Outdoor Activities Perth | Pan Pacific Perth

Get Outdoors in Perth

Perth's Best Outdoor Attractions

Boasting approximately 130 days of perfect weather every year, Perth is the sunniest capital city in Australia. With an abundance of beautiful scenery and the climate to match, this is the ideal place to experience outdoor living at its best.

Get outside and explore the best of the area with Pan Pacific Perth’s curated guide on some of the best outdoor activities in Perth.

Go Exploring in Perth City

As the capital city of Western Australia and one of the most isolated major cities in the world, Perth boasts a unique mix of laid-back charm and cosmopolitan culture – all framed by a stunning natural setting. Take a day tour from Perth to discover the area's breathtaking scenery, or set off on a longer adventure to explore the unspoilt wilderness of WA's Outback, beaches and national parks.

Perth Zoo

See a range of native and exotic wildlife at Perth Zoo, a 41-acre wildlife park that is home to some 1250 animals. The zoo contains three main zones – Australian Walkabout, African Savannah and Asian Rainforest – and is also home to a large botanical garden.

Perth's Best Beaches

From Cable Beach in Broome in the far north of Western Australia, to Lucky Bay in Esperance in the south, the beaches along the WA coast are some of the best in the country. And Perth's beaches are no different. We asked local expert, Jenny Freedman from 'A Taste of Travel', to tell us about her favourite sandy spots.

  • Cottesloe Beach "If you’re visiting our city, Cottesloe Beach is the beach to visit. It’s the best beach in town and I’m not saying that just because it is my local! The groyne at Cottesloe protects the water, making it the perfect swimming area especially if you are travelling with children. On a hot night, pick up fish and chips from across the road, sit on the grassy slopes above the beach and watch the sun set. If you'd prefer to eat at a casual restaurant, Il Lido is the place to go for a fabulous Italian meal, drink or coffee." 

  • Leighton Beach "Before you reach Fremantle, Leighton Beach is another favourite. The long stretch of white sand and beautiful blue water attracts both swimmers and windsurfers alike. Lunch at Bib and Tucker is recommended." 

  • North Cottesloe and Swanbourne "The beaches of North Cottesloe and Swanbourne are also very popular and within walking distance of each other. But don’t head too far north of Swanbourne unless you want to join those who prefer to swim au natural."

Spend a day (or a week) on Rottnest Island

Located 18 kilometres off the coast of Freemantle, Rottnest Island is a favourite escape for Perth locals – and for good reason. Blessed with white sand beaches, turquoise water and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, it is the perfect place to relax and refresh. Get there with a Rottnest Express Ferry and see the highlights as recommended below by Nina from 'WA Explorer'.

Cycle around the island

"The best way to explore the car-free Rottnest Island is on two wheels. Rent a bike (including electric ones) or bring your own and discover the island’s myriad beaches, historic landmarks and natural beauty while cycling along the 50km of roads and cycle ways."

Go Underwater

"Rottnest Island is an underwater playground boasting over 400 species of fish, including many tropical varieties and plenty of coral reef. For the islands best snorkelling spots, head south to the sheltered beaches at Parker Point or Little Salmon Bay and follow the snorkel discovery trails."

Walk the new Wadjemup Trail

"Made up of five sections, the 50-kilometre Wadjemup trail traverses through Rottnest’s most spectacular and culturally significant landmarks, including historic sights, scenic beaches and the island’s best views."

Swim and relax by the stunning waters

"With over 63 beautiful beaches to choose from, you’ll want to take a dip in the crystal clear turquoise waters at every single one. For a swim in a near-perfect natural pool, do as the locals do and head to The Basin, one of West Australia’s must-visit beaches."

Meet the world’s happiest animal - "Voted the world’s happiest animals, the cute island quokkas are undoubtedly the star attraction on Rottnest. You’ll come across these furry creatures almost anywhere you go, including the beer garden at Hotel Rottnest."

Encounters with wildlife - "Quokkas aside, Rottnest Island is home to a large range of marine wildlife. Head to the viewing platform at Cathedral Rocks to observe the colony of New Zealand fur seals on the rocks below. Dolphins can be viewed with regularity at Salmon Bay, while humpback whales migrate along the coastline each year from April to November."

Get historical - "Explore Rottnest's long and colourful history at the Rottnest Island Museum and discover the stories of Dutch exploration, the island's 100 years as an aboriginal prison and its use as part of the coastal defence system in World War II.

Climb the Wadjemup Lighthouse - "For panoramic views of the island and beyond, climb the 155 steps to the top of Wadjemup Lighthouse, where you can see from one end of the island to the other."

See the island on a Segway - "For a fun way to explore the island, take a tour on a Segway. Cruise around the beautiful landscape on these eco-friendly motorised vehicles with a knowledgeable guide and discover some of the less explored areas of the island."

Relax at the Rottnest Hotel - "After a day of exploring, there’s no better way to relax and wind down than in the beer garden of the iconic Hotel Rottnest. With direct beach access, the bistro boasts fantastic views overlooking the Indian Ocean and the distant skyline of Perth city – just be prepared to share your meal (and beer) with a hungry quokka."


Wind down in Swan Valley Wineries

Situated north-east of Perth, the Swan Valley is an immensely scenic area, dotted with world-class wineries, arts and crafts centres and local produce stalls. See it all with a wide range of Swan Valley Tours.

Alternatively, follow the below list of top vineyards and cellar doors, expertly selected by local wine blogger Casey from 'Travelling Corkscrew'.

  • Upper Reach Winery - top quality wines and an onsite cottage for a weekend away at a vineyard.

  • Pandemonium Estate - a great wine and location with a view over the vineyard looking towards the Perth Hills.

  • RiverBank Estate - a great lunch spot – the food never disappoints.

  • Tyler’s Vineyard - a charismatic, family run vineyard. They only grow Grenache, but make it in various styles including blush sparkling, white, red, and fortified.

  • Olive Farm Wines - high quality wines, a good selection of different styles and The Cheese Barrel is right next door for delicious wine and cheese flights.

    For more information on this beautiful region, follow Casey's 'Self Guided Walking Tour of the Swan Valley'.

Ready to explore the best outdoor attractions in Perth on your own schedule? Book a room or suite at Pan Pacific Perth and indulge in the relaxing lifestyle that Western Australia is known for.