Ready to explore some amazing day trips just outside of Perth? Whether you’re a local looking for a quick escape or a visitor hoping to see what Western Australia has to offer beyond the city limits, I’ve got you covered.
There are so many things to see and do near Perth!
Although most of the best day trips from Perth require you to have your own car, there are a couple on this list that are possible to access via public transport, so keep your eyes peeled.
1. Rottnest Island
Just a quick ferry ride from Perth and you’re at Rottnest Island, one of my favourite day trips from Perth without a car! Known affectionately as “Rotto” by the locals, this little island is actually a car-free zone, making it the perfect peaceful getaway from the city.
Rottnest is famous for its picture-perfect beaches and the big circular loop around the island that everybody hires bikes to cycle around, but the stars of the show here are the quokkas. These cute little creatures are so smiley and photogenic that they’ve become social media sensations.
Back your beach gear, plenty of suncream and your snorkelling kit, and rent a bike on Rottnest for the day – I promise it’ll be one of the best days out ever!
2. Lancelin
Lancelin is your go-to day trip from Perth by car if you’re looking to swap the cityscape for sand dunes and seaside charm.
Just a couple of hours’ drive north of Perth, Lancelin is a small fishing town with a big reputation for adventure. That’s all thanks to its massive white sand dunes, which people love to go sandboarding down. Also, if you’ve got a 4WD, this is the place to rev it up and go for a spin.
The town itself is tiny, offering a laid-back, coastal vibe with quaint cafes and restaurants where you can refuel after all that adventure. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss kind of day trip that delivers solid fun and stunning scenery.
3. Swan Valley
Swan Valley, just a quick drive from the city, is one of the best short day trips from Perth. It’s also one of WA’s top foodie destinations, so come with an empty stomach, fill up on epic local produce, and make a full day of it!
In terms of activities, start your day trip to Swan Valley with a visit to Caversham Wildlife Park where you can get up close with kangaroos, koalas, and all sorts of other Australian wildlife. Once you’ve checked that off your list, you can hop from one winery to another, sampling everything from classic Shiraz to refreshing Chenin Blanc.
It’s not all about wine in the Swan Valley, though – the Valley is dotted with breweries and distilleries too, and the beers here are out-of-this-world. And, finally, let’s not forget the Margaret River Chocolate Company, which is awesome for an afternoon treat and offers a bunch of free samples!
4. The Pinnacles
Head up to the Pinnacles from Perth for a day trip that’s a bit out of the ordinary. Located in Nambung National Park, about two hours north of the city, the Pinnacles are fascinating limestone formations that jut out of the desert landscape, creating a scene that feels more Martian than Australian.
The contrast of the golden spires against the deep blue sky is a photographer’s dream, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light plays tricks and casts eerie shadows across the sand. It’s so cool!
The drive itself is straightforward and part of the adventure, passing small towns and winding through changing landscapes that remind you how diverse Western Australia really is. This is one of those days out from Perth I love to take WA first-timers on because it’s so unique.
5. Moore River
Moore River is absolutely gorgeous, especially in summer – the beach here is a mind-blower! You can rent kayaks or bring your own, and spend the day paddling around and sunbathing.
The river itself is the main draw for most people, with its calm waters making it ideal for a leisurely paddle, but the beach and sea you can swim in right next to it!
The area around Moore River is also great for a picnic or a simple stroll along the shore. If you’re into fishing, it’s a good spot to cast a line and maybe catch your dinner. And if you feel like stretching your legs a bit more, there are scenic walking trails that offer great views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
6. Yanchep National Park
If you’re itching for a quick trip out of the city, Yanchep National Park is just an hour north of Perth and it’s packed with things to do. It’s one of those places where you can truly get back to nature. You can even wander through stunning caves like Crystal Cave on a guided tour, marvelling at the super cool rock formations there.
One of the main draws to Yanchep is the koala enclosure! Koalas aren’t actually native to WA, so if you want to see them, this is one of the few places you can do so. Plus, for those who like a bit of a walk, there are trails for all levels of fitness, each offering a fresh view and a chance to stretch your legs.
7. Serpentine Falls
Serpentine Falls, just an hour’s drive from Perth, is one of those spots that feels a bit like a hidden gem despite being so close to the city. The main attraction, of course, is the waterfall itself, which rushes into a pool that’s perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day. That’s what makes this one of the top day trips from Perth with kids.
It’s worth bearing in mind that if it’s not rained in a while the water levels will be low, so it’s best to head here just after it’s rained!
The area around the falls has some great picnic spots too, so packing a lunch and making a day of it is highly recommended. There’s also a walking trail or two if you want to explore a bit more. These walks are pretty easy-going and offer some nice views of the local bushland and the occasional wildlife sighting.
8. Jurien Bay
Jurien Bay, about a two-hour drive north of Perth, is a fantastic day trip if you’re looking for a beach day with a twist. That’s because this is the place where you can book a sea lion tour to go swimming with sea lions. So cute!
This coastal town is of course most famous for the sea lion and whale watching tours, but it’s also home to some beautiful beaches where the sand is soft and the water is an inviting shade of blue, perfect for a swim or a snorkel.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, Jurien Bay is also a popular spot for skydiving, offering breathtaking aerial views of the turquoise coast and rugged inland landscapes.
9. Busselton
Busselton is an easy drive south of Perth and throws you straight into the heart of coastal life with its laid-back vibe. It’s a popular stop-off for road trips down south to Albany but is a valid option on its own as a day trip.
The town’s pride and joy is the Busselton Jetty, the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, stretching 1.8 kilometres into the sea. Walking this gives you some of the most glorious sea views around, and there’s even a little train if you’re not up for the walk.
At the end of the jetty, you can dive below the surface without getting wet at the underwater observatory, glimpsing a peek into the colourful sea life below the waves.
Best Places to Visit Near Perth
That’s the roundup of my top day trips from Perth! Each place has its own charm and doesn’t require a whole lot of planning, which is always a bonus in my book.
Whether you’re in the mood for kicking back with the quokkas on Rottnest Island or feeling adventurous enough to swim with sea lions in Jurien Bay, there’s something nearby just waiting to be explored.
Hopefully, one (or a few) of these spots will catch your eye for your next free day. Just hop in the car, and before you know it, you’ll be somewhere entirely new. Enjoy!
