Activity Planner: Discover Western Australia Based on Your Interests
Want to know what activities and attractions to visit in Western Australia? Well, I’m here to help you navigate through the breathtaking landscapes of WA, drawing from my years of exploring this vast and varied corner of the world.
Whether you want serene beaches, spectacular national parks, or cultural experiences, this guide is designed to take the stress out of your travel planning. I’ve sifted through countless resources and relied on personal experiences to bring you the best that Western Australia has to offer, promising memorable experiences without the worry of picking the wrong attraction.
This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.
Adventure Seekers
Western Australia is a playground for those who thrive on adrenaline and the great outdoors. If you’re someone who seeks heart-pounding adventure and breathtaking landscapes, here are some top experiences designed for the thrill-seeker in you.
Outdoor Activities
- Hiking at Karijini National Park: Trek through ancient gorges and swim in crystal-clear rock pools. The trails here range from easy walks to challenging climbs, offering something for every level of hiker.
- Rock Climbing at Kalbarri National Park: Tackle the rugged cliffs of Kalbarri. Whether you’re an experienced climber or trying it for the first time, Kalbarri National Park’s dramatic river gorges offer a spectacular backdrop for your ascent.
- Surfing in Margaret River: Known globally for its massive waves and expert surf competitions, Margaret River beaches are perfect if you’re looking to ride some of Australia’s best waves.
Wildlife Encounters
- Dolphin Watching in Monkey Mia: Get up close with friendly dolphins at Monkey Mia. These wild dolphins regularly visit the shore, offering unique interactions that are carefully managed to ensure the safety and well-being of the dolphins and visitors alike.
- Swim with Whale Sharks in Ningaloo Reef: Experience the thrill of swimming alongside whale sharks – the gentle giants of the ocean. Ningaloo Reef offers one of the few places in the world where whale sharks are known to congregate in predictable patterns.
Adventure Tours
- Gibb River Road 4WD Adventure: Embark on a rugged 4WD journey along the Gibb River Road. This remote and challenging track takes you through the heart of the Kimberley, with stunning landscapes, secret waterfalls, and isolated communities.
- Helicopter Tour over the Bungle Bungles: See the majestic Bungle Bungle Range from above in a helicopter. This aerial tour provides a unique perspective on the beehive-striped domes of Purnululu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s even more impressive from the sky.
Culture and History Enthusiasts
Western Australia is steeped in rich history and vibrant culture. If you enjoy uncovering the past and immersing in the arts, this region offers an abundance of experiences. Here’s a guide to the best historical sites, cultural treasures, and festivals in WA.
Historical Sites
- Fremantle Prison: Explore one of Western Australia’s most fascinating historical landmarks. This former maximum-security Fremantle prison, now a World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into the life of inmates through guided tours, including eerie torchlight tours after dark.
- Albany’s ANZAC Centre: Pay a visit to this state-of-the-art interpretive museum that honors the Anzacs of the First World War. Located within Albany Heritage Park, it offers panoramic views of King George Sound, where over 41,000 Australians and New Zealanders departed for the Great War.
- Gold Mining Heritage in Kalgoorlie: Venture into the heart of Australia’s gold mining industry in Kalgoorlie. The Super Pit lookout offers a jaw-dropping view of one of the largest open-cut mines on earth, while the town’s museums and historic buildings recount the gold rush era.
Cultural Experiences
- Indigenous Cultural Tours: Engage with the rich Aboriginal heritage of Western Australia through authentic cultural tours. Learn about traditional bush foods, medicine, and the dreamtime stories of the Noongar people in Perth, or explore the ancient rock art of the Kimberley region.
- Art Galleries and Museums in Perth: Discover Perth’s thriving art scene by visiting the Art Gallery of Western Australia, which houses a collection of both international and Australian art from 1829 to the present day. Don’t miss the Western Australian Museum for its fascinating exhibitions on natural and cultural heritage.
- Urban Street Art Tours: Take a guided walking tour of Perth’s vibrant street art. From hidden laneways to prominent buildings, local and international artists have turned the city’s walls into a sprawling, dynamic canvas.
Festivals
- Perth Festival: This is one of Australia’s oldest cultural festivals and brings an exciting mix of music, theatre, film, visual arts, and dance to the city every February. Engage with both international and local artists in a celebration of creativity and community spirit.
- Fremantle Arts Festival: Held over Easter, this eclectic festival offers a range of performances, exhibitions, and workshops that showcase the artistic talents of Fremantle’s community. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience local culture in one of WA’s most artistic towns.
Nature and Wildlife Lovers
Western Australia’s vast landscapes and rich biodiversity offer endless opportunities for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. From sprawling national parks to intimate wildlife encounters, here’s where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty and native fauna of this spectacular region.
Parks and Reserves
- Kings Park, Perth: One of the world’s largest inner-city parks, Kings Park offers stunning views of Perth’s skyline and features a remarkable collection of native plants. It’s a perfect spot for leisurely walks or picnics amidst the city’s busy life.
- Karijini National Park: Explore deep gorges and swim in serene natural pools in the heart of the Pilbara. Karijini is known for its breathtaking vistas, ancient geological formations, and exhilarating hiking trails that lead to cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear water holes.
- Purnululu National Park: Famous for the Bungle Bungle Range, this park showcases beehive-striped sandstone domes that rise dramatically from the ground. Walking trails and scenic flights offer different perspectives of this stunning landscape.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Caversham Wildlife Park: Just outside of Perth, Caversham Wildlife Park is home to one of the most extensive collections of native wildlife in Western Australia. You can hand-feed kangaroos, stroke koalas, and watch sheep shearing and farm dog demonstrations.
- Penguin Island: Located in the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, Penguin Island is a fantastic day trip for seeing penguins, dolphins, sea lions, and numerous species of sea birds.
Scenic Routes
- Coral Coast Drive: Take a road trip along the Indian Ocean Drive and experience the Coral Coast, known for its wildflowers, coral reefs, and white sand beaches. Highlights include the Pinnacles Desert, Shark Bay, and the stunning turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef, where you can snorkel right off the beach.
- Southern Forests and Valleys: For a more serene and green escape, the Southern Forests have towering karri trees, tranquil rivers, and rolling vineyards. The Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk provides a unique aerial view of the forest canopy.
Family-Friendly Activities
Here’s a guide to some of the best family-friendly activities across the region.
Beaches and Parks
- Cottesloe Beach: Renowned for its calm waters and beautiful sunsets, Cottesloe is ideal for a family beach day. With its broad expanse of golden sand and grassy areas, it’s perfect for picnics, swimming, and sandcastle building.
- Scarborough Beach: Another family favorite, Scarborough offers a lively atmosphere with a recently upgraded foreshore that includes a children’s playground, climbing wall, and skate park. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards, making it a safe spot for swimming and surfing lessons.
- Yanchep National Park: Just north of Perth, Yanchep National Park features native bushland, a koala viewing area, and caves to explore.
Educational Attractions
- Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA): Located in Hillarys Boat Harbour, AQWA offers a journey beneath the waves where families can explore Western Australia’s marine life through one of the world’s largest living coral reef exhibits and a 98-meter underwater tunnel.
- Scitech Discovery Centre: A must-visit in Perth for curious minds. Scitech makes science fun with interactive exhibits, live shows, and workshops that challenge children (and adults) to think, experiment, and explore.
- The Perth Mint: Teach your children about the history of gold in Western Australia and witness a live gold pour at The Perth Mint. The interactive exhibits and guided tours make learning about gold both fun and fascinating.
Interactive Experiences
- Farm Stay: Experience life on an Australian farm where kids can feed the animals, collect eggs, and enjoy the open space. Farm stays provide a hands-on learning environment and a taste of rural life.
- Maze Adventures: Head to The Maze, home of Outback Splash in Bullsbrook, for a day of mazes, mini-golf, playgrounds, and water activities. It’s a great way to challenge the mind and burn off energy.
- Adventure World: Perth’s only theme park offers a mix of water rides, roller coasters, and entertainment. With attractions suited for all ages, it’s a thrilling day out for the entire family.
Food and Wine Aficionados
Western Australia is a haven for food lovers and wine enthusiasts, boasting world-class vineyards and a vibrant culinary scene that showcases local produce and innovative cuisine.
Wineries and Breweries
- Swan Valley: Just a short drive from Perth, Swan Valley is Western Australia’s oldest wine region. Explore the family-run wineries offering cellar door tastings and gourmet food pairings. Don’t miss the chance to try the region’s famed Verdelho, a crisp white wine that’s a local specialty.
- Margaret River Region: Renowned globally for its premium wines, Margaret River is a must-visit for any wine enthusiast. This region produces over 15% of Australia’s premium wine and offers tastings of world-class Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays. The area is also dotted with boutique breweries if you fancy a craft beer.
Local Cuisine
- Seafood in Fremantle: Fremantle is the place to go for fresh seafood. Enjoy fish and chips at Fishing Boat Harbour or indulge in upscale dining where the ocean’s bounty is served with a gourmet twist.
- Farm-to-Table Restaurants: Experience the true taste of Western Australia with a visit to farm-to-table restaurants that highlight local ingredients. For a unique experience, book a table at Millbrook Winery in Jarrahdale, where the menu is designed around what’s available from the property’s garden and orchard.
- Street Food Markets: Explore the vibrant street food scene at markets such as the Twilight Hawkers Market in Perth. Here, you can sample a variety of international cuisines made with a local twist, perfect for an evening of culinary exploration.
Culinary Events
- Taste of Perth: An annual event where you can sample dishes from Perth’s top restaurants, all gathered in one place. This festival is a food lover’s paradise, offering cooking demonstrations, tasting sessions, and pop-up bars.
- Margaret River Gourmet Escape: This world-famous festival brings together renowned chefs and wine experts for a weekend of tastings, masterclasses, and dinners in stunning locations throughout the Margaret River region.
Relaxation and Wellness
Spa Retreats
- Luxury Retreats in Margaret River: This region is not only famed for its wine but also for its luxurious spa retreats nestled in secluded settings. Consider staying at places like Empire Spa Retreat, where the focus is on holistic wellness with treatments that utilise local ingredients and techniques.
- Broome’s Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa: Experience the ultimate relaxation at the iconic Cable Beach Resort located on the famous Cable Beach. Their L’Occitane spa offers a range of treatments designed to soothe the body and mind, enhancing your tropical getaway.
Quiet Getaways
- Denmark: For those seeking a quieter destination, the small town of Denmark offers a peaceful escape with stunning ocean views and lush forests. Stay in a secluded cabin or a boutique B&B to truly disconnect and recharge.
- Esperance: Known for its pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters, Esperance is a perfect spot for a quiet getaway. Explore the scenic Great Ocean Drive, relax on the white sands of Lucky Bay, and enjoy the slow pace of coastal life.
Yoga and Wellness Retreats
- Yallingup Retreats: Yallingup is increasingly becoming a hub for wellness, with several retreats offering yoga and meditation sessions amidst nature. Places like Yallingup Yoga offer retreats that include daily yoga practices, healthy meals, and wellness workshops.
- Karijini Eco Retreat: Located in the heart of Karijini National Park, Karijini Eco Retreat offers guided meditation and yoga sessions on the red rocks, surrounded by the natural beauty of the park’s ancient gorges and serene pools.
Conclusion
Start by selecting the activities and destinations that appeal most to your interests. Share your experiences or any additional tips you might have in our Facebook Group – I’d love to hear about your discoveries!
If you’re looking for more detailed information or need help with bookings, check out the resources available on our website.