Holiday destinations around Perth

Holiday destinations around Perth offer a fantastic mix of landscapes, wildlife and food experiences across Western Australia — Australia’s biggest and most diverse state. Go north of Perth and find the red coastline, unique rock formations and coral reefs teaming with marine life. Or head south and discover forests, wineries, underground caves and beaches where kangaroos laze on the sand. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation or local flavours, Western Australia’s regions beyond Perth have journeys to remember full of natural beauty and Aussie character.

Holiday spots north of Perth

The Pinnacles

The spectacular limestone formations, well-known as the Pinnacles, are located near Cervantes on the Turquoise Coast, 250 kilometres (155 miles) north of Perth. Cervantes is the gateway to Nambung National Park, a small fishing seaside town home to the Pinnacles Loop, a four-kilometre drive that can be completed by car or on foot in about an hour.

The Pinnacles Desert contains thousands of impressive limestone pillars that stand out against the shifting golden sands. With its magical landscape, the park can be visited all year round, but there is a bonus in spring when wildflowers and cattails bloom. Visit the park at dawn to see the shadows cast by the unusual formations, or enjoy this fantastic landscape at sunset when the colours change with the sun’s movement. Don’t forget to look up to see the Milky Way and the Western Australian night sky.

Coral Coast

Western Australia’s coral coastline stretches over 1,100 kilometres (683 miles), offering endless adventures. Consider a drive along the coast from Perth, stopping at Monkey Mia, where you can feed wild dolphins, and Kalbarri National Park, home to jagged red cliffs and sparkling blue waters surrounded by sandy beaches. The most exciting experience on the Coral Coast is in Exmouth, the gateway to the coral-fringed Ningaloo Reef. Here, you can swim with whale sharks, which are both massive and gentle. After such an encounter, you can relax at the Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort. Other highlights along the way include the fiery orange beaches of François Peron National Park and the local Aboriginal culture near Shark Bay.

Popular holiday spots are located south of Perth

Margaret River

The South West Territory of Western Australia

Australia’s South West Territory includes some of the country’s most breathtaking natural beauty, best explored by drive. Make your first stop in Denmark, just under an hour’s drive from Perth, for fine cuisine, Aboriginal culture, and a visit to the spectacular Greens Pool. Esperance, an idyllic 7.5-hour drive from Perth, is home to turquoise waters, stunning beaches with white sand and offshore islands. Don’t miss Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park, an hour’s drive from Esperance, where you’ll see adorable kangaroos lounging on the soft sand.

Wave Rock

While many of Western Australia’s stunning sites can be found along the coast, there’s something incredible to discover when you look at the ocean in your rearview mirror. After driving just under four hours inland, you’ll see a wave like you’ve never seen at sea. Wave Rock is a granite cliff that rises 15 metres above the Outback Plain. Its resemblance to a breaking wave is striking, thanks to millions of years of erosion. Nearby, discover the Mulka Caves, which contain ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries and Hippo’s Yawn, a rock formation shaped like its name.

FAQ

What are the most popular holiday destinations around Perth?

Some top recommended destinations include Margaret River, the broader South‑West region, Wave Rock, Monkey Mia, Kalbarri National Park, and Exmouth along the Coral Coast.

How far is it to visit Wave Rock from Perth?

Wave Rock lies about a four‑hour inland drive from Perth and is a striking granite rock formation that resembles a breaking ocean wave.

What highlights are included in a South‑West WA road trip?

Driving through the South‑West Territory covers Denmark and iconic spots like Greens Pool, Esperance’s white‑sand beaches, and Lucky Bay with its famous kangaroos on the sand.

Can I see wildlife or marine life on these trips?

Yes—at places like Monkey Mia you can feed wild dolphins; at Exmouth you might swim with whale sharks; and kangaroos often lounge on beaches like Lucky Bay.

Where is the Coral Coast and what makes it special?

The Coral Coast stretches north of Perth, spanning over 1,100 kilometres. It features attractions such as Ningaloo Reef, François Peron National Park, and whale‑shark encounters.