10 unique things to do in Perth
When you've already done Kings Park, The Bell Tower and Perth Zoo, yet you're hungry for more, there's only one thing for it - do as the locals do. We've sorted you out with the top 10 unique things to do in Perth because you're not one for doing ordinary things!
Check out Cottesloe Beach
Perth's beaches are more than a match for the more famous sand swathes of Sydney (we've got Bondi square in the crosshairs here). Cottesloe Beach is one of the most well known, and it easily lives up to its billing. With turquoise water, dazzling white sand, a gorgeous historic pavillion adding some character, and significantly less crowds than other Instagram-worthy coves, this is coastal recreation done right, and done the WA way.
Visit a village of gnomes
Head south from Perth on a two hour drive to Gnomesville. What’s on earth is Gnomesville we hear you ask? Well, it’s an area in the Ferguson Valley littered with endless gnomes to put it simply. No one is fully sure how these mysterious creatures ended up coming together and forming their own little community, but they sure are a fascinating sight to behold nonetheless. We suggest making a whole day of it and exploring the beaut countryside of the Ferguson Valley there while you’re at it.
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Stay overnight in a prison cell
Fan of quirky accommodation? Like to do things differently? Then get yourself to YHA Fremantle Prison for a truly unique night away. Experience the historic building that once housed former female inmates in this world heritage listed YHA. Now, just imagine calling mom and telling her you’ve woken up in a prison cell?
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Explore the Swan River by gondola
Named after the majestic black swans that call the waterway home, the appealingly named Swan River cuts right through Perth and offers a wide array of things to do on or around it. Perhaps the most unique of all of these (at least in an Australian context) is a gondola ride along the river, taking in great views of the city's skyline and the various points of interest along either bank. Whether you're looking for a unique date idea or simply seeking a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective, this is a great way to tie a unique memory to your visit to Perth.
Hike the Bibbulmun Track
Classified as one of the world’s greatest long-distance walks, stretching over 1000km from Perth Hills, to Albany on the southern coast, get your hiking boots at the ready as this is a good'un! While the full track can take from six to eight weeks, you can do part of the walk if you’re only in Perth for a shorter stay. Plan your route well in advance for best results.
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Take it all in at Mt Lawley
Step into the buzzing cultural hotspot that is better known as Mt Lawley. Stroll Beaufort St and shop till ya’ drop at strip’s unique stores, renowned restaurants, quirky coffee shops and cool bars. Here's the spot for exploring street art if ya fancy, too. Don’t forget to look up and marvel at the architecture from the first half of the twentieth century with colonial, art deco and California bungalow-style dwellings all on display. Well worth spending a day getting lost here!
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Try a bacon flight
Love whiskey and bacon? Well winner winner bacon dinner, we have a combo for you! Head to Varnish on King to sample a bacon flight – whiskeys paired up with pig. If you’re all about the alcohol, try a boilermaker (whiskey in one hand, beer in the other). Consider yourself a true whiskey connoisseur? Then join their monthly masterclass to do some tasting and learn how the whiskeys come to life.
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Explore caves at Yanchep National Park
When you’ve ticked King’s Park off the list, never fear we have an equally beautiful park for you to explore - Yanchep National Park. You’ll have the opportunity to spot koalas, kangaroos and many native birds here. If you’re feeling like something a little different, why not adventure in one of the many caves in the region as the park has a big network of limestone caves. The most popular cave is Crystal Cave and there are guided tours taking place daily where you can learn about the geology and formation of the cave and its impressive stalagmites, helictites, columns and shawls.
Visit an abandoned Park
Atlantis Marine Park was created in 1981 as an ocean theme park. A ten-meter-tall Neptune holding his trident was built by a local artist along with numerous pools and many other unique ocean-themed sculptures dotted around the park. The park closed in 1990, however, today you can wander what’s left of the park if you’re into exploring abandoned places that is.
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Up your Insta game at Flora and Fauna café
Hit up this tucked-away café in Northbridge and order all the colourful dishes that come delightfully sprinkled with flowers and add some sunshine to your Insta feed! Their vegan tropical waffles are a major hit and rightly so, just look at the bloody beauty below. Everything is baked in house at this owner-operated boutique cafe making us love them even more if that’s even possible.
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