Perth is one of the planet’s most isolated capital cities, yet this sun-soaked capital of Western Australia defies its remote location by boldly flaunting its riches – and there are many, both natural and material. A gorgeous setting astride the winding Swan River, with a string of pearly beaches nearby, provides the perfect playground for outdoor adventures. Sailing, swimming, fishing, and boating are all popular things to do, and in the center of the city, beautiful Kings Park brims with natural bushland and panoramic views. Let’s discover the top tourist attractions in Perth, Australia.
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Top Tourist Attractions In Perth, Australia
Swan River
Local Aboriginals believe the rainbow serpent, “Waugal,” created this winding river. To Perth locals and tourists alike, it’s the perfect setting for outdoor fun. You can picnic in the riverside parks, bike or hike along the many trails, cast a fishing line, sail, swim, or kayak. To see some of the posh houses of the riverfront suburbs, hop aboard a relaxing river cruise between Perth and the historic port of Fremantle. Another popular day trip is a cruise upriver to the fertile shores of the Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest grape-growing region. Here, foodies can sample fresh local produce and scrumptious artisan foods at highly acclaimed restaurants. Most ferries and river cruises depart from Barrack Square Jetty.
The Perth Mint
Popular with adults and children, the Perth Mint offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of gold in Western Australia. The Gold Exhibition displays the world’s largest coin, weighing a whopping one-tonne, as well as gold nuggets and bullion. In the 1899 melting house, you can watch pure gold being poured to form a solid bar, and you can also ogle the largest collection of gold nuggets in the Southern Hemisphere. Hourly guided talks provide fascinating insight into the discovery of gold in the state and the history of the Perth mint, and the tours include a short film. You can even find out your weight’s worth in gold. After your visit, stop by the gift shop for unusual souvenirs or enjoy a Devonshire Tea at the cafe.
Bell Tower
Overlooking the Swan River, this futuristic-looking building is certainly unlike any other Bell Tower you’ve seen before. It is one of the most unique and iconic designs in the whole of Perth.
Remarkably enough, the spaceship-shaped bell tower houses a number of historic bells. The oldest of them is from St Martin-in-the-Fields church in London and dates to 1550. These still ring out, centuries later, for all to hear.
From the top of the bell tower, you can enjoy fabulous views out over the city and its surroundings. Designed by local architects, the glass-clad spire and giant steel columns originally received criticism from Perthites, although they are now widely lauded as a success due to the increased interest and investment the tower has brought to the riverside area.
State War Memorial
Located within Kings Park, the State War Memorial is one of the top tourist attractions in Perth which commemorates all the Australian servicemen and women from the state who lost their lives serving their country. Looking out over the Swan River, its commanding cenotaph was first unveiled after the First World War.
Since then, a crypt, Roll of Honour, and glass cases exhibiting the colors of fallen battalions have been added to the precinct. Its serene setting makes it a peaceful and poignant place to visit, and each year, thousands of people attend its moving Anzac Day Dawn Service.
Penguin Island
Lying just off the coast of Rockingham to the south of Perth, Penguin Island is named after the cute little critters that inhabit its cliffs, headlands, and beaches. Connected to the mainland by a tidal sandbar, at low tide, the island can be walked to – although most people simply take a ferry. A few intrepid adventurers opt to kayak or even swim to its rugged shores.
Numbering around 1200 or so, the colony of penguins is just one of the island’s many draws. Walking along its numerous boardwalks and walkways is also a popular pastime; they offer fantastic views out over the ocean.
Due to the rough waves that pound the shore, Penguin Island also boasts some brilliant surf spots. At some of the more secluded beaches, you can even go swimming in the inviting waters of the Indian Ocean.
