Best Things to Do in Perth & Western Australia in Winter
Without biting cold temperatures characterised by winter in many parts of the world, Perth and Western Australia experience winter temperatures of around eight to 19 degrees celsius — which even rise to 25 degrees celsius at Karijini National Park. Sunny and clear days are interspersed with rainy days, with July being the rainiest month of the lot.
Despite this, winter still makes for a great time to visit the region! Think: prime truffle season, special winter festivals, increased water visibility, optimal surfing conditions, whale-watching season, and more. Combine all that with lower off-peak prices and fewer crowds — what are you waiting for? Visit Perth to explore its attractions, enjoy the mild climate, and experience the natural beauty and seasonal highlights.
1. Trawl the Scarborough Sunset Markets
Photo credit: Scarborough Sunset Markets on Facebook
Come May to October every year, the Scarborough Sunset Markets transforms its summer market into a winter edition. Happening only on Saturdays, the market entices with lots of food trucks, artisan stalls, as well as marshmallow-roasting at crackling fire pits. You’re in for a real treat, with as many as 50 food and retail options available!
2. Experience truffle hunting
Photo credit: Australian truffle hunters on Facebook
The black Pèrigord truffle is at its prime during winter, attracting many to Manjimup (three and a half hour’s drive from Perth) to go on a truffle hunt. Also known as Australia’s black truffle country, Manjimup is the top producer of truffles in the Southern hemisphere. The truffle hunt is a complete experience in itself: follow trained dogs as they sniff out the prized truffles, and unearth them on the spot!
Besides Manjimup, you can also check out this truffle hunt tour at Margaret River, which is also known for its wineries, caves, and some of the best surfbreaks. The truffle hunt tour includes hunting for truffles with the farmer and meeting the truffle dogs and enjoy a scenic farm walk through the trufferie. After the exhilarating hunt, head back to the farm shop to savour the exquisite taste of freshly harvested truffles. You will also get to immerse yourself in a cozy wine tasting session and sample a variety of first-class local wines to conclude your tour.
3. Mark your calendars for a line-up of winter festivals
Photo credit: School’s Out Winter Fest on Facebook
Mark your calendars, there’s plenty going on during winter in Western Australia. In Perth, embrace the chilly season at Perth Winter Arts Festival, City of Perth Winter Fest, and Fremantle’s Winter Fest. Lightscape is a must-see, which transforms Kings Park into a glowing extravaganza. Winter wonderland awaits at the School’s Out Winter Fest, which takes place at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre. Zoom down the snow slide, have a go on the ice rink, go on carnival rides, jump on a bouncy castle, and more.
#KlookTip: If you’ve got older kids in tow, check out the Winter Fest nights — where you can groove to a live DJ.
Photo credit: Truffle Kerfuffle on Facebook
Out of Perth, Bridgetown (three hour’s drive from Perth) is known as Western Australia’s winter capital, and plays hosts to a dynamic Fridgetown Festival. Truffle lovers can make a beeline for Truffle Kerfuffle, a festival that revolves around the popular black truffle — complete with truffle tastings, talks, masterclasses, and truffle hunts.
The Cabin Fever festival, on the other hand, is all about embracing winter. With events happening from Busselton (two and a half hour’s drive from Perth) to Margaret River (three hour’s drive from Perth), expect bonfires, curated feasts, and the popular ‘Fondue by the Fire’. Film buffs can also spend hours at CinefestOZ, a celebrated film festival held in Bunbury (two hour’s drive from Perth), Margaret River, and Busselton.
Photo credit: Nannup Flower and Garden Festival on Facebook
Photo credit: Nannup Flower and Garden Festival on Facebook
And if you thought winter was all about barren landscapes and frigid temperatures, think again! Nannup (three hour’s drive from Perth) proves it all wrong with the Nannup Flower and Garden Festival, featuring ten colourful winter gardens, as well as workshops. And, if you’re travelling with children, head to Telling Tales in Balingup (two and a half hour’s drive from Perth), a festival specially created for children aged four to fourteen. A children’s storytelling festival, the event hosts multiple workshops a day — where participants are encouraged to dress up as storybook characters.
Photo credit: Shinju Matsuri on Facebook
If you have the time, take a two-and-a-half-hour flight to Broome. Don’t miss the Shinju Matsuri festival, which is chock full of dining experiences that spotlight local produce. The A Taste of Broome event also hits the sweet spot for foodies, which showcases local cuisine alongside music, dance, and film performances. If your tastebuds can’t get enough, a three-hour flight + drive from Perth (or a one and a half hour’s flight from Broome) will bring you to Kununurra, where you can attend the Taste of Kimberley event.
For a unique Perth experience, don't miss a visit to the Fremantle Markets, a bustling weekend market where visitors can browse, shop, and dine.
4. Go ice skating
Photo credit: Cockburn Ice Arena on Facebook
Ice skating is one of winter’s quintessential activities! Head to Perth Ice Arena and Cockburn Ice Arena - which has monthly themed sessions! - to have a whirl on the ice.
5. Try your luck at whale-watching
Winter heralds the beginning of whale-watching season. This is when humpback whales migrate from Antarctica, and Southern Right whales start returning to the Indian Ocean. Try your luck at spotting these majestic giants on a whale-watching cruise, which departs from Perth and Margaret River, Exmouth (thirteen hour’s drive from Perth), Augusta (three and a half hour’s drive from Perth), or Kalbarri (six hour’s drive from Perth).
6. Go on a hike
Cooler temperatures and mild winds combine to form the perfect conditions for appreciating the great outdoors! Go on a hike in the Perth hills — we’ve got our eyes on this hike, wine, and dine experience that sounds like a dream. If you’d like to do a spot of sightseeing whilst burning some calories, consider this seven-kilometre hike through Kings Park and Perth Botanical Gardens.
In Swan Valley, the Swan Valley station has an easy 700-metre sculpture trail. If you’re the more ambitious sort, venture out to Torndirrup National Park’s (five hour’s drive from Perth) Bald Head Walk trail, or Mount Bruce at Karijini National Park (fifteen hour’s drive, or two hour’s flight, from Perth).
7. Experience the region’s waterfalls
Bells Rapids | Photo credit: Perth is ok!
Western Australia’s winters can be rainy, which brings the region’s waterfalls to life. Explore Bells Rapids, Lesmurdie Falls, and Noble Falls in the Swan Valley (30 minutes drive from Perth); or Serpentine Falls in Serpentine National Park (one hour drive from Perth). Further out, the Beedelup Falls in the Greater Beedelup National Park (three and a half hour’s drive from Perth) are gorgeous after a downpour.
8. Bring the kids on a family trail
Photo credit: Australian Tourism Data Warehouse
Swan Valley is a great family destination, made even better by the Kids in the Valley Trail (download the route map here). It has plenty to entertain the little ones with: meet koalas at Caversham Wildlife Park, play a game of mini golf, romp in the backyard of the Henley Brook, marvel at Bells Rapids, and indulge their sweet tooths at Whistler’s Chocolate Co.
If you have children between the ages of five to twelve, head to the Swan Valley Visitor Centre to start the Great Valley Rally (download the clue sheet here). An exciting three-hour treasure hunt awaits, where you’ll follow cryptic clues to decipher your exact route. Once you’re done, don’t forget to redeem a certificate and gift back at the visitor centre!
9. Indulge in a food and wine trail
Photo credit: Destination Perth
The food in Western Australia is *chef’s kiss* — pamper yourself by going on one of the many food and wine trails. These are divided into two categories: the Perth food and produce trails; as well as the wine, cider, and distillery trails.
The Toodyay Food and Picnic trail sounds fantastic, where you’ll have the opportunity to fill your picnic basket with the best local bread, pastured meats, olive oil, and wine. The Pedal and Pint trail also has a soft spot in our hearts, where you’ll bike through the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail, and visit heritage-listed pubs along the way.
10. Catch a wave
'Tis the season to hit the waves! Unlike what you’d expect, winter in Western Australia is a wonderful time to surf. The temperature hovers around 18 to 19 degrees celsius, accompanied by milder winds and more consistent ocean swells. Need a confidence boost? Sign up for a surfing lesson led by skilled instructors.
#KlookTip: If you’re a beginner looking to pick up the ropes, take a surfing lesson at North Fremantle’s Leighton Beach. The beach is protected from large ocean swells, resulting in calmer conditions.
11. Take to the skies on a hot air balloon ride
How about going sightseeing from a different perspective? Launch into the air in a colourful hot air balloon at Avon Valley (one and a half hour’s drive from Perth). Balloon rides only operate from April to October, when wind conditions are optimal.
The flights normally take off just before first light, allowing you to witness a spectacular sunrise whilst in the air. Soak in the panoramic views, and dig into a well-deserved breakfast upon touchdown. Transport to and from the launch site is provided too, so you won’t have to worry about a single thing. Ready to float away on a hot air balloon?
12. Spend an afternoon at a museum
On a particularly dreary day, why not stay warm in a museum? Spend hours in the Museum of Perth; Western Australia Museum; Art Gallery of Western Australia; Motor Museum of Western Australia; WA Maritime Museum; or WA Museum Boola Bardip, where you’ll find a blue whale skeleton.
#KlookTip: Travelling can take a pretty heavy toll on your wallet. Let us help you out — save up to 40% off selected Perth attractions with the Klook Perth Pass!
13. Catch a show
Photo credit: Perth Theatre and Concert Hall on Facebook
Rainy day? Stay dry by watching a show at the Perth Theatre and Concert Hall, Subiaco Arts Centre, or Regal Theatre, both of which host regular performances. Alternatively, grab a bucket of fresh popcorn and watch a movie at Karrinyup’s Hoyts, where some cinemas even have moving recliners that sync with the movie!
14. Visit an indoor attraction
Here's another perfect rainy day activity - or some inspo for when you want to escape the cold for a bit. Go under the sea at the Aquarium of Western Australia, and even stay on theme by signing up for this experience where you can harvest your own pearl directly from an oyster.
Bounce off your kids’ energy at the Flip Out or Bounce Inc trampoline parks, go roller skating at Morley Rollerdrome, have fun rock climbing at Adrenaline Vault, try axe throwing, and make learning fun at Scitech.
For a more cultural side of things, go on a guided tour of The Perth Mint or The Bell Tower.
For those looking to get active and challenge themselves, indoor rock climbing is a fantastic option. There are indoor climbing centers available that cater to all levels, from beginners to seasoned climbers.
#KlookTip: We especially love the Pottery Playroom at Joondalup (25 minutes drive from Perth), which also has a ball pit and soft play centre.
15. Cosy up at a bar
Photo credit: Mrs Brown Bar
Warm your spirit at one of Perth’s bars. Huddle around an open fire — whilst listening to live music! — at Rodney’s Bait and Tackle, and play a board game at Fremantle’s Mrs Brown. In Perth CBD, visit Hula Bula Bar to drink out of cute tiki mugs. Out at Swan Valley, Gusti has even pulled out all the stops with blankets and portable heaters for its alfresco deck, which boasts a vibrant sunset view.
16. Cheer at a sports game
Photo credit: Australian Football League
The Australian Football League (AFL) is in full swing come winter every year. Watch an electric game at Optus Stadium, which also plays host to rugby games.
#KlookTip: You’re allowed to bring your own food into the stadium, so remember to stock up on snacks and drinks before the games.
Whilst you’re at the stadium, why not drop by The Ozone, an exciting adventure hub? Go behind the scenes on a stadium tour, have a daring VERTIGO experience, or enjoy panoramic views from the HALO rooftop tour.
17. Paddle away on a canoeing tour
Photo credit: Blackwood River Canoeing on Facebook
Did you know that the Blackwood River (three hour’s drive from Perth) is the longest, continually flowing river in Western Australia? Winter conditions transform the river into a series of exciting rapids, which you can navigate via a tour with Blackwood River Canoeing. Otherwise, paddle calmer sections of the river by hiring a canoe for a day.
18. See the staircase to the moon
Photo credit: Visit Broome
Only occurring from March to October for only two to three nights a month, the staircase to the moon phenomenon occurs when the full moon rises over Roebuck Bay’s exposed tidal flats at low tide. This looks as if there’s a staircase leading right up to the moon! See this rare sight for yourself at Broome, from the Town Beach precinct, Roebuck Bay lookout, Broome golf club, or the Mangrove Hotel Resort.
#KlookTip: Get in the mood at the Staircase to the Moon markets on Thursday nights from June to September, where you can buy souvenirs, try local produce, and jive to live performances.
19. Take a trip to the Golden Outback
Photo credit: Hillier Lake
The Outback is known for its searing heat. Take advantage of cooler winter temperatures to make a trip to the Golden Outback — where you can go whale watching at Esperance, spot Aboriginal rock art at Mt. Augustus, walk across the stunning white salt plain of Lake Ballard, snap lots of photos with the awe-inspiring Wave Rock, and check out the bubblegum-pink Lake Hillier.
#KlookTip: In fact, Lake Hillier is at its best during winter! The algae in the water blooms spectacularly in cooler temperatures, making the lake waters a brilliant shade of pink.
20. Spend a night glamping
Photo credit: Olio Bello Olive Oil on Facebook
Turn a night’s stay into a unique experience by going glamping. Book a night at Olio Bello Lakeside Glamping (three hour’s drive from Perth), which has both indoor and outdoor fires in winter; at Serenity Gully (three hour’s drive from Perth), where you’ll stay in a luxe eco tent; or at Mile End Glamping (two and a half hour’s drive from Perth), which has photo-worthy transparent domes.
21. Spot underwater sculptures
Stretching over a length of 1.8 kilometres, the Busselton Jetty is the Southern hemisphere’s longest timber-plied jetty. Hop on a cute train to the end, where you’ll find an underwater observatory. Head below the water surface to view a variety of underwater sculptures — made even better in winter, when the underwater visibility improves drastically.
#KlookTip: If you wish to see the sculptures up close, you can even sign up for a snorkelling tour. Don’t worry about the cold water temperature, as you’ll be all snug and toasty in a wetsuit.
22. Take a dip at Karijini National Park
Photo credit: Explore Parks WA
Want to be somewhere warmer for a few days? Take a trip to Karijini National Park, where day temperatures average around 25 degrees celsius. Pack your bathing suit, and take a dip at one of the national park’s natural pools. Bookmark the pools at Hancock Gorge, Knox Gorge Weano Gorge, and Dales Gorge.
#KlookTip: Why not see more of Western Australia by renting a car, and embarking on a road trip to Karijini National Park from Perth (fifteen hour’s drive)?
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