Perth, the vibrant capital city of Western Australia, is best known for its beaches, recreation, and bustling urban experience – as well as for being a gateway to some remarkable day trip destinations. From gorgeous national parks and historical towns to incredible food and wine escapades, there are endless opportunities for self-drive day trips from Perth. If you are looking for day trips from Perth in a camper, we have you covered with this guide to the best Perth day trips and destinations, as well as everything you need to plan your road trip through Western Australia's stunning landscapes. Let’s dive in.
Image: Tourism Western Australia
What is Perth known for?
Before diving into the best day trips from Perth, there is plenty to explore in the city itself. Perth is renowned for its stunning coastline, beautiful parks, and vibrant cultural scene. No visit to this western hub would be complete without exploring the city's many free attractions, including the famous stroll through Kings Park and Botanic Garden – the perfect spot to soak up breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Swan River. You can also experience the pulsing arts scene by visiting the Art Gallery of Western Australia or immerse yourself in the laid-back beach culture by taking a leisurely walk along Cottesloe Beach. Perth also has an incredible cafe scene, with countless specialty coffee roasters in the area to explore and uncover. Best of all, Perth’s strategic location provides a phenomenal amount of day trip opportunities, each giving the ability to explore completely different landscapes and cultures.
The top day trips from Perth
Whether you are seeking a coastal retreat, a desert escape or want to explore some of the most unique Australian attractions – Perth has plenty of great attractions and experiences on its doorstep. To help, we have put together this list of the best Perth day trips: each allowing you to experience a different style of the region and explore the diverse culture and scenery of Western Australia.
Perth to the Swan Valley
Travel time: 30 mins, approx 25 km from Perth
Just a short thirty-minute drive northeast of Perth lies the Swan Valley, a haven for food and wine lovers. Set off on a day trip to explore the vineyards, gourmet produce, and historic sites this region has to offer.
Things to do in the Swan Valley
Swan Valley is Western Australia’s oldest wine region. As such, there are plenty of opportunities to treat your taste buds with a wine tasting (paired with the local farm produce, of course!). Plus, its prime location on the outskirts of Perth means that it has great access to a number of beautiful parks and reserves, including Bells Rapids Park and Walyunga National Park. If you prefer to cook a meal in your camper, these are both perfect spots to enjoy a lunch of wine and local delicacies to enjoy in the great outdoors.
Indulge in wine tastings
Start your day trip by exploring the 40+ wineries scattered across the valley. The region has a warm, Mediterranean-style climate with rich and fertile soils, so has rooted itself as a producer of a large range of high-quality wines from the Chenin Blanc, Petit Verdot, and Verdelho vines. With so much variety, this is the perfect spot to explore different vineyards and wineries and spend a day or two enjoying sipping on world-class wines while overlooking the serene vineyard landscapes. Some notable wineries to visit include:
Sandalford Wines
Houghton Wines
Lancaster Wines
Visit local food producers
Depending on the season you are visiting, there is no better way to experience this area than with a visit to the local food producers and farm gates. The Swan Valley is known for its Fresh Seasonal Produce Trail, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal treats year-round and meet the people behind the produce. Swan Valley Gourmet Deli is one such spot to discover delicious local products. From cheese and chocolates to olives and preserves, you'll find a wide array of tasty treats to satisfy your taste buds. With a rotating calendar of seasonal ‘pick-your-own’ experiences, it becomes a truly hands-on adventure.
Discover Heritage Sites
For a touch of history, take a tread down memory lane as you explore heritage sites like the Guildford Courthouse and St. Mary’s Anglican Church. Immerse yourself in the stories and architectural beauty of these sites, all while learning about the region’s rich colonial history and its importance in Western Australia's early development.
Image: Tourism Western Australia
Perth to Fremantle
Travel time: 25 mins, approx 20 km from Perth
Heading a small distance south of the Perth CBD leads to the vibrant port city of Fremantle. The city's port serves as an important hub for trade and cruise ships but is also a thriving scene for markets, historic Victorian architecture and maritime history.
Things to do in Fremantle
Fremantle, or “Freo” to the locals, is known for its eclectic charm, historical significance, and bustling markets, Fremantle offers a fantastic day trip experience. Some of the top things to do in Freemantle, include:
Shop the markets
Once you arrive in Fremantle, start by heading down to check out the iconic Fremantle Markets. The Fremantle Markets have a rich history that dates back to 1897 when they first opened. The markets were initially established to provide a centralized location for local growers and producers to sell their goods to the Perth community. Over the years, the markets have evolved into a bustling marketplace offering a diverse range of products and experiences. The markets are housed in a beautiful heritage building, which adds to the charm and character. You could easily spend a few hours getting lost in the vibrant atmosphere, tasting local delicacies, and discovering treasures to take home. From fresh produce and local crafts to clothing and souvenirs, these markets are a must-do on any Perth day trip to Freemantle.
Have a beach day
Afterwards, head to one of Fremantle's stunning beaches, such as Bathers Beach or South Beach. Soak up the sun relaxing on the white sand, grab a snorkel and explore the clear waters surrounding the Omeo Wreck or even take out a stand-up paddleboard or kayak to explore the wreck and surrounding ocean wildlife. The pristine beaches of Fremantle offer a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Explore Fremantle prison
Dive deep into Perth’s turbulent history with a visit to the Fremantle Prison. Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a range of fascinating activities and experiences. Steeped in history, this former convict prison provides a captivating glimpse into Australia's penal past. Visitors can embark on guided tours led by knowledgeable guides who share gripping stories and insights about the prison's dark and intriguing past. Exploring the prison's cells, gallows, and exercise yards, you can gain a deeper understanding of the harsh conditions endured by the prisoners confined within its halls during its 140 years of operation. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the prison also offers a 'torchlight tour that delves into the eerie and supernatural legends associated with the site. Whether you're interested in history, true crime or simply enjoy a spine-tingling adventure, Fremantle Prison offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Image: Tourism Western Australia
Perth to the Pinnacles Desert
Travel time: 2 hours 30 mins, approx 200 km from Perth
Venture north of Perth to the otherworldly landscapes of the Pinnacles Desert. This unique destination, just two hours drive from the heart of Perth, is famous for its intriguing limestone formations and offers a surreal experience – a must-do when it comes to Perth day trips.
Things to do in the Pinnacles Desert
The Pinnacles Desert is an other-worldly escape just on the doorstep of Perth. You can easily combine your day trip to the Pinnacles with some sand boarding at the Lancelin Sand Dunes, a swim with the playful sea lions at Jurrien Bay, or feasting on locally caught lobster at Cervantes. Here are some of the best things to do on a day trip from Perth to the Pinnacles:
Marvel at the Pinnacles
The Pinnacles National Park is renowned for its collection of ancient limestone pillars known as ‘Pinnacles’. These structures were formed over thousands of years through a natural process involving the accumulation of calcium, limestone and the subsequent erosion of the surrounding sand dunes. The result is a striking landscape of jagged spires and intricate formations that rise from the golden desert sands, creating a surreal and almost alien-like scene.Take a walk or drive through the desert, and let the interesting formations transport you to another world. While you could easily spend all day here, taking photographs and exploring the unique shapes –the best time to experience the Pinnacles is at sunrise or sunset when the golden light brings the desert to life. Don’t forget to stop in at the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Center – this is the perfect way to learn more about the desert and how exactly the pillars came to be.
Discover Nambung National Park
While you're in the area, take the opportunity to discover the surrounding areas of Nambung National Park, where the Pinnacles are located. The park extends from the Pinnacles Desert to the coast and supports a huge variety of plants and animals. The park's shifting dune systems and low heathland showcase vegetation that burst into flower from August to October. These blooming wildflowers and wattles stretching along the coast create quite a captivating site. You can also head down to the ocean and see stromatolites. These rock-like structures built by micro-organisms date back millions of years and are easily spotted from the boardwalk at Lake Thetis.
Perth to Margaret River
Travel time: 3 mins, approx 270 km from Perth
If you are seeking a slightly longer journey from Perth, be sure to add Margaret River to your list of day trips from Perth. Nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, Margaret River is a haven for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. The region is famous for its premium vineyards and wineries, as well as world-class surf breaks and ancient forests.
Things to do in Margaret River
This renowned destination is famous for its world-class wineries, pristine beaches, and fascinating caves. On the way to Margeret River, be sure to visit the dolphins in Bunbury and go for a walk along the impressive 1.8km Busselton Jetty. Then, once you arrive, there is plenty of attractions to explore, including:
Indulge in local food and wine
Indulge in the region's gastronomic delights by visiting local Margaret River wineries, where you can savour a glass of your favourite blend and enjoy the stunning vineyard vistas. Leeuwin Estate, Vasse Felix, and Cape Mentelle are just a few of the many different wineries worth exploring. If your budget allows, we highly recommend that you pair your wine-tasting experience with a delicious meal at one of the many gourmet restaurants in the area. The region holds its artisan cheeses and freshly caught seafood to be some of its best culinary offerings.
Explore historic caves
For a touch of adventure, explore the historic caves of Margaret River. These natural wonders, such as Mammoth Cave and Jewel Cave, offer guided tours that take you deep into the underground world, unveiling fascinating geological formations and ancient stories. Marvel at stalactites and stalagmites as you wind through these underground systems – learning about the rich natural history of the region.
Image: Tourism Western Australia
Explore Perth and beyond with Mighty
There you have it – the best day trips from Perth. With this list of trips at your fingertips, you will never have an eventless weekend in Perth again! Whether it's exploring the wineries of Swan Valley, the charm of Fremantle, the landscapes of the Pinnacle Desert, or the indulgences of Margaret River, your Perth day trips will forever be eventful.
Image: Tourism Western Australia 
