Things to Do in Australia - Western Australia

Western Australia is Australia’s largest state, covering approximately 1/3 of the country, but only about 10% of the population lives here. This is a great destination for anyone seeking isolated and diverse wilderness.

Perth, the fourth largest city in Australia, is the capitol. This beautiful cosmopolitan city is perhaps the most isolated city in the world. Located on the Swan River, it has a similar climate to San Diego and is best known for its outdoor life, offering nineteen beaches, several inner city parks, the river and a warm climate. Perth also has a very vibrant art scene and nightlife satisfying all your travel needs!

Here are some of the most popular attractions in Perth:

• Western Australia Museum is located in a series of heritage listed buildings. It’s collection of specimens and artifacts showcase the social and natural history of W.A. Open 7 days a week, year round, except for national holidays.

• Kings Park and Botanic Gardens is the most popular tourist destination in Western Australia. This large, lush park contains over 300 species of plants, more than 80 species of birds and has unbeatable waterfront and city views. There are outdoor concerts, plays and movies showing year round! This is a great place to spend a whole day relaxing and taking in the scenery.

• Art Gallery of Western Australia is part of the Perth Cultural Centre. This gallery has one of the best Aboriginal art exhibits in Australia featuring rotating exhibits of past and present art.

• Aquarium of Western Australia is Australia’s largest aquarium. Here one can observe sea life that is unique to W.A., such as sting rays, giant sharks, sea turtles, the leafy sea dragon and living coral reefs.

• Beaches! There are nineteen beaches within minutes of Perth’s city center. While some are great for families and snorkeling, others are perfect for surfing. Perth’s most famous beaches are Cottesloe and Scarborough.

o Cottesloe is the city’s most popular place for swimming, snorkeling and just relaxing in the sun and a great beach for families. Scarborough is a favorite for surfers and body boarders and well-known for its nightlife.

Fremantle is a vibrant, historic port city just 20 minutes south of Perth making it a great destination for a 1 or 2 day side trip. This energetic city offers an abundance of outdoor dining, shopping, bars, night clubs and beaches. Also in Fremantle is:

• The Western Australia Maritime Museum, which has six separate galleries, each one focuses on a different aspect of Western Australia’s relationship with the sea. It is open all year, except for Christmas and Good Friday.

Up in Western Australia’s far north is the scenic, laid back coastal town of Broome. Perhaps most famous for producing pearls, it is also home to some incredibly gorgeous beaches and scenic coastline.

Here are some of the most popular attractions in Broome:

• Cable Beach is easily one of Australia’s most popular destinations. It offers miles of palm tree dotted white sand beaches, and clear blue waters. There are even camel rides offered along the beach!

• Broome Crocodile Park was established as a research center for crocodiles. It not only features freshwater and saltwater crocodiles, but also hatchlings and alligators.

• Gantheaume Point is the site of the 130 million year old dinosaur foot prints; truly an amazing adventure for everyone.

Covering about half of Western Australia is the Golden Outback. This is a great place to visit for a true outback adventure. Some of the highlights of this area include Wave Rock, Eucalyptus Forests, National Parks, Farm Stays, the stunning South Coast and mining towns like Kalgoorlie.

The Coral Coast offers opportunities for amazing experiences and interactions with Australia’s marine life. Here you can swim with whale sharks, watch manta rays swim by or meet the dolphins at Monkey Mia.

Look for our series of articles on the five other states of Australia including Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, Queensland and South Australia, and its mainland territory, Northern Territory.