Chances are if you live north of the river, Joondalup is a regular on your hit-list. Good coffee, epic eats, stunning nature trails and a mega shopping centre, Joondalup has got it going on.
If you haven’t hit up the ‘burb that has it all, we’ve got you sorted with a list of everything you could possibly try to fit into a day in this northern hood.
Here’s our wrap of the best places to eat, shop and explore in Joondalup.
The Best Places To Eat In Joondalup
D’s Authentic Japanese
D’s Authentic Japanese is Joondalup’s worst kept secret. Everything at D’s is pure perfection—from the made to order fresh sashimi to the specialty hot-pots and tempura. Do yourself a favour and call in advance to make a booking; this place is pumping and after rolling out you’ll understand why.
Moments Cafe
If coffee is your thing, Moments Cafe is where it's at. The talented team of baristas specialise in latte art—from koalas to portraits, there’s not much the guys here can’t do. Cold brew more your style? Moments is serving up all sorts of cold deliciousness like pandan coconut and almond salted caramel. It’s a yes from us.
The Old Piccadilly
The Old Piccadilly is slinging out some of the north’s best pizza. If you’re a pizza snob and into the classics, this place has you covered with Margheritas, meat-lovers and pepperoni. If you’re keen to venture out we recommend the Philly cheese with BBQ brisket and chipotle mayo or the buffalo soldier with sriracha chicken, blue cheese and ranch dressing.
Paper Avenue
Seriously good coffee and epic eats make Paper Avenue a well-deserved destination on your Joondalup list. If you’re in a rush, grab a brew and a freshly-baked treat from the overflowing cabinet, like the peanut butter cups or Biscoff cheesecake. Time to sit down? Try the house-made sweet potato rosti topped with a generous slab of grilled halloumi and poached eggs. You can thank us later.
Varsity Burgers
Just when you thought Joondalup already had it all, Varsity gets added to the list. A fave on any burger lover’s list, Varsity dishes up all sorts of goodness. Whether you go for the classic cheeseburger or the oh-so juicy fried chicken, you can’t go wrong. Just make sure you leave room for the ridiculous sides like fried mac n cheese sticks and jalapeno poppers.
Dragon Palace
Northies rejoiced when Dragon Palace opened its doors in Joondalup and it’s easy to see why. Get your fix of dim sum (yes please) or try one of their speciality Chinese dishes like black pepper wagyu beef or Szechuan style fish. You won’t be disappointed.
Thai Thyme
Thai Thyme is an institution in the north and there’s a good reason why. Join the Thursday night queue at Lakeside’s food court and watch the masters of Thai food load up their woks with the freshest ingredients going around. The pad see awe noodles and yellow curry both get our tick of approval. If you’re not willing to brave the crowds of Joondy’s food court, grab a seat, kick back and relax at Thai Thyme’s restaurant just outside the shops.
Chopin Patisserie & Cafe
Chopin is home to the best Polish doughnuts in Perth. The jam-filled, sugar-glazed doughnuts are nothing short of amazing and you’ll want to get there immediately and collect a large box to take home to all your family and friends. We hear the pierogi (Polish dumplings) are also well worth a try.
The Best Places To Shop In Joondalup
Lakeside Joondalup
Lakeside Joondalup seriously has it all. This mega shopping centre is home to an insane variety of shops- from chain stores to local boutiques, we’d be surprised if you leave here empty handed. There’s also a two-level food court and alfresco dining area dishing out the goods. From Grill’d to Coco Cubano you’ll be set for a well earned rest after a hard day of shopping.
Ok Oriental Mini Mart
No trip to Joondy is complete without a visit to OK Oriental Mini Mart. Grab a basket or two and load up a kitchen’s worth of goodies like imported curry pastes, bags of frozen dumplings and some ridiculously good instant noodles. Everyone needs an emergency supply of those, right?
Gipsy Boy
Gipsy Boy is a super-cute boutique and cafe tucked away into the back streets of Joondy. Head there for the French toast loaded with bacon, fruit, cream and maple syrup and peruse the shelves while you wait. There are heaps of goodies like handmade ceramic keep cups, homewares and a carefully curated selection of clothing and accessories. This one is sure to be a fave on your list.
Peppermint Green
Peppermint Green is known for its great coffee and eats and we certainly can’t argue with that. But we also love Peppermint Green’s little store showcasing locally made gifts and treats. From handmade body scrubs and the cutest collection of cards to succulent bowls and kokedamas, the crew here have you covered.
Kiwi Shop
Yes, we know, this list is heavy on the food shops but it would be remiss not to include this little piece of home for all our Kiwi friends here in Perth. You can get all sorts of goodies from clothing to sportswear at Joondalup’s Kiwi Store, but let’s be real, you’re all heading here for the Pineapple Lumps and L&P.
Joondalup Twilight Markets
The Joondalup Twilight Markets are home to handmade local goods, delicious treats and live music. Held on Friday nights over Summer, they are the perfect spot to get your Christmas shopping done while supporting small business and enjoying the chilled-out vibes. Keep an eye on the City of Joondalup’s website for the latest event details.
Earth Market Wholefoods
If wellness is your style, you need to get to Earth Market Wholefoods stat. Earth Market stocks organic products good for the environment and good for you—it’s a little slice of heaven for the soul. Grab a coffee and wander down the aisles full of natural skincare, household products and fresh produce. Grab a loaf of traditional sourdough and you’re all set to whip up a delicious avo smash at home.
The Best Things To Do In Joondalup
Neil Hawkins Park
Neil Hawkins Park is the perfect base to set up, have a picnic and explore Yellagonga Regional Park. There are beautiful trails around Lake Joondalup and the surrounding bushland where you can spot plenty of native flora and keep an eye out for kangaroos, turtles, frogs and birds. Jump on your bike or get ready for a stroll and enjoy this little oasis in the burbs.
The Pilates Klinik
Jump on a reformer or join a stretch therapy class at The Pilates Klinik to see what all the fuss is about. Husband and wife team Michael and Kristen know a thing or two about health and wellness and have created a beautiful space to practise Pilates in. Whatever your style, you’ll find a class to suit—from feel good reformer to high-intensity jumpboard sessions, this studio has you sorted.
Aloha Surfhouse
Try your hand at indoor surfing and brag to your mates about how long you stayed on your board for. Aloha Surfhouse is WA’s only indoor surf venue and is sure to deliver heaps of fun. There’s also massive climbing walls and a vertical drop-slide for all you adrenaline junkies.
Joondalup Resort
Golf addicts will love a day out at the Joondalup Resort. The 27-hole golf course is surrounded by native bushland and lakes, making for the perfect Insta-snap in your extremely cool golf get-up. Grab a beer and relax at the bar after your big day and soak up the stunning views.
Darklight Laser
If you thought laser tag was just for kids, we dare you to grab a group of mates and try out Darklight Laser. You’ll work up a sweat and be sure to have a good laugh as your competitive side comes out.
She Moves
If you’re looking for buns of steel then look no further than She Moves, Joondalup’s pole dancing fitness studio with classes ranging from dance fitness to aerial silk courses. There’s even a Beyonce workshop so you can master the moves of Single Ladies before your next night out.
Indoor Beach Volleyball
Get a team of your fittest friends together and get the Summer bod of your dreams at Indoor Beach Volleyball. Not ready to commit? Try one of the drop-in sessions and convince your friends it’s a good idea to run around in the sand trying to get that ball over the net.
Want more? Here's everything to eat, see and do in Scarborough.
Image credit: Paper Avenue