Are you looking for the best day trips from Perth, WA for your family? There’s nothing quite like a family outing, so we’ve made sure to include the best locations in this helpful article!
We’ll introduce you to some fantastic locations, each offering a unique and exciting experience that the whole family will cherish.
1. The Pinnacles
Nestled within Nambung National Park, the Pinnacles are accessible year-round. They are situated near the coastal town of Cervantes, which is a 2 hour drive North of Perth. Encompassing an expanse of around 190 hectares, the park is home to numerous limestone formations, known as the Pinnacles, characterized by their vibrant yellow hues.
Visitors have the option to embark on a 4km loop, which allows for both driving and walking through the desert. This loop, although unsealed, is suitable for 2WD vehicles and offers marked stopping areas, providing opportunities to explore the Pinnacles up close.
To delve deeper into the captivating geological and natural processes that have given rise to the Pinnacles and the surrounding desert, a visit to the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre is highly recommended. The centre’s operational hours are from 9.30am to 4.30pm.
Get Out With Kids Tip: Book this Pinnacles desert stargazing from Perth tour – which includes dinner to maximise your daytrip from Perth.
Travel Time: 2 Hour Drive
Distance: 188km
Location: Namburg, WA
2. Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island is a short ferry ride away from Perth and is famous for its adorable, smiling residents – the quokkas. These small animals are friendly and photogenic, making them a hit with children and adults alike. Spend the day cycling around the island, enjoying the beautiful beaches, and trying to snap the perfect quokka selfie.
Read up on the history of Rottnest Island here.
Get Out With Kids Tip: To save both money and time, check out this Rottnest Island Return Ferry Transfer deal!
Travel Time: 30 Minute Drive + 25 Minute Ferry
Distance: 33km
Location: Rottnest Island, WA
3. Swan Valley
Swan Valley is Western Australia’s oldest wine region, but it offers much more than just wineries. Families can indulge in delicious chocolate tastings, visit wildlife parks, and enjoy scenic boat cruises along the Swan River. The region’s lush landscapes and diverse activities make it a great place for a family day out.
For the adults – you can book a Swan Valley Wineries day tour here, or if you’re going with the kids, make it a family dinner with this Swan River dinner cruise.
Travel Time: 30 Minute Drive
Distance: 25km
Location: Herne Hill, WA
4. Fremantle
Fremantle, a charming port city, boasts a rich maritime history and vibrant arts scene. Explore the Fremantle Markets, take a stroll along the historic streets, and discover street art around every corner. Fremantle is a great day trips from Perth for younger children!
Get Out With Kids Tip: If you have older children, we suggest a trip to Fremantle Prison! It’s a fantastic destination for family tours and discovering the fascinating history of Australia’s convict past. It also makes a pretty cool idea for a teen birthday party!
Travel Time: 30 Minute Drive
Distance: 22km
Location: Fremantle, WA
5. Caversham Wildlife Park
Located just a short distance from Perth, Caversham Wildlife Park is a definite must-see for those who just can’t get enough animals. Here, your family can connect with Australia’s diverse wildlife, such as kangaroos, koalas, and wombats, along with so many more species. The Caversham Wildlife Park has something for every member of the family.
RELATED: See the best school holiday activities in Perth here.
Travel Time: 30 Minute Drive
Distance: 20km
Location: Whiteman Park, WA
6. Avon Valley Hot Air Balloon Flight
We think this could be the most insane day trips from Perth on our list! Prepare for a magical morning hot air balloon journey over Avon Valley. If you don’t mind an early wake up to beat the sunrise, join your pilot for a morning among the clouds. The balloon trip will take you sailing over lush green hills, as well as some beautiful historic rural towns.
The trip departs from Northman, where you get to watch the balloon inflate before your flight. Then, as you rise into the sky, the sunrise will paint the sky with all its morning glory, right above the stunning Western Australian countryside. Finally, after an hour in the hair, a gentle landing is followed by an included breakfast for all guests.
To book your hot air balloon trip, click here.
Get Out With Kids Tip: Dress in layers, as the weather quickly changes from morning coldness to midday sun while you’re in the balloon!
Travel Time: 60 Minute Drive
Distance: 60km
Location: Avon Valley, WA
7. Penguin Island Wildlife Cruise
Each winter, penguins off the Shoalwater coast in Western Australia go into ‘lockdown mode’, nesting and finding partners on the island. While Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is typically closed to visitors during this time, this year, you can experience the penguin colony with the 60-minute Penguin Island Wildlife Cruise.
This cruise takes you on a scenic wildlife journey through Western Australia waters. You’ll sail along the coastlines of Penguin, Seal & Bird Islands, spotting sea lions, pelicans, and birds of prey. The cruise will also stop on Penguin Island for a 30-minute tour of beaches, viewpoints, and nesting seabirds in their winter habitat.
You’ll also have the opportunity to view marine life through the glass bottom boat and enjoy a meal or coffee at Pengo’s Cafe before or after the cruise. Trips depart daily at 10:15 am and 12:15 pm and are only available during winter!
Get all the details and book your penguin cruise here.
Travel Time: 45 Minute Drive
Distance: 51km
Location: Shoal Water, WA
8. Mandurah Dolphin Watching Cruise
Cruise through the waters of the Mandurah region of Western Australia with this spectacular dolphin and scenic marine cruise. The cruise lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes, and during this time you’ll cruise along the canals to spot wild dolphins playing in the water, while taking in the beautiful views of the region. There are roughly 85 bottlenose dolphins living in the waters off Mandurah, and this cruise is the perfect way to see them!
While on board you’ll be treated to commentary about the region and the animals that live in the waters including the dolphins you’ll be seeing. Departing daily, this cruise will also take you past some of the most luxurious homes on the canals and some historic pioneer sites.
The cruise departs at 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm
Book your dolphin watching cruise here.
Get Out With Kids Tip: A 10am cruise is also available weekends and school holidays only.
Travel Time: 55 Minute Drive
Distance: 73km
Location: Mandurah, WA
9. York
Close to Perth lies the charming town of York, a top choice for a quick getaway from the city. Situated in the Wheatbelt Region, York is a quaint town celebrated for its colonial architecture and rich heritage.
When you visit York, don’t miss the opportunity to stroll along Avon Terrace and its adjacent streets, where you can appreciate the picturesque historic structures. Take a leisurely walk across the Suspension Bridge, and savor the scenic views overlooking the Avon River.
While in town, you can search for a new book at Barclay Books, peruse homewares at Honey and Fig, and explore the various local museums. York is particularly famous for its canola fields, which come alive with vibrant yellow blooms during August and September. As September unfolds, the region bursts into a kaleidoscope of wildflowers, making it an even more captivating destination.
Get Out With Kids Tip: If you have kids determined to find that ‘insta-perfect’ shot, York is full of locations to take some photos for the ‘gram!
Travel Time: 90 Minute Drive
Distance: 100km
Location: York, WA
10. Black Diamond Lake
One of our preferred day trips from Perth takes you south to the mesmerizing Black Diamond Lake, a renowned swimming destination situated near the charming town of Collie. Distinguished by its strikingly vivid blue waters, this lake experiences its peak activity during the summer months and long weekends.
It’s important to note that Black Diamond Lake lacks facilities, so remember to come well-prepared for your day out, including essentials like camp chairs or a picnic rug. Don’t forget to bring along your floatie and any other water equipment, such as a stand-up paddleboard or kayak, to enhance your aquatic enjoyment.
Travel Time: 130 Minute Drive
Distance: 200km
Location: Allanson, WA
Best Day Trips from Perth
There you have it! We hope this helpful article of the best day trips from Perth for families has helped you to find your families next getaway! Can you think of anything we missed? Let us know!
