by Jorge Jefferds April 16, 2016
Perth is the capital and the largest city of the Australian state of Western Australia. It is the fourth-most populated area in the country with a population of about 2.02 million inhabitants. Perth is part of the South West Land Division of Western Australia, with the majority of the metropolitan area of Perth located on the Swan Coastal Plain, a narrow strip between the Indian Ocean and the Darling Scarp, a low coastal escarpment. The first settlements occurred on the Swan River, with the city's central business district, and port (Fremantle), both located on its shores. The Perth Metropolitan Region includes 30 local government areas, which themselves consist of a large number of suburbs, extending from Two Rocks in the north to Rockingham in the south, and east inland to The Lakes.
Summers are generally very hot and dry, lasting from December to late March, with February generally being the hottest month of the year. Winters are relatively mild and wet. Perth is a particularly sunny city for this type of climate; it has an average of 8.8 hours of sunshine per day. If you can handle the heat, you might be still comfortable visiting the city in summer.
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| Perth Downtown |
1) Kings Park and Botanic Garden
One of the largest inner-city parks in the world, Kings Park and Botanic Garden covers 400 hectares of Perth's heart with serene natural bush land and sculpted gardens. It's perched high on the crest of Mount Eliza, making it a top spot to take in sweeping panoramas of Perth's city skyline and Swan River. Pack a picnic or barbecue and take the 15 minute walk to Kings Park from Perth's center, or hop on a free CAT bus. Pick up maps and brochures from the Visitor Information Center, take a free guided walk or enjoy a self guided tour.
2) Fremantle Prison
Fremantle Prison is the largest and most intact convict built prison in Australia and is Western Australia’s only World Heritage Listed Building. It was continuously used as a place of incarceration for almost 140 years. The prison was decommissioned as a maximum-security gaol in 1991. Trip Advisor has rated the Fremantle Prison as one of Australia’s top 10 attractions and in 2013 the prison welcomed its 3,000,000 visitor since opening to the public in 1992.
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| Fremantle Prison |
3) The Roundhouse
The oldest public building in the State of Western Australia, the Roundhouse opened in January 1831, just 18 months after settlement. It was built to hold any person convicted of a crime in the settlement, and was used until 1886. After the use as a gaol stopped, it became a Police Lock-up until the late 1890s and then was used as accommodation for the Water Police, and afterwards as a storage facility for Fremantle Ports. When threatened with demolition in the 1920s it was saved and later control went to the State Government before it was deeded to the City of Fremantle.
4) Penguin Island
Penguin Island is a unique nature reserve that is home to Western Australia’s largest colony of little penguins- the smallest species of penguin in the world. Located 45 minutes south of Perth, and a 5-minute ferry ride across the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, Penguin Island is blessed with beautiful beaches and surrounded by dazzling, crystal clear waters. Both locals and visitors from all over the world catch the ferry or take a cruise here to get up close to the wildlife, explore nature trails, swim, surf, snorkel or to enjoy a family picnic and the safe, sheltered beaches.
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| Penguin Island |
5) Barrack Square
Barrack Square is an urban park located on the bank of the Swan River at the termination of Barrack Street. The area predominantly functions as a ferry terminal and is characterized by tree planting, annual garden beds, seating, lighting, bollards and flagpoles.
6) Cohunu Koala Park
Cohunu Koala Park is located on fourteen hectares of natural Australian bush land just 40 minutes from the city of Perth in Western Australia. Come and make friends with some of the unique Australian fauna living in the park. Stroll the bush tracks and pathways. Hand feed many of the free roaming animals. Have a chat with over 30 talking parrots, see dingoes, kangaroos, emus, deer and koalas, just to name a few of the animals that live at the park. Take a ride on the Cohunu Park Railway, zigzagging its way throughout the park most weekends, and public holidays (subject to weather conditions).
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| Cohunu Koala Park |
Most people never get to Western Australia – it’s too far, too remote and too big. But if you’re craving a bit of isolation in the sun, book flights to Perth and immerse yourself in the solidarity of this city. First impressions of Perth are that it’s a modern city on the cusp of becoming the next Sydney or Melbourne, but first impressions are not always as they seem. While the skyscrapers may dominate the skyline, Perth is a laid back city with a young influence that keeps the city active and aware. Join the locals in pleasant bike rides, picnics or days at the beach. If culture is what you crave, head to one of the city’s art galleries or museums for a bit of Perth history. Spend a bit of your Australian vacation in Perth by booking domestic Perth flights from one of the other Australian states. This cuts down on the costs and the travel time, and you’re likely to get more time in the sun. The airport is located 22 to 28 minutes east of Perth downtown. Even though, a taxi might cost $50 for the ride, the public transportation is amazing and affordable.
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| Australian beach on Rottnest Island |
With low rainfall and endless sunny days, the weather in Perth, Australia is perfect for traveling around. When you take a look at a map of Perth, you'll find so many beautiful beaches, wine regions, sights and attractions; you'll wonder how you will possibly be able to see them all. The Perth airport shuttle bus is the cheapest way into town and will take you directly to your accommodation in Perth for around $20. Hire cars and taxis are also available at the airport and are comparable in price for 3 or more people. When you're ready to explore the beaches in Perth, the Zoo, Kings Park or any of the other city sights, the Transperth network will get you there. A Smartrider card can be purchased in advance, and gets you a discounted ride on Perth buses, trains and some Perth ferries. There are also limited Perth tram services. The CAT buses in Perth WA provide a number of routes, visiting the major sights around town and are absolutely free! If you're planning on heading further afield to some of the picturesque surrounding communities like Margaret River or the Swan valley, car rental in Perth is your best bet, to explore the many sights and wineries along the way. No holiday in Perth, Western Australia would be complete without a visit to Rottnest Island and iconic Fremantle. You can catch a Perth train to Fremantle, visit the beach, markets and historic buildings then jump on the Rottnest Express or Rottnest Fast Ferry for the short trip to the Island.
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