Perth might be the most isolated city in the world, but it turns out there are plenty of places to go that aren’t too far away. Whether you’re into camping, glamping or you need four walls and a roof at all times, there’s something for you.
So bookmark this page for the next time you get that urge to get out of town for the weekend but you have zero time to plan anything.
Here are some of the best last minute getaways near Perth.
Dunsborough / Margaret River
Probably the most obvious of all the quick weekend trips, there’s a reason that down south is the go-to for 99.99% of Perth’s population. Forests, beaches and wineries tend to make for a pretty rad weekend, so grab your bathers (no matter what time of year) and a jumper (no matter what time of year) and get in the car. Whether you’re the camping type or you prefer something a little more luxurious, it’s impossible to have a bad time down south.
How long will it take you?
3 to 4 hour drive from Perth
Dwellingup
A charming little country town, Dwellingup is full of activities. Hire a kayak and hit the Murray River, walk part of the Bibbulman Track or break out your fishing gear. There are plenty of cottages and B&Bs, but we reckon you should grab your camping gear and head to Lane Poole Reserve so you’re right in the action.
How long will it take you?
1.5 hour drive from Perth
Lancelin / Ledge Point / Wedge
If beautiful beaches with perfect white sand are your jam, then you need to head north right now. Find yourself a friend with a 4WD and hit the sand dunes in Lancelin for some sandboarding, try your hand at windsurfing at Ledge Point or go surfing at Wedge. There’s not much more to do in this neck of the woods which is why we love it.
How long will it take you?
1.5 to 2 hour drive from Perth
Cervantes / Jurien Bay
Jump in the car and head to the Pinnacles to see these weird and wonderful limestone structures and hopefully spot a kangaroo or an emu. If you can manage it, head this way from August through to early October to catch the wildflowers too. Then head to Cervantes to feast on lobster or to Jurien Bay for a spot of snorkelling.
How long will it take you?
1.5 to 2 hour drive from Perth
Bridgetown
Bridgetown has been dubbed WA’s winter capital but we think it’s a pretty great spot to go for some R&R all year round. With plenty of beautiful bushwalks, a weekend in Bridgetown is ideal for a couple of nice long walks followed by a long lunch at The Cidery. If you’re into blues music, then you’ve got the perfect excuse to go and check this little town out in November when they host the Bridgetown Blues Festival.
How long will it take you?
3 hour drive from Perth
Perth Hills
If you’re new to camping, then the Perth Hills Discovery Centre is the perfect spot to go and test the waters. Equipped with gas barbecues, picnic tables, toilets and even hot showers, all you need to do is pack your tent and pick up some food on your way there. Just keep in mind it’s only open to the public on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.
How long will it take you?
Less than one hour from Perth
York
One of the few WA towns to retain its ‘Historic Town’ status, York is a quaint old place with so much old-school charm it hurts. But don’t be fooled, it’s not all scones with jam and cream. A popular spot for hang-gliding and skydiving, York attracts plenty of thrill-seekers too.
How long will it take you?
1.5 hour drive from Perth
Pemberton
If forests, waterfalls, rivers and lakes sound like the makings of a good getaway then Pemberton is for you. With the Munda Biddi Cycling Trail and the Bibbulmun Walking Track as well as plenty of opportunities for swimming, canoeing and 4WDing, you’ll always have plenty of options when you’re looking for ways to pass the time in Pemberton. While you’re down this way, head to D'Entrecasteaux National Park for some stunning coastal cliffs. There are also plenty of amazing wineries and so much good food, so there’s really something for everyone here.
How long will it take you?
3.5 hour drive from Perth
Rottnest
Whether you’ve got a day or a week to while away, there aren’t many places better to do it than Rotto. Hire a bike and find a secluded beach, then just try to avoid getting sunstroke so you can make it to the pub for an afternoon drink. Take some board games and a couple of packs of cards and get ready to relax.
How long will it take you?
30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle
Augusta
Augusta is the perfect spot for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. Home to some pretty fantastic fishing and snorkelling, it’s also a great spot for windsurfing and kite surfing as well as a bit of bushwalking. Climb the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse for some pretty special views and then check out one of the Margaret River wineries for a nice long lunch.
How long will it take you?
3.5 hour drive from Perth
Chittering Valley
North-east of Perth lies the gateway to the Wheatbelt: Chittering, Bindoon, Moora and Muchea. These little towns are perfect for a quick getaway, and they open up into the beautiful Australian outback. Take a walk through the Chittering Valley, and if you're there in spring, you can even attend the Chittering Spring Festival to see the amazing wildflowers. Visit the historic churches, wineries and markets, and if you're feeling up to it, you can even venture out to New Norcia, Australia's only monastic town.
How long will it take you?
1.5 hour drive from Perth
Want more WA goodness? Check out Your Albany And Denmark Bucket List.
Image credit: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen