Perth Tourist Attractions

Perth International Airport serves the diverse and attractive city of Perth in Western Australia. 14 million passengers pass through the airport every year, and about 3 million of the passengers are travelling on international flights. There are also many tourists arriving at the airport who are interested in enjoying the wide variety of Perth attractions that can be found in and nearby the city. Perth is located alongside the western coastline of Australia, and is therefore home to some fabulous beaches that are often described as the most attractive in the country. Whale-watching cruises are popular, and diving and surfing are favourite sports in the water. Within the city there are museums, parks and gardens and a large number of attractions that the whole family will enjoy.

Perth is one of the most popular cities in Australia. Vibrant waterfront districts are found on the eastern and southern banks of the Swan River, along which Central Perth is located, and some of the most stunning beaches are found along the world-famous Sunset Coast. The city comprises of many historic and wonderfully modern buildings, and plenty of hotels and other places of accommodation are available. Visitors who would like to be close to the beach for a swim or surf holiday will find lovely hotels around the coastal Cottesloe and Scarborough districts, some of which are actually on the beachfront. World-class hotels can also be found in the Northbridge and Subiaco areas, and along the outskirts of Perth, in the scenic and popular areas of Fremantle, Joondalup and Mandurah. The main language spoken by residents in Perth is English, and various religions are supported. Perth has a population of over 1.5 million people.

There are many ways to travel the city of Perth. The Erth City Explorer Tram has been popular for many years and runs to Kings Park past a large number of the city’s notable sights and landmarks. Self-guided walking tours are popular as well, and often start at the Western Australian Tourism Commission’s tourist office in Forrest Place. Walking tours are an excellent way to gain insight into the rich history of Perth. Cruises are another way to explore the city. The Aboriginal Heritage Tour is a scenic cruise along the Swan River, with guides who provide information as you go, and many other boats depart from Barrack Street Jetty for daytime and evening cruises. Some include buffet meals and other forms of entertainment. Even helicopter tours are offered in Perth, therefore visitors can choose whether they would like to see the sights on land, water or from in the air.

Two buildings of note in Perth are His Majesty’s Theatre and the Perth Concert Hall. The theater is found in the city center and is a historic building that still regularly hosts a wide variety of performances. The elegant building of the Perth Concert Hall was built in the 1960’s and hosts concerts, operas and musical events. Visitors often ensure they stop at the Allan Green Conservatory, which is an interesting and large grass pyramid on St. George’s Terrace that houses important collections of colourful and exotic flora, and it is also recommended not to miss out on the exciting tours held at the Caversham Wildlife Park. The tours take place at night, and therefore provide the unique opportunity to observe the nocturnal habits of the animals. Visitors of the park can look out for kangaroos, emus and koalas.

The Margaret River Chocolate Company is an interesting outing for anyone who enjoys the ‘sweeter’ things in life. It is one of the most popular attractions in the city as the tours explain the process of chocolate making. There are regular demonstrations and displays, and a shop filled with all sorts of delicious goodies that are made by the Company. Sunset Cinema is an evening attraction that has proved to be extremely popular, with large crowds regularly attending the event. The show entices an exciting atmosphere that contributes to the enjoyment of the evening. Furthermore, short camel rides, camel treks and picnics take place at the Calamunnda Camel Farm, and those keen on fishing can organize an adventure with Gone Fishing Beach Safaris, and travel to all the best fishing spots in the area.

The beaches of Perth are a main attraction, and ideal for swimming and all kinds of water sports. Scuba diving and snorkeling are particularly popular, and many surfers will be found in the waters as well. The Perth City Beach is nearby Floreat and perfect for bathing and relaxing in the sun. It has a variety of facilities including kiosks and barbeques. Golden sands are found at Cottesloe Beach as well, and the Scarborough Beach, part of the famous Sunset Coast, is a family-favourite. Both are close by to restaurants, cafes and shops. Nearby the suburb of Fremantle, and about thirty minutes from the city center, Leighton Beach attracts many surfers. It is also a popular area for swimming, and features an artificial reef.

During the months of September to November in particular, whale-watching in Perth is a very common activity. During this time large groups of humpback whales can often be seen migrating. Going out with experienced cruise operators allows you to get very close to these gentle giants, and tourists often bring back some terrific photos.

Many of Perth attractions are directed towards the interests of children, and are a wonderful day of entertainment as well as education. The Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA) is an amazing outing for the whole family. It is comprised of large, landscaped aquariums filled with over 2,500 examples of sea life, including sharks and sea turtles. There is also a large seal enclosure, a 98 meter underwater tunnel and a ‘touch pool’ area where some more friendly creatures reside. The aquarium is conveniently located at 91 Southside Drive, nearby the Stirling Train Station. Land creatures can be admired at the Perth Zoo, the Cohunu Koala Park and the Herdsman Lake Wildlife Center, as well as at the Armadale Reptile and Wildlife Center on the south-easterly outskirts of Perth. Here, visitors get a good look at an amazing variety of large snakes, goannas, lizards, frogs and turtles, as well as many other types of animals. Lots of fun is also had at Adventure World, a large theme park on Progress Drive, Bibra Lake.

Perth museums include the Army Museum of Western Australia, the Claremont Museum, the Armadale History House and Museum, the Western Australia Museum and the Museum of Childhood, while the city’s parks and gardens include Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, Lake Joondalup, Queens Gardens, Whiteman Park and the Stirling Gardens. A large number of wineries and vineyards are found in the area as well.

Tourism information is available for passengers arriving at Perth International Airport, and assistance with hotel reservations may also be offered. Perth attractions are seemingly never-ending, and are sure to contribute to a wonderful holiday experience.