Best things to do in Western Australia for an epic Aussie road trip
Wondering what makes Western Australia a must-visit destination? From breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters to thrilling adventures and culinary delights, there’s plenty to explore.
Western Australia offers a mix of thrilling adventures, from skydiving over Rottnest Island to sandboarding at Lancelin. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts can marvel at the Horizontal Falls, hike to Nature’s Window, and go whale-watching during migration season.
Foodies will have no shortage of good food and culinary experiences — like catching fresh lobster in Cervantes and savoring wines on a Margaret River tour. For the history and culture buffs, Western Australia has a rich Aboriginal culture, pearling industry, and even beaches where dinosaurs once walked.
The cherry on top? Cathay Pacific Airways is offering 6 flights weekly with direct flights from Hong Kong to Perth, the gateway to Western Australia. Cathay Pacific will increase their capacity to 11 flights weekly from 27 October 2024 onwards.
There are also plenty of options for indirect flights from Hong Kong to Perth via various Asian destinations like Singapore, Malaysia, and Bali.
PSA: Redeem exclusive promo codes for your trip to Western Australia! And with that, read on to discover epic experiences to include in your WA road trip.
For the Adventure Chasers
Prepare for a surge of adrenaline, thrill-seekers! Western Australia is home to an array of heart-racing activities — on land, in the sea, and in the sky.
1) Skydive at Rottnest Island
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of freefalling at 200km/hour — against the backdrop of one of Western Australia’s most stunning beaches and the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean, no less.
Skydiving at Rottnest Island (Wadjemup) offers this exhilarating experience, starting with a scenic 20-minute flight over the island's gorgeous coastlines and turquoise waters.
You can choose to jump from 10,000ft, 14,000ft, or 15,000ft — the higher the altitude, the longer the freefall. After reaching jump altitude, muster every ounce of courage you've got and take the plunge; don't forget to enjoy the views on the way down!
Klook Tip: Take a ferry from Fremantle (Walyalup), Perth (Boorloo), or Hillarys then walk 1.2 km (15 min) to the Skydive Site on Rottnest Island — you can purchase a skydive package that comes with a ferry ride! Alternatively, purchase the Rottnest Island ferry transfer separately.
2) Stargazing at The Pinnacles
Credit: Getty Images Signature
Journey into the heart of Nambung National Park and stand amidst the otherworldly Pinnacles, where thousands of limestone spires rise majestically from the golden sands. Formed from sea shell deposits over thousands of years, these structures can reach up to 3.5 meters in height and create a natural labyrinth that’s both eerie and awe-inspiring.
For the adventurers, there are plenty of exciting things to do at The Pinnacles. You could embark on an off-road day tour by riding a 4-wheel drive into a movie scene like Star Wars! You'll start the day hanging out with some of Australia’s unique wildlife (wombats, kangaroos, and koalas!) at Caversham Wildlife Park, before stopping by the Lancelin (Wangaree) Sand Dunes for a thrilling sandboarding experience!
Want to enjoy The Pinnacles under the night sky? Go on a stargazing tour instead! Get picked up from your accommodation in Perth, then head to Lancelin Lookout, home to the largest network of sand dunes in Western Australia.
With your lungs full of fresh sea air, it’s time to journey on to Nambung National Park to witness the remarkable Pinnacles Desert at sunset. Enjoy a picnic dinner accompanied by a glass of local wine while you settle in for a spectacular light show of natural wonder beneath the sky!
3) Experience a hot air balloon flight in Perth
If you want stunning aerial views of Western Australia without having to jump out of a plane, you could opt for a relaxing hot air balloon experience.
Picture this: An unobstructed view of a breathtaking sunrise as you ascend to 2,000ft on a spectacular hot air balloon flight. You're drifting above the picturesque landscapes of Avon Valley, taking in panoramic views of Western Australia — truly a bucket list-worthy activity.
With an experienced pilot varying the heights, you’ll get to appreciate the unique beauty of the region, followed by a sumptuous breakfast at a local cafe, a perfect end to a tranquil morning in the sky.
4) Unearth secrets at Margaret River
Photo: Tourism Australia
No trip to Western Australia is complete without a visit to the famed Margaret River (Wooditjbilyup). Besides quintessential wine tours to nature adventures, you've got to unleash your inner Indiana Jones when you explore Jewel Cave!
Imagine climbing through the biggest show cave in Western Australia, all while learning about the fossilized remains of several Tasmanian Tigers within its three marvelous chambers. You can even catch sight of the world’s longest stalactites called The Karri Forest.
對孩童來說，到瑪格麗特河寶石洞觀看古代文物定必十分有趣！ 圖片來源: @mammothcavemr
Ever wondered what kind of animals roamed around our planet a million years ago? Journey into the depths of Mammoth Cave, an awe-inspiring cave that boasts majestic chambers filled with otherworldly rock formations. It's a rich historical site, home to over 10,000 fossils of extinct megafauna – giant marsupials that once roamed the continent!
5) Go Surfing at Margaret River Coast
Margaret River isn't just about ancient caves; it's also a world-renowned surfing destination. Whether you've never touched a board or want to refine your skills, catching waves here is an unforgettable experience. Numerous surf schools cater to all abilities. Imagine the exhilaration of paddling out, popping up on your board, and riding your first wave. Experienced instructors will ensure you learn the ropes safely, turning your Margaret River adventure into an epic tale of conquering the ocean.
For Nature and Wildlife Enthusiasts
Once you’ve satiated your adventurous spirit, immerse yourself in Western Australia's captivating natural beauty.
Marvel at stunning views from Nature’s Window, the surreal hues of Pink Lake, and whales gliding off Albany’s coast. Each attraction offers a chance to connect with nature and appreciate Australia’s tranquil wilderness.
6) Go whale watching at Perth and Margaret River
From May to November, the west coast of Western Australia becomes a stage for one of nature’s grandest performances: the whale migration.
Go on a 2-hour whale-watching tour to witness these gentle giants as they journey through the waters, often breaching and tail-slapping in a display of their sheer size and grace. You can pick from multiple departure cities — like Perth or Fremantle.
This area is primarily known for Humpback Whales, but there are occasional sightings of Southern Right Whales and Blue Whales. You might even spot a pod of playful wild dolphins!
7) Soak in views of Pink Lake
Witness the striking vibrancy of Hutt Lagoon (famously known as Pink Lake), where the waters blush a vivid hue thanks to the presence of algae and bacteria under the warm Australian sun.
Hutt Lagoon’s pink color is most pronounced in the morning light, offering a surreal contrast against the blue sky. A fun way to experience this unique landscape is by going on a 4x4 buggy tour of Port Gregory and Pink Lake!
Fun fact: The color of the lake ranges from bright pink to purple, lilac, silver, and pale pink — like a continuously changing work of art!
Want an aerial view of Pink Lake? Go on a scenic flight over Pink Lake from Kalbarri (Wurdimarlu)! You'll also enjoy surrounding landscapes like the Red Bluff Lookout, Lucky Bay and Natural Bridge Kalbarri.
8) Snorkel and meet the Exmouth locals
Escape to Exmouth's Coral Bay, a paradise where turquoise waters meet pristine coral reefs. Dive into an underwater wonderland teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral. But the magic doesn't stop there!
Exmouth is a world-renowned turtle hotspot, where all six of the world's sea turtle species can be found. Imagine gliding alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Many tours offer a unique combination: a glass-bottom boat ride to marvel at the reef from below, followed by an unforgettable snorkeling adventure where you might have the chance to come face-to-face with a turtle!
9) Venture to the Horizontal Falls
Yes, you read that right — Western Australia has Horizontal Falls (Garaan-ngaddim). Located in the stunning Kimberley region of Western Australia, the Horizontal Falls are a natural wonder that defies expectations.
Unlike traditional waterfalls, these unique falls are created by massive tidal movements that force water through two narrow gorges. As the tides change, the water rushes through these gaps, creating a waterfall effect that moves horizontally.
This phenomenon is thus best experienced up close through exciting boat rides or scenic flights, offering breathtaking views and an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
Go on a day tour of the Horizontal Falls and surrounding Dampier Peninsula which takes you right to the falls via speed boat and includes a luxury 4-wheel-drive journey to trek the Kimberley landscapes, plus a delicious meal of locally sourced barramundi.
10) Snap a photo at Nature's Window
Not far from Kings Park and Margaret River, lies Nature’s Window — a perfectly formed rock arch that frames the raw beauty of the Murchison River gorge.
The best part? This spot lies just 500m from The Loop Carpark — so you don't even have to work too hard for this stunning view.
But of course, if you'd like to explore more of Kalbarri National Park and get a good workout, opt for the 8km-long The Loop trail.
11) Go on a wild dolphin cruise in Mandurah
Just an hour from Perth is Mandurah (Mandjoogoordap) — home to over 100 Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, the largest residential population in Western Australia!
The best way to enjoy Mandurah is a dolphin cruise. This tour is perfect for families and nature lovers, offering the chance to spot playful dolphins frolicking in their natural habitat.
As you cruise through the picturesque Mandurah waterways, you'll be treated to stunning views of luxurious canal homes, vibrant birdlife, and serene wetlands. Keep your eyes peeled for pelicans, ospreys, swans, and migratory shorebirds!
Psst. Dolphin sightings are guaranteed — if you don't spot any on your cruise, you'll enjoy another cruise free of charge (valid for 1 year).
12) Swim with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef
Ningaloo Reef (Nyinggulu), just off the coast of Western Australia, is a stunning natural wonder that's perfect for marine life enthusiasts. Stretching over 260 kilometers, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the longest fringing coral reefs in the world.
You can snorkel right from the shore and find yourself surrounded by vibrant coral gardens and an array of colorful fish.
Photo: Tourism Australia
The reef is famous for its seasonal visits from majestic whale sharks, giving you an amazing chance to swim alongside these gentle giants. But that's not all — you might also spot manta rays, humpback whales, turtles, and dolphins.
Psst. Dreaming of an epic Australia road trip? Rent a car from Perth and go on a road trip around Western Australia!
For the Foodies
Having feasted your soul on natural beauty, treat your tastebuds to Western Australia’s diverse culinary delights. A melting pot of flavors awaits, from the freshest seafood straight from the Indian Ocean to artisanal cheeses crafted with local love, and world-class wines that delight the senses.
13) Catch and feast on fresh lobster in Kalbarri
Sailing through the stunning waters of Kalbarri while enjoying freshly caught lobster? Sounds like a slice of heaven to me.
On this relaxing lobster cruise along picturesque coastlines, you'll get hands-on with the lobster fishing process and learn the ins and outs of how these crustaceans are caught. From experts with 25 years of rock lobster fishing expertise — so these guys really know their stuff.
You'll get to taste the fruits of your labor with a freshly cooked lobster feast right on the boat. Lobster rolls, and barbecue lobster served with garlic butter — truly an ocean-to-plate experience!
This tour is perfect for seafood lovers and adventure seekers alike, offering a rare chance to learn about the local fishing industry and enjoy a fresh, sumptuous meal with the ocean as your backdrop.
14) Learn about local wine in Swan Valley
This one's for the wine connoisseurs (or aspiring wine connoisseurs) — a day tour of Swan Valley's wineries.
This wine tour includes pick-up from Perth and takes you on a scenic journey through one of Australia's oldest wine regions (over 195 years of history!), known for its award-winning wineries and stunning landscapes.
You'll visit hand-picked boutique wineries in Swan Valley, each offering a unique selection of wines. This tour gets access to the best small wineries that the big bus groups can't visit, so you're ensured the finest experience at every stop, with personalized wine tastings away from the typical tourist path.
Along the way, learn about the wine-making process, from vine to bottle, and get the chance to chat with local winemakers who are passionate about their craft. And the highlight — you'll get to enjoy a variety of premium wines, accompanied by a cheese platter that perfectly complements the flavors of the region. All while soaking in the beautiful vineyard views.
15) Taste Aboriginal Native Bush Food
Forget the usual tourist fare – journey through the Swan Valley with a local guide who unlocks the secrets of the land. You'll learn about the unique plants used for food and medicine, each one a testament to the deep connection Aboriginal Australians have with their environment.
Sample seasonal delicacies, discover surprising flavor profiles, and learn about the incredible nutritional value packed into each bite. It's more than a meal; it's a journey through history and culture, a chance to connect with the land and the people who have always belonged to it.
For the Culture Vultures and History Buffs
After filling your stomach with scrumptious cuisine, it's time to fill your head with newfound knowledge of the region.
Western Australia's cultural tapestry is rich and diverse, blending ancient traditions with historical narratives. Dive into Aboriginal heritage, explore historic landmarks, and meet contemporary artists.
16) Hike Australia's first National Park
Strap on your boots and prepare for an adventure in Western Australia's first national park, John Forrest National Park! Embark on a guided hike that unlocks the secrets of this rugged bushland. Immerse yourself in stunning scenery, from the historic 340-meter Swan View Tunnel to cascading waterfalls and panoramic vistas from Eagle View Lookout.
Your expert guide will bring the park's rich history alive, regaling you with tales of the 1930s boom and the park's unique heritage. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife – you might just spot a kangaroo or bandicoot!
17) Learn about local Aboriginal culture
Aboriginal culture in Western Australia is a rich tapestry of traditions, stories, and deep connections to the land, dating back thousands of years. Each Indigenous community offers unique customs and languages, expressed through art, music, dance, and storytelling.
To learn more about this side of Australia's history, go on an Aboriginal culture day tour! This tour from Perth takes you to the iconic Wave Rock (Katter Kich), a stunning natural rock formation that looks like a giant ocean wave frozen in time — and is 2,700 million years old.
Along the way, you'll explore the charming historic town of York, which was the first inland European settlement in Western Australia. Plus, a stop at Mulka’s Cave to learn about the Aboriginal story of Mulka. It's a perfect mix of nature, history, and culture, making for an unforgettable day out in Western Australia!
18) Immerse in Perth's gold history at the Perth Mint
Step into the world of gold at the Perth Mint, where history, craftsmanship, and pure luxury come together.
Hop on a tour of the Perth Mint for a fascinating glimpse into Australia's rich gold heritage. You'll marvel at the stunning gold bullion and see a live gold pouring demonstration, where molten gold is transformed into a gleaming bar right before your eyes.
Highlights include exploring the historic vaults, learning about the intricate processes of gold refining and catching a glimpse of the largest coin ever made in the country!
Travel Tips for Western Australia
Before embarking on your journey to Western Australia, here are a few travel tips.
Main Airports and Flights
Credit: Getty Images
Flying into Western Australia is a seamless experience, with Perth Airport serving as the primary gateway to this vast and diverse region.
Perth Airport connects travelers to an array of domestic and international destinations, making it an ideal entry point for exploring everything Western Australia has to offer. With direct flights available from major cities such as Sydney (5hrs), Manila (7hrs), Hong Kong (7.5hrs), and Singapore (5hrs), reaching Perth is convenient and straightforward.
Renting a Car in Western Australia
Credit: Francesco Ricca via Getty Images
Western Australia is massive — covering one-third of Australian land and roughly the size of Western Europe. The best way to get around is therefore to rent a car for an epic road trip around the territory!
You can easily book a car on Klook from AUD$60/day, with pick-ups from Perth or Broome (Rubibi). Choose from compact, mid-sized cars, or SUVs — depending on the size of your travel party and how much luggage you're bringing.
Unlock Travel Deals and Save on Attraction Tickets
Check out more fun things to do in Western Australia in Perth, Broome, Rottnest Island and more — plus redeem exclusive Klook promo codes for your trip!
Unlock the best of Perth with the Klook Pass Perth, your ticket to an array of top attractions at unbeatable prices.
This convenient pass lets you explore must-see spots in Perth like the Perth Zoo, The Bell Tower, and The Aquarium of Western Australia, all while saving money. With flexible options to choose from 2, 3, or 4 attractions, you can customize your itinerary to suit your interests.
Plus, you'll enjoy the convenience of skipping the ticket lines, giving you more time to soak up the sights. It's the perfect way to make the most of your Perth adventure with ease and value!
Best time to visit Western Australia
There's no bad time to visit Western Australia, but of course, there are hotter and cooler months. Plus, if you're hoping to include some wildlife experiences on your itinerary, take note of things like the whale migration season.
The summer months (November to March) offer less rain and higher temperatures, with February being the hottest month of the year.
If you're looking for cooler weather, consider visiting Western Australia during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). These months offer mild temperatures ideal for exploring the outdoors, while the wildflower season from August to November transforms the landscape into a canvas of vibrant colors.
Winter months (June to August) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 8 - 19°C (46.4 - 66.2°F). There are quite a lot of things to do in Western Australia during winter — truffle hunting, winter festivals and even surfing.
Plan for your road trip with these travel essentials
🇦🇺 Western Australia Travel Essentials 🇦🇺
Top things to do in Western Australia
- Visiting multiple attractions in Perth? Get the Klook Pass Perth (up to 40% savings)!
- Rottnest Island: Tandem Skydive | Snorkeling Tour
Getting around
- Airport transfer: Perth Airport Car Charter
Stay connected with our Australia 4G eSIM and find the best places to stay in Australia — plus exclusive hotel promos and bundle deals!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to get around Western Australia?
The best way to get around Western Australia is to rent a car or campervan, as it offers the freedom to explore at your own pace and access remote areas not easily reached by public transport. Just be sure to book in advance during peak tourist seasons.
Are there any unique natural phenomena in Western Australia?
Yes, Western Australia boasts several unique natural phenomena, including the Pink Lake and the ancient Pinnacles Desert, which showcase the region's exceptional landscape. These sights are definitely worth a visit for nature enthusiasts.
Can I experience local Aboriginal culture during my visit?
Absolutely, you can experience local Aboriginal culture in Western Australia through guided tours with Aboriginal guides, visits to cultural centers, and art galleries showcasing Aboriginal artists' works. It's a great way to gain a deeper understanding of their heritage and traditions.
What kind of adventure activities can I do in Western Australia?
You can enjoy skydiving, sandboarding and hot air balloon flights in Western Australia, offering a thrilling way to explore the diverse landscapes.
What are some must-try food experiences in Western Australia?
Make sure to try the fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and premium wines in Western Australia.
More Western Australia Inspiration
Check out more fun things to do in Western Australia for your next vacation!
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