Perth is the capital city of Western Australia. With a population of 1.7 million, it’s also the country’s fourth most populated city. Perth has an extensive, multicultural background – with about 200,000 UK-born residents now calling the city home. In fact, as of 2006, the number of English residents outnumbered Australian-born residents. The population boom in Perth isn’t anything new. The first people were indigenous tribes who would populate the area until the 1700s and 1800s when the Europeans began to find their way to the site.
Perth is a coastal city bordering on the Indian Ocean and the Swan River. The river gets its name from the beautiful black swans that inhabit the area. Perth enjoys a mild climate year-round with warm summers and mild winters. Water and fire restrictions are expected during the summer months, which can be dry with temperatures over 100 degrees.
Those restrictions don’t sway people from visiting Perth in the summer months and any other time during the year. Millions of people find their way to this city each year. We’re going to highlight some of the best places to visit in Perth for those who may be planning an Australian vacation soon.
Swan River
Chartered cruises down the Swan River is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike. Many tour companies have set up shop in the area and offer various cruises to cater to any preference. Not only will you see the famous black swans in their natural habitat, but you’ll also get a great view of the busy Freemantle Port. Families will enjoy the scenic and educational daytime cruises while single travelers or couples might prefer the lunch or dinner cruises later in the evenings.
Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island is located just off the coast of Perth and is easily accessible by ferry. There is no car traffic allowed on the island so prepare for a primitive experience. You can partake in various watersports, go on nature walks, snorkeling, or bask in the sun on one of the islands 63 secluded beaches. Accommodations are available if you want to plan an overnight excursion on the island. You’ll see all kinds of wildlife on the island, so be sure you take your camera to get some once in a lifetime shots. Visit Southwest Airlines Reservations to get cheap flight fares with extra offers on vacation packages to Perth.
Cottesloe Beach
Cottesloe Beach is your typical tourist beach and one of the most popular ones in all of Australia. Aside from watersports and swimming in the gorgeous waters of the Indian Ocean, there are also several cafes, restaurants, and shops to peruse to while away an afternoon. If you’re planning on swimming, be sure that you stay between the posted flags and follow any lifeguard staff’s rules on duty to ensure your safety. If you’d rather, you can sit. People watch – which is also a popular activity on Cottesloe Beach.
Fremantle
Fremantle is a small fishing village at the mouth of Swan River, where it meets the ocean. It’s a step back in time from Perth’s hustle and bustle because of all the antiquity located here. Lots of quaint little shops, antique dealers to peruse, and open-air cafes await you as well as the sights and sounds of the port that is located there. Fremantle is famous for its wide variety of ethnic foods – including Greek, Turkish, and Thai. It is also home to The Roundhouse – a former jail that is the oldest public building in Western Australia.
The Bell Tower
The Bell Tower is part towering glass spire and part musical instrument – the largest one on Earth. It was built to house the bells of several significant churches in the area. Visitors to The Bell Tower can enjoy Perth’s panoramic views from the observation deck, hear all the bells toll during demonstrations or have a go at ringing the bells themselves in the interactive display. The Bell Tower is one of the most visited attractions in Perth.
The Perth Mint
The Perth Mint is one of the oldest original operating mints in the world. It houses the world’s most extensive gold nugget collection and features many exhibits depicting various gold rush periods in Australian history. The Melting House still pours gold today, and visitors can watch the process during a tour. They can also engrave their names in a gold coin and partake in various other interactive displays throughout the mint.
Kings Park
Kings Park is a premier tourist spot in Perth because of all it has to offer. Two-thirds of the part is natural bushland, so visitors can see what the terrain was like before being developed. This bushland is also where some of Perth’s famous wildflowers grow – a truly do not miss experience in itself. There is a wall memorial listing all the names of fallen Western Australian soldiers from various wars. Additionally, a plaque with the individual character is placed on every tree in a particular area of the park. Aside from these points of interest and typical park fare like walking trails and play areas, Kings Park also has several restaurants and an outdoor cinema that plays a variety of movies and hosts live theatrical performances.
Guildford Heritage Walk Trails
To soak up Old Perth’s historical ambiance, an outing along the Guildford Heritage Walk Trails is in order. Then there are four trails, varying in length from 450 meters to over 2,000 meters, and fifty interpretive panels are positioned along the tracks to point out different sites of significance. Some of the places you’ll see on the trails are the Old Guildford Courthouse, the restored Rose & Crown Hotel, and the Chapel of St. Mary and St. George – which is said to be the finest example of Gothic architecture in Australia.
1300 Trail Rides
1300 Trail Rides allows visitors to see the Perth countryside that no other method can offer – via horseback! Trail rides are offered for any level of experience from beginner to novice. The excursions vary from an hour in length to an entire afternoon.
You’ll see some of the most beautiful countryside and bushland in the country during your tours. You can also choose from themed rides like a romantic outing for two, a twilight ride, or a family fun event. Knowledgeable guides will ensure your enjoyment and safety the entire way. Riders will be paired with horses based on their ability and experience. Visit Delta Airlines Reservations and get an exclusive discount on flight fares with cheap flight fares.
Travel Tips:
The heat and elements are the primary concern for tourists in Perth. If you’re planning to be outdoors, be sure to apply a good sunscreen and wear protective clothing. Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable, so particular caution should be taken with those age groups.
If you’re planning on swimming while in Perth, be sure to choose a beach that is lifeguard-patrolled and remains between the posted flags. Swimming in the ocean can be precarious at times. Failure to follow the rules outlined by safety officials could lead to severe injury or drowning.
Mosquito-borne illnesses are still prevalent in some parts of Australia, so it is prudent to apply insect repellant any time you venture outdoors, especially outside of the larger metro areas.
There are many reserve lands for the Aboriginal people in Australia. These reserves require special permits to pass through them or visit. The Aboriginal land is self-governed, and the licenses must be attained through the Department of Indigenous Affairs.
