Top Rated Attractions in Perth

Flocked by over five million people every year, the King's Park & Botanic Garden is one of the most popular destinations of Western Australia. Nestled along the shores of Swan River, the park faces the bustling Central Business District of the city. Sprawling across a massive area of 400 hectares (990 acres), the park boasts of national monuments and memorials. Tranquil pathways lined with a variety of Eucalyptus trees lead to dramatic vantage points, vibrant flowerbeds or grassy meadows where locals and tourists bask under the glorious sun. The park's major attraction is its colorful botanical garden, boasting of 2000 species of endemic flora. A recreational hub, the park plays host to several flower festivals, exhibitions, and live music performances. Come nightfall, the park is the perfect place to enjoy the bedazzled skyline of the city juxtaposed against the starry night sky.

Closely linked to with the beautiful city of Perth, the Swan River defines sheer beauty. The river gracefully flows from the serene countryside and suburbs of Perth and then forms a union with the sea at the popular Fremantle Bay. Being the focal point of the city, the sparkling waters flow from the Avon Valley. The riverbed is buzzing with attractions for people of all ages who wish to indulge in some leisure. Some of the prominent ones include the Black Swan Island, the spectacular King's park and the Herrison Island to name a few. Take a cruise by the river or partake in the many activities that take place at the river bank.

Only 25 minutes by ferry from the mainland, enjoy this aquatic paradise. Rottnest Island, boasts numerous fantastic beaches. For traveling within the region, bicycles, the main source of transport, can be hired at Thomson Bay. The amazing array of marine life living in the coral reefs (that fringe the island) ensure superb snorkeling and scuba diving. The island also proves very popular with city surfers short on good surf. Beware, the flora and fauna is protected, including the cute quokkas (native marsupials like mini-kanagroos).

The sprawling white beaches in Perth are sensational, this one tends to be particularly popular. Regular swimmers, picnicking families and sun-bakers frequent Cottlesloe. It also offers a wonderful choice of locations to watch the sunset. Enjoy spectacular views across the Indian Ocean from one of the many cafes and restaurants along Marine Parade or from a tranquil spot on the sand. At the southern end of the beach, a reasonably sheltered reef proves a great spot for snorkeling. The main beach area has showers and toilets.

Enjoy a superb summer evening of theater or dance at Quarry Amphitheatre. This renovated limestone quarry, set in a serene surrounding with the city lights as a backdrop, offers a perfect location for an evening outing. The Quarry program features an excellent mixture of professional and amateur acts. The venue boasts a great little cafe, licensed bar, and a pre-ordered hamper service. The other option, take your own picnic. The amphitheater is also available for weddings and private functions.

What was originally built by and for the inmates of Fremantle Prison is a full-fledged tourist site in Freemantle today. Constructed in the 1850s, it operated as a maximum-security prison until 1991, although the final hanging was conducted in 1964. Ensconced amid well-manicured lawns, the stately limestone buildings set an eerie scene for touring visitors. According to a legend, ghosts of the inmates haunt the Fremantle Prison till date and for those with an interest in the paranormal, it also hosts nighttime paranormal and torchlight tours of the prison, alongside other special events and exhibitions. From the spooky pathways, banal cells to the interrogation rooms, the tours offer an insight into the everyday life of convicts. On-site facilities include a cafe, a souvenir shop, ice cream parlor, and photography service.