Just as Australia is home to some of the most unusual critters the world has ever seen, the country also boasts diverse natural wonders, bustling metropolises, and unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
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Known as the Land of Down Under due to its location in the Southern Hemisphere, this Oceania country feels somewhat isolated from the rest of the world, adding to the thrill of uncovering hidden gems and enjoying epic experiences the country offers.
Everyone deserves a taste of a road trip from time to time. Exploring Australia via car is a fantastic way to discover some of the best local places to visit at your own pace. Particularly in Perth, the country’s summer capital, where picture-perfect white sand beaches, fascinating wildlife, and diverse mouthwatering cuisine are within your reach.
So, pack your bags as we head to Western Australia (WA). Here are a few self-drive day trips to take from the sun-soaked capital in 2024.
Wine and Dine in Swan Valley
Distance and travel time: 15.7 miles (28 minutes)
Best time to visit: September to December
Just a short drive from Perth, Swan Valley is Western Australia’s oldest wine region, renowned for its rich wine-making culture and exceptional boutique wineries. Savor some of the finest wine at the Sandalford Winery, one of the region’s top-known wineries. Take a group tour through its rustic cellar doors to sample a wide range of wines, catering to the most discerning connoisseurs and novices.
After the tour, enjoy lunch at their restaurant and savor a menu that blends modern Australian and European flavors. Wine and dine outside while feeling the cool breeze amid picturesque views of lush vineyards and the Swan River. Make sure to keep your receipts for a chance to snag a 10% discount on wine purchases and merchandise at their Cellar Door.
Other must-see sights and attractions:
- Caversham Wildlife Park: Encounter native wildlife up close and personal.
- Whistler’s Chocolate Company: Indulge your cravings with a delectable assortment of handcrafted sweets and treats.
- Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery: Marvel at Indigenous art and crafts from local Aboriginal artists.
- The Guildford Heritage Walk Trail: Discover historic sites and quaint streets on a scenic walk through Guildford.
- Chittering Valley: Revel in breathtaking scenery, explore local wineries, and partake in outdoor adventures amid a stunning natural backdrop.
Rocking with Dolphins and Penguins in Rockingham
Distance and travel time: 29.2 miles (37 minutes)
Best time to visit: October to May
Did someone say beach day? Located about 50 kilometers south of Perth, Rockingham is a rocking coastal city known for its stunning sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. Take a kayak and go around the limestone islands of Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, home to many marine wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins, stingrays, seabirds, and many more.
The neighboring islands can be reached via a 5-minute ferry ride and are as beautiful as the beach itself. A trip to Penguin Island will bring you up close to a colony of the world’s smallest penguins. Whether diving to your heart’s content or simply soaking up the sun on the shoreline, Rockingham promises an awesome aquatic adventure of a lifetime.
Other must-see sights and attractions:
- Point Peron: Admire dramatic coastal views and rugged landscapes as you brave the Cape Peron Loop Trail.
- Lake Richmond: See the world’s oldest living fossils and engage in some peaceful birdwatching.
- Bell and Churchill Park: Relax in these picturesque parks with lush green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas perfect for family bonding.
- The Catalpa Memorial: Visit this historic site dedicated to the Catalpa rescue mission, with its impressive monument and informative displays.
- Baldivis Karnup Wine Trail: Explore a variety of local wineries while enjoying the charming countryside.
Stepping Back in Time in Fremantle
Distance and travel time: 13.8 miles (21 minutes)
Best time to visit: September to November, March to May
Fremantle , known to locals as Freo, is a vibrant port city roughly 30 minutes from Perth. With its rich maritime history and exciting mix of attractions, the city offers an unforgettable day trip experience. Wander the buzzing streets to the Fremantle Markets, a bustling hub of home-grown produce and goodies.
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Discover food stalls offering an array of international delicacies, from Viet Kites’ signature croissant banh mi to Asian fusion food wrapped in a traditional bao bun of What the Bao.
A short walk will take you to Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as Western Australia’s primary correctional facility and is now a popular tourist attraction. To venture deeper into the region’s history, drive for 10 minutes to reach the WA Maritime Museum and WA Shipwreck Museum, less than five minutes apart by car.
Other must-see sights and attractions:
- Cappuccino Strip: Find something to munch on at this famous street, lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars.
- Bather’s Beach: Stroll along the boardwalk or enjoy a refreshing swim in the beach’s turquoise waters.
- Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbor: Just north of Bather’s Beach, this bustling harbor lets you watch sailing events or catch a ferry to Rottnest Island, just off the coast of Perth, to see the endemic quokkas.
- Fremantle Arts Centre: Check out fascinating exhibits, participate in workshops, or just vibe to local music bands touring every weekend.
- Round House: Learn about Perth’s early penal history at one of the oldest public buildings in the region.
Kangaroo Sightseeing at Yanchep National Park
Distance and travel time: 31.7 miles (38 minutes)
Best time to visit: December to February
This route is for you if you love mixing nature and adventure. Pack your bags to Yanchep, approximately 40 minutes from Perth, an absolute haven for those craving fresh air and adrenaline coursing through their veins.
Yanchep National Park is a must-see destination that features a wide array of attractions, ranging from wildlife viewing of koalas and the iconic Western gray kangaroos to participating in an Aboriginal cultural tour to learn about the local Noongar culture.
Join a guided tour of the Crystal Cave, an underground cave system adorned with stalactites, shawls, and flowstones. The park also boasts nine walking trails to show you around the vast expanse of otherworldly landscape if you feel like taking the off-beat path. Get the blood flowing and choose between short and easy trails like the 300-meter Dwerta Mia Walk or the 2-kilometer loop Wetlands Walk that highlights the park’s intriguing wetland ecosystems.
Other must-see sights and attractions:
- Yanchep Lagoon: Dip in tranquil waters, snorkel to your heart’s content, or take pictures of the massive, impressive reef.
- Aida Strawberry Farm: Only open on weekends, pick fresh and juicy strawberries at this beautiful strawberry farm.
- Henry White Oval: A perfect camping ground for solo travelers and families, get cozy around the communal fire pit with people whose adventurous spirits burn as bright as yours.
- Yanchep Golf Course: Play a friendly round of nine or eighteen holes in this verdant land spanning 2595 yards.
- Lakeview picnic area: Set up a picnic with loved ones amid the spectacular views of the park grounds.
Planning Your Day Trip from Perth
Here are some pointers for a hassle-free road trip when driving in Australia .
- Know car rental procedures in Australia. Renting a car can be a fantastic way to navigate the Land of Down Under at your own pace. Whether you need a sedan or an SUV, check out some of the top rental car companies to hook you up with the right vehicle for your trip.
- Obtain car insurance. You’re not invincible on the road. Be alert, and aware, and always actively engage in safe driving practices. Remember those A’s when driving, coupled with the best car insurance you can get for your vehicle, and you’re all set.
- Secure an IDP. With a global driver’s license , experience seamless travel to your WA dream destination then back to Perth again.
- Drive on the left. When cruising Australian roads, remember that you’ll be driving on the left, and passing on the right.
- Learn the speed limits. The maximum speed limits posted can reach up to 110 km/h, while default speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 100 km/h in rural areas when specific speed limits are posted. In WA, the speed limits in rural areas bump up to 110 km/h.
- Know the rules of parking. When choosing a parking spot, avoid facing oncoming traffic, so park on the left side of the road. Paying for parking varies by city, and Perth has recently introduced cashless and ticketless parking meters. Enter your vehicle license plate number into the parking meter screen, choose the parking duration, and then pay using your phone or a debit/credit card.
- Parking signs may indicate the time, duration, and restrictions. Some common indications on parking signs may include 1P or 3P, meaning you can only park for 1 hour or 3 hours. You may also encounter a sign that tells a specific time like ‘1AM-4PM Fri-Sun’, so you can only park there Friday to Sunday from 1 AM to 4 PM. We recommend familiarizing yourself with Australian parking signs and their meanings to avoid any fines.
- Bring the essentials to your Oz road trip. Before you venture out to the Land of Down Under, pack a GPS, a first-aid kit, an emergency car kit, important travel documents, games and activities for the kids, and other essentials. Australia has many creepy crawlies, and while many are generally harmless, it’d be wise to have a mosquito repellant or bug spray with you.
- Plan your activities. You only have a day to make your day trip from Perth memorable, so plan your activities and places to visit according to your group’s interests. Be ready to adjust anything in your itinerary when an unexpected hiccup happens.
A Day in Perth is a Day Well Spent
One of Australia’s favorite playgrounds by locals and tourists alike, Perth boasts beautiful destinations, ranging from striking rock formations that will get you closer to nature to weird and wonderful wildlife. The places we’ve mentioned are just the beginning of the best day trips from Perth. Contact the International Drivers Association to quickly set you up with an international driver document for a road trip like no other.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a visa to go to Australia?Unless you are an Australian citizen or from New Zealand, you must apply for a visa or an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to go to Australia.
What are the best months to visit Perth?Spring is generally the ideal time to visit Perth, from September to November. If you prefer to travel during the warm and dry season, mark your calendars from March to May. On the other hand, early June through August is considered a low season in Australia. It offers fewer crowds and lower travel costs, making it a great time for a more relaxed vacation.
Where can I see tour packages that feature Perth day trips?Many online travel agencies offer day trip tours and packages, along with a complete list of locations in Western Australia that should tickle your fancy. Want to see alien-like limestone pillars rising from dunes? Go to The Pinnacles Desert at the heart of Nambung National Park. Mandurah has your name on it if you prefer a more laid-back excursion.
You could also be booking for a day trip to Avon Valley and the Margaret River at this very moment. The choice is yours. A word of caution: watch out for scammers or poorly reviewed tours to get the most bang for your buck!
What is the weather in Perth like?As a summer capital, Perth enjoys a warm and dry climate, a season akin to Mediterranean weather.
Are there ATMs in regions in Perth and neighboring areas?You’re in luck; you can easily spot an ATM or two all across Australia, especially in banks, shopping malls, and other commercial areas.
Is tap water drinkable in Australia?Yes! Tap water in Australia is okay to drink.
Should I buy a local SIM card for my road trip?Absolutely. Getting a local SIM card is always a good idea whenever you go abroad. You can purchase it online or at the airport.
