The 24 best things to do in Perth

What is it? Your ticket to seeing humpback whales up close on a two-hour ocean cruise with locally owned operator Whale Watching Perth.

Why go? Whale, whale, whale, look what time it is: whale watching season! From late August to early November, thousands of humpbacks migrate along Western Australia’s legendary ‘Humpback Highway’ – and you can catch the action just off the Perth coast. Following a record-breaking 2025 season, Whale Watching Perth is now offering daily departures from Hillarys Boat Harbour. Head up to the panoramic top deck for the best views, accompanied by live educational commentary from an expert marine biologist.

Time Out tip: In the rare event you don't spot a whale, you can jump on another tour later in the season for free.

What is it? A gorgeous, Roman-inspired bathhouse hidden inside a restored 100-year-old hotel in East Fremantle.

Why go? Bathhouses are booming across the country right now, and Alchemy Saunas add fuel to the fire with its latest flagship venue. Located just a 25-minute drive from Perth CBD, this stunning new wellness destination has transformed the historic Royal George Hotel into a recovery oasis unlike anything the west coast has ever seen. At the heart of the bathhouse is a massive 50,000-litre ice pool and hot magnesium bath. The space also houses three traditional saunas, a steam room and communal relaxation areas to fully unwind. Drop-in sessions start at just $35 – but hey, you can’t put a price tag on your wellbeing.

Time Out tip:  Can’t make it to Fremantle? Alchemy Saunas also has wellness hubs in East Perth, Karrinyup, City Beach, West Leederville, Port Beach, Scarborough Beach and Bicton.

What is it? The new kid on the (arts precinct) block. 

Why go? While the Perth Cultural Centre may ooze charm from its red brick and old-timey buildings, the WA Museum Boola Bardip was meant to stand out with its edgy modern architecture that interconnects and wraps around its older neighbours. Opening in 2020, Boola Bardip means “many stories” in the language of the Nyoongar people native to the area. The museum houses eight galleries, each with its own distinct area to explore. While many of these are reserved for showcasing Western Australia’s rich history, incredible flora and fauna and Aboriginal Culture, the museum also plays host to a whole heap of travelling exhibitions like antiques from the Netherlands or relics from Ancient Egypt.

Time Out tip: General entry is $15, so you're better off grabbing an annual membership for the same price, granting you unlimited entry all year long.

What is it? A multisensory, large-scale nightly projection at the WA Museum Boola Bardip that celebrates the state’s beautiful coastline and marine life. You can catch it lighting up the exterior walls of the Old Gaol every evening from 6pm to 10.30pm until October 11.

Why go? As the sun sets, the historic walls of Boola Bardip transform into a glowing, deep-sea canvas for Illuminate: Oceans. Created by the visual masters at Aeroture, this immersive after-dark installation takes visitors on a journey from the mysterious marine mammals of the abyss to sweeping aerial views of the WA coast – all designed to inspire us to better protect our oceans. It’s a fun, free city detour before or after grabbing dinner at one of Perth’s best nearby restaurants.

Time Out tip: Return to the museum in daylight to dive into OceanXperience – a high-tech, family-friendly exhibition focused on ocean conservation.

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.

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.

What is it? Perth’s most beautiful, white-sand beach, perfect for sunset dips and romantic strolls.

Why go? When it comes to beaches in Perth, we are definitely spoiled for choice. But for the most photogenic seaside destinations in WA, Cottesloe Beach is easily among the top hot spots. With its shady Norfolk pines, pristine sand and abundance of watering holes, there’s just something about Cott that makes it the ideal spot for any occasion. Swimming, snorkelling, surfing or sipping the evening away, this picturesque beach is a WA icon.

Time Out tip: The main beach gets busy in summer, so consider strolling over to North Cottesloe for a more relaxed day out.

What is it? A charming Cottesloe bakery famous for its mega-sized cinnamon scrolls.

Why go? We’ve been told many times that North Street Store’s cinny scrolls are the best in the country – and we dare you to find out for yourself. Warm and flaky, they’re drizzled with just the right amount of icing that you won’t feel sick eating one or two for brekkie. If you’re more of a savoury slinger, you can instead fill up on French-style filled baguettes, stone-baked pizzas and classic savoury pastries.

Time Out tip: Keep in mind, it’s takeaway only. Luckily, you’re just a short stroll from Cottesloe Beach, where you can enjoy your buttery goodness with a view.

What is it? An A-class nature reserve boasting 63 white-as-snow beaches perfect for snorkelling, diving, surfing off the back breaks and snapping selfies with quokkas.

Why go? It’s just a 90-minute ferry ride from Perth's Barrack Street Jetty to Rotto, where you can spend a day lapping up the sun and meeting the island’s cutest inhabitants: quokkas. The marsupials are native to Rottnest and are heavily protected, yet love to investigate and mingle with new visitors, especially those who have visited Rottnest Bakery – be warned, your cinny scroll will not be safe. They are the main patrons of Hotel Rottnest’s beer garden and the extra luxe Samphire Rottnest, so if you are lucky, expect to get up close and personal with the furry critters. Remember to always approach with caution when leaning in for a selfie.

Time Out tip: You can check out more of our top recommendations for a day trip or long weekend on Rottnest Island here.

What is it? A buzzing market on Fremantle’s South Terrace that has been operating for over a century. It's open every Friday to Sunday from 9am to 6pm.

Why go? With more than 150 stalls, the Fremantle Markets are a weekend must-visit for locals and tourists in Perth. Whether you’re a regular market-goer or a first-timer, there is something to eat and marvel at for just about everyone. Wander the aisles filled with weird, wacky and wonderful products, then make your way to the yard where you’ll be seriously overwhelmed with the food options on offer. After you’ve eaten your body weight in fried chicken, banh mi, souvlaki and eggy brioche sambos, grab some fresh local produce and a Levi’s hot doughnut for the road.

Time Out tip: It's always a good idea to bring cash, just in case any of the stallholders don't accept card payments.

What is it? A 90-minute after-dark guided tour of Fremantle Prison – the notorious convict jail that opened in the 1850s.

Why go? A Torchlight Tour about the grounds, which finally closed in 1991 after housing some of WA’s most notorious criminals, is like a Halloween-inspired Groundhog Day. The tour is scary but compelling and pretty much does what it says on the can: “The prison walls echo with stories of loneliness, pain and suffering, of executions gone wrong, of the innocent unjustly punished and the guilty punished.”

Time Out tip: If you or one of your group turns peckish on your visit, a café also operates on-site, and it promises to be a far cry from prison food.

What is it? The state’s leading art gallery with the largest rooftop bar in Perth.

Why go? A glittering gem at the heart of Perth’s Cultural Centre, this gallery is where you can spend a woozy weekend lost in the throes of art appreciation. Housing the official state collection, accrued since the establishment first opened way back in 1895, there are ridiculous wonders on offer. That includes Balancing Act – a space devoted to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. A trip to this central gem isn’t complete without ascending to the renovated rooftop area, complete with stunning 360-degree views of Perth’s city skyline, an open-air sculpture walk and an illuminating 34-metre artwork by Christopher Pease. The rooftop is actually the largest in the land (Perth, that is), accommodating up to 400 gallery-goers, to be exact.

Time Out tip: AGWA is located in the heart of the Perth Cultural Centre – so you can walk just metres and explore the State Library of Western Australia, PICA, the WA Museum Boola Bardip and more.

What is it? Standing at 82.5 metres, Perth City’s landmark pride and joy features 18 bells, most of which are from Saint Martin-in-the-Fields Church in London.

Why go? The 14th-century bells are impressive in their own right, but together, they form one of the largest musical instruments in the world. The Bell Tower isn’t just visually intriguing either – a tour of the structure’s innards offers up-close perspectives of the bell-ringing in action, as well as the opportunity to try your hand at some good old-fashioned tintinnabulation (bell-ringing). Not to mention divine sixth-level vistas across the mighty Swan River – it’s the whole package.

Time Out tip: You can go behind the scenes on a Bell Ringing Tour and Workshop to see what the fuss is all about.

What is it? A sunny, seaside bar in South Fremantle with sustainable seafood and an ever-changing wine list.

Why go? Hook, line and sinker, Madalenas is easily one of the best bars in Western Australia right now. The sun-filled boteco sources the freshest sustainably caught seafood from local suppliers at Fins Seafood and pairs it with seasonal goodness from their thriving kitchen garden. Wind down on the weekend with a chardonnay off Madalena’s white marble bar or settle in post-swim for dinner and drinks upstairs.

Time Out tip: Craving another cuisine? You can check out our guide to all the best restaurants in Perth here. 

What is it? A leisurely 10.5km loop, perfect for those who enjoy exploring the city on two wheels.

Why go? To cyclists, Perth may be considered the Scandinavia of the south – the city is home to hundreds of kilometres of bike paths safely tucked away from busy roads. Set aside about one hour for the popular Swan River Loop Cycle Trail that winds around the South Perth foreshore. Call into the Millpoint Caffe Bookshop for an energising coffee or juice and then continue over the Causeway Bridge, taking in views of Heirisson Island Kangaroo Sanctuary below.

Time Out tip: You can easily hire bikes from Kings Park and Point Fraser. 

What is it? An easy five-kilometre hiking trail in Bold Park, City Beach, located just 14 minutes from Perth’s CBD.

Why go? Get some exercise while immersing yourself in the beauty of nature on this very achievable 1.5-hour loop. The Zamia Trail is home to more than 300 species of plants and wildlife, including birds, mammals and reptiles – so keep your eyes peeled. Bring your furry friend and enjoy the lovely contrast of both city and ocean views. The Zamia Trail is sprinkled with park benches, perfect to perch and enjoy morning tea or lunch.

Time Out tip: You can check out more great walks in and around Perth here.

What is it? An excuse to get all dolled up and indulge in Perth’s most refined high tea experience at the oh-so-sophisticated COMO The Treasury. Expect a seasonally evolving menu with a strong focus on native ingredients, plus unlimited tea.

Why go? Widely regarded as Western Australia’s finest hotel, COMO The Treasury offers a slice of the luxe life through its elegant Cape Arid Rooms. Tucked in the south-eastern wing of the heritage-listed State Buildings, the warm and welcoming tea room is inspired by Alex and Philippa Nikulinsky’s Cape Arid Collection – where delicate bites mirror the intricacy of their watercolour works. Each sitting features the best of the season: three savoury snacks, three bite-sized desserts and two warm scones fresh from the oven. All treats are served with unlimited Teassential tea or filter coffee, with Champagne or specialty cocktails available as add-ons. Whatever the month, rest assured that delightful, intricate fare and sips are on the horizon. 

Time Out tip: Got a sweet tooth? Here are more of the best high teas in Perth.

What is it? A top-tier list of the best drinking holes in Perth, where epic cocktails meet even more epic skyline views.

Why go? It really doesn’t get much better than sipping on an Aperol spritz or two while gazing out across the sparkling Swan River at sunset. Or maybe you prefer the vivacious chatter of friends while perched among the bright lights of the city skyline. Find your next happy hour spot using our list of Perth’s best rooftop bars, including the tiny but mighty Mechanics Institute, Mediterranean-inspired boozer The Standard, and the newly opened Stories Rooftop.

Time Out tip: Keen for dinner after drinks? Here's our guide to the best restaurants in Perth. 

What is it? One of Perth’s best day walks in the beautiful Serpentine National Park.

Why go? Lace up for this impressive 17.5km return trail, just under an hour’s drive from Perth CBD. Kitty’s Gorge Trail traces the Serpentine River and Gooralong Brook, with remarkable granite outcrops, blooming wildflowers and waterfall views. The trail has loose sections, short steep hills, uneven ground and steps – lots of them, so it’s not for the faint of heart. Don’t forget to pack your swimmers for a refreshing dip in Serpentine Falls.

Time Out tip: We recommend hiking during wildflower season from July to November (peaking in September), when the park blooms to life with colourful orchids, banksias and kangaroo paws.

What is it? A larger-than-life outdoor exhibition in Mandurah, featuring five enormous wooden giants.

Why go? WA’s largest regional city, Mandurah, located less than an hour south of Perth, has transformed into the ultimate outdoor playground for internationally renowned Danish recycle artist Thomas Dambo’s magical Giants of Mandurah exhibition. Bring the whole family along to play, as you collect clues to discover the final secret giant hiding in the wetlands. The free, interactive exhibition launched in November 2022, but the Giants are here to stay until at least the end of 2026.

Time Out tip: It's a good idea to tackle this one in a car, as the giants are spread across 40 kilometres.

What is it? Perth’s top secret speakeasy rum bar with entry via password only.

Why go? If you don’t mind a good rum, Sneaky Tony's has your name written all over it. A hop, skip or stumble down an alleyway in Chinatown and you’ll find yourself at the alluring door of Sneaky Tony’s. If you wish to enter, you’ll have to proclaim the daily password, which may or may not be found on Facebook. With shelves boasting an impressive collection of more than 300 rums from all four corners of the globe, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Or go hard on the cocktails. For those after hard liquor, the expert mixologists will pinpoint the perfect drink for you.

Time Out tip: Remember, you'll need a password to enter. Find it on Sneaky Tony's Facebook page here.

What is it? A picturesque landscape of WA’s oldest wine region with plenty to eat, drink and do.

Why go? If you like all things wine, cheese, chocolate and nature, then you’ll love the Swan Valley. In less than 30 minutes, you can drive from Perth’s CBD and into one of the Valley's many charming wineries (we love Ugly Duckling Wines and Sandalford). But if vino isn’t your thing, there’s plenty of nature to explore via foot, bike or horse – for those brave enough. If you’ve got the time, the best way to explore the Swan Valley is on one of the eight themed trails that range from wine to art, seasonal produce and even a bush tucker experience.

Time Out tip: We recommend stopping into the historic town of Guildford, which is known for its grand 19th-century architecture.

What is it? A new wellness sanctuary in Osborne Park, complete with saunas, cold plunge pools and Perth's largest hot magnesium pool.

Why go? The arrival of Merse Wellness Spa is just the prompt you need for some deep self-care. Launching in late October 2025, this bougie bathhouse centres around the state’s largest magnesium pool, with deep restorative properties. You can fully customise your wellness journey: alternate between the soothing infrared and hot rock saunas, steam rooms, a hot spa and monsoon showers, followed by an invigorating dip in the cold plunge pools or ice fountains.

Time Out tip: Before you leave, take a moment to relax in the rejuvenation lounge, complete with LED light therapy, compression therapy, massage guns and audio sound healing.

What is it? A romantic gondola ride offering a fancy way to explore the Swan River.

Why go? Because not everyone can make it over to Italy, Gondolas on the Swan are bringing a bit of Venice to Elizabeth Quay. Sit tight in the hand-crafted wooden gondola, which was designed and built in Perth, while your gondolier gently steers you past Perth City with Italian music gently playing in the background. The cruises range from 15 minutes to half an hour and carry up to eight passengers, so you can bring your nonna along too.

Time Out tip: A romantic sunset gondola cruise would make for the perfect date night (hint, hint).