Perth day trips

With magnificent coastline, pretty foothills and meandering rivers all within easy reach, Perth is perfectly situated as a springboard for exploring a variety of sites and landscapes. Take a day trip and discover the unique natural formations at the Pinnacles Desert, taste the culinary delights and first-class wines in the Swan Valley, or wander through our historic towns.

Swan Valley

Whether you're after wine, chocolate, cheese or just a relaxed meander through scenic countryside, the Swan Valley has it all. Located along the northern outskirts of the city, the Swan Valley is home to art galleries, equestrian centres, picnic spots, golf courses, parks and over 30 wineries. A range of locally grown and made produce is on offer from boutique beers to olives to cheeses. The Caversham Wildlife Park in Whiteman Park houses over 200 species of Australian and exotic wildlife.

The Darling Ranges (Perth hills)

A short drive east of the city winds up into the Perth Hills, popular for bushwalking amongst granite outcrops and waterfalls, picnicking and barbecuing at one of the many parks or enjoying fantastic views of the city and coast. Take the Zig Zag Scenic Drive to the town of Kalamunda, considered a forest getaway with its tracts of tall timber, national park and lively old pub. At Mundaring, you can marvel at the Mundaring Weir, a 100-year-old dam built to supply water to the goldfields more than 500km away. Araluen Botanic Park near Roleystone is a must with its terraced gardens, ornamental pools and stunning variety of native trees and plants.

Avon Valley

Further northeast, the picturesque Avon Valley features sweeping views of farmland and orchards, national parks with plenty of hiking trails and charming towns packed with history. In the spring, wildflowers dot the landscape. Enjoy one of the scenic tourist drives between the towns of Toodyay, Northam and York - WA's oldest inland town and listed by the National Trust. Adventure enthusiasts will find skydiving, hot air ballooning, canoeing, and gliding activities throughout the valley. Don't miss one of the valley's numerous events including the York Jazz Festival and the Avon Descent.

Mandurah

Since completion of the Kwinana Freeway, the coastal town of Mandurah one hour south of Perth is fast becoming a popular destination for a quick city getaway. Situated along a calm estuary, the area is a haven for dolphins, birdlife and fish. Activities abound including horse riding, jet skiing, camel riding, crabbing and yachting. The Marapana Wildlife World just north of Mandurah gives you a chance to meet some of Australia's cuddlier creatures including koalas, kangaroos and wombats.

The Pinnacles

Sitting within Nambung National Park, 17km from the northern coastal town of Cervantes, are The Pinnacles – unique limestone formations eroded by harsh winds. These 30,000-year-old pillars rise above the yellow sandy desert like ancient ruins of a long-forgotten city. Some structures tower more than five metres; others just a few centimetres. A non-paved, 6km track allows you to wend your way through this eerie landscape at your leisure.

New Norcia

In the mid 1800s, exiled Benedictine monks came to Western Australia and after much hardship and turmoil, established the religious community, New Norcia. A succession of abbots and monastics gradually developed the mission, and today it is a thriving agricultural and religious village. As well as its delicious bread, olive oil and nut cake, the town is famous for more than 27 imposing Spanish-style buildings, many of which are classified by the National Trust. The New Norcia Heritage Trail follows the settlement's development and visits the museum, art gallery, Abbey Church and other landmarks.

Wildflower Way

With up to 12,000 species found in 11 different regions, WA's wildflowers are world famous. Blooming season is between August and November and many tour companies offer trips to the best locations. Wildflower Way is a popular destination passing through the northern towns of Wubin, Perenjori, Morawa and Mullewa. Fields of gold, purple, pink and white everlastings often stretch into the distance. Try your hand at locating the coveted wreath flower or discover native foxgloves, cornflowers, pomegranates and more. Some of the best displays grow along the verge. Don't miss the Mullewa Wildflower Show which kicks off the season each August.

Serpentine and Jarrahdale

Fifty kilometres southeast of Perth is the peaceful forest area between Serpentine and Jarrahdale. The Serpentine National Park is a favourite spot with walking trails, picnic spots and the lovely Serpentine Falls which tumble over a sheer granite escarpment. The old mill town of Jarrahdale lets you glimpse into WA's timber heritage with the Jarrahdale Railway Heritage Trail, a seven km trail which follows the old railway line. Wildflowers add decorative colour each season.

Rottnest Island

Affectionately known as "Rotto", this island 19km off Fremantle is perfect for a day away. Sheltered beaches and crystal-clear water offer excellent swimming, snorkelling and diving. Cars are not allowed, so the island is practically traffic free; a variety of trails are ideal for walking or cycling. Attractions include bird watching, an interesting museum, historical sites and several types of cruises. Ferry services run regularly from Fremantle and there is a range of dining and accommodation options at the main settlement, Thomson Bay.

Wave Rock

Thirty four kilometres from the wheatbelt town of Hyden is Wave Rock, an ancient granite structure 15m high and 100m long. Appearing like a wave crashing on a desert beach, Wave Rock is believed to have taken 2,700 million years to form.