With endless beaches, world-class museums and many 19th Century buildings, there is much more to Perth than meets the eye. Though the city is characterised by its tall skyscrapers and its reputation as a centre for international business, Perth has numerous hidden highlights with walkways, green parks, excellent watersports opportunities and more restaurants per capita than any other Australian city. Though situated around 2,750 miles away from Sydney, and very much isolated compared to the other major Australian tourist hotspots, Perth has grown in popularity due to its own strengths, the array of activities that can be enjoyed and its excellent services and amenities. Remember before booking a flight to Perth that its seasons are effectively in reverse to the UK with summer occurring from December-February when temperatures peak at around 33°C. Winter temperatures (June-August) remain mild however, and usually range from 15-21°C. Flights from the UK will usually include at least one stop and last from 19-24hrs.
The remotest city in the world has safe swimming for all the family and a wealth of watersports activities...
Perth has something for everyone and the only group of travellers that are likely to be disenchanted by a vacation to the city are those who do not want to deal with the lengthy flight. There are a host of activities for children and there are a lot of safe beaches for families to enjoy. There are also more secluded spots for families and for the more active, the famous Australian surf and watersports will certainly keep you entertained. The city itself has just enough to satisfy culture buffs while those seeking good nightlife will not be disappointed.
Much of your time in Perth will probably be spent on the beach and picking the right one for your needs is important as many are suited to children with safe bathing, while others have more challenging waters that will be ideal for surfing enthusiasts. In all cases you should be wary of the onshore winds and shore breaks that can be dangerous. Some of the safest beaches however, include Floreat Beach, City Beach and Cottesloe Beach. Swanbourne Beach is particularly popular among nudists, while fans of watersports will thrive on Trigg Island Beach. Arguably the most popular resort however, is Scarborough Beach, which is home to Rendezvous Observation City, which features panoramic views and some luxurious hotel rooms. Scarborough is noted for it's surfing, but is not always suitable for inexperienced swimmers, though sunbathing and paddling are immensely popular.
Sightseers will find plenty to enjoy within Perth and its surrounding region. Goldfields is just to the east of Perth and was the home of the gold rush. Visitors can see relics of the minefields and its possible to see more rocks being carried away from the pits and even the occasional mine blasting. The Old Fremantle Prison is also a major draw for tourists - it was a high security prison until 1991. Its immediate surroundings are also popular including the Fremantle Motor Museum, and the Fremantle Harbour.
Travelling out from the city the Perth area is full of luscious green spots and opportunities to experience the natural beauty of Australia. The Karijini National Park has many crystal rock pools and a blend of rare fauna, and around 92 varieties of reptiles and amphibians. A trek to the mid-west section of Western Australia will allow you to discover the Wildflower Region, which features fields of spectacular colour while the Monkey Mia Resort, about four hours north, gives visitors the chance to hand feed bottle-nose dolphins. Margaret River, two hours south, lies to the southwest of Perth and is Western Australia's most popular tourist area due to its stunning forests and the best of Australia's wineries, while back in the city river cruises can be enjoyed along the Swan River, where you can also hear the famous Swan Bells being rung.
There are plenty of chances to shop in Perth but the most memorable location is Aspects of Kings Park, which showcases the best in Australian memorabilia including jewellery, glass and textiles.
With so many places to dine, you're sure to find an eatery to match your taste. If you want to experience a top end restaurant then Jackson's has become a tourist attraction in its own right offering a range of international cuisine, while Maya's is a popular Indian restaurant. If you want to sample some Australian cuisine head to Carnegie's, Char Char Bull and Coolgardie Safe, while fans of seafood should head to Joe's Fish Shack and Simon's Seafood Restaurant.
The nightlife in Perth is not as lively as Sydney, but still offers plenty of choice. For the culturally refined you can catch a show at Her Majesty's Theatre, while if you want to sample some great home-brewed ales head to Little Creatures Brewery, while the Must Winebar gives you the chance to drink in of the classiest bars in the city.
