Western Australia

Western Australia (WA)

Stretching out over a vast area of dramatically contrasting environments, Western Australia renders so much to the zealous traveller. The capital Perth promotes an easygoing atmosphere and makes a great gateway to many of the state’s regional destinations. Out of the city, there’s a whole world of things to see and do. From swimming with wild whale sharks, dolphins and manta rays in the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean, to exploring the radiantly red desert, expansive cattle stations, plentiful rainforests, or just having a beer at the outback pub, Western Australia is a stunning place to visit leaving little wonder why so many tourists return time and time again.


Perth

Known as the most remote capital city in the world, Perth’s remoteness makes it that perfect laid back city where travellers can enjoy the good life without the crowds. Celebrating fantastic weather, Perth’s location on the Swan River with surrounding beaches makes it a picture perfect city full of interesting attractions, good shopping, lush gardens and parks, great pubs, eateries and riverfront cafes. Perth similarly has a vibrant arts scene as well as cultural museums and galleries well worth a look.


Points of Interest:

Central Perth

Located on the banks of the tranquil Swan River, central Perth is a great place to unwind or alternatively keep busy by visiting a wealth of sightseeing attractions and shopping, wining and dining and entertainment possibilities. Enjoy relaxing on one of Perth’s 19 immaculate beaches, appreciate fine art at the Art Gallery of Western Australia and history and Aboriginal culture at the Western Australian Museum, shop and let your hair down in the happening suburb of Subiaco, or jump on a ferry to South Perth for great photo opportunities.


Freemantle

Blending maritime and convict history with trendy art and culture, Freemantle is known as Western Australia’s ‘other’ capital, and attracts hordes of domestic and international visitors every year. Celebrated as the best-preserved 19th Century seaport in the world, over 150 buildings in the port city are classified by the National Trust. Cultural must-sees include the convict jail, the Roundhouse, Freemantle Prison and WA Maritime Museum. Venture out to South Terrace for alfresco dining, treat your tastebuds to quality handmade chocolates at the Freemantle Chocolate Factory, hit fashionable High Street for some retail therapy and a variety of Aboriginal arts and crafts, and experience a mix of history and home grown produce at the Freemantle Markets.


Rottnest Island

A simple day trip from Perth or Freemantle, this ‘Class A’ reserve island getaway with its 63 beaches, 20 bays, unique wildlife, diverse fish and coral, sunken shipwrecks and lack of cars will have you wanting to extend your stay. Rent a bike and ride around the island, stopping off for a dip in some of the clearest waters you will ever see. There are plenty of coastal activities to keep you busy, from boating and fishing to swimming, snorkelling, diving and surfing. Popular during the summer, be sure to book accommodation in advance or travel during the off peak months to ensure the secluded trip of a lifetime.

Regional Western Australia

Points of Interest:

Margaret River

About three hours south west of Perth lies Margaret River, a laid-back surfie town that is home to spectacular natural attractions and produces some of the best wine and gourmet produce in all of Australia. Wine lovers can visit one of 60 plus wineries, surfers can take on some of the best waves in the country, whilst all travellers can enjoy a smorgasbord of nature-based activities and natural attractions.


Ningaloo Reef

Where else in the world can you swim so comfortably with giant whale sharks? Ningaloo Reef, located 1200km north of Perth, is Australia’s longest fringing coral reef, stretching out along the coast for 280km and is home to 500 species of tropical fish and 220 species of coral. Visitors come to enjoy diving, snorkelling and swimming in transparent turquoise waters, with some areas of the reef only a step away from the shore. Take in the peaceful vibes from local fishing towns Exmouth and Coral Bay, whilst exploring one of the Earth’s last ocean paradises.


Kalgoorlie

This once thriving goldfield town is now a historical destination located in Western Australia’s famous Golden Outback and is surrounded by ghost towns, the awe-inspiring Aussie desert and stunning blue skies. With a pub on every corner, Kalgoorlie is also home to the Super Pit, an open-cut gold mine that still produces 800,000 ounces of gold per year.


Broome

The gateway to the remote Kimberley region, Broome can be found in Western Australia’s northwest, between arid desert and pellucid ocean waters, a two and a half hour flight from Perth. Whilst producing some of the world’s finest pearls, Broome is a friendly, relaxed town giving off a radiant, multicultural feel and attracting many artists, writers and musicians. Ride a camel into the sunset on famous Cable Beach, witness the unique natural phenomenon Staircase to the Moon, visit ancient dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point or take time out to rest before taking off into the very north of the state.


More Information on WA:

Tourism Western Australia, www.westernaustralia.com
Freemantle, www.fremantle.wa.gov.au
Rottnest Island, www.rottnestisland.com
Margaret River, www.margaretriver.com
Ningaloo Reef, www.ningaloo.com
Kalgoorlie, www.kalgoorlietourism.com
Broome, www.broomevisitorcentre.com.au