA’s first licensed beach area so bring a few bevvies and settle in for a sunset session with BYO treats. 

Sitting pretty in the heart of Perth’s cultural hub, the AGWA is a glorious spot where many a woozy weekend can be lost in the throes of art appreciation. Housing the official state collection, accrued since the establishment first opened its doors way back in 1895, there are ridiculous wonders on offer. That includes Balancing Act - a space devoted to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art – alongside works from around Australia and the world. The Brutalist building also hosts a huge rooftop terrace complete with an open-air sculpture walk, rooftop bar and stunning views of Perth’s city skyline.

Get buzzed on wine, coffee and chocolate – it’s all in a day’s work in Swan Valley. Just 30 minutes by car from Perth CBD, WA’s oldest wine region is perfect for hopping between stately wineries, beer breweries and historic towns. There are lots of free things that are well worth tucking into, including complimentary tastings at the Margaret River Chocolate Company, House of Honey, Mondo Nougat and Twin Hill Winery.

Set sail for a free day of exploration at the new waterside development, Elizabeth Quay. Smack bang in the centre of town, the popular eating and drinking hub is also home to The Bell Tower, one of the world’s largest musical instruments. Fun fact: The tower was custom-built to house the historically significant bells of Saint Martin-in-the-Fields Church — the parish church of Buckingham Palace in London’s Trafalgar Square.

What could be more romantic than a hamper packed for two and sweeping city views over the Swan River (Derbarl Yerrigan)? Running through the centre of town, the river bank is a favourite spot for both tourists and locals alike. Keep your eye out for the black swans, which the river is named after.