With more sunshine than anywhere else in Australia, Perth has a distinct personality shaped by its glittering coastline. A recent population boom has seen more and more hipster bars and quirky cafes opening up. Whether you’re there for a weekend getaway or you’re a local looking to explore, Perth has plenty to offer. We’ve mapped out the perfect guide to help you make the most of your weekend in Perth.
Saturday
Starting your day with a workout can give you just the boost you need for the day ahead. One FHL offers affordable, small group personal training sessions to leave you fresh and ready. While you’re there, take a dip in the ocean and refresh for the rest of the day. Or, if you’re looking for something slower paced, check out one of Twenty Four Seven Lifestyles two studios. They offer boutique yoga and Pilates classes, as well as a showcase of the latest season of leisurewear and activewear.
The morning workout will no doubt leave you hungry. Luckily, Perth has a unique range of options to choose from. For breakfast or brunch, Fremantle (or ‘Freo’ if you’re one of the locals) is a must visit. Only 30 minutes from Perth CBD, you’ll find plenty of quirky cafes and local eateries. For a great vibe visit Hush Speciality Coffee, which has a blend of deliciously healthy food and holiday treats.
After breakfast take a trip to the Fremantle Markets, which are open from Friday to Sunday and have been around for over one hundred years. At the bustling marketplace, you’ll find jewellery, homewares and everything in between. If you’re feeling peckish take your pick from the range of fresh fruit and other snacks on offer. But, if you’re famished, visit Bathers Beach House, Australia’s first licensed beach restaurant. With twenty sun lounges on a secluded beach protected from the wind, it has a beach-friendly menu that lets you make the most of the location with a selection of beer, wine, spirits and cocktails.
Next stop is Perth’s most famous attraction, Cottesloe Beach, which is only a short trip north of Fremantle. Make the most of the beautiful blue water and soak up the afternoon sun.
From the beach, you can stroll over to the Cottesloe Beach Hotel for a cocktail or two. Stay for the sunset over the Indian ocean, which is a treat for any east coast travelers not usually able to witness it. Cott & Co Fish Bar has some of the best pub food in Perth. For dinner enjoy the local seafood as you relax in the craft beer garden with a stunning seaside backdrop.
Sunday
Wake up with some of the city’s best coffee in the heart of the CBD. La Veen Coffee and Kitchen makes its home in an industrial chic setting with exposed brick and lashings of wood. A focus on quality lets you choose from a selection of brewing systems including Hario, Kalita, and Marco. The Shakshuka is a standout from the all day breakfast menu – slow cooked eggs, yoghurt and dukkah served on ciabatta.
After breakfast (and maybe with another takeaway cup), make the trek to Kings Park lookout in the Botanic Garden for one of the best views in Perth. It offers an unbeatable 360-degree view of the city and its surroundings, including the glistening harbour. There are a number of tracks to explore as they wind through the garden and along the Swan River.
The walk to Kings Park lookout is sure to work up an appetite, so from there head to Mechanics’ Institute Bar for lunch. The rooftop bar is renowned for their famous take on the Bloody Mary (it comes garnished with a cheeseburger). Make the most of this Sunday only special.
Afterward, explore the shops for some retail therapy. The city has everything from luxury brands on King Street to local antiques and vintage finds. With jewellery designers featuring local pearls and opals, there’s plenty to see (and buy).
Hop from one rooftop bar to another and visit The Aviary on William Street. The Bird Cage restaurant has a bird’s eye view of the city and offers live entertainment and a circular bar. The menu makes the most of Perth’s outstanding seasonal produce in a bevy of South East Asian dishes.
