Spring has arrived with a bang and if you’ve got a day free, it might be time for a day trip. Pack a picnic and discover something new. Heading an hour out of Perth does depend on where you live, so we’ve divided it into the four points of the compass.
North
Guilderton
Guilderton is a small hamlet on the mouth of the Moore River. It is so small, it does not really have a supermarket, just a deli, café, and servo. What Guilderton does have is the calm waters of Moore River and a sandbar blocking the river mouth from big Indian Ocean swells. The river is perfect for boating, paddling, swimming, and fishing. Watercraft can be hired on the river’s edge. There’s surfing off the beach oceanside and sand boarding on big white dunes on the other side of the river. If you want to stay overnight the caravan park is beautifully located near the river mouth or you can book holiday houses.
Gin Gin Gravity Discovery Centre
Gin Gin is an agricultural town with an added attraction of the Gravity Discovery Centre https://gravitycentre.com.au/ There are lots of things for space enthusiasts mad about science: The Leaning Tower, Cosmology Gallery, Observatory and Café. For the adventurous, there’s abseiling off the 45-metre tower.
South
Shoalwater Islands Marine Park
Near Rockingham is the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park which protects seabird, sea lion colonies and marine life. In summer, this is the perfect playground: Penguin Island, Seal Island, snorkelling, and kayaking. We felt like we were exploring little Greek islands just an hour from Perth. Plenty of places on the Rockingham foreshore to refresh after lots of sun and sea.
Dwellingup
Dwellingup is adventure central and a popular target for adrenaline junkies and happy campers escaping the city. There’s hilly hiking and mountain biking trails, plus winter whitewater pursuits on the Murray River.
There is even an old steam train for a Harry Potter style experience. The Blue Wren Café is a great spot to get brunch before heading out and the Dwelly (Dwellingup Pub) is the best place for an adventure debrief and celebratory beverage.
East
Toodyay
Toodyay is one of the oldest towns outside of Perth. It is a day trip hotspot to see wildflowers, picnic on the Avon River, long brunch or go Christmas shopping (yes all year round).
Swan Valley
Twenty minutes east of the city is Perth’s version of Barrossa Valley, home of some of the states oldest and best wineries. Despite being so close to the city, a day out in the valley feels like a true rural escape. You can do wine tasting, enjoy boutique breweries and indulge in foodie delights. There’s picnicking on the banks of the Swan River or follow scenic cycle trails.
West
Rottnest
Well there is only one place one hour west of Perth, Rotto, home of the Quokka selfie. A Perth icon, even a day trip is so worth it. Just catching the Rotto vibe as you walk up the jetty, smelling the Rottnest Island tea tree, and heading straight to the bakery is so relaxing. Just 20 minutes from Freo on the ferry, a day is never enough. Whether its swimming and snorkelling, cycling the island or hanging at the Rottnest Hotel for a long lunch, its high on my day trip list.
Now your Perth day trip is planned, why not check out Your WA Tour Guide for all things Western Australia!