day trips western australia

23 Ideas for the Best Day Trips from Perth

There is so much to see in Perth, but there are so many interesting and unique places to explore outside of Perth. Whether you are thinking of short road trips from Perth or a longer all day adventure, there’s something for everyone in this list. Let’s explore 23 ideas for great day trips around Perth. 

Table of Contents

Top Picks: The Best Perth Day Tours

Short on time? Here’s my recommendations for the best Perth day trips and tours.

• Explore the otherworldly desert full of towering limestone pinnacles
• Enjoy dinner in the desert
• Stargazing through a telescope

• Explore pristine bays and turquoise beaches
• Meet the cute quokkas
• Cycle around the island

• Wine tasting at 4 different wineries
• Cheese board & chocolate tasting
• Visit a local microbrewery

Day Trip Perth Planning 

To make the most of your Perth one day trip, make sure you are organised before you depart. Some of these spots might get busy later on, so I prefer to get there early.

My day trips Perth essentials include plenty of water, picnic lunch and snacks, a hat and sunscreen and a great road trip playlist! 

You can do a self drive day trip from Perth basically all year round, but make sure you have adequate sun protection in summer and wet weather gear in winter.

Some of these spots may require a national park ticket. You can purchase these on entry to the park (make sure you have a physical debit or credit card for the machines), or buy a park pass beforehand. 

Park fees are currently $17 per vehicle (2024). Cheaper rates apply for concession card holders.

Buckle up, you’re all set for day drives from Perth now!

How to Get Around

Day trips from Perth by car are featured a lot on this list, as there isn’t public transport readily available. For most of these day trips, a car will be necessary to get to around. For each day trip, I’ve provided a suggestion for a tour that provides transport where possible.

If you need to hire a car, I recommend Discover Cars as they are a large aggregator that offers the best prices from all the big rental companies, plus they offer free cancellation.

Compare the best range of car hire options from Perth

The Pinnacles 

The Pinnacles are located within Nambung National Park, open all year round near the seaside town of Cervantes, 2 hours north of Perth.

The park contains thousands of limestone bright yellow Pinnacles in a desert that covers around 190 hectares.

If you’re interested in a self-drive itinerary, check out the perfect Perth to Pinnacles Road Trip .

Once you reach the Pinnacles, uou can drive or walk through the desert in the 4km loop. The loop is unsealed but suitable for 2WDs, with marked areas to pull over and get out to walk through the pinnacles. 

Make sure to visit the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre (open 9.30am – 4.30pm) to learn more about the fascinating geology and natural occurrences that led to the formation of the Pinnacles and the desert.

There are a few options for Perth day tours.

One of the most highly rated day tours from Perth is the Pinnacles Desert Sunset and Stargazing Tour , which reviewers have said is “one of the best excursions we chose while in Australia.”

On this tour, you’ll get to stop in Lancelin and try your hand at sandboarding. Your local guide will take you on a beach walk, showing you native plants used by the Aboriginal people as food and medicine.

Continuing on your adventure to the Pinnacles Desert, where you enjoy a BBQ dinner with a glass of Margaret River Wine in the middle of the desert as you wait for the sun to set over the Indian Ocean.

Then, its time for the main event… using a telescope and astro-binoculars to take in spectacular views of the starry night sky – a truly bucket list worthy experience!

Click here to check prices and booking availability

Another recommended tour is this daytime tour that includes a stop to see the koalas at Caversham Wildlife Park, seafood lunch in Cervantes, sandboarding in Lancelin (including transport on a 4WD bus through the dunes!) and a guided tour through the Pinnacles Desert.

Click here for more information on this fun day tour.

Travel time: 2 hours Distance: 190 km Location: North of Perth

The Pinnacles is one of the first stops on my suggested Exmouth road trip itinerary – check out the full guide for this epic road trip from Perth!

Rottnest Island 

One of my favourite activities in both summer and winter is to take a day trip to Rottnest Island. 

Rottnest Island is one of the best places to visit near Perth – in fact, some people fly to Perth just to visit this beautiful island with its renowned beaches and friendly quokkas!

There are so many things to do on Rottnest, so make sure you read my detailed guide on how to have a perfect day trip . Highlights include snorkelling, swimming and of course, seeing the adorable quokkas! 

When you book your ferry ticket, it includes a visitors fee for the island. You can also choose optional extras like bicycle hire (the main way to get around the car-free island) or a bus tour of the island.

Ferries depart from Perth CBD, the port town of Fremantle and Hillary’s Boat Harbour (30 minutes north of Perth). The easiest way to get to Rottnest is by catching the ferry from the Perth CBD, or Fremantle (you can get the train directly from Perth to Fremantle).

• From Perth: Rottnest Island Ferry
• From Perth: Rottnest Island Ferry + Bicycle Hire
• From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Ferry
• From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Ferry + Bicycle Hire
• From Perth or Fremantle: Rottnest Island Ferry + Bus Tour

For all you need-to-know about planning the perfect day trip to Rottnest, read my dedicated guide here . I share my one-day Rottnest itinerary as well as options for guided tours and things to do during your visit.

Travel time: From 30 mins Distance: 20 km Location: Off the coast of Perth

Swan Valley 

One of the shorter day trips in Perth, the Swan Valley is an iconic wine region 30 minutes away. With world class wineries, breweries, distilleries, artisan food merchant, handcrafted wares and endless dining options, the Swan Valley is one of Perth’s best day trips. 

Some of my favourite wineries in the Swan Valley are Mandoon Estate, Sandalford Estate and Lancaster. My pick for breweries in the area is Homestead Brewery (at Mandoon Estate) and Bailey Brewing Co.

Consider taking a tour to make the most of the day (and save someone from being the designated driver!). With options for half-day, full-day and even a boat cruise up the Swan River into the Swan Valley, there are options for everyone.

• Half-Day Swan Valley Tour : Visit four wineries and sample a variety of wines. A cheese board is included, plus boutique chocolate sampling and a visit to a local microbrewery.
• Ultimate Full-Day Food and Wine Tour : Indulge in some of the best wine and gourmet food the Swan Valley has to offer on this five-star rated day trip from Perth.
• Swan Valley Gourmet Wine Cruise : Enjoy a relaxing day on the water while seeing Perth from the Swan River. You’ll cruise from Perth to the Swan Valley while enjoying gourmet snacks and a wine tasting on board before visiting the iconic Sandalford Winery for a behind the scenes tour and grazing table lunch.

Travel time: 30 mins Distance: 25 km Location: East of Perth

Want more help planning your Western Australia Road Trip? Join our community of like-minded adventurers!

Sharing travel tips and tricks, detailed itineraries, practical travel advice and local recommendations to help you plan the ULTIMATE road trip.

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Penguin Island & Shoalwater Marine Park

Penguin Island is a small island located just off the coast of Rockingham, less than a 1 hour drive from Perth.

Accessible by a five minute ferry ride, the island is part of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Parks. As the name suggests, there are colonies of wild Little Penguins that inhabit the island.

You are unlikely to see one of the wild penguins during the day though! Instead, head into the Penguin Discovery Centre to see the Little Penguins up close. 

Penguin Island is open daily from mid September to early June. It is closed during the penguin breeding season (late June – early September).

Other things to do on the island include swimming, kayak tours and wildlife cruises.

Here’s my pick for some of the most popular day tours Perth has to offer!

• Glass Bottom Boat Cruise + Guided Nature Walk: Spot Australian sea lions and look out for dolphins on a 60-minute cruise before joining a guided walk around the natural landscapes of Penguin Island
• Swim with Dolphins Day Tour : enjoy a memorable day snorkelling and getting up close with wild dolphins!
• Sea Kayak Adventure: Skip the ferry and kayak over to Penguin Island! Includes a guided tour of the Penguin Discovery Centre. Suitable for beginners to experts.

In December 2022, I went on the new Three Islands tour which is a snorkel, wildlife spotting and seafood lunch cruise. It was an awesome day out snorkelling with a guide and spotting wildlife – we saw sea lion, dolphins and even a manta ray!

You can view a short video of my experience here .

Travel time: 45 mins Distance: 50 km Location: South of Perth

Close to Perth is the historic town of York, one of my top picks for a short trip from Perth.

Located in the Wheatbelt Region, York is a small town renowned for its colonial architecture and heritage buildings.

When visiting York, be sure to explore Avon Terrace and the surrounding streets and admire the quaint historic buildings. Walk across the Suspension Bridge, taking in views across Avon River. 

Look for a new read at Barclay Books, browse homewares at Honey and Fig and check out some of the local museums in the area. 

York is also home to Perth’s best canola fields in the flowering months of August and September. From September, the wildflowers begin to bloom in the region.  

Travel time: 1.5 hours Distance: 100 km Location: Inland (east of Perth)

Black Diamond Lake

One of my favourite summer self-drive day trips from Perth will have you heading south to Black Diamond Lake . This popular swimming spot is located near the small town of Collie.

Known for its incredibly vivid blue water, this lake is busiest in the summer months and long weekends.

There are no facilities at Black Diamond, so make sure you bring all you need for the day with you, including camp chairs or picnic rug.

Make sure to bring your floatie and any other water gear like stand up paddle board or kayak! 

While in Collie, make sure to stop by the Wellington Dam Mural.

Travel time: 2 hours Distance: 200 km Location: South of Perth

Ferguson Valley 

The Ferguson Valley is a picturesque region south of Perth nestled amongst rolling green valleys and wineries. Ferguson Valley is home to the quirky Gnomesville , some amazing wineries and natural attractions in Wellington National Park. 

Read my detailed guide on things to do in Ferguson Valley.

You could combine a visit to the Ferguson Valley with Black Diamond Lake or alternatively, spend a weekend exploring this beautiful region. 

Caversham Wildlife Park

This is one of the best family trips Perth has to offer. Young kids especially will love this outing as they will get to meet a variety of native wildlife. It also one of the shortest day trips from Perth, at just a 30 minute drive from the Perth CBD.

Caversham Wildlife Park is located inside Whiteman Park. They offer a variety of daily attractions such as meeting the wombats, cuddling and getting a photo with a koala, kangaroo feeding, farm shows and more. They are open every day of the year except Christmas Day.

If you require transport, consider joining this Wildlife and City Highlights Tour which includes a tour of the wildlife park, lunch in the Swan Valley and Elizabeth Quay tour.

Otherwise, tick off three major Perth day trips on one tour with this full-day Pinnacles Desert, Koalas and Sandboarding 4WD Tour .

Travel time: 30 minutes Distance: 25 km Location: North of Perth

WA’s largest inland town, Northam is another country town home to many heritage listed buildings. Explore the town’s heritage on foot, while perusing the craft and thrift stores. 

Northam is also the only place in Perth where you can do a very special experience – hot air ballooning at sunrise over the countryside. Click here for more information if this sounds up your alley.

Make sure to visit the Northam Silo Art – there are two murals here. The bright and colourful work by HENSE is one of my favourites on the Public Silo Trail . 

Please note the CBH Northam Grain Terminal is a fully operational site, with trucks and loading equipment in use. The site is not open to the public, and is best viewed from Toodyay Rd.

(When I visited in 2019 it was on a public holiday and the site was not operational so I accidentally drove right in and took photos out the front)

You can combine a visit to Northam with York as they are just under 30 minutes apart. If visiting during spring, you could also go wildflower chasing. There are many wildflower hotspots near Northam and York!

Travel time: 1 hour 20 mins Distance: 95 km Location: Inland (east of Perth)

Mandurah & Lake Clifton

Mandurah is WA’s largest regional city, less than one hour from Perth. This waterway city sits on the coast and has an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour!

In Mandurah, explore Dolphin Quay and visit the many restaurants and cafe’s on the water. Don’t forget an icecream stop at the ever-popular Simmo’s Ice Cream. For 15 ideas and inspiration for things to do in Mandurah, check out my dedicated guide on Mandurah here .

The best way to explore Mandurah’s waterways is on this one-hour scenic cruise with guaranteed dolphin sightings! Click here for more information and booking availability.

Another popular cruise that the whole family will love is this Pirate Ship Adventure cruise . Board the pirate ship and explore Mandurah’s canals while dolphin spotting. It will be a memorable trip with lots of laughs on board with your pirate crewman. Click here for booking information.

In December, Mandurah lights up with some of the most extravagant Christmas light displays which draws crowds from Perth and surrounds to see the festive displays.

Giants of Mandurah

From November 2022 to November 2023, Mandurah is home to the incredible Giants of Mandurah display by renowned international artist, Thomas Dambo. These magnificent, imaginative interactive displays are hidden around Mandurah – and free to visit!

A fun way to explore the Mandurah foreshore and boardwalk is via e-bike or e-scooter – visit The Bike Kiosk next to the Visitors Centre!

Lake Clifton

A further 30 minutes south of Mandurah is Lake Clifton . Here you can view thrombolites – some of the earliest forms of life on earth. There is a boardwalk out to the Lake from which you can view the thrombolites and learn more about these fascinating micro-organisms.

Travel time: Around 1 hour Distance: 70 km Location: South of Perth

Serpentine Falls

Serpentine Falls is located within Serpentine National Park (park entrance fees apply). This is a beautiful spot for a Perth day trip for the whole family. Pack a picnic lunch and bring a floatie as you can swim in the water hole at the base of the falls.

There is a grassy picnic area and shaded picnic tables, with gas barbeques also available. 

Make sure to get here early, as the place gets busy particularly in the summer months. 

Options for bush walks include the Falls Walk trail (<1km), Baldwins Bluff Nature Track (6 km) and Kitty’s Gorge Walk track (14 km). 

Travel time: 50 mins Distance: 65 km Location: South of Perth

Mundaring Weir

Take a scenic drive out to the Perth Hills and visit the Mundaring Weir, an important part of Perth’s heritage. At the base of the weir you can visit the No 1 Pump Station museum to learn more about the history of the weir and the man who was the driving force behind it, C.Y. O’Connor.

You can grab a traditional pub lunch or drink at the Mundaring Weir Hotel which often has live music on weekends.

From Mundaring Weir, you can either hike or drive to the South Ledge Golden Lookout for a fantastic view of the Mundaring Weir from across the bushland.

Last year I joined a guided sunset hiking tour with Off the Beaten Track. We went on a leisurely hike for 5km on the Bibbulum Track, spotting wildflowers, native birds and even a kangaroo.

We celebrated the end of our hike with a gourmet platter and some sparkling wine to toast a wonderful afternoon while watching the sunset.

Travel time: 45 mins Distance: 40 km Location: Perth Hills

John Forrest National Park 

One of the best national parks near Perth, John Forrest National Park is a great option for a day trip from Perth.

This park located the Perth Hills was Western Australia’s first proclaimed national park. Today, the park is home to two waterfalls, a dam, numerous walking trails and even a tavern. Park entrance fees apply.

Spend the morning exploring the park. Take an easier trail such as the Falls Walk (2.5 km) or Glen Brook Trail (2km), or tackle the more challenging but scenic Eagle View Trail (16km).

Have a picnic or enjoy a pub lunch at the John Forrest Tavern which is frequented by kangaroos ( 2022 update: unfortunately the John Forrest Tavern is now closed due to redevelopment! – bring a picnic lunch instead)

Travel time: 35 mins Distance: 30 km Location: Perth Hills (east of Perth)

Bickley Valley 

An off the radar competitor to the famous Swan Valley wine region, Bickley Valley is a charming area nestled in the Perth Hills. 

Check out one of the many wineries on the Bickley Valley Wine Trail, or head to one of Perth’s cideries found in the region.

There are options for bush walks before you tuck into an afternoon of wining and dining. Check out the Bickley Reservoir Walk, Whistlepipe Gully Trail or tackle a section of the Bibbulum Track. 

Save the driving, and join a small group on a Small Group Wine & Cider Tour of the Bickley Valley.

During this full day tour you’ll sample your way through the best of the Bickley Valley wines and artisan cider. Enjoy a winery lunch with paired wines and cider tasting.

You’ll visit three boutique wineries and a cider house on this small-group tour. The perfect choice to explore the Bickley Valley without needing to rent a car. Click here to enquire about availability of this tour.

Araluen Botanic Gardens

Araluen Botanic Gardens is a great spot for a family day out. The park is beautiful all year round, but especially in autumn and spring. In Autumn, the entire park turns shades of different burnt orange and red, while in spring over 170,000 tulips blossom to life.

The Springtime Tulip Festival runs from mid-August to the end of September.

At other times of the year, visit Araluen to enjoy the variety of natural landscapes and enjoy a day out in nature. Bring a picnic blanket and basket, go for a hike or just simply explore the landscaped spaces across the park.

Entrance fees apply, more information here .

To make a day of it in the Perth Hills, visit Naked Apple cider nearby for lunch or a tasting paddle.  

Travel time: 40 mins Distance: 35 km Location: Perth Hills (east of Perth)

Yanchep 

A notable Perth day trip location as you can visit both the Yanchep National Park and Yanchep Lagoon. You could also combine this with a visit to Lancelin sand dunes in the morning, and exploring Yanchep on the way home in the afternoon.

Yanchep National Park is one of the best spots near Perth to see Australian wildlife.

There is a dedicated koala viewing area, and kangaroos are known to frequent the park grounds. The National Park is also home to Perth’s only public cave, the Crystal Cave. Park entrance fees apply at Yanchep National Park.

A half-day tour is available that includes transport from Perth. On this tour you’ll get to enjoy a bush walk, explore Crystal Cave and take in the wildlife sightings as you explore Yanchep National Park.

Head to the coast to swim and snorkel in the incredible Yanchep Lagoon. Protected by a large reef, this naturally formed lagoon is a great spot for the family to swim in.  

Travel time: 50 mins Distance: 55 km Location: North of Perth 

Fremantle 

There is so much to do and see in Fremantle that it’s worthy of a day trip in Perth. 

It wouldn’t be a trip to Fremantle without a visit to the Freo markets. The Fremantle Markets are a weekend market with specialty shops and gourmet food option. 

Most visitors to Fremantle should explore the Fremantle Prison , which is considered one of Perth’s main tourist attractions. Make sure you explore the Fremantle Esplanade, which includes the Instagrammable Ferris Wheel. From here, you could head to the iconic Little Creatures Brewery or Bathers Beach House for lunch. 

Enjoy a brew pub lunch at Little Creatures Brewery or join a behind-the-scenes brewery tour (including a guided beer tasting).

Museum lovers have no shortage of options, with the WA Maritime Museum and WA Shipwrecks Museum in the area. 

From August to November, you can join a luxury whale watching cruise from Fremantle and be part of the largest humpback whale migration in the world.

Travel time: 30 mins Distance: 20 km Location: South of Perth

Lesmurdie Falls

Lesmurdie Falls is one of Perth’s best waterfalls. It is located in Mundy Regional Park, and is best visited in winter or spring for guaranteed water flowing down the falls.

You can park at either the top of the waterfall and hike your way down to the base of the falls, or park near the bottom for a shorter hike. The longest hike is about 3km, so it isn’t too strenuous but the terrain can be rocky and steep in parts.

At the top of the falls is a lookout platform that offers a great view of the city skyline in the distance.

Travel time: 25 mins Distance: 20 km Location: Perth Hills

Lancelin 

The small seaside town of Lancelin is a great coastal day trip from Perth. Water sports lovers will have no shortage of things to do with the wave and wind creating ideal conditions for surfers.

The best thing to do in Lancelin is check out the incredible Lancelin sand dunes and have a go at sand boarding! You can hire sand boards when you get there from the base of the dunes, or book onto this fun and adventurous ATV and sandboarding tour .

Read more about Lancelin in my guide here .

Travel time: 1.5 hours Distance: 125 km Location: North of Perth

Jurien Bay 

An hour’s drive further north from Lancelin is Jurien Bay.

Jurien Bay is a popular day trip destination or weekend trip. Jurien Bay offers unique activities such as skydiving and swimming with sea lions. Enjoy the beautiful beaches, checking out both the old and new Jurien Bay jetties. More ideas for things to do in Jurien Bay can be found in my detailed guide .

10 minutes north of Jurien Bay you’ll find the sheltered Sandy Cape area, which offers swimming, snorkelling and even stand up paddle boarding.

Sandy Cape is a popular camping area, but can also be be visited as a day trip. 

Travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes Distance: 220 km Location: North of Perth

Bells Rapids

Bells Rapids is a popular picnic and bush walking spot located in Brigadoon in the Perth Hills. One of Perth’s most popular day trips, Bells Rapids is also dog friendly. 

Walk along the Avon River as you navigate the River Walk (2.5km) or Goat Walk (3km) trails.  

There is also a hidden waterfall in the area, which you can see from the Bells Lookout from Campersic Rd. 

Travel time: 45 minutes Distance: 35 km Location: Perth Hills (east of Perth)

Wave Rock 

Some might say Wave Rock isn’t really a day trip destination, but I’ve done it before! This is definitely a longer drive, but it do-able as a day trip if you plan it right. You can also stop here on the drive from Perth to Esperance .

Wave Rock is a natural landmark caused by millennia of wind, rain and erosion. It is truly an iconic and unique thing to see in Western Australia. In the area, you can also visit the Hippo Yawn rock and the salt lake, Lake Magic. 

When I did this as a day trip, we made sure to leave Perth around sunrise so we could be back before dark. Alternate between drivers and be prepared with a good podcast or playlist! 

Alternatively, consider joining a tour! This cultural tour takes you to both York and Wave Rock with a guide in one day.

Travel time: 3.5 hours  Distance: 330 km Location: Inland (east of Perth)

Busselton 

The seaside town of Busselton is worth a day trip or overnight weekend trip if time permits. 

The main attraction in town is the iconic Busselton Jetty. The second longest jetty in the world, the Busselton Jetty stands at 1.8 km long. Tickets are required to walk out along the Jetty ($4 Day Pass), or catch the Ferry train ($14 return per adult). 

Enjoy some of the many seaside restaurants and cafes located along the foreshore. My pick is the brewpub Shelter Busselton, with great beers and delicious food options. Rocky Ridge Brewing Co is another great casual option. 

Busselton is the gateway to the Margaret River Region, with many amazing wineries in the region. Otherwise head to the nearby Flametree Wines for a tasting. 

Alternatively, book onto a tour that takes you on a day trip to Margaret River. This tour takes you to Busselton Jetty, the famous Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse as well as a cave tour to Mammoth Cave.

It’s a long day trip, but you can rest on the coach ride and is good for those who are short on time, but still want to get a taste of the delights of the Margaret River Region. Click here for the full itinerary to see if this tour is right for you.

Travel time: 2.5 hours Distance: 220 km Location: South of Perth

Summary of Best Day Trips From Perth, Australia

That wraps up my list of 23 Day Trip Perth Ideas. There are no shortage of options for self drive day trips from Perth! With many options for short drives from Perth, some of these ideas for longer options could be done as a weekend trip from Perth.

Buckle up and enjoy these best day trips Perth, WA has to offer. Happy travels and safe driving! 

If you have any questions, feel free to share them in my Western Australia Road Trips Facebook group and get feedback from myself and other locals!

Continue Reading:

• Fun 3, 5 and 7 Day Itineraries for Exploring Perth
• Best Places to Stay in Perth (recommended by a local)
• Top Luxury Accommodation in Perth

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15 thoughts on “23 Ideas for the Best Day Trips from Perth”

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Great write up, I’m from Victoria and I’ve never been to Perth. I like how you have the distance, time and cost of each place.

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13 day trips from Perth

Travel & Touring  |  WA Destinations

Luckily for Perth locals, there are plenty of day trip destinations within two hours’ drive that will make you feel like you're nowhere near the city.

With activities like dolphin-spotting, sandboarding, hot air ballooning and fruit-picking on offer, there’s a day out to suit all ages and interests.

So whether you’re heading inland, down south or up the coast, here are 13 of our favourite day trips from Perth.

RELATED: 8 overnight getaways from Perth »

As WA’s first inland European settlement, the town of York  offers a unique insight into WA’s settler history through its heritage precinct and well-preserved colonial architecture.

Head to the top of Mount Brown Lookout for sweeping views of the countryside, which is a carpeted in bright yellow canola fields around August and September, while in the York Bushland Garden you can see local wildflowers blooming in season. In town, Penny Farthing Sweets is an old-fashioned sweet shop also beloved for its quirky memorabilia. Enjoy lunch at a café, restaurant or one of the historic pubs, or pack a picnic and head to the banks of the Avon River, then stroll down to the York wire suspension bridge, the first of its kind built in Western Australia, constructed in 1888.

One of York’s most well-known attractions is the York Motor Museum. It houses a massive collection of classic cars, Aussie race cars, motorcycles and vintage racing bikes alongside plenty of nostalgic motoring memorabilia and posters. One of its most notable exhibits is the ‘Never Never Tours’ Valiant ute that was used in the film “Crocodile Dundee”. It’s even signed by the film’s star, Paul Hogan.

• Distance from Perth:  98km, approx. 90min drive.
• When to visit:  September to November for wildflower season, or mid-August to September for canola season.

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2. Shoalwater Islands

The Shoalwater Islands Marine Park off the coast of Rockingham  is dotted with a series of limestone islands, the largest two being Penguin and Seal Island. The park’s waters are home to Australian sea lions and around 200 local bottlenose dolphins, with tours that can take you out to swim and snorkel with them.

Just a short ferry ride offshore, Penguin Island is home to the largest colony of little penguins in Western Australia. On the island take the 1.5km Penguin Island Nature Walk to discover some of its beaches and hidden caves.

The reefs around the islands are abundant with sea stars, molluscs and plenty of fish; an idyllic environment for snorkelling and diving. You can also explore the Saxon Ranger Dive Wreck in Warnbro Sound. If you’re planning on diving here remember to get a permit first from the Rockingham Visitor Centre.

• Distance from Perth:  27km, a 40min drive.
• When to visit:  All year round, but ferry tours of Shoalwater Bay operate from mid-September to early June.

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Once the state’s most prominent coal mining town, the picturesque shire of Collie  is today filled with crystal-blue lakes, riverside camping spots and plenty of walking and mountain biking trails through lush forest.

The Collie Mural Trail, which features the record-breaking Wellington Dam mega mural, is one of the town’s most popular attractions. Comprised of more than 40 murals splashed across shops and other buildings around the town, each mural captures one of three themes: the history of Collie, the natural environment of the South West  region, and local Aboriginal culture. View the Collie Mural Trail map for the full list of locations.

RELATED: The story behind the Wellington Dam mega mural »

The Collie River, Glen Mervyn and Minninup Pool are must-visits if you’re eager to explore local trails and experience the town’s natural beauty. Two crystal-blue lakes, Stockton Lake and Black Diamond Lake, are popular spots for camping, picnicking and water sports.

The Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail both pass through Collie, offering world-class mountain biking and bushwalking. The trails are especially picturesque when the town’s wildflowers bloom in spring.

• Distance from Perth:  200km, just over 2hr’s drive.
• When to visit:  Year-round, or springtime to view wildflowers.

4. Kalamunda and Walliston

Kalamunda and Walliston both boast excellent bushwalking trails, orchards, wineries and national parks.

In Kalamunda, the Bibbulmun Track, Mundy Regional Park and Rocky Pool Walk offer prime trails with epic views at bushland lookouts. The weekly Kalamunda Farmers Market each Sunday is a bustling event, with plenty of seasonal fruit and veg, baked goods and flowers on offer. The Zig Zag Drive that winds through the nearby Gooseberry Hill is a fantastic spot to watch the sun setting over the CBD.

One of Walliston’s most popular attractions is the S&R Orchard. The orchard hosts an annual blossom festival in September, and summer fruit-picking sessions from December to March each year. It’s a great place for a family day out, with live entertainment, tractor rides and food vans to enjoy.

• Distance from Perth:  29km, a 30min drive.
• When to visit:  Winter for mountain biking in Kalamunda, or summer for S&R Orchard’s fruit-picking season.

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The ‘sea to scarp’ town of Waroona is a popular spot to visit thanks to its picturesque lakes, dams and weirs. Not only great for water-skiing, swimming and paddling, the banks of Waroona’s waterways are perfect for setting up camp and staying the night. There are camping facilities at the Lake Navarino Holiday Park, Waroona Dam or Lane Poole Reserve.

The ancient thrombolites at Lake Clifton in the Yalgorup National Park are also worth a visit. Just west of Waroona, this collection of rock-like living fossils make up the largest thrombolite reef in the Southern Hemisphere, and mark one of few places in Western Australia where you can see living thrombolites.

Other popular activities include horse-riding along the Darling Range with Langford Hill Riding Farm, birdwatching at Drakesbrook Weir and fishing and four-wheel driving along Preston Beach.

• Distance from Perth:  110km, 1hr and 15min drive.
• When to visit:  Summer for idyllic camping and swimming conditions.

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Best known for its sprawling national park that features a koala viewing boardwalk, walking trails that weave through cave systems and a population of western grey kangaroos, the town of Yanchep  is an easy day trip destination with plenty to see and do.

Hop on a guided tour to explore the fascinating Crystal Cave, snorkel at the Yanchep Lagoon reef, take a walk trail that passes the remains of a ‘Ghost House’ and pick strawberries at a nearby farm in Carabooda (open weekends in spring and summer). If you’re eager to spend the night, pitch a tent on Henry White Oval within the national park.

• Distance from Perth:  55km, a 40min drive. 
• When to visit:  Summer for pleasant swimming weather, or spring to pick fresh strawberries.

RELATED: National parks within two hours of Perth »

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7. Gidgegannup

Gidgegannup is a scenic area within the Perth Hills nature reserves, farming properties and fields of wildflowers in springtime. Located next to the Avon Valley, it’s a great place to hike alongside some impressive sights, such as Bells Rapids and Noble Falls.

Founded by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, the Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary offers several walk trails through jarrah, wandoo and powderbark forest to view some local endangered animal species. Join a two-hour guided walk at dusk to admire woylies, tammar wallabies, red-tailed black cockatoos and quendas in their natural habitat. The sanctuary is open from May to October each year, and bookings are essential.

If you’ve ever wanted to try horse-riding, the Zia Park Equestrian Centre is great for beginners and experts alike. The centre offers a cross country course, private riding trails through the surrounding bushland, and several large paddocks for training.

• Distance from Perth:  42km, approx. a 40min drive.
• When to visit:  August to November for wildflower season, or May to October to explore the Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary.

8. Lancelin

Dubbed one of Australia’s best sandboarding destinations, the township of Lancelin is filled with beaches, inland walk trails and of course, crisp white sand dunes. The entire dune system stretches for 2km, and in sections, offers sandboarding down 450-degree-angle dunes. Entry is free but you’ll need to reserve your board before arriving.

Lancelin’s Back Beach is a great place to unwind after a day on the dunes. Thanks to a sandbar 20m from shore, the beach generally has small waves ideal for kids (or adults) learning to surf. It’s also a popular spot for kitesurfing, windsurfing or stand-up paddle boarding. When the sun starts to set, the dog-friendly garden at the Endeavour Tavern offers sweeping ocean views and hearty meals. As a side-trip, if you’ve never seen the Pinnacles in real life, head another 75km (or 45min) north up Indian Ocean Drive to Nambung National Park, see what all the fuss is about and grab some snaps of this very otherworldly landscape.

• Distance from Perth:  126km, approx. a 90min drive.
• When to visit:  Summer, or other dry months to make the most of the dunes.

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9. Dwellingup

Set amongst picturesque jarrah and marri forests, the town of Dwellingup  is filled with hiking, mountain biking and river trails perfect for those looking to get a little closer to nature.

Dwellingup’s trails vary in difficulty. The 8km Marrinup Loop Mountain Bike Trail (and its 4km-long shortcut option) is popular for beginners and kids, and keen bushwalkers will enjoy the 18km King Jarrah Walk Trail, which traces the Murray River and weaves through lush jarrah forest.

Other popular attractions include the Captain Fawcett 4WD Trail, the Hotham Valley Tourist Railway, which offers steam train rides through the forest to the towns of Etmilyn and Pinjarra, and the Forest Discovery Centre which showcases handcrafted wooden artworks and offers cultural immersion tours with a local Binjarreb elder.

If you’re planning to spend the night, there are more than 150 camp sites within the massive Lane Poole Reserve. Popular spots include Baden Powell, Stringers, Nanga Mill and Tony’s Bend – all must be pre-booked online.

• Distance from Perth:  108km, 1hr 15min drive.
• When to visit:  Winter for the best conditions to canoe down the Murray River, springtime to view wildflowers on local trails, or May to October to ride the Hotham Valley Railway.

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10. Guilderton and Moore River

The town of Guilderton is situated on the last remaining river estuary on the Swan Coastal Plain, the Moore River . There’s plenty to do around Guilderton, including swimming, sandboarding and surfing.

One of the best ways to explore Moore River is by paddling. There are a few options for canoe or kayak hire in Guilderton, and the river can be paddled upstream for about 12km, until Boobabbie Bridge. There are more than 100 species of birdlife on the Moore River waterway, so be sure to keep an eye out.

For keen fishers, Guilderton Beach is a great place to cast a line. Tailor, flathead, herring, mulloway and whiting can all be caught from the shore. There’s also a fishing boardwalk at Stephens Crescent.

• Distance from Perth:  92km, 1hr drive.
• When to visit:  Summer for pleasant swimming, paddling and fishing weather.

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11. Serpentine and Jarrahdale

Wineries, waterfalls and forest trails – if you don’t have time to drive to WA’s Southern Forests region, take a 60min drive south-east of Perth for a day in the Serpentine/Jarrahdale region.

Pack a picnic and spend a lazy day at Serpentine Falls in Serpentine National Park. If you have the time and energy, the walk trails through the park will reward you with some stunning scenery and views, including from the granite outcrop at Baldwins Bluff Trail.

Not far away, the small town of Jarrahdale has a rich history and even has a small museum in the old post office.

To feel like you really are ‘down south’, head to Millbrook Winery in Jarrahdale. Set on a chestnut farm with 20 stunning acres of vineyards and an award-winning restaurant, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported somewhere else entirely.

If you’re a mountain bike enthusiast, bring your bike out for a day on the MTB trails at Langford Park . There’s a large network of trails here suited to all skill levels. The park also has a picnic area with tables and barbeques.

• Distance from Perth:  60km 1hr 15min drive to Serpentine
• When to visit:  July to November for wildflowers, winter and late spring for waterfalls

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12. Mandurah

Once a popular seaside retreat for Perth locals, Mandurah tends to fall off the radar a bit these days as a daytrip option from Perth. But it’s taken a national award to remind us all just how much Mandurah has to offer.

In September 2023, Mandurah was named Australia’s Top Tourism Town as part of the Australian Tourism Industry Council’s ‘Top Tourism Town’ Awards. When you take a good look around, it’s not hard to see why.

Waterfront dining options range from fine dining to casual, with lots of options for fresh seafood.

With an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour, you could spend a lot of time just exploring Mandurah from the water.

And there are so many interesting ways to do just that. You can take a dolphin tour to meet the estuary’s resident dolphins, bring a crab scoop and find your own lunch in one of Mandurah’s famous crabbing spots. You can also dine out right on the water in one of the barbeque boats available for hire.

Mandurah has some excellent bike trails and if you don’t feel like bringing one, you can hire one once you’re there, with electric bikes also available for hire.

• Distance from Perth:  70km 1hr 5min drive
• When to visit:  Year-round

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13. Swan Valley

An easy 35min trip from Perth, the Swan Valley has some of WA’s oldest grape vines and wrapped around them is an ever-growing array of restaurants, cafes, breweries, and gourmet food sellers offering everything from cheese and chocolate to olive oils.

But food and wine is only part of the story. In addition to the world-class wineries the region is famous for, the Swan Valley has so much to offer families too. Have a swing at the18-hole Supa golf course, or give mini golf a shot.

There are three different animal attractions, including Caversham Wildlife Park , the West Australian Reptile Park and the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm .

For something a little different, Swan Valley Station incorporates a boutique nursery, coffee shop and picnic grounds where you can spread a rug or relax on the lawn in a beanbag. There’s also a lake stocked with silver perch, marron and yabbies where you can actually fish for the perch and take home your catch.

At the Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery , in addition to browsing local Aboriginal artworks and giftware, you can also sample bushtucker at one of the bushtucker talks and tastings, and buy produce made from bushtucker, including jams and relishes.

• Distance from Perth:  25km 35min drive

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Last updated: October 2023

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Day trips from Perth

Taste your way through Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region. Meet Rottnest Island’s (Wadjemup's) cheerful quokkas. Lose yourself in the lunar-like landscapes of the Pinnacles. Whether you’re dreaming of historic Fremantle (Walyalup) or Mandurah’s (Mandjoogoordap's) pristine beaches, some of Western Australia’s most unforgettable experiences are just a day trip from Perth. 

Tourism Western Australia acknowledges Aboriginal peoples as the traditional custodians of Western Australia and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We celebrate the diversity of Aboriginal West Australians and honour their continuing connection to Country, culture and community. We recognise and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by First Nations peoples across many generations in shaping Western Australia as a premier destination.

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12 of the BEST Day Trips from Perth – A Locals Guide

Last Updated on 25 July 2024 by Ariana Svenson

Here are the best day trips from Perth . These stunning escapes from the city can be done as a long day trip (say 8-12 hours).

Perth, Western Australia, is a gorgeous city with an average of 3000 hours of sunshine each year. Perth has many beaches , as well as botanical gardens and bushwalking trails on the outskirts. 

This is definitely a place you want to stay and explore for a while. What better way to do that than on day trips from Perth, Australia?

Disclosure: Through my site there are links to affiliates, which means that I might receive commission if you buy something after clicking them. This costs you no more, and you definitely don’t pay extra. However, I do get a small amount which contributes to the upkeep of this blog. Thanks so much for all of your support. We hope you have a ball in Western Australia!

The Best Day Trips from Perth, Australia

Perth and the surrounding areas have so much to see and do. Being from Western Australia, we know this area well! As a family, we have spent so much time exploring all that Perth and the surrounding areas have to offer. 

We consider these the best day trips from Perth, even though there are so many more we could include.

1. The Pinnacles Desert & Lancelin Sand Dunes

Distance from Perth:

• Pinnacles to Lancelin Sand Dunes 1.5 hours
• Lancelin Sand Dunes to Cervantes 1 hour 5 hours
• Cervantes to The Pinnacles 15 minutes
• The Pinnacles to Perth – 2 hours 15 minutes.
• Total driving time 5.5 hours

The Pinnacles are less than an hour’s drive north of Perth and one of the best things to do outside Perth. The desert really is an out-of-this-world sight. Located in Nambung National Park, The Pinnacles themselves only warrant an hour’s visit. 

You can make this a great day trip from Perth by visiting the great sand dunes in Lancelin, either traveling to or from The Pinnacles. 

As their name suggests, the Pinnacles are curious sandstone-pointed rock formations that are extremely unique!

The Lancelin Sand Dunes are gorgeous white sand dunes located 1.5 hours north of Perth. They are also located about an hour south of The Pinnacles along the same route. 

Lancelin Sand Dunes offer many activities, including off-roading and sandboarding. Both of these destinations make great Perth day tours. View our guide to sandboarding at Lancelin sand dunes here.

If you are looking for some guided tours for The Pinnacles or Lancelin, check out our recommendations below.

Where to Eat on this Pinnacles Day Trip

Stop at the Lobster Shack in Cervantes, Western Australia, for a bite. It is about a 30-minute drive north of the Pinnacles but well worth the drive.

Fill up on fresh rock lobster before heading out for fishing and sightseeing on the Coral Coast.

What Makes This One of the Best Day Trips from Perth

Without a doubt, the Pinnacles give you landscapes you are unlikely to see anywhere else in the world, throw in Lancelin Sand Dunes, and it’s a day of unreal landscapes. 

If You Decide to Make it a Weekend Getaway

For weekend getaways from Perth, we’d choose to stay at the Pinnacles Edge Resort or the RAC Cervantes Holiday Park . You could also venture to Jurien Bay. Read our Fun Things to Do in Jurien Bay, WA , for all the details.

2. York and the Mount Brown Lookout

Distance from Perth: 1 hour, 20-minute drive (98.7 km)

When considering day trips around Perth, Australia, the historic town of York is Western Australia’s oldest inland town, famous for its well-preserved Victorian architecture.

A must-visit attraction in York is the York Motor Museum . The museum houses a fantastic collection of classic cars and motorcycles, showcasing over a hundred years of history. The exhibits feature rare and exotic vehicles, and kids will love learning about the evolution of transport in the area. Other top things to do in York include the York Residency Museum and York Botanic Gardens. The nearby countryside has plenty of hiking and cycling trails to explore.

We recommend a one-day trip to York and the Mount Brown Lookout together. The Mount Brown Lookout is very near York. You’ll get amazing views of York town centre and the surrounding countryside from the lookout.

Thinking of staying overnight? The Lavendale Country Retreat is one of our top recommended Western Australia farmstays .

Looking for a hotel? Settlers House is a fantastic hotel option near the centre.

3. Day Trip from Perth to Busselton

Distance from Perth: 2 hours, 24 minutes driving (223km)

If you’re just visiting Perth and don’t have time to make a multi-stop trip, Busselton is a great place to visit from Perth and one of the best day trips from Perth with kids if you don’t mind the 2.5-hour drive (5 hours return minimum, with no traffic)

Busselton is located on the stunning southwest coastline with pristine beaches and a friendly atmosphere.. If you can, a one-night stay would also be worthwhile if you have kids, so you only have to travel one way each day.

A must-visit on a Perth to Busselton day trip is Busselton Jetty, which stretches an impressive 1.8 km out into Geographe Bay. Walking along the jetty, you’ll have amazing views of the surrounding coastline. For a unique experience, take the Jetty Train to the end, where the Underwater Observatory awaits.

Busselton’s calm and clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and water sports. The foreshore has excellent family facilities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths.

If you’re interested in learning about the history, make sure you visit the Busselton Museum !

4. Rottnest Island

Distance from perth to rottnest island:.

Rottnest Island is about 18 kilometres (or 11 miles) off the coast of Perth, Western Australia. It takes about 25 minutes to reach, depending on which ferry you take. 

The shortest route is from Fremantle, about a 25-minute ferry ride. You can also take the ferry from Hillarys Boat Harbour (45 minutes) or a ferry from Barrack Street Jetty (90 minutes).

It can’t be denied that one of the best Perth day trip ideas that we recommend is Rottnest Island! The day trip definitely packs some punch: white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a no-car policy where everyone gets around on bikes! Let’s also not forget to meet get a selfie with the little local Quokkas!

However, be prepared to pay! A day trip from Perth to Rottnest Island will cost a family of four a couple of hundred dollars due to the cost of the ferry tickets. 

Throw in meals and bike hire; it is an expensive Perth day trip. If you have the time, Rottnest Island is also at the top of our list of weekend getaways in Western Australia, so spend the night if you can!

Looking for a unique Rottnest Island experience? Check out some really cool ones below.

What to Eat on a Rottnest Island Tour

OMG! There is one place you have to try The Rottnest Bakery . The highlight of our holidays on Rottnest as a child was going to the bakery for a loaf of freshly baked bread.

It really is a Rottnest Icon. Nowadays, they offer more sophisticated fare, like organic meat pies and the classic jam & cream doughnut!

Why is this One of the Best Day Trips from Perth, Australia?

With its famous Quokka population (don’t forget to get a selfie), white sands, turquoise waters, and no cars, Rottnest Island feels like a world of its own.

You have to go to know what makes it so special. We also included Rottnest Island in our article about The Best Beaches in Western Australia .

If You Decide to Make it a Weekend Getaway For places to stay near Perth, we’d choose to stay at the Karma Rottnest on the island.

5. The Perth Hills, Including Serpentine National Park and Araluen

Distance from Perth: 42-minute drive (43 km)

We love the Perth Hills – and this might be your destination if you are into taking beautiful Instagram photos. In winter and spring, the hills literally come alive with the sound of rushing falls, and some of the Best Perth Waterfalls are found in this area. If you’re considering bringing your dog to Perth, the Perth Hills is one of the best day trips from Perth with dogs.

In springtime, the Perth Hills are one of the very best day trips from Perth, Western Australia. There are many wildflowers in the national parks, including one of our favourites, John Forrest National Park.

To start with, you can sample the Australian bush in the Perth Hills, just 30 minutes from the city. Serpentine National Park, especially the Serpentine Falls or Lake Leschenaultia, offers spots for picnics or cooling down in the shade. 

While in the Perth Hills, we love Araluen Botanic Park for a fun family outing, especially during spring. Take a look at our recommendations for the Best Time to Visit Araluen Botanic Park and the Tulip Festival .

To travel further, travel along the north and discover the Chittering Farm Flavour trail. It pays to do your research before heading off. 

Depending on the season, there are many delicious options. Look out for blueberries, stone fruit, avocados, and more!

If you prefer to visit just one farm, the Raeburn Orchards are a really beautiful place to experience natural produce. While this is a working orchard, Raeburn is also famous among Perth folk as a divine Instagram spot. 

Luckily for the kiddos, they offer spring and autumn festivals with bouncy castles and other children’s activities.

The best time to visit Raeburn (when you will get amazing photos) is in the autumn when the Persimmon trees turn all crimson red and orange colours. Also, they have a Spring Festival in September when the trees are full of blossoms. 

As each season is different, it’s best to check out their Instagram page to see when the trees are turning colour or flowering! The gorgeous scenery makes this one of the best day trips to Perth.

Perth Hills Places to Eat

The Packing Shed at Lawnbrook Estate combines wine and great food, including a kid-friendly menu. La Fattoria is famous for hearty family lunches and is just down the road from Core Cider House .

Why is this Best Day Trips from Perth by Car

This is one of the great day trips from Perth by car with kids and one for foodies and photographers.

Travel Time from Perth to the Perth Hills, Including Serpentine National Park and Araluen

Perth to Roleystone is 40 minutes in decent traffic. (Roleystone is the location of Araluen Botanic Park)

Perth to Chittering Valley – 50 mins (but going in a slightly different direction than Roleystone)

Total driving: approximately 1.5- 2 hours .

We’d choose to stay at  Hidden Valley Eco Lodges or Avocados Accommodation for weekend getaways .

Distance from Perth: 1 hour, 52 minutes driving time (169 km). Bunbury is also one of the top day trips from Perth by train.

Bunbury is the perfect day trip from Perth if you’re looking for a seaside destination mixed with a city location. Visit Koombana Bay, home to a resident population of over 100 wild bottlenose dolphins and visit the Dolphin Discovery Centre to learn how to interact with dolphins! There are many boat tours and eco-cruises available. Koombana Bay also has some fantastic sandy beaches.

In Bunbury city, you can explore some amazing historic buildings and try some fantastic cafes and restaurants. The Bunbury Regional Art Galleries provide a cultural highlight, showcasing works by local, national, and international artists. Meanwhile, the city’s street art and mural trail offer a colourful and creative exploration of Bunbury’s urban landscape.

Close to the city centre, make sure you walk the Mangrove Boardwalk in the Leschenault Inlet. Bunbury caters to families and adventurers with a variety of activities. The Big Swamp Wildlife Park is a hit with children, featuring native animals and a playground. For a dose of adrenaline, the Bunbury Action Park offers go-karting, water slides, and mini-golf, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone.If you’re interested in visiting Bunbury, make sure you read our locals guide to the top things to do in Bunbury . It’s also worth considering an overnight stop. You can read about the top accommodation in Bunbury here.

7. The Swan Valley

Distance from Perth: 33-minute drive (25 km)

With really limited driving, the Swan Valley offers a wonderful taste of Australia. This is why it is on our list of top short day trips from Perth. 

You could potentially spend half a day there and see some native animals, plus have a superb lunch with local wine. However, why not spend the whole day? This is undoubtedly one of the self-drive day trips from Perth.

It is also one of Australia’s warmest and oldest grape-growing areas! The restaurants and world-class wineries here serve excellent wines, and there is a lot for families to do. 

A visit to Caversham Wildlife Park is definitely in order. Read our post, Caversham Wildlife Park Perth Review .

In addition, there are famous places like the Maze and Outback Splash, and not to mention the cuddly animal farm!

Do you not want to drive yourself but would rather have a guided Swan Valley tour? Here are some of our favorites below.

Where to Eat in the Swan Valley Perth

We would love to sample these recommended family-friendly wineries in the Swan Valley. SO Perth has a great article on the Best Family-Friendly Swan Valley Wineries ; give it a read. 

Some of the recommended boutique wineries, like Mandoon Estate and Oakover Grounds , are family-friendly, with kiddie playgrounds and even a lake for fishing and boating.

Why is This One of the Best Short Trips from Perth

The Swan Valley is incredibly picturesque at any time of the year, with vines and a mountain backdrop. It really is a vino and foodie’s heaven, with plenty of things for the whole family.

Travel Time from Perth to the Swan Valley

Perth to the Swan Valley 35 minutes in good traffic.

Stay at Brookleigh Estate Swan Valley or the Novotel Vines Resort .

8. Yalgorup National Park

Distance from Perth: 1 hour, 23 minutes (127 km)

Yalgorup National Park is one of Western Australia’s natural wonders, known for its unique landscape, wildlife, and the thrombolites at Lake Clifton.

Walking along the specially constructed boardwalk at Lake Clifton allows you to observe the thrombolites up close.

Beyond the thrombolites, Yalgorup National Park has a variety of landscapes to explore, from pristine beaches and coastal dunes to serene lakes and tuart forests.

If you’re considering a road trip from Perth, Yalgorup National Park is one of our recommended stops on a Perth to Margaret River Road Trip.

9. Yanchep National Park and Yanchep Lagoon

Distance from Perth: 40-minute drive (51 km)

Just 40 minutes north of Perth is Yanchep National Park, which makes a full and entertaining day trip. This large National Park has a wide range of native animals and birds, including Black Cockatoos, Western Grey Kangaroos, Rosella, Galahs, Honeyeaters, willy wagtails, and Kookaburra. 

In the early evening, hundreds of kangaroos come out and are close enough to get good photos. In addition, there is a large outdoor enclosure with 11 Koalas.

Several trails are in the park. Many of them are flat surfaces, suitable for children. For example, the 45-minute wetland walk and another similar length through a collapsed cave system are now a gorge.

Although not as famous as the kangaroos and koalas of Yanchep National Park, there are also 400 caves. You can sign up for the guided two-hour Crystal Cave Tour. Depending on your ability, there are other cave tours, such as an Adventure Caving Tour.

A new attraction is the Trees Adventure Yanchep Park . There are several different levels of courses suitable for different ages. We have done the park in Dwellingup and absolutely loved it. Read our review, Adventure Dwellingup Review , here. You can also read our guide to the best things to do in Dwellingup here.

Yanchep Lagoon is another great place to spend a few hours.

Places to Eat in Yanchep National Park

Maybe the best thing to do when visiting Yanchep is to pack a picnic. A cafe also sells coffee, ice cream, chocolates and a visitor centre.

10. Hotham Valley Tourist Railway

Distance from Perth: 2 hours, 14 minutes (107 km)

Hotham Valley Tourist Railway is one of the top day trips from Perth. The railway is memorable and will transport you through some of the most scenic landscapes and walking trails in the area.

The journey takes in lush forests, country towns and historic bridges. The railway is also one of the top day trips from Perth with kids! Train lovers will love learning about the lovingly preserved steam locomotives.

Make sure you check the website throughout the year. There are special seasonal journeys and themed rides, from dining experiences to wildflower displays, and special events like Santa trains and murder mystery nights.

11. Mandurah

Distance from Perth: 52 minutes driving time (72 km)

Mandurah is one of the best day trips from Perth, and it is known for its beautiful waterways and wildlife. It’s an easy escape from the city and the perfect day trip from Perth with kids (or without).

One of the main things to do in Mandurah is explore the estuary (twice the size of Sydney Harbour!). Try a dolphin-spotting cruise and enjoy the surrounding views. For a more hands-on experience, you can hire a small boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard.

Madurah’s beaches are also well worth a visit. They are renowned throughout Western Australia for their beauty. Elsewhere, the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre is also well worth a visit. The Mandjar Markets , open on weekends, offer a chance to see local crafts, sample treats, and enjoy live entertainment.

12. Rockingham

Distance from Perth: 48-minute drive (55km)

Unfortunately, Penguin Island  is now permanently closed.  We thought it was one of the of the best day trips from Perth.  The Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is still very beautiful and worth a visit. 

Map of the Best Day Trips from Perth

Where Should I Base Myself?

If you are based in Perth and planning to do these day trips from Perth, check out our The Best Family Accommodation in Perth . There, you will find plenty of recommendations for Perth accommodation for every budget.

When to Visit Perth, Western Australia?

Each one of these places is fantastic for a day trip or a weekend getaway in Western Australia. We would avoid visiting during the peak Christmas and New Year period. Accommodation is full, and the things that make these places such special places to visit are less attractive!

Also, Perth has a long, hot, dry summer that starts in November and cools down in March. In January and February, the temperature is in excess of 40 degrees ( F) for 4-5 days in a row. 

You need to look for indoor activities during these times as the sun is very hot. February has an average temperature of 30 degrees (F), but as the children have returned to school, there are fewer people at most attractions.

We believe that September and October and then March through May are the best months to visit. June, July, and August are the wettest months. July is the coolest month, with an average temperature of 18 degrees.

One of the best seasons to visit Perth is the wildflower season, spring in the southern hemisphere. While it depends on the season (and factors such as rain), the best months to visit the wildflowers are late August, September, and early October. Read more about the best time to visit in our guide to the best time to visit Western Australia , and great things to do in Perth in winter.

The months also make great times for the best day trips in Perth with kids. If you are interested in wildflowers, read our guide to Wildflowers in Western Australia .

Self-Drive Day Trips from Perth

Why do we recommend taking self-drive day trips from Perth? Firstly, while Perth is a large city, the roadways are well-organized and easy to drive. 

Road users in Perth tend to be respectful and follow the rules, meaning that as long as you also follow standard international road rules.

When you do a self-drive trip, there is so much flexibility in creating your own DIY Perth self-drive itinerary.

Three of Our Top Tips about Hiring a Car in Western Australia

Self-drive day trips from Perth open up a world of discovery. For an enjoyable journey, here are three top tips about hiring a car in Western Australia.

1. In Australia, choose the full to full policy

Most rentals in Australia come with a full tank of gas. You are expected to return the rental to a full tank before returning the car. Make sure you ask the rental agency about this policy in advance.

Be warned, if you return the car with less than a full tank, you will be charged a hefty fee per litre to refuel. Save yourself the hassle (and money) and fill it up before you return it.

2. Make sure your rental has unlimited miles

Make sure you choose a rental with unlimited miles. You definitely don’t want the stress of keeping track of how many miles you have used and how many you have left. 

Having a car that is unlimited in miles allows you to explore Perth and the surrounding areas at your leisure. Not worrying about miles makes day trips from Perth with kids much more enjoyable.

3.  Don’t speed.

There are many speed cameras throughout Australia that enforce speed limits. Be mindful of your speed so that you don’t get caught by one of these cameras.

If you do get snapped, the ticket will be sent to the car rental agency, which will then turn it in to you for payment. Save yourself the trouble and potential embarrassment by paying attention to local speed limits.

Are These Day Trips Around Perth Doable with Kids?

I’ll be honest with you; the less time your kids spend in the car, the happier they will be. So, the best Perth Day trips with kids are the ones that have lower traveling times. The Perth Hills or Swan Valley are ideal spots (with wineries for the parents and natural playgrounds amongst the Orchards. It is sure to tick all the boxes for your family.

There are also a lot of amazing Perth with kids activities around the city.  We would recommend checking out our guide to Things to do in Perth with kids to get a good idea of how we suggest getting the best out of your holiday.

The Verdict – The Best Perth Day Trips, WA

There is so much to see and do in and around Perth.  From beaches to animals to wineries to National Parks, there is something to entertain the whole family.  We hope you have enjoyed our short trips from Perth recommendations. 

Do you have any other day trips from Perth you’d like to share?  If so, please leave us a comment below!

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[…] If you have more time, we’d recommend using Perth as a base for a number of Day trips, that we have covered here in The Best Perth Day Trips. […]

[…] you are heading north from Perth, our first convenient stop was The Pinnacles.  The Pinnacles are just over 2 hours drive from Perth.  Known as the ‘Hummocks’ on early […]

[…] Heading out of the city for a day is something that our family talks about for weeks afterward.  There are some varied excursions you can do from Perth with kids, and we have covered them here briefly.  Alternatively, we have extensively covered the best day trips from Perth in our comprehensive post, The Best Perth Day Trips. […]

[…] As Penguin Island is so close to Perth, we highly recommend it as one of the Best Perth Day Trips. […]

22 Best Day Trips From Perth, Western Australia

When deciding on the best day trips from Perth we’d be doing on our trip to Western Australia , we knew we wanted something a little adventurous and out of the ordinary.

We wanted to see the diverse, often strange landscapes you encounter in that part of the country. Read more on all that and more to explore more of what Perth getaways have to offer.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, including links through the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I won’t recommend something I have not used/would not use myself, and any income earned supports the upkeep of this site.

When can I go in one hour from Perth?

You can go to Caversham Wildlife Park, Fremantle, and the Swan Valley in one hour or less from Perth. These short trips from Perth are still exciting, but you’ll be rewarded with more diverse landscapes the more time you have for Perth day trips.

Top Day Trips from Perth, Western Australia

These options for your Perth day tours are as diverse as they come. I’ve got wine, I’ve got wildlife, I’ve got…sandboarding? It’s all here.

I include the driving time on each and note where we used public transit and where you’ll need ferries to complete the trip.

You’ll find that some of these are easily combined for longer day trips from Perth, WA. We spent an overnight in the Margaret River region to really enjoy that fabulous wine time, for example, and I’d highly recommend the same.

If you’re short on time, though, the wine region is still worthwhile when you’re researching Perth day trip ideas.

Are you a visual person? Use the map below to plot out your trips:

GIMME MY PERTH DAY TRIPS MAP!

1. hillarys.

Distance:  14 miles Travel Time:  20 minutes

During whale watching season, Hillarys Boat Harbour comes alive as the best spot in Western Australia to grab a tour and see the annual humpback whale migration.

Visit August through December for your best chance at witnessing this event. Most cruises will take you on a two-hour tour, with near guarantees that you’ll see some kind of activity if you time things right.

To round out your day, visit the Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA).

They offer a snorkel experience upgrade if you’re interested in swimming among sharks and stingrays. General admission tickets get you all kinds of risk-averse fun, including educational exhibits about the region’s coral population and features on the coast’s most dangerous fish.

2. Caversham Wildlife Park

Distance:  14 miles Travel Time:  25 minutes

If you’re seeking short drives from Perth or day trips from Perth with kids, Caversham Wildlife Park is less than half an hour from the city center.

It’s very family-friendly, with interactive exhibits where the littles can meet wombats and koalas and feed the kangaroos lazing about.

If you’re obsessed with farm animals, the on-site Molly’s Farm offers to full farmhand experience. Watch sheep shearing, milk a cow, and bottlefeed lambs, then dream about what it’d take for your partner (or your parent) to give you this life.

3. Fremantle

Distance:  14 miles Travel Time:  30 minutes

Seeking day trips in Perth? Fremantle is part of Perth’s metro area and one of the best day trips from Perth by train.

We got single train tickets to get out to the Perth suburb, and the ride was quite scenic, the ocean views giving us a show toward the end.

Fremantle Prison , a World Heritage site, is a highlight for any visit. We did the True Crime Tour — yes, the name got me to purchase tickets all on its own — and it was very good.

If you don’t book a tour, you only get access to the free exhibits outside of the prison.

On our tour, we perused prison cells and the exterior yards and heard stories of escapes. At one point, our guide had to remind a girl on our tour that “It’s a prison, not Disneyland,” as he regaled us with tales from the on-site morgue.

We walked to Little Creatures after. The brewery serves up fish fritters and beer with harbor views and glamorous photo sessions. We couldn’t help but take some of our own glamour shots after indulging in their hoppy offerings.

With more time, visit the Round House, the oldest public building in Western Australia. We didn’t have any change on us to enter the old jail but got to see great views from the surrounding harbor and beaches below.

Stroll around the historic homes near the Round House even if you don’t tour the building.

For guided tours around Fremantle, including a brewery tour, check out the options below:

4. Swan Valley

Distance:  16 miles Travel Time:  35 minutes

The Swan Valley wine region features Australia’s oldest vines, all less than a half hour from Perth’s city center. If you’d like to try what the region is known for, sip on chenin blanc wherever it’s offered.

Fun fact: The white wine grape hails from the Loire Valley of France, but it also grows extensively here.

Head to Olive Farm Wines for the oldest winery in Western Australia. Tyler’s Vineyard , Faber Vineyard , and Lancaster Wines all offer diverse wines that show off the best of the valley. Lancaster Wines is known for sweet dessert wines in particular.

I’m not that into the sweet stuff, but Brian can sip on ’em all afternoon.

If you’re looking for day trips from Perth with dogs, by the way, there are dog-friendly wineries like Lamont’s Winery for you to choose from, too.

For a lazier day, there are a variety of Swan River cruises leaving from the Barrack Square Jetty that will give you a different perspective of the region’s famous vineyards.

Interested in a guided experience while you’re there? Check out the options below:

5. Yanchep National Park

Distance:  32 miles Travel Time:  40 minutes

Yanchep National Park is one of the most popular national parks on this side of the country thanks to its easy access from Perth’s city center.

Walk a boardwalk to spy on koalas, weave through trails and spot grey kangaroos, or book a Crystal Cave tour to see stalagmites, helictites, and other cave-like words I don’t understand up close.

The park also offers a nine-hole bush golf course for those not here for natural pursuits. You’ll want to book your round in advance, as it is a popular thing to do in these parts.

6. Penguin Island

Distance:  34 miles Travel Time:  50 minutes

I’ll get into the larger Shoalwater Islands Marine Park in a second, but one of the limestone islands within that park deserves a special mention.

Penguin Island makes up the heart of the park, and it’s just a five-minute ferry ride from shore.

This little escape near Rockingham is home to the largest population of the world’s smallest penguins in Western Australia. They’re literally called “little penguins,” or Eudyptula minor if you’re into that sort of thing. That high level of adorable makes this one of the best Perth day trips.

Visit the Penguin Island Discovery Centre to learn more about these adorable critters, and follow that up with a stroll along the Penguin Island Nature Walk. The loop is less than a mile, and a great introduction to the island’s beaches and other nesting birds.

You may be inspired to do some snorkeling while you’re on Penguin Island or the surrounding reefs. The reefs are popular for water activities, but make sure you get a permit if you want to dive.

Keep on reading for guided tours of the greater marine life park.

7. Shoalwater Islands Marine Park

Distance:  34 miles Travel Time: 50 minutes

Yes, Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is more than just Penguin Island.

Watch sea lions lounging on Seal Island, snorkel the impressive reefs, or get yourself a permit to dive the Saxon Ranger  wreck. Bring out the binoculars for some birdwatching on Bird Island, hike the bush trails, or have yourself a more relaxing excursion on the islands’ plentiful beaches.

Guided kayak tours are another way to get out on the water, and a great chance to meet the local bottlenose dolphin populations.

Why stop at penguins?

8. Serpentine National Park

Distance:  41 miles Travel Time:  50 minutes

Serpentine National Park may sound menacing, but that’s by name only. This park and one of the best things to do outside Perth is well-known for its waterfalls, a healthy kangaroo population, and its distinct landscapes.

If you’re traveling with an eagle-eyed partner like Brian, you may even catch a glipmse if the more elusive creatures in the park. Wallabies, echidna, and brushtail possums all call Serpentine National Park home.

The park is best explored on your feet.

Baldwin’s Bluff Nature Track is a moderate trail under four miles to a summit offering scenic views of Serpentine Falls. For those with more time, the nearly nine-mile Kitty’s Gorge Walk Trail offers excellent wildlife spotting and additional waterfall views.

9. Avon Valley

Distance:  50 miles Travel Time:  1 hour 20 minutes

You can get to the edge of the Avon Valley region northeast of Perth in just about an hour from the city. If you want to hit Avon Valley National Park and the Avon River, it’ll be closer to an hour and 20 minutes with light traffic.

This is a region with a deep connection to the Ballardong, an indigenous Noongar people, but for most tourists, it’s known more for its adventure potential. This is a hub for white water rafting.

If that feels a little much for you, you can explore charming towns in the valley like Northam and Brookton.

Hot air ballooning is also part of the scene here. If you’re feeling fancy, check out the excursions in the sky below:

10. Lancelin

Distance:  miles Travel Time:  1 hour 25 minutes

If you know how to snowboard, you’re an impressive individual. This excursion in Lancelin is nothing like that, though.

First things first, you’ll want to set up a sandboard rental pickup in advance, especially if you’re headed up there on a weekend.

Ours came from the Have a Chat General Store. They had plenty of boards when we arrived, but we typically go the route of best-prepared when traveling miles to a specific excursion.

The Aussie at the counter gave us some wax and told us not to lose the wax or break the boards.

“You’ll pay the dickhead fee if you do,” we were told.

Nodding my head solemnly to let him know that I was not a dickhead, I shoved that wax stick in my sports bra and off we went to adventure time.

Once there, we were on our bottoms most of the time, although Brian tried to stand up at the end like he was Shaun White in slow motion.

I am a more cautious individual, so I was frequently stopping myself with my hands, causing myself to tip over and wipe out, sand filling all the crevices. It sounds uncomfortable, which it was, but also funny at the time.

What wasn’t funny was climbing back up these sand mountains for those seconds of child-like glee sliding down. All involved became very sweaty, and I spent a good chunk of time up there people-watching. 

Interested in a guided experience? Check out the options below:

11. Rottnest Island

Distance:  22 miles Travel Time:  1 hour 30 minutes

The weather just wasn’t good enough for us to ferry out to Rottnest Island, and it’s one of the great regrets of my life. Do you see that little smiling quokka up there?

If you have the chance, have yourself a little Perth getaway with these selfie-loving creatures and then tell me all about it.

Rottnest is a short 25-minute ferry ride away from Fremantle, the Perth suburbs I told you about with that impressive old prison. You can also get there from Hillarys Boat Harbour if you find yourself there, but the ferry ride will be about 45 minutes, instead.

Outside of all the quokkas, white-sand beaches make this one a good excursion for lounging . Surfers won’t want to miss Strickland Bay.

Interested in a guided experience to Rottnest? Check out these options:

12. New Norcia

Distance:  78 miles Travel Time:  1 hour 30 minutes

New Norcia’s claim to fame is its Benedictine Monastery. That may not seem all that intriguing if you’re coming off of a lengthy European vacay , but here in Australia, it’s a treat.

New Norcia is Australia’s only monastic town.

Visit the monks who live here on a tour of the monastery, browse their on-site art gallery to see examples of religious relics and contemporary religious art, or go big with one of the spiritual retreats they offer here.

For more of a baseline of what you’ll be looking at on your visit, check out the New Norcia Museum and Art Gallery . Learn about the monks who have called New Norcia home for hundreds of years and artifacts that tell the story of the town from its aboriginal origins.

13. Nambung National Park

Distance:  119 miles Travel Time:  2 hours

The pinnacles of Nambung National Park are one of the best day trips around Perth if you’re looking for something that’s about a two-hour drive from Perth.

Truly, this place is awesome.

Once you pay your fee at the gate, you enter a different world. The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre is a good place to start to learn about some of the critters in the park, including all kinds of creepy crawlies you hope not to interact with when you’re traipsing through the desert. 

We did the path through the park. It’s just under a mile long, well-marked, and gets you away from some of the car people who exit their vehicles at various viewpoints to climb on things they shouldn’t.

The desert self-drive is about 2.5 miles. I can’t speak to whether you’ll get different views on the drive rather than on your feet. Seeing the desert on your feet and walking among those limestone forms was other-worldly.

Knowing that any scorpions I encountered would be non-lethal made it all that more pleasant. Thanks, discovery center! 

For guided experiences, check out the options below:

14. Lake Thetis

Distance:  120 miles Travel Time:  2 hours

Lake Thetis is a quick, decent stop just a few minutes east of Cervantes.

I’m still not sure what we were looking at there, despite the Wikipedia adventure I went on later. Whatever it was, it seemed cool and made me feel smarter.

Visitors, of which we were the only ones, have easy boardwalk access to the main event, thrombolites from most likely the times when people walked the Earth with dinosaurs.

No, I’m not doing the research again. 

15. Cervantes

Distance:  122 miles Travel Time:  2 hours 5 minutes

Was the Lobster Shack in Cervantes a tourist trap? I dunno. Maybe.

Was it delicious?

It seemed a bit pricey for the food we ate, but I still think fondly about that creamy chowder. Lobster’s always gone much too soon, with so much work involved in those tiny bits of meat.

What followed after was the Thirsty Point Overlook. This is not a pub, but an overlook where you can supposedly see shipwrecks on calm days. I guess it wasn’t a calm day, because we didn’t see sh*t(wreck).

Seriously, I suppose if you’ve got some time to kill you can check out some decent beach/water views, and it’s on the way to any other tourism destinations you likely have on your Perth day trip itinerary. 

16. Tuart Forest National Park

Distance:  126 miles Travel Time:  2 hours 10 minutes

Tuart Forest National Park is an easy stop to stretch your legs if you’re exploring Lancelin and the Pinnacles.

Fun fact: The park protects the largest concentration of tuart forest in the world. Tuart, or eucalyptus gomphocephala if you’re fancy, is a durable timber that has suffered the effects of deforestation over the years.

We walked off our lobster lunch here on a short nature walk along the Tuart Discovery Trail. We then took a longer walk along the Possum Spotlighting Trail to the Malbup Birdhide. There was lots of kangaroo activity in the middle of the day on both.

If you’re into night walks and want to see said possums, you’ll need a headlamp to do so.

I’m not into that, so can’t vouch for anything related to night walks through the tuarts.

17. Sunflowers Animal Farm

Distance:  129 miles Travel Time:  2 hours 15 minutes

I’m not telling you to drive several hours just to pet some goats. I mean, I would, but I know it’s a lot.

If you’re already exploring the wineries and scenic views of the greater Margaret River region, though, I don’t see why you wouldn’t make the time for some adorable baby animals.

Sunflower Animal Farm will cure whatever ails you, I promise. Yes, they offer overnight accommodations, too, something I wish I’d known ahead of time. I enjoyed it so much that I wrote up our experience in more detail.

Note: I grew up in the city, you guys. Farm animals are my jam.

18. Busselton

Distance:  129 miles Travel Time:  2 hours 25 minutes

The town of Busselton is known for the Busselton Jetty, the longest of its type in the Southern Hemisphere.

It’s over a mile long in one direction and terminates at the Underwater Observatory. We didn’t head inside as we had ourselves a leisurely lunch on the pier instead, but there are only six observatories like it in the world.

If you want to experience the jetty but can’t make the walk, there’s a tourist train that you can ride down and back. You’ll still need to pay to walk the jetty, but it was only a few dollars at the time of this post.

Observe seabirds and casual fishing if you walk. We saw a group catch a leather jacket at some point, which was sad and amusing at the same time.

Elsewhere in Busselton, explore the Old Courthouse Arts Complex, the town’s oldest building. Visit the Busselton Museum. If you sense dairy around you while you’re there, that’d make sense. You’re actually inside the Old Butter Factory.

We had a decent meal at The Ship Inn while in Busselton. The synthesizer karaoke happening while we dined was not as good.

19. Yallingup

Distance:  160 miles Travel Time:  2 hours 45 minutes

The main draw of Yallingup for us was the Ngilgi Cave, once known as the Yallingup Cave. Book your tour online , as you can only see this one with a guide.

We were on the first tour of the day, and I’d highly recommend you do the same. Ours was loose enough that it seemed like we got extra time to explore a bit on our own after our intro session in the first section of the cave.

The second tour of the day was sold out, and 40 people navigating narrow spaces doesn’t seem like the best time for everyone, especially if you’re seeking family day trips from Perth.

After our cave exploring, we made a quick pit stop at an overlook of the beach in Yallingup. The big waves there mean it’s a great surfer observation spot, the closest I get to real surfing.

Round out your visit with a taste or two at Aravina Estate , a Yallingup winery with classic cars and surf memorabilia. They let you take a glass of wine in with you to see all the goods, which I’m hoping they don’t discover is a mistake.

20. Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park

Distance:  163 miles Travel Time:  2 hours 50 minutes

Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park is one of the most ruggedly scenic areas you’ll discover in Western Australia.

For those seeking bucket list experiences, the full Cape to Cape Walk Track is about 76 miles of this landscape, taking you to the lighthouses of Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin.

You can still see the goods driving.

Our exploring was limited to the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, the most southwesterly point on the Australian mainland. That’s impressive enough all on its own, but it was also one of the windiest places I’ve ever been.

You’ll need to pay to walk the grounds or upgrade for a tour to get inside the historic structure. We just walked the grounds, and it was still quite meaningful. There are free viewfinders dotting the landscape if you’re there during whale-watching season.

With more time, the region offers caving tours at sites like Mammoth Cave and Jewel Cave.

Sugarloaf Rock near Dunsborough was a scenic stop we also didn’t want to miss. We did the overlook and walked down the rocks to catch a view from below. Brian went further as he was wearing appropriate footwear. It’s a beautiful spot that reminded me of the Oregon coast .

21. Margaret River

Distance:  168 miles Travel Time:  2 hours 55 minutes

Margaret River proper is an excellent way to get a taste of the region, but I’d highly recommend an overnight or two if you really want to dive into the surrounding valley.

We visited several of the towns in and around the Margaret River region over the course of a few days. That made it easier not to overindulge on any one day, and made for safer exploring where wine was involved. Truly, it’s my favorite among weekend trips from Perth.

If you’re only in Margaret River for the day, stick close to town. You’ll find a variety of wineries and delicious dining options to fill up a full day.

One of our favorite stops was Voyager Estate , a family-owned organic winery that bottles a delicious shiraz.

If you’re traveling with decent daylight, tack on a drive to The Berry Farm , just 15 minutes outside of the city. We ordered a pair of scones with jam and cream and an adult vanilla milkshake with hazelnut liqueur. Both were very yummy.

Farm animals greet you at the gate, and the on-site cellar has sweet wines I didn’t try and jams I did try. Peruse preserves, sauces for your pork chops, and dressings to bring along with you. It’s truly a delightful place.

Interested in tours of the region? Check out the options below:

22. Hamelin Bay

Distance:  193 miles Travel Time:  3 hours 15 minutes

Hamelin Bay is as far as we went on our adventures outside of Perth. Our days were shorter as we were traveling in Australia’s winter season, so sunset came early on our visit there.

Coastal walk opportunities reward those who get into town with more time to spare. You’re also often able to see stingrays here if the water’s calm enough, but we missed out on that. Summer is the best time to spot them, I hear.

Day Trips From Perth, Australia: Tips Before You Go

If you’re interested in self-drive day trips from Perth, which is what I’d recommend for you, the easiest way to acquire a rental car is to do so when you arrive at Perth Airport.

You can check prices on car rentals before you go with an aggregator like  Hotwire  or  Priceline . 

The most budget-friendly option by far for us at the time was Firefly, the discount partner of Hertz. Any worries of having to Fred Flintstone it up there disappeared when we got our perfectly normal, working car, albeit with a steering wheel on the wrong side.

Note: The “wrong” in that sentence is very much tongue-in-cheek. We were coming from the United States, where we are used to having things done a certain way.

That’s the only other thing you’ll need for this trip: The ability, or all of your wits about you, to drive on the other side of the road, if, in fact, you’re coming from a country where this is a change for you.

Driving on the other side of the road is only made that much more exciting by all of the roundabouts, kangaroo roadkill/kangaroo spotting, and warnings of speed cameras throughout Australia.

Don’t disregard that last comment as me just being cheeky. You’ll need to navigate all of those things on any road trips from Perth.

You should also bring snacks. One of my favorite things when going on international road trips is  finding new snack options  for the drive up. It was a real pleasure to discover Australia’s wealth of unique chip flavors, by the way.

Where to Stay in Perth

If you’re seeking day trips from Perth, you’ll probably need somewhere to rest at the end of each day.

We stayed at the  Metro Hotel Perth City , a budget-friendly option near the Swan River, on our visit. The location was great and they offered free parking, something you can definitely take advantage of if you’re driving up and down the coast.

If you’re looking for additional accommodations in Perth, check out the map below:

Is Perth, Australia, a good place to vacation?

Perth, Australia, is a great place to vacation. Western Australia generally has much fewer tourists than cities like Sydney and Melbourne on the other side of the island.

That makes it a great base for road trips, too. Our day trips from Perth up and down Western Australia’s coast remains one of our favorite trips.

Interested in more Australia travel? Check out my detailed guide to one of my favorite destinations in the world.

Ready for Short Road Trips From Perth?

Your Flight:  I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, especially during busy times (e.g. school breaks), you should use  Skyscanner . It’s a great tool for when you’re more flexible, too, as it allows you to compare travel based on length of travel, departure date, etc.

Deals to Sydney, the transportation hub you’ll likely be flying to on any travel to Australia, are easy to come by, especially if you’re flexible. From there, you can either spend time in Sydney or connect to a flight to Perth. Another strategy is following the major airlines to catch good deals that may come up for your city.

For adventurous folks who travel on the reg, I also subscribe to  Going , formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights. You’ll get cheap flight deals from your home base straight to your inbox. 

Your Accommodations:  I’m most often using sites like  Booking.com  and  Hotels.com  for my accommodation needs. Both offer loyalty programs and now offer listings that are more of the home or condo rental variety, which is great.

Vrbo has also become my go-to Airbnb alternative.

Seeking even more wallet-friendly accommodations? Try Hostelworld . Their picks are heavily vetted and reviewed to offer you a safe experience on a budget.

Etc.:  For general travel goodies, visit my  Favorite Things  page. For more information on planning your travel, visit my  Travel Tools  page.

Planning a day trip from Perth later? Pin me!

Looking for bucket list travel ideas? Check out these guides:

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• Visiting Colombia’s Impressive Salt Cathedral
• How to Hike Up Monserrate in Bogota
• The Best Times to Visit Machu Picchu
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Too much, or just enough?

Agnes Groonwald

2 thoughts on “22 Best Day Trips From Perth, Western Australia”

Aren’t the Lancelin sand dunes so much fun? We had a great day trip there recently and went sand boarding and driving through and over the dunes.

We loved the Perth area overall. Such a different vibe than the eastern side of the country!

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7 Day Perth to Exmouth Explorer Loop

6 day perth to exmouth coral coaster (one way), 3-day margaret river yoga glamping retreat from perth, best of perth, margaret river & rottnest island, 【perth】7 days all-inclusive touring grand packages, perth to exmouth, karijini & return, 4 day albany, anzac, tree top walk and margaret river, perth to exmouth & return, outback coast tour, hike western australia's cape to cape track.

“The tour had a couple of stops that were not good, such as the natural farm with just freeze dried & frozen food.” Diane Safford, traveled in May 2024

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• Early morning hike to Nature’s Window, The Z-Bend and cliff top views of Murchison Gorge
• Stroll along Shell Beach made entirely of tiny white cockle shells and oldest living fossils, The Stromatolites
• Visit the World Heritage Listed Shark Bay, to experience a wild dolphin encounter at Monkey Mia

“The accomodation was very disappointing. The total cost for accomodation (upgraded) is less than $500 based on the market price on the hotel websites but we paid $800 in total.” Phoebe Su, traveled in June 2021

• Wander along Shell Beach made of white Cockle shells
• Explore the stunning gorges of Kalbarri National Park
• Snorkel and discover the colours of Ningaloo Reef

• Yoga and sound meditation sessions in beautiful surrounds
• Glamping at Fair Harvest Permaculture Farm
• Harvest then create a meal during a garden-to-plate cooking class

“It was great opportunity to meet people from different parts of Australia and from overseas in the group on the tour.” Tatyana Strausov, traveled in April 2024

• Christmas & New Year
• Taste local wines and chocolates in Margaret River
• Dine on modern Australian cuisine in Perth
• Snap a selfie with a quokka on Rottnest Island

“The drivers guides have a good knowledge of places we were visiting and drove us very safely.” Michel BOSSON, traveled in December 2023

• Experience sandboarding on Lancelin's dunes
• Visit Wave Rock and historic York
• Enjoy a river cruise to Rottnest Island

“wonderful tour with excellent guide Jenai, a lovely adventure for west coast and Karijini.” Jie Wang, traveled in November 2023

• Hiking & Trekking
• Snorkel in Ningaloo Reef's marine paradise
• Discover ancient gorges in Karijini National Park
• Meet dolphins at Monkey Mia

“Well set out and varied itnery. One of the best I have done.” Dennis Rice, traveled in October 2019

• Visit ANZAC Memorial Centre in Albany
• Cruise on Nornalup Inlet and Tree Top Walk
• Taste local wines and gourmet products

“The tour was all in all amazing. I definitely recommend this tour!” Lena, traveled in April 2024

• Abseil down Kalbarri's red rock gorges
• Snorkel in Ningaloo Reef's vibrant waters
• Explore the ancient Pinnacles at Nambung

“It was an unforgettable tour and worth doing it.” Mario Windisch, traveled in July 2024

• Visit New Norcia's Spanish mission
• Tour the Pinnacles at Nambung Park
• Meet Monkey Mia's dolphins

• Coastal Walks
• Visit Ellensbrook and enjoy coastal views
• Walk through Yallingup's scenic trails
• Hike through Boranup Karri Forest

More about Western Australia

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7 days for the ultimate journey in Western Australia

Nov 15, 2022 • 11 min read

Take in views of Perth from Kings Park © Ronan O'Connell/Lonely Planet

Whether you have just a few days or weeks, the mind-blowingly large region of Western Australia offers so many opportunities to take an epic journey. 

Whether you're hopping between cities by air, or spending weeks driving by car, there's a lot to check out on the western side of down under. 

Local writer Ronan O'Connell plans your perfect 7-day journey by car through Western Australia.

Born and raised in Perth, Western Australia (WA), I was a daily newspaper reporter in the state for nine years. I’ve since spent the past 10 years traversing the globe as a travel journalist and photographer, while living mostly in Europe and Asia. That time overseas has only heightened my appreciation of WA’s natural splendor and beguiling atmosphere.

Why you should visit Western Australia

The antidote to years of suffocating-feeling pandemic life is a visit to one of the planet’s most serene and sparsely populated places . WA covers more land than England, Spain, France, Italy and Germany combined, yet is home to less than 1% of their collective population. 

By no means does this mean the state is empty. WA has forests as tall as skyscrapers, reefs as long as countries, monoliths as big as airports, beaches as lengthy as rivers, craters as wide as provinces, gorges as deep as oceans and lakes as large as nations. 

Even its capital Perth is remarkably green and spacious, wedged between dense forest and pristine coastline, and pierced by a river clean enough for swimming and bordered by endless parkland. Space, serenity and scenery: this is the holy trinity of WA.

Launch your journey in Perth

Each morning, native Australian animals frolic in a patch of wilderness only 1970ft (600m) from Perth’s skyscrapers. Join them by wandering one of the world’s biggest inner-city green spaces, Kings Park , to admire kookaburras, quenda bandicoots, brushtail possums, bearded dragon lizards and 3000 species of flora.

WA’s Aboriginal people coexisted with this natural bounty for 60,000 years before the British colonized Australia, as you can learn at Perth’s brand-new, multimillion-dollar WA Museum Boola Bardip . Its highlight is the Ngalang Koort Boodja Wirn permanent exhibition, which shares the lore, traditions and history of the more than 100 cultural language groups of WA’s Aboriginal community. WA is, and will always be Aboriginal land; come here to learn just what that means.

Cheer on Australian football

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the roar of 60,000 spectators watching Australian football at Perth’s Optus Stadium . A cross between rugby, soccer and basketball, this homegrown sport is fast-paced, high-scoring and hard-hitting, which makes for a spectacular live experience. Afterward, to normalize your adrenaline levels, eat dinner on the southern banks of the placid Swan River as the Perth skyline twinkles opposite. That’s the soothing location of the Boatshed Restaurant, where the grilled barramundi fish and slow-cooked pork belly are as memorable as the view.

Catch the nearby South Perth ferry across the river, then walk through the city center toward a 27-story-tall mural depicting Australia’s multicultural community. That decorates the facade of the Adnate Perth, Art Series hotel, a new four-star property downtown featuring a big outdoor pool – a must in this sunny city.

The harbor town of Fremantle

Fremantle (or “Freo” as we call it in WA) is Perth’s bohemian, slightly scruffy cousin. In this harbor town 25 minutes southwest of central Perth, skyscrapers and suits make way for heritage architecture and thrift-shop threads. To slip into this distinctive vibe, stay at Warders Hotel, a new boutique accommodation built in an 1800s prison-guard facility. It adjoins Fremantle Markets , where in the morning you can fit a leather Akubra hat (like those worn by Aussie farmers for generations), buy juicy nectarines and plums from fresh produce vendors, and catch a busker singing Australian folk songs.

Then walk to the nearby, 167-year-old Fremantle Prison , a Unesco site that reflects WA’s convict roots. In the 1850s and 1860s, more than 10,000 male prisoners were shipped to WA to help build its infrastructure, and many were residents here. Though it hasn’t housed any incarcerated people for nearly 30 years, it’s now a popular and well-maintained tourist attraction. So join one of the regular tours of its dark and cramped cells, weathered halls and eerie underground tunnels.

In the afternoon, see photos of the ships those convicts arrived on at Fremantle’s modern WA Maritime Museum , which also illustrates this town’s long-held status as WA’s chief port. WA’s coastline is famously perilous for shipping, and Fremantle’s WA Shipwrecks Museum will reveal tales of the state’s worst ocean disasters.

Evening mussels at Cicerellos

Refuel in the evening by gorging on mussels freshly plucked from the Indian Ocean. They’ll be cooked in chilis at Cicerellos, Fremantle’s oldest restaurant, an unpretentious venue overlooking the town’s harbor that is also renowned for its comforting fish and chips.

Drive to Busselton

A 2.5-hour morning drive south from Fremantle ends amid the towering Tuart Forest National Park in Ludlow. Raise your pulse by scaling the majestic tuart trees, up to 400 years old and 108ft (33m) tall, at Forest Adventures South West. This is just one of the park’s 77 daring activities, which include base jumps, flying foxes, high-rope unicycling and spider-web climbing.

From there, it's just a 15-minute drive to the longest timber-piled pier in the Southern Hemisphere, the 1.2-mile(1.8km)-long, 155-year-old landmark Busselton Jetty . Wander its length at your leisure, or catch the solar-powered train to its end, where an underwater observatory showcases more than 300 marine and coral species in the crystalline waters of Geographe Bay. For a closer inspection of this marine life, hire snorkeling gear from Busselton Dive Shop and spend the afternoon diving in the aquatic wonderland that surrounds the jetty. 

That will build a hefty hunger, which you can satisfy at Shelter Brewing Co. alongside the pier. This huge, metallic structure houses a brewery and sprawling restaurant specializing in wood-fired pizzas and seasonal fish fried on the bone.

Busselton’s coastline is so dazzling you’ll want to keep it in view for your entire stay. So unpack your luggage at Broadwater Resort Busselton, a sprawling beachfront complex with a bar and restaurant, two swimming pools, and spacious accommodations ranging from studio rooms to one-, two- and three-bedroom villas that open out onto gardens.

Wine tasting on the way to Margaret River

Foster a fine mood with a morning swim at one of WA’s best beaches, Eagle Bay, where the sand is so fine and the water so clear it almost feels like a CGI-produced dream. Ground yourself back in reality by learning Aboriginal lore, watching a didgeridoo performance and cooking native Australian food like kangaroo and emu plum during a 2.5-hour Koomal Dreaming tour of Ngilgi Cave in Yallingup, a 25-minute drive west of Busselton. 

You can also descend solo into this huge cave, studded by stalactites and stalagmites and accessed by stairs and walkways. After nourishing your spirit, do the same for your taste buds at one of the world’s top winemaking regions, just a 20-minute drive south. Margaret River ’s ancient loamy soil and Mediterranean climate are tailor-made for vineyards, among the oldest of which is Vasse Felix. 

In the afternoon, stroll its manicured grounds and do guided tastings of its range of wines, including the award-winning 2019 Heytesbury Chardonnay and 2017 Tom Cullity Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec. As the sun slips from view, dine overlooking the vineyard at the Vasse Felix restaurant, which uses unique local ingredients like emu and quandong fruit. 

Sleep this all off at Margaret River’s Heritage Trail Lodge, nestled amid tall trees yet just minutes’ walk from the center of Margaret River town. This four-star boutique hotel has big rooms: many look directly into the forest and some have large spa baths, a prime perch from which to sip one last glass of wine before retiring for the evening.

Among the trees in Pemberton

Wilderness envelops your morning an hour’s drive southwest of Margaret River at Greater Beedelup National Park. You could walk for days through this protected forest and not encounter another human. Unless, that is, you follow WA’s popular 621-mile(1000km)-long Bibbulmun Track , a scenic section of which courses through here.

The further you drive southwest, the loftier the karri trees seem to get: at times it can be hard to see the sky through your windscreen, hidden as it is by the forest canopy. By the time you near the old timber mill town of Pemberton, in the afternoon, some of these monstrous karri trees will measure up to 262ft (80m), almost as tall as the Statue of Liberty.

Pretend you’re a 1930s fireman and climb the 100-plus metal pegs drilled into the side of two enormous trees near Pemberton. That will take you to the old wildfire lookout platforms, more than 164ft (50m) above the ground on the Gloucester Tree and Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree, from the tops of which you can see for miles across the forest roof.

Afterward, do as those firemen once did by sleeping and eating at the century-old Pemberton Hotel. With its red-brick facade, white balustrades and wide verandas, this is a classic, old-school Aussie place. It’s not outdated, though, thanks to the 30 modern accommodations (including two rooms specifically designed for disabled guests) added to the property in recent years. Inside the hotel’s historic dining room, you can savor the kind of hearty fare for which these pubs are known, like “scotch fillet” (or rib-eye) steaks and chicken parmigiana.

Truffles, family fun and the beaches of Bunbury

On the drive back to Perth, your inner foodie will rejoice at the next destination. Just 25 years ago Manjimup was an unremarkable timber and dairy farming town – until locals planted oak and hazelnut trees, from the roots of which grew an irresistible delicacy. That turned this town into a global truffle hub, with Michelin-star chefs across the world now plating up truffles sourced from Manjimup’s farms, including the property that started it all, Truffle Hill. 

During truffle season, from June to August, tourists can join sniffer dogs on truffle hunts across that property, about 25 minutes’ drive north of Pemberton. Throughout the year, Truffle Hill offers tours of its farm by request, and from its large shop sells an array of truffle-infused products from oils to sauces, honey, salt and even risotto. After that, you can tap into this town’s roots by wandering the Timber and Heritage Park , which has historic cottages and vintage machinery, plus a blacksmith studio, logging museum and nature-based kids’ activity center. 

Children will also appreciate what is reputedly Australia’s largest free playground, Apple Fun Park in Donnybrook, an hour drive north of Manjimup. That name references Donnybrook’s renown as a source of delicious fruit, with some of the town’s orchards allowing visitors to walk their pretty grounds and (for a fee) pluck specimens from its trees. Stop in at Donnybrook’s Fruit Barn shop to buy crunchy apples, juicy pears and addictive plums, then ask to visit its nearby orchard.

Continue today’s food theme with a dinner of crab risotto and grilled marron crayfish at Vat 2, a funky restaurant that spills out onto the sand at Jetty Baths beach in central Bunbury. Drink up – for it’s just a 10-minute walk home to the Hotel Lord Forrest, which, from its west-facing rooms, offers sprawling views of the Indian Ocean.

The tiny penguins of Rockingham

By this stage, you should have already spotted plenty of Australian animals in the wild – though you may not have properly sighted kangaroos, wombats, wallabies, quokkas, emus and dingos. They’re all waiting to say “G’day” to you this morning at the Bunbury Wildlife Park , an intimate zoo where animals graze in wide enclosures.

Complement that communion with nature by absorbing the creative brilliance of Aboriginal painters at Bunbury Regional Art Gallery . Spread across two levels of an attractive heritage building, this facility showcases an array of local artists, including Aboriginal dot painters, whose works are inspired by the ancient lore of their ancestral lands.

From there, it’s a 90-minute drive to Rockingham, which many WA residents deride as a touristy backwater to be avoided. Ignore their snobbery and admire the world’s smallest species of penguin as well as spot endangered Australian sea lions.

All of those majestic creatures are protected by the sheltered bay of Rockingham’s stunning Shoalwater Islands Marine Park . From mid-September to early June, visitors can take a 5-minute ferry ride from the mainland to tiny Penguin Island, and watch rangers do regular feeding shows of the cute waddling birds, which are only 16in (40cm) tall.

Finish your day at Rockingham’s beachfront dining strip, which looks across beautiful Mangles Bay. Alongside a huge park with multiple playgrounds, this row of venues includes Latitude 32 restaurant. Sit feet from the sand as you savor strip-loin steaks, lobster tails and garlic prawns alongside a jetty. The fact Rockingham is underappreciated in WA – despite its magnificent beaches and unique marine park – indicates just how spoiled for choice we are in a giant state abounding in exquisite scenery.

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The Ultimate Western Australia Road Trip Itinerary

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From Esperance in the south all the way up to Broome in the north, this ultimate Western Australia road trip itinerary takes you along all the highlights of Australia’s largest state.

As soon as you hit the road and start exploring Western Australia, you’ll immediately realise why this destination is a truly unique corner of the world.

In terms of land mass, it is the biggest state in Australia. It is absolutely massive, taking up almost the entire western half of the country.

Despite its size, Western Australia is sparsely populated. Much of the land is desert, so it is extremely remote and there are few tourists here compared to places like New South Wales or Queensland.

Even when heading to the desert regions of the Outback, most travellers head to Alice Springs in the Northern Territory before considering a trip to Western Australia.

Because Western Australia is mostly rural, and there are few tourists, it’s actually one of the best spots for road trips in Australia!

Full of wildlife, national parks, coral reefs, wineries, charming towns, white sandy beaches, and rugged natural landscapes that sometimes look like another planet, Western Australia has so much to offer.

The best way to see it all is definitely a road trip. Public transport doesn’t reach all the best parts of the state, so a driving adventure allows you to get to all the most beautiful and remote places on your own schedule.

Let’s get into this epic Western Australia road trip itinerary!

Table of Contents

Where to Start?

How long is the drive, car or campervan, driving in western australia – road trip tips, day 1 – perth to dunsborough, day 2 – dunsborough to margaret river, day 3 – margaret river to albany, day 4 – albany to bremer bay, day 5 – bremer bay to esperance and cape le grand national park, day 6 – esperance to hyden, day 7 – hyden to perth, day 8 – perth to jurien bay, day 9 – jurien bay to geraldton, day 10 – geraldton to kalbarri, day 11 – kalbarri to shark bay, day 12 – shark bay to coral bay, day 13 – coral bay to exmouth, day 14 – exmouth, day 15 – exmouth to karijini national park, day 16 – karijini, day 17 – karijini to eighty mile beach, day 18 – eighty mile beach to broome, where next, wa road trip guide.

Before we get into the actual itinerary for a Western Australia road trip, we’re going to cover some of the basics.

To plan a road trip of this diverse and stunning state, you need to have a few things sorted including your transport, your time frame, your supplies, and any other logistics.

The road trip will consist of two sections: A southern loop from Perth to Esperance and back, and a northern route from Perth up to Broome and back. This is a lot of ground to cover, but it is so worth it.

To help you plan your road trip, here are some important things to consider.

Although it makes sense to start at one end of the west coast and finish at the other, this isn’t realistic for most people.

This Western Australia road trip will reach from Esperance in the south, all the way up to Broome in the north. However, flights into Esperance or Broome aren’t cheap from most destinations around Australia. Car rentals are even more scarce, and more costly in these places.

Your best option is to start your Western Australia road trip in Perth.

Perth is the capital city of Western Australia, and it has the most amenities available. Flights into Perth are plentiful, and they are more affordable than other places in the state.

Fly into Perth, spend a few days enjoying the capital city, then rent a car and head out on your road trip. Return to Perth at the end to return your car and fly home.

If you already have your own car or camper van and you don’t need to rent one in Perth, you can always begin this road trip anywhere that suits you. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to drive all the way back home after the trip.

READ MORE: Check out our list of the best things to do in Perth!

The biggest obstacle when planning a Western Australia road trip is time!

Because the state is so huge and all the attractions are spread out, you’ll need a good chunk of time to see everything.

Give yourself 3 weeks at the very least to complete the entire Western Australia road trip and then loop back to Perth. This is the very minimum amount of time, with just one night in most places.

The first part of the road trip starts in Perth, follows along the south west edge of the state until Esperance, then loops back to Perth inland via Hyden. The driving distance is roughly 21 hours (with no stops), covering about 1,900 km.

The second part starts in Perth and heads north along the coast, with a detour to Karijini National Park, before ending in Broome. The driving distance is roughly 31 hours (with no stops) and covers about 2,800 km.

After Broome you’ll return to Perth unless you’re continuing into the Northern Territory. So the total driving time for the north and the south, plus the return drive to Perth, is roughly 75 hours. The total distance is roughly 6,700km.

Three weeks is very doable for this drive! If you have time to spare, stretch the road trip out into a month or more.

Whether you want to take your time and leisurely explore the state, or you want to see it all in 3 weeks, a Western Australia road trip is one of the best things to do Down Under .

You can do a Western Australia road trip in either one! But spoiler alert, we recommend a campervan!

A rental car is cheaper than renting a campervan. You’ll probably spend less money on petrol, and there is less maintenance required with a small car.

But you’ll have to book all your accommodations in advance. You can also pack a tent and camping gear , you’ll just have to set up camp every night.

A campervan is the most convenient option because you can just drive up to most campsites and you’re good to go.

There is a lot of hopping around on this road trip, so it is handy to just have your sleeping arrangements all set up in your van. If you don’t have your own van, you can rent one in Perth.

We recommend Travellers Autobarn , who have the biggest range of budget-friendly vans available.

Whether you rent a car or a camper van, definitely take advantage of the amazing campgrounds in the state.

Camping in the remote outback areas of Western Australia and watching the stars is an epic adventure!

Another thing to note: you don’t necessarily need a 4WD. Some more rugged areas of the road trip will definitely be easier with a 4WD, but you can still complete the road trip without one.

Here are some other road trip tips for Western Australia.

As mentioned, Western Australia is very remote. Petrol stations are usually available, but it is wise to be prepared just in case. Try to have spare fuel, spare tires, and extra necessities like food, water, and a first aid kit.

Also, be careful when driving on the outback roads. Wildlife is everywhere, and even when the road looks deserted, you never know what may jump out in front of you. Particularly at dawn and dusk, drive with caution.

In terms of weather, I would recommend avoiding a Western Australia road trip in the middle of summer.

December through February can get extremely hot, especially the further north you go.

The north of Western Australia has a tropical climate as well, meaning summer is also rainy season.

To avoid rain, floods, and potential road closures, and super hot temperatures, plan your road trip outside the summer months.

With those tips in mind, all road trips around Western Australia should run smoothly. Let’s get into the itinerary and our suggestions for the best places to go on your road trip.

Western Australia Road Trip Itineraries

As discussed earlier, we have separated this Western Australia road trip itinerary into two sections.

The Southern Route begins in Perth, follows the south west edge of the state to Margaret River and Albany, then continues to Esperance. From there, you can loop back to Perth inland.

The Northern Route starts in Perth and follows the west coast up to Exmouth. Then you can take a detour to Karijini, then continue up to Broome before heading back to Perth or continuing your road trip north.

These itineraries can be modified according to your plans. You can just do one route if you don’t have a full three weeks to spare. If you have more time, feel free to spend extra days in places you really love.

If you don’t have your own wheels you can rent a campervan in Perth .

Southern Route

The Southern Route of the road trip takes 7 days. If you only have a short time to explore Western Australia, this is the quickest road trip to choose.

Be sure to spend a few days exploring Perth before you set out. Check out Fremantle, explore the beautiful  Perth beaches , or take a day trip to Rottnest Island and play with the quokkas.

Once you’ve had your fun in Perth, pick up your car or camper van and get going!

If you’re only planning on driving south too, have a read of our Perth to Esperance road trip guide.

From Perth, it’s a 3 hour drive to Dunsborough.

Stop in Busselton along the way, a charming coastal town with plenty of  fun things to do .

Stretch your legs along the iconic Busselton Jetty, or do the Underwater Sea Walk which explores the marine life under the jetty.

You could also walk to the Cape Naturalist Lighthouse or get some delicious fresh seafood for lunch.

Continue on to Dunsborough, which has some nice wineries and beaches to check out. Meelup Beach is a great spot for a swim or surf.

Dunsborough and Margaret River are only 30 minutes apart, so you can spend the night in either place.

Today you’ll want to do some wine tasting in the Margaret River region, as this is a highlight of Western Australia. You can just drive from vineyard to vineyard on your own, or  book a winery day tour  so you can drink all the wine you want without having to drive.

BONUS –  Booking ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on the tour, and get the best price too! And just for NOMADasaurus readers, if you use the Klook discount code  “NOMADS10”  on the website when checking out, you’ll get $10 off your first booking!

Also check out Margaret River Chocolate Company and Margaret River Dairy Company to sample locally made, artisan food and buy some snacks for your trip.

Other fun things to do near Margaret River include surfing at Yallingup Beach, taking a dip at the nearby natural swimming pool called Injidup Natural Spa, and checking out the stalactites and stalagmites at Jewel Cave or Ngilgi Cave.

After Margaret River, it’s time to head towards your next destination: Esperance. If you want an extra day in Esperance, drive straight there from Margaret River. It takes 8 hours.

If you prefer to break the journey up and see more Western Australia highlights along the way, you can make a few stops on the way to Esperance.

It’s 4 hours from Margaret River to Albany.

Definitely stop in Hamelin Bay , where lots of sting rays swim through the shallow waters. You can go snorkelling here or just wade amongst the rays. 9am or 10am is the best time to see them!

Another cool stop on the way to Albany is the massive, seaside boulders known as Elephant Rocks in William Bay National Park. Nearby is Greens Pool, a beautiful spot for a swim.

Just before you reach Albany there is another gem: Torndirrup National Park. Check out the unique rock formations here like The Gap and the Blowholes, and the Natural Bridge.

Read next:  The 20 Best Things to Do in Albany

It’s 2 hours from Albany to Bremer Bay, the next stop on your way to Esperance along the south west coast.

You can spend the morning in Albany. Get brekky in a cafe, go for a swim or stroll on Middleton Beach, or check out the National ANZAC Center for a bit of Aussie history. If you’re here on a Saturday, definitely stop by the Albany Farmers Market.

Once you reach Bremer Bay, consider booking an  orca whale watching tour . This is one of the best places in the world to see orcas in the wild. Between January and March, the ocean here is home to the largest congregation of Orcas in the Southern Hemisphere.

You can also go whale watching here between June and October, as southern right whales come here to calve.

You may also see humpback whales, pilot whales, and more. Anywhere on this region of the south west coast of Australia is great for whale watching during the winter months!

Also in the area is the Fitzgerald River National Park. Full of beautiful forest and walking trails, this is a nice place to explore if you’re not here during whale season.

There are two campgrounds here as well if you want to spend the night in the wilderness.

From Bremer Bay, it’s a 5.5 hour drive to Esperance.

Known for its pink lakes, stunning beaches, and active wildlife, Esperance is one of Australia’s most beautiful places.

The famous saltwater Pink Lake is right next to the town, but it isn’t actually pink anymore.

Lake Hillier is the more famous pink lake, which is located on an island off the coast of Esperance. You can access this lake by a boat tour if you wish.

Once you arrive in Esperance, spend the day exploring Cape Le Grand National Park . Lucky Bay Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia.

It’s famous for its white sand, turquoise water, and kangaroos which frequent the beach.

A great way to see all the highlights of Esperance is to do the Great Ocean Drive. It’s a 40-km loop that starts and ends in Esperance.

Along the Great Ocean Drive is the Observatory Point Lookout, Twilight Beach, Twilight Cove, Ten Mile Lagoon, Lucky Bay Brewing Company, and the Pink Lake.

You can follow the  Great Ocean Drive route  or just pick and choose the attractions you want to see while you’re here.

Check out our full list of the  best things to do in Esperance .

After enjoying Esperance, it’s time to head back to Perth. It’s an 8 hour drive on the inland route. You can do it all at once, but we recommend stopping halfway in Hyden.

You’ll reach Hyden in 4 hours. While you’re here you have to check out Wave Rock. This giant slab of granite that was supposedly formed 130 million years ago is actually shaped like a huge wave.

It has formed this way naturally over time, and it’s one of the coolest natural attractions along the route. It’s worth stopping in Hyden just to see it.

From Hyden, it’s just a 4 hour drive back to Perth! You’ve finished the southern section of this road trip.

You can choose to spend some time relaxing in Perth, or just continue straight on to the northern section.

Northern Route

This next Western Australia road trip route goes from Perth up to Broome.

As you head north towards the Coral Coast, the waters of the Indian Ocean get warmer and you’ll find the marine life is flourishing.

You’ll also see lots of dramatic natural landscapes within all the national parks and coastal drives.

The Coral Coast is majestic, colourful, and full of life. It begins in Cervantes, a small town 2 hours north of Perth and ends up in Exmouth.

Read next: Check out our comprehensive Perth to Broome road trip itinerary with more info, or continue reading below for an overview of what you should do on this part of the drive!

From Perth it’s only a 2.5 hour drive to Jurien Bay. On the way you can make a few cool stops if you’d like.

If you already have your vehicle, then you can keep on driving from the southern loop.

But if you are looking to pick up wheels here, grab a campervan from Perth and you’ll be good to go.

Stop in Yanchep National Park to explore the forest, go wildlife watching, stretch your legs on some walking trails, and seek out some limestone caves.

Lancelin is another unique stop because it has sand dunes! You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the Sahara Desert here.

If you have a 4WD you can go off roading on the Lancelin sand dunes. Or you can  rent a sandboard for $12.50  and have some fun.

But the absolute best stop is Nambung National Park, which is a real highlight of Western Australia.

The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park is an otherworldly natural sight. This arid desert is full of natural limestone rock formations that were formed somewhere between 25,000 and 30,000 years ago.

The Pinnacles are a fascinating sight, and could be considered a must-see on road trips through Western Australia.

Once you arrive in Jurien Bay, enjoy the relaxed pace of this chill beach town. Walk along the white sandy beach and go for a snorkel or swim.

Camp near the beach at Sandy Cape Recreation Park and watch the stars.

After a good night’s sleep, there is one amazing adventure to do in Jurien Bay before you continue on the road: a sea lion tour!

A colony of sea lions lives on Essex Rocks, which is a 15-minute boat ride away from Jurien Bay.

Book a boat tour  so you can visit the colony and go snorkelling and swimming with some friendly sea lions.

After swimming with sea lions, drive 2 hours north from Jurien Bay towards Geraldton.

Geraldton is a pretty quiet town that is a popular stop on a road trip of Western Australia.

Spend the day visiting the cafes, markets, museums, beaches, and swimming holes in the area.

There are a few nice caravan parks in Geraldton as well, where you can rent a cabin or park your campervan.

Tomorrow you’re heading to Kalbarri National Park, which is full of fun things to do.

It’s a 2-hour drive from Geraldton to Kalbarri, a resort town framed by rugged coastal cliffs and oceans filled with wildlife.

On the way to Kalbarri you’ll pass by another pink lake called Hutt Lagoon. This lake is still pink due to the presence of a special algae, so check it out if you haven’t yet gotten a cool photo of a Western Australia pink lake.

Once you arrive in Kalbarri, spend some time admiring the stunning coastline. Visit Red Bluff, Natural Bridge, and Island Rock for impressive views of the jagged rocks towering over the ocean.

You can also head into Kalbarri National Park, which has lots of great hiking trails and some iconic landscapes.

The Z Bend Lookout is a short day trail that is quite popular.

The real highlight of Kalbarri National Park is the short, loop trail to Nature’s Window.

This is a large natural arch made of layers upon layers of dusty red sandstone. The arch creates “Nature’s Window” where you can look through over the rivers, forests, and cliffs of the national park.

Check out our list of the  best places to visit in Australia  for more travel inspiration!

Continue driving north for 4 hours until you reach Shark Bay, then spend the day exploring this very special area of Australia.

Shark Bay on the Coral Coast is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site . It is the most westerly point of Australia, and is made up of numerous islands, reefs, national parks, beaches, and more.

Shark Bay is also home to the world’s largest and richest seagrass beds, where you can find large numbers of dugongs grazing in the waters.

There are so many other cool things to see in Shark Bay. Visit Hamelin Pool to see the oldest life forms on earth: a type of living fossil known as stromatolites. These algae colonies are millions of years old.

Another highlight of the area is Shell Beach. This is one of the few places on earth where you can find a beach with billions of tiny shells in place of the sand.

After admiring Shell Beach, visit Francois Peron National Park to see the vibrant natural colors, from the red cliffs and white sandy beaches to the turquoise waters.

Monkey Mia is a small, quiet area of Shark Bay famous for its marine life. From a huge population of wild bottlenose dolphins, to manta rays, turtles, dugongs, and more, Monkey Mia is a great spot for wildlife watching.

Denham is the gateway town to the nature of Shark Bay, so you can find accommodation here unless you want to camp at a more remote campground in Francois Peron National Park. The Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort is another nice place to stay.

After marveling at the wildlife and colorful nature around Monkey Mia, Shark Bay, and the national park, drive 5 hours to Coral Bay.

On the way you can stop at the Quobba Blowholes to watch the water shoot out of natural rock crevices and up into the air.

Coral Bay is a charming spot on the Coral Coast, so enjoy your day here before heading up to Exmouth tomorrow.

There are a few nice caravan parks near the beach such as Bayview Caravan Park and People’s Park.

The Ningaloo Reef acts as a barrier from the Indian Ocean so the water here is calm, clear, and peaceful. The conditions are perfect for snorkelling, diving, fishing, kayaking, or stand up paddle boarding.

If you want a real treat, you can  tour the reefs of Coral Bay  on a glass bottom boat.

A highlight of the area is Skeleton Bay, a nursery for reef sharks. Stop here to add another species to your list of animals you’ve seen on this road trip of Western Australia!

From Coral Bay it’s 2 hours to Exmouth, one of the best places to visit on a road trip of Western Australia.

Stop by the  Ningaloo Visitor Centre  when you arrive for maps and information. You’ll spend a full day in Exmouth tomorrow exploring the beaches and reefs of Cape Range National Park so make sure you get some rest today in preparation for an incredible day.

Read more about the ultimate Perth to Exmouth road trip if you’re not planning on heading further north.

Exmouth is a major tourist town that marks the gateway to the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area.

The waters are filled with coral reefs and marine life, and the land is surrounded by the gorges and cliffs of Cape Range National Park.

It’s a stunning area, and it’s sure to be a highlight of your road trip.

Easily the best thing to do in Exmouth is swimming with whale sharks. These gentle giants roam the warm waters of the Ningaloo Reef, alongside humpback whales and manta rays. You can book a tour to snorkel with the ocean animals during the whale shark season (March through August).

Book your whale shark tour  a few months in advance because they sell out quickly!

Other amazing things to do in Exmouth include snorkeling at Turquoise Bay or Sandy Bay, or going hiking on the Yardie Gorge Trail or the Mandu Mandu Gorge Trail.

After a big day of snorkeling or hiking, get ready for an 8 hour drive to one of Australia’s most phenomenal national parks. Be sure to fill up on petrol, water, and snacks before you leave.

Once you arrive in Karijini National Park, stop at Visitor Centre in Tom Price which is the highest town in Western Australia. Here you can get maps of the park and stock up on more supplies if needed.

If you have a camper van, a great place to spend the night is the free camping ground near Hamersley Gorge. If you aren’t camping,  Karijini Eco Retreat  is a gorgeous place to stay.

Start your day in Australia’s second largest national park with an early morning swim in Hamersley Gorge.

There is so much to see and do in  Karijini National Park , so it’s a good idea to pick which hikes you’re doing the night before

That way you aren’t scrambling to make decisions and you can make the most of your day in the park.

The park is most well known for its rich red hues, swimming holes, and gorges. Some of the best gorges to visit include Knox Gorge, Joffre Gorge, Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge, and Dales Gorge.

Each one has a challenging hiking trail that can be done in a few hours or more depending on your fitness level.

You probably won’t be able to hike every single gorge in one day, so take your pick of which hikes you’d like to tackle.

You can also just visit lookouts to see the gorges without a strenuous hike if you prefer. Fortescue Falls, Fern Pool, and the 2km Gorge Rim Trail are also highlights of the park.

Dales Camping Area is another lovely camping spot in the park if you’d like to spend the night somewhere new. It needs to be booked in advance.

From Karijini it’s a 6.5 hour drive to Eighty Mile Beach. 

We suggest driving though Port Hedland, which is a good place to stop for petrol, food, water, and any other supplies. 

There isn’t heaps to do in Eighty Mile Beach besides enjoying the long, peaceful stretch of sand.

Go swimming, fishing, birdwatching, or walking. Definitely watch the sunrise or sunset over the ocean. 

If you have a 4WD you can drive along the beach. The Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park is a convenient place to stay. You can park your camper van at a powered or unpowered campsite, or rent a cabin for the night. 

Time to head to the last destination on your road trip of Western Australia! Broome is about 4 hours north of Eighty Mile Beach. 

Broome is the gateway to the Kimberly Region of northern Australia. The tropical resort town is best known for its pearl farms and the beautiful Cable Beach where you can ride camels at sunset. 

Some of the other  best things to do in Broome  include visiting the museums and Aboriginal art galleries, going whale watching, and checking out the views at Roebuck Bay. 

Further west from Broome lies the Gibb River Road, a scenic drive through the heart of the Outback.

Consider heading that way if you have more time to road trip, as it’s a unique part of Australia that has some beautiful gorges and lakes. 

After enjoying Broome, you have finished the most epic road trip of Western Australia!

If you have your own camper van or car, consider continuing north towards Darwin and Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory. You’ve already made it this far, why not see more of the best places in Australia?

If you have a rental vehicle to return, or you’re done road tripping and you have responsibilities to get back to, get ready for a big drive back to Perth.

It’s almost a 23 hour drive from Broome to Perth via the National Highway. This route cuts inland so it’s a bit faster than heading back along the coast.

Don’t forget you can also look into one-way campervan rentals for a slight premium if that suits your itinerary more.

Hopefully this guide will help you on your next adventure out in Western Australia!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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8 amazing day trips from brisbane, exploring home – our new south wales road trip, 7 reasons to visit the murray region in nsw, the ultimate guide to backpacking in sydney (2024 edition), 2 thoughts on “the ultimate western australia road trip itinerary”.

Thanks so much for this brilliant guide. We are going over in about 3 months and your excellent summary of the region will form the basis of our itinerary. Cheers.

I love the way you guide me as a reader. Amazing photos and you have a great adventure to the beautiful places. Thank you for sharing. This is what you meant by adventure, but getting there is the best part of the trip.

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Cape Le Grand National Park, WA

14-day road trip through Western Australia's South West Edge

Experience the extraordinary landscape of the South West in one great road trip.

Written in partnership with Tourism Western Australia 

Take the time to relax, soak up the scenery and discover the incredible food and wine on offer in Western Australia's South West region. Experience The South West Edge on this 14-day adventure that traverses 1,200 kilometres (745 miles) from Perth to Esperance , showcasing the best of the region, while ensuring ample time to indulge in life's simple pleasures.

"The South West Edge is one road trip everyone should add to their travel list." Jarrad Seng, Australian photographer and filmmaker

Day 1: Explore Perth’s Rottnest Island & Fremantle 

Quokka, Rottnest Island, Western Australia © Tourism Australia

Jump on The Rottnest Express for a short ferry ride from Fremantle to the picturesque Rottnest Island ; home to the world's cutest and extremely photogenic marsupial, the quokka. Arrive at the sweeping white sands of Thomson Bay, one of the 63 beautiful beaches on the island. Walk off the beach to Thomson Bay Settlement to grab a coffee, pick up maps and hire bikes to explore the rest of the car-free island. Don’t forget your snorkel mask – Rottnest has beautiful marine life, easily accessible from the islands’ beaches and bays.

Before getting the 45-minute ferry back to the mainland, hop on a Rottnest Wild Seafood Experience Tour for a sensational sundowner cruise serving freshly caught delicacies.

When back on the mainland, stay the night at Hougoumont Hotel Fremantle or Be.Fremantle in the historic town of Fremantle.

Day 2: Fremantle to Bunbury

Willow Bridge Estate, Ferguson Valley, Western Australia © Frances Andrijich

Enjoy the gourmet café culture of Fremantle for breakfast and browse local boutiques for unique or vintage finds. Then jump in your car and head 167 kilometres (103.7 miles) to Bunbury via the rolling hills of the Ferguson Valley.

Discover the secret spots along the Valley on a customised tour with South West Tourist Services or Hinterland Escapes . Explore boutique wineries and breweries, or tackle the scenic hiking and mountain bike trails of Wellington Forest National Park, stopping at Black Diamond Lake near Collie for a view of vivid turquoise waters. 

Roll into Bunbury, where you can purchase fresh local produce from farmers’ markets, meet native animals at the Bunbury Wildlife Park, shop the boutiques and spot vibrant street art. Spend the evening immersed in the city’s nightlife at one of the many bars and restaurants overlooking one of Bunbury’s famous three waters – the bay, inlet and ocean – before returning to your accommodation at Bunbury Seaview Apartments or Discovery Parks Bunbury Foreshore .

Day 3: Bunbury To Yallingup

Injidup Natural Spa, Yallingup, Margaret River, Western Australia © Jarrad Seng / Tourism Western Australia

Spot migrating humpbacks, southern right, and sometimes blue whales from high vantage points along the coast or on a whale watching tour with Naturaliste Charters between August and October.

Begin your morning with a Dolphin Eco Cruise or head over to the  Dolphin Discovery Centre  at Koombana Bay in Bunbury, where wild bottlenose dolphins come into shore every morning between September to April to interact with humans. Make sure you're here by 9am, wade into water up to your knees and the dolphins will swim around you.

Drive 57 kilometres (35.4 miles) to Busselton , which sits on a white sandy beach on the north-facing shoreline of the tranquil waters of Geographe Bay, a popular family holiday destination. Swing among the trees on a high ropes course at Forest Adventures set among the last remaining tall tuart forest in the world. Or take a stroll or ride the train for 1.8 kilometres (1.1 miles) over the Indian Ocean on the beautifully restored historic jetty , the longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere. At the end, visit the Underwater Observatory and Interpretive Centre, where you’ll descend eight metres below the surface to see one of Australia’s greatest artificial reefs alive with corals, sponges, fish and invertebrates living in the warm Leeuwin Current.

Spend the afternoon exploring Yallingup’s sensational coastal spots including Canal Rocks and the marvellous Injidup Natural Spa.

Have a dinner of fresh local produce at the seaside  Goose Beach Bar and Kitchen or Bunkers Beach Cafe before driving 32 kilometres (20 miles) to Seashells or  Smiths Beach Resort  in Yallingup; an environmentally sensitive resort with villas, apartments, beach shacks and beach houses, and a member of  Small Luxury Hotels of the World . Stay here for the next two nights. 

Day 4: Yallingup to Margaret River 

Amelia Park, Margaret River, Western Australia © Australia's South West

Book a tour with Top Drop Tours and spend the day exploring the beautiful Margaret River wine region, whose 150 wineries produce more than 20 percent of Australia's premium wine (Margaret River cabernet sauvignons and chardonnays are particularly impressive).

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll be picked up by your tour guide for a day-long tour visiting some of the region's wineries. These may include Leeuwin Estate , Voyager Estate , Vasse Felix (one of the first wineries in Margaret River, with a designer lounge bar and views across the region), the biodynamic  Windows Estate , run by married couple Chris and Jo Davies who manage the entire viticultural process, or  Wills Domain , owned and operated by the Austrian Haunold family and offering some of the region's best food.

You'll also visit a range of gourmet producers along the way, like Ginversity . On your way, pick up a collection of cheese, bread, pâté, biscuits, olives and chocolates and enjoy a gourmet picnic back in your suite this evening. Or if you’re staying at Smiths Beach Resort, have a drink at the brilliant wine bar, then dine on ocean views with a side order of superb food at the on-site restaurant.

Day 5: Explore the Margaret River region

Koomal Dreaming, Margaret River, Western Australia © Archie Sartracom

Explore by foot

Why not explore by foot along part of the 135-kilometre (83-mile)  Cape to Cape Track , which treads along ocean cliffs, behind powdery beaches and through tall forests.

Go for a swim just in front of the resort at Yallingup, where the water (protected by the surrounding reef) is flat, rip free and laps against a stretch of powdery sand. Then drive five minutes north to explore  Ngilgi Cave’s  huge cavern of illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. You can also do an Aboriginal cultural tour here with Josh from  Koomal Dreaming . Feel the powerful vibrations of the didgeridoo as it fills the natural amphitheatre of the cave, learn to create fire as generations past have done, and learn about the ways of life of the world's oldest living culture.

Next, head 43 kilometres (26.7 miles) west of the Margaret River township to watch pro surfers in action at Surfers Point and drive four kilometres (2.5 miles) south to  White Elephant Café , where you can enjoy a delicious brunch overlooking calm  Gnarabup Beach .

After lunch, take a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) lesson with  Stand Up Surfing , go rock climbing or abseiling, or take a kayak along the Margaret River with Margaret River Discovery Co .

There's nothing like a refreshing beer after the beach, and luckily there are plenty of craft breweries to choose from. Try the  Brewhouse  (in Margaret River township),  The Beer Farm , and  Black Brewing Co . End your day with a polished great-value pub meal at  Settlers Tavern  in Margaret River township. Or for authentic Japanese cuisine you can't do better than  Miki's Open Kitchen .

Stay overnight at Margarets In-Town Apartments or Eight Willows Retreat .

Day 6: Margaret River to Pemberton

Gloucester Tree, Pemberton, Western Australia © Australia's South West

Head 40 kilometres (25 miles) south to  Augusta , where an unusual microclimate means the local weather is almost always a few degrees warmer than the rest of the region. When you arrive, jump on a two-hour  whale watching tour . It’s said that humpback whales come here to flirt with each other, so you're likely to see plenty of action when they're visiting between August and October, such as tail slaps and breaches.

Have lunch in town;  Blue Ocean  serves up freshly caught fish in a humble fish-n-chips shop. Then drive eight kilometres (five miles) to Cape Leeuwin, where the Indian and Southern oceans meet at the south-western tip of Australia. The  Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse  is one of Australia's best land-based vantage points for spotting humpback and southern right whales on their annual migration.

From here, drive 135 kilometres (84 miles) into the forest around  Pemberton , a former logging town surrounded by soaring white-trunked karri trees. You can actually climb three karri trees, which have such great views over the area that they were originally used as fire lookouts. If you’re feeling extra active, ride one of the many mountain bike trails around the area or walk a small part of the 1,000-kilometre (600-mile)  Bibbulmun Track , one of the world's great long distance walking trails, which runs from Perth through the Southern Forests and along the coast from  Walpole  to  Albany . The section around Denmark runs along coastal heathland awash with wildflowers in  spring .

Make an appointment to visit pretty  Picardy Wines , which makes superb pinot noir. If you are into truffles, it's worth taking a 31-kilometre (19-mile) detour to the  Truffle & Wine Co  to enjoy wine and truffle tasting at Western Australia's largest truffle farm. 

Stay overnight at RAC Karry Valley Resort in Pemberton. 

Day 7: Pemberton to Denmark

Greens Pool, Denmark, Western Australia © Australia's South West

Walk through giant trees

After visiting the Valley of the Giants, descend to the boardwalks below and explore the  Ancient Empires Walk  through a grove of veteran tingle trees, some more than 400 years old.

Take a four-wheel drive tour of the world’s largest moving sand dune system — Yeagarup Dunes — with Pemberton Discovery Tours before travelling 162 kilometres (100 miles) to the former lumber milling town of Walpole. Join an eco-cruise on the Walpole inlet with WOW Wilderness Cruises for breathtaking views of Mount Chudalup.

Have a coffee at  Four Sisters Coffee Shop  in Walpole before you visit the  Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk , a 40-metre (131-foot) high walkway through the forest's canopy designed to move – which is fun or scary, depending on your perspective – with the majestic red-barked tingle eucalyptus trees that are found nowhere else in the world. They also just happen to be some of the tallest trees on earth. 

Next, drive 45 kilometres (28 miles) along spectacular coastal scenery to  William Bay National Park , where you'll find the giant granite boulders of Elephant Rocks, and the turquoise waters and white sandy beaches of Greens Pool.

Check in to a lovely cedar chalet at the  Karma Chalets  in the birdlife-rich hills behind Denmark and enjoy a relaxing massage at the Karisma Spa. At night, frogs will sing you to sleep.

If you have longer, stay another day in Denmark to explore the family-owned wineries along the 34-kilometre (21-mile) Scotsdale Scenic Drive . Otherwise, get a good night's sleep before heading to Albany tomorrow.

Day 8: Denmark to Albany 

The Gap, Albany, Western Australia © Airloft

Have breakfast at a Denmark favourite,  Mrs Jones Café , before driving 54 kilometres (33 miles) to Albany. Call ahead to book a cellar door tasting at bucolic organic winery  Oranje Tractor  on the way. Birdwatchers should also stop at Wilson Inlet (11 kilometres, or seven miles, east of Denmark) to twitch for blue splendid wrens, ospreys, parrots, red-tailed and white-tailed black cockatoos, and purple-crowned lorikeets.

Albany is where the first European settlers set foot in  Western Australia  in 1826 and much of their legacy remains today, with colonial buildings housing museums, galleries and restaurants. Step back in time at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station at Discovery Bay or visit the  National Anzac Centre , a state-of-the-art interpretive museum that uses multimedia, interactive technology and historical artefacts to pay tribute to the Australian and New Zealand forces who served in the First World War.

Have lunch at its  Garrison Restaurant , then explore the  Albany Heritage Park , a reserve that stretches from the shores of  Middleton Beach  to the port of Albany.

You can also visit the nearby Australian Wildlife Park , where you'll see kangaroos, bandicoots and wombats, or stop in at the beautiful Regional Wildflower Garden . From here, follow Frenchman Bay Road for eight kilometres (five miles) to Torndirrup National Park and The Gap . This natural gap in the granite cliff has a thrilling see-through skywalk platform extending out 10 metres (33 feet) over the cliff's edge, so you can walk out and look down at the pounding waves below. The Gap , a thick, horizontal column of rock, is a few steps away.

On the return to Albany, visit  Limeburners  distillery to sample whisky made with locally sourced peat while you watch out the window for dolphins in the bay.

Enjoy an inventive dinner of Vietnamese-French inspired fare at  Liberte at the London  and stay at The Beach House at Bayside, an upmarket bed and breakfast behind the sand dunes of Middleton Bay, or Quality Suites Banksia Gardens .

Day 9: Albany to Bremer Bay

Mt Toolbrunup Summit, Stirling Range National Park, Western Australia © Australia's South West Inc.

Go for a walk or swim along Middleton Beach, and if you are here on a Saturday, browse the  Albany Farmers Market , one of the best artisan markets in Australia.

Next, drive 49 kilometres (31 miles) inland to  Porongurup National Park . Here you'll find the  Granite Skywalk , a suspended walkway that rises 670-metres (2,200-feet) above sea level to offer panoramic views of your remarkable surrounds. Return to your car and continue along Chester Pass Road.

Reward yourself with lunch at boutique Porongurup wineries like Castle Rock Estate or Zarephath Wines . 

If you are a wildflower enthusiast, birdwatcher or hiker, you may wish to continue onwards to  Stirling Range National Park where you can climb one of Western Australia’s highest peaks, Bluff Knoll, known for its sweeping views of the Stirling Range National Park.

Drive for about 1.5 hours to reach the small seaside town of Bremer Bay. Stay at the  Bremer Bay Resort , where the Mount Barren Restaurant offers panoramic views across the bay.

Day 10: Bremer Bay to Hopetoun 

Orca, Naturaliste Charters, Bremer Bay, Western Australia © Keith Lightbody

Did you know?

Fitzgerald River National Park is recognised as one of the most biodiverse botanical regions on earth. Nearly 20 per cent of Western Australia’s native flora species occur here, many of which can only be found in the park. 

Bremer Bay is one of only three places in Australia where southern right whales come in large numbers to calve. Between June and October you can watch them frolicking in the water from purpose-built platforms on the shore at Point Ann, 63 kilometres (39 miles) from town, on the west side of the Fitzgerald River National Park .

From February to April you can also join  Naturaliste Charters  off the coast at Bremer Bay to watch the gathering of the largest pod of orcas in the southern hemisphere. This incredible sight is only a recently discovered phenomenon and little is known about why it takes place. 

Even if it's not whale watching season, you should stop here: the national park is one of the most significant biospheres in the world and a plant lover's dream, with 62 plant species found nowhere else on earth. It also has prolific native wildlife (look out for kangaroos), several beautiful beaches (go swimming at  Barrens Beach ), hiking trails, the beautiful hills of Hamersley Dunes and on-site accommodation at  Quaalup Homestead Wilderness Retreat .

Make your way to Ravensthorpe — known for its spectacular displays of wildflowers during spring — and discover the locals’ secret hotspots on a tour during the Ravensthorpe Wildflower Festival .

Stay for the night in Hopetoun at Wavecrest Village Tourist Park or Hopetoun Motel & Chalet Village .

Day 11: Explore Esperance and Lucky Bay 

Lucky Bay, Esperance, Western Australia © Australia’s Golden Outback

The exquisite town of Esperance is a 182-kilometre (113-mile) drive from Hopetoun. Arrive to the stunning pure white sand shores of Esperance Bay, fringed by more than 100 islands that make up the Recherche Archipelago (known locally as the Bay of Isles), where whales, seals and dolphins can often be seen in the translucent waters.

Lucky Bay is arguably Esperance's biggest drawcard. It's 60 kilometres (37 miles) out of town at  Cape Le Grand National Park . Hop in your car or join an Esperance Eco Discovery Tour and head to the world's only full-size replica of Stonehenge,  Esperance Stonehenge  (it's as quirky as it sounds). Then continue to the national park, a place of white sand beaches, freshwater pools, massive granite outcrops and, in spring, carpets of native wildflowers. 

Day 12: Esperance

Twilight Cove, Great Ocean Drive, Esperance, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

This morning you can leave the car keys in your room, as you'll be picked by your Aboriginal guide for a eco-cultural discovery tour of the area with Aboriginal-run company Kepa Kurl. This memorable half-day experience will give you some truly interesting insights into how the local Aboriginal Noongar people have hunted and gathered food here for thousands of years. You'll see plenty of native wildlife and some Aboriginal rock art as well as getting a great orientation to the area.

Returning to town about midday, hop in your car and head to  Yirri Grove , a restaurant in an olive grove 20 minutes out of town (open Fridays to Mondays only; alternatively, grab ingredients for a picnic from one of the four supermarkets in town). After you've eaten, get a feel for the area's beauty on the  Great Ocean Drive , a 38-kilometre (24-mile) loop from town that showcases the sugary beaches and translucent waters of the area. Be warned; you won't be able to stop yourself from pulling over every few minutes to take photo after photo. Along the way, look out for  Twilight Bay  – a firm favourite for its translucent, turquoise waters, sculpted rock formations, picnic tables and showers – and the breaks at West, Fourth and Observatory beaches, where local surfers can often be seen enjoying the water.

Day 13: Explore the Rainbow Lakes

Rainbow Lakes, near Esperance, Western Australia © Golden Outback

Today, you're taking to the skies on a scenic flight over a myriad of rainbow--coloured lakes with Fly Esperance . Embark on an 80-minute adventure over a series of warm-hued waterholes sprinkled among a sea of green grass in Cape Le Grand National Park . Along the way, witness Esperance's township and dramatic blue coastline from above as well as the iconic white sands of Lucky Bay. As you approach the lakes, notice the colours ranging from honey yellow to marshmallow pink and everywhere in between. The best time for spotting the most vibrant shades is from April to January each year, but you're sure to catch brilliant sights on this scenic flight year-round. End your day with a hearty dinner at the excellent Loose Goose restaurant.

Day 14: Esperance to Perth

Wave Rock, Hyden, Western Australia © Australia's Golden Outback

Return your hire car at Esperance airport before boarding your 90-minute flight to Perth. Or if you’d prefer to soak up more of the South West, drive back to Perth via Hyden or Kalgoorlie over the next few days – the choice is yours.

If you travel through Hyden, be sure to visit the impressive Wave Rock on your way. Thought to have formed some 130 million years ago, the Wave Rock is entirely natural and measures about 15 kilometres (9.3 miles and roughly three storeys) in height. It’s the perfect end to your Instagram highlights reel.

If you travel back to Perth via Kalgoorlie, immerse yourself in outback history; dine in quirky outback pubs, feast your eyes on the Super Pit gold mine, or try your hand at prospecting with Gold Prospecting Kalgoorlie .

Overnight at Wave Rock Hotel in Hyden or Hospitality Kalgoorlie, SureStay Collection by Best Western .

This article was written in partnership with Tourism Western Australia. For more information about road trips in Western Australia, go to w esternaustralia.com .

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7 Day Perth To Exmouth Return Tour

• Trip Styles: Budget

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Spend a week getting to know Western Australia’s spectacular coast on an expedition to sandy beaches, lively creatures, and some incredible scenery. Our 7-day tour from Perth to Exmouth return trip is the perfect week in the west!

Not certain about dates, or have a question? Ask here

The Ultimate Perth to Exmouth road trip over 7 days. Venture from Perth to the northern town of Exmouth, and then back again to experience a fantastic adventure along the Coral Coast.

On this tour, there are plenty of opportunities to chill out on white sandy beaches and see native Australian wildlife. You will pass the Kalbarri township and see the famous Natures Window in Kalbarri National Park, visit the Stromatolites in Shark Bay, and of course get up close and personal with the famous dolphins at Monkey Mia. Spend time snorkeling in Coral Bay in the Ningaloo Reef. Then visit Exmouth for 2 nights, exploring the rugged ranges and stunning beaches of Cape Range National Park. Step foot on the famous soft sand of Turquoise Bay and swim in the crystal clear waters of the Ningaloo Reef.

Finishing your week-long adventure tour back in Perth, you will have seen the absolute best of the West. An epic 7 day Perth to Exmouth road trip adventure.

'Exmouth Explorer' Perth to Exmouth Return (Shared Accommodation)

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Our travellers often combine this trip with some of these trips:

1 Day Whale Shark Swim Exmouth Tour

1 Day Humpback Whale Swim Sailing Catamaran Tour

6 Day Eyre Peninsula and Flinders Ranges Tour

• Total Price: $ 4,010 Add All To Cart Add All To Wishlist Browse Wishlist
• This item: 7 Day Perth To Exmouth Return Tour ( $ 1,895 )
• 1 Day Whale Shark Swim Exmouth Tour ( $ 475 )
• 1 Day Humpback Whale Swim Sailing Catamaran Tour ( $ 345 )
• 6 Day Eyre Peninsula and Flinders Ranges Tour ( $ 1,295 )

Kick off your adventure with a guided tour through the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park, before enjoying lunch by the sea at Jurien Bay and journey up Indian Ocean Drive for some stunning coastal views. Stopping off at the must-see attraction just outside of Geraldton, known as the Pink Lake located off the coral coast highway (conditions permitting). Then it’s on to the seaside town of Kalbarri for our overnight accommodation. Meals: Lunch & Dinner. Accom: Kalbarri YHA Backpackers Shared Dormitory (with shared bathroom) or similar alternative. Driving Distance: 575km. Hike Distance: 2km.

Rise early for a magical start to the day, with a photo opportunity at sunrise at either Nature’s Window or the Kalbarri Skywalk. Visit the marvels of The Murchison Gorge and Z-Bend in Kalbarri National Park where water has carved its way through sandstone. Witness bright pops of colour here during wildflower season (spring). After lunch by the River mouth in Kalbarri we travel on towards Monkey Mia with plenty of comfort stops along the way before arriving at our accommodation by the beach. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Accom: RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort Backpackers Shared Dormitory (with shared bathroom) or similar alternative. Options: Kalbarri Abseiling Z-Bend. Driving Distance: 450km. Hike Distance: 3km.

This morning meet the famous Monkey Mia Dolphins and get some amazing photos. Enjoy chill-out time on the beach here or enjoy a coffee at the restaurant before we get back on the road in the morning. Check out the spectacular cliff views overlooking Denham at Eagle Bluff. Take a stroll along a beach made entirely of tiny shells followed by lunch. Before heading off to settling into our accommodation in Coral Bay, located right on the famous Ningaloo Reef. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Accom: Ningaloo Coral Bay Backpackers Shared Dormitory (with shared bathroom) or similar alternative. Driving Distance: 580km. Hike Distance: 2km.

You’ll have most of the day to explore the Ningaloo Reef, Australia’s largest Fringe reef, at your own leisure. Choose to join a boat tour or enjoy free time to experience the beautiful beaches Coral Bay has to offer. Go for a stroll on the beach and check out the shark nursery, swim with the manta rays (additional cost), or go for a snorkel on the Ningaloo Reef only metres from shore. This evening we take the short drive up the peninsula to Exmouth and check into our accommodation for two nights in the town centre. Meals: Breakfast & Dinner. Accom: Potshot Hotel Resort Backpackers Shared Dormitory (with shared bathroom) or similar alternative. Options: Swim with Manta Rays, Snorkel Ningaloo Reef, Glass Bottom Boat Tours. Driving Distance: 155km.

Today we drive through the Cape Range National Park, a spectacular place of rugged limestone ranges, breathtaking deep canyons and 50km of pristine beaches. Relax on the beach or choose to go snorkelling at the stunning Turquoise Bay, before finishing the tour in the early afternoon in time for lunch. Free time in the afternoon to explore the township of Exmouth only a 500 meter walk from our accommodation or sit back and enjoy the pool at our accommodation. Or choose to join a whaleshark or humpback swim tour and spend the day meeting some of the Ningaloo Reef’s most famous visitors (at guests’ own expense and seasonal). Visit Vlamingh Head Lighthouse at sunset. Meals: Breakfast & Dinner. Accom: Potshot Hotel Resort Backpackers Shared Dormitory (with shared bathroom) or similar alternative. Options: Whaleshark or Humpback Swim (pre-booking required). Driving Distance: 135km. Hike Distance: 1km.

Visit the town of Carnarvon and one of the local banana or mango plantations (seasonal). Enjoy lunch on the waterfront of Carnarvon, before stopping off for a photo opportunity overlooking the Murchison River. Refreshments stop along the way at Billabong for coffee & ice-creams. Before arriving at our final overnight destination in Geraldton. The group will enjoy their final dinner together at The Murchison Tavern after a long day of driving, (meals available at guests’ own expense). Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. Accom: Geraldton Backpackers on the Foreshore Shared Dormitory (with shared bathroom) or similar alternative. Driving Distance: 840km.

Enjoy the HMAS Sydney Memorial with stunning views of Geraldton. Take a walk along the 3 bay walk at Green Head before wandering amongst Stromatolites of Lake Thetis. Have a lavender ice cream at the Yanchep Lavender farm before kicking back on the bus as we head into Perth with drop off starting around 6:00pm. Meals: Breakfast. Driving Distance: 465km

• Explore the Pinnacles Desert
• The Murchison Gorge, Nature’s Window and Z-Bend in Kalbarri National Park
• Award-winning Aboriginal cultural tour
• Monkey Mia dolphin experience
• See Aussie wildlife at Greenough Wildlife Park
• Sand boarding the Lancelin sand dunes
• Coral Bay snorkelling and optional activities
• Essential things to pack
• Insect repellent
• Small torch
• Closed walking shoes
• Warm clothes and rain jacket (winter)
• Water bottle
• Flip flops/thongs
• Important Booking Info
• This tour requires a certain level of participation from guests this will include assisting with the preparation of meals and cleaning afterward.
• We actively promote the protection of flora and fauna on all of our Tours. It is our duty to ensure there is minimal disturbance to our region and the species that call it home.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for the traditional owners should also be shown at all times.
• Part of our responsibility is educating guests on minimal impact practices and the importance of ensuring the safety of wildlife and the environmental sustainability of the destinations we visit.
• All our guides carry a current Level 2 First Aid certificate. Please report any accident or illness to your tour guide. We recommend anyone with an existing medical condition to carry their medication with them on tour and to notify their tour guide at the beginning of the tour.

Not suitable for infants or children 5 years and under. Children aged between 6 and 17 years old are required to stay in a shared private room and must be accompanied by a legal guardian or adult.

Standard Rooms are not available during WA school holidays.

Luggage should be restricted to 15kg in a soft bag or backpack plus a daypack.

Our central meeting point is 7:25am Criterion Hotel, 560 Hay Street, Perth. However, there are alternative Perth pick up points which can be requested before departure which may be more convenient for you.

7:10am Rendezvous Hotel Perth Central, 7:25am Criterion Hotel, 7:35am Hostel G, 7:40am Billabong Backpackers, 7:45am The Witches Hat Hostel, 8:05am Whitfords Train Station

** Please arrive 5-10 mins prior to your nominated pickup location, so as not to delay or miss your tour.

Drop off in Perth on Day 7 from 5pm.

Basic Dormitory and Single Room fares apply to Adults 18+ over, with shared bathroom facilities.

Standard Private Rooms are available upon request. Standard Rooms are not available during WA school holidays.

Basic Shared Dormitory – Price $1,895pp AUD Standard Double/Twin – Price $2,370pp AUD Standard Private Single – Price $3,070pp AUD

Dorm share can be booked live here on the tour page. For all other room types please email us to check availability.

Yes, please notify us if you have any dietary requirements or medical conditions at the time of booking, or at least a few days prior to departure, that way we can make any necessary arrangements.

We use 24-seater Mitsubishi Rosa mini-buses for this trip, this vehicle makes moving people easy, safe, and comfortable. With high back seats and large windows for unobstructed views. The maximum number of passengers we carry on this 7-Day tour is 21 people, with a minimum requirement of 8 people to guarantee the departure.

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Right to disconnect

Eligible employees have the right to refuse employer or third-party contact outside of working hours in some circumstances.

On this page:

Awards and agreements, tips for discussing out of hours contact, protections, tools and resources, related information.

For small business employers and their employees, the right to disconnect provisions apply from 26 August 2025 .

Employees of non-small business employers have the right to refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact (or attempted contact) outside their working hours, unless doing so is unreasonable. This includes contact (or attempted contact) from an employer or a third party.

Third party could include clients, suppliers, staff from other businesses, or members of the public.

Contact could include a range of communication channels used to engage with employees, such as calls, emails, texts, social media and messaging services.

Employers and employees are encouraged to discuss contact out of hours and set expectations that suit the workplace and the employee’s role. Find Tips for discussing out of hours contact .

When working out whether an employee’s refusal is unreasonable, the following factors must be considered:

• the reason for the contact
• how the contact is made and how disruptive it is to the employee
• being available to perform work during the period they’re contacted, or
• working additional hours outside their ordinary hours of work
• the employee’s role in the business and level of responsibility
• the employee’s personal circumstances, including family or caring responsibilities.

Other matters may also be considered.

It will be unreasonable for an employee to refuse to read, monitor or respond if the contact or attempted contact is required by law. 

Example: Employee’s personal circumstances make out of hours contact unreasonable

Selim is a consultant and is working on a major project for a client. Selim has 2 young children. He has flexible working arrangements and his working hours are 7.30 am to 4 pm so that he can pick up his children from daycare.

At 4.30 pm on a Tuesday afternoon, Selim’s supervisor, Ava, is copied into an urgent email to Selim from the client. Ava considers whether to contact Selim and ask him to action the client’s request. It’s urgent and Selim is very familiar with this aspect of the client’s work. However, Ava knows that Selim is on his way to pick up his children and it’s unlikely that he’ll be able to deal with the request.

Ava asks another consultant to help the client and will update Selim when he returns to work. Ava’s decision is appropriate given Selim’s family responsibilities and the fact that another employee could resolve the issue.

Example: Employee is compensated for reasonable out of hours contact

Elizabeth is an associate at a medium-sized architecture firm where she usually works 8.30 am to 5 pm.

Elizabeth has been asked to fill in for her manager who is taking 3 months leave. During this period, Elizabeth will need to lead the delivery of a project for a major client. She is receiving extra pay while acting in her manager’s role.

Her supervising partner, Devi, has let Elizabeth know that a reasonable amount of out of hours contact and work will be required during her acting period to deliver the project. She is also told that this has been factored into her higher pay.

Devi gives her a copy of the firm’s policy on out of hours contact and asks if she has any questions.

In her second week in the role, Elizabeth leaves work at 5 pm. Shortly after, Devi finds out that Elizabeth’s team needs to urgently provide the client with additional documents for the project by 10 am tomorrow. It will take around 3 hours to prepare the documents. Devi tries to call Elizabeth on her personal mobile and sends her a text message explaining the situation.

Elizabeth doesn’t answer the calls as she’s about to go to the gym and then run some errands. She reads the full message at 8 pm but decides that it’s too late to respond to Devi. Based on the circumstances, Elizabeth’s refusal to monitor or respond to Devi’s contact could be unreasonable.

Awards, enterprise agreements and other registered agreements can also include additional right to disconnect provisions.

All awards include a right to disconnect term.

Award changes

The Fair Work Commission added right to disconnect terms to all awards on 26 August 2024. Learn more at Variation of modern awards to include a right to disconnect .

In some situations, an employee may be required to monitor, read or respond to contact (or attempted contact) from the employer outside their working hours in accordance with an award term.

More award information will be available on this page soon. Check back for further updates. In the meantime, you can check your award for right to disconnect rules that apply for your industry or occupation.

If you're covered by an enterprise or other registered agreement, check the terms of your agreement for information about the right to disconnect. To find an enterprise agreement, go to the Fair Work Commission’s website .

Regular and open communication helps maintain a harmonious working environment. It can also prevent workplace problems from happening. Both employees and employers are responsible for open and effective communication at and about work. Learn more about good workplace communication practices.

Employers and employees are encouraged to discuss out of hours contact and set expectations that suit the workplace and the employee’s role. Where possible, there are benefits to having these conversations before out of hours contact happens.

A discussion about out of hours contact could include:

It’s important employees know when they can disconnect from work and when they may be expected to monitor, read or respond to contact.

For example, a specialist technical engineer is told that while out of hours contact isn’t common, they may be contacted out of hours in response to a critical technical outage. They don’t need to monitor emails, but will be expected to answer or return a phone call about a serious outage.

It’s important to check the relevant award, enterprise agreement or employment contract for entitlements that may apply. Learn more about Pay and wages and Employment conditions .

For example, if there’s a serious issue, an employee may prefer to be called on their personal phone so that they don’t have to monitor a work phone or email account.

For example, managers and supervisors may formalise arrangements for out of hours contact and communicate those arrangements with senior leaders. For external clients, managers and supervisors may consider whether and how they should discuss expectations about communication with their clients.

For example, the arrangement could be reviewed on a regular basis or when there’s a change in an employee’s hours (such as a change to hours or work due to a flexible work arrangement).

Employers should also consider:

For example, managers can develop their skills by:

• completing our Difficult conversations in the workplace manager online course .
• reading our Consultation and cooperation in the workplace guide.

Employees can develop their skills by completing our Difficult conversations in the workplace employee course .

For example, updates to position descriptions to reflect expectations for out of hours contact.

For example, recording the arrangement in writing.

Tip: Guidance on the right to disconnect

The Australian Public Service Commission has published guidance on the right to disconnect in the public service sector .

The Fair Work Commission has published a video on understanding the new right to disconnect as well as a Right to disconnect fact sheet . They’re also required to make guidelines about the operation of the right to disconnect. These are not yet available.

Disputes about an employee’s right to disconnect should first be discussed at the workplace level to try to resolve the dispute.

If that isn’t successful, employees or employers can go to the Fair Work Commission (the Commission) to deal with the dispute. The Commission can make orders or deal with the dispute in other ways. This includes making orders to stop an employee from refusing contact or to stop an employer from taking certain actions.

You can read more at the Commission’s Right to disconnect disputes page.

Tip: We’re different from the Fair Work Commission

A reminder that the Commission is the national workplace relations tribunal and registered organisations regulator.

We’re the Fair Work Ombudsman. Our role is to give you advice and assistance on workplace laws.

Learn more about the difference between us (the Fair Work Ombudsman) and the Fair Work Commission .

The right to disconnect is a workplace right under general protection laws . These laws are protected rights employees have under the Fair Work Act.

Sources reference: Fair Work Act 2009 s.333M–333W, s.340

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The Fair Work Ombudsman is committed to providing you with advice that you can rely on. The information contained in this fact sheet is general in nature. If you are unsure about how it applies to your situation you can call our Infoline on 13 13 94 or speak with a union, industry association or a workplace relations professional.

Printed from fairwork.gov.au Content last updated: 2024-09-02 © Copyright Fair Work Ombudsman