Perth's outdoor life is one of its biggest attractions. The coast faces west over the Indian Ocean, so beaches catch the sunset. The Swan River winds through the city, lined with paths and parks. And to the east, the Darling Scarp rises into the Perth Hills, with bushland, granite outcrops and winter waterfalls. This hub brings together our guides to the beaches and outdoors.
West
Facing coast
Ocean sunsets
1900
John Forrest NP
WA's first national park
437 ha
Bold Park
City bushland
Our guides
Perth's best beaches
From the calm water and Norfolk Island pines of Cottesloe to the surf of Scarborough, the families' favourite City Beach and the rock pool at Mettams, Perth has beaches for every taste. Our guide covers getting there, safety and sunsets. Read our beaches guide.
Perth Hills and John Forrest National Park
Western Australia's first national park, proclaimed in 1900, is just 24 km east of the city. Walk the Heritage Trail through a historic railway tunnel, visit waterfalls in winter and spot kangaroos. Read our Perth Hills guide.
The Swan River
The Swan River, Derbarl Yerrigan, is at the heart of Perth. Shared paths circle the river between the Narrows and Causeway bridges, a popular walk or ride. Ferries cross to South Perth, and you may spot dolphins in the river. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are popular on calm days.
City bushland
Kings Park and Bold Park offer bushland walks without leaving the city. Kings Park covers about 400 hectares, two-thirds bushland. Bold Park covers 437 hectares near City Beach, with views from Reabold Hill. Lake Monger (Galup) has a 3.5 km track around the lake.
Choose your outing
| If you want | Try | Allow |
|---|---|---|
| A swim and sunset | Cottesloe | Half a day |
| Surf and cafes | Scarborough | Half a day |
| Snorkelling | Mettams Pool (calm days) | 2 hours |
| A bushwalk | John Forrest NP | Half a day |
| A river walk | Swan River loop | 2–3 hours |
| City bushland | Kings Park or Bold Park | 1–3 hours |
Safety
Outdoor day checklist
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Seasons
Summer is beach season, with hot days and afternoon sea breezes. Winter is best for bushwalks and waterfalls. Spring brings wildflowers across the region. Autumn is mild and settled.
Wildlife
Look for dolphins in the Swan River and along the coast, black swans at Lake Monger, kangaroos in the hills and on Heirisson Island, and whales offshore in season. Never feed wildlife.
Cycling
Perth has extensive shared paths. Ride the river loop, follow the coastal path between beaches or the Heritage Trail in the hills. Helmets are compulsory.
Beyond Perth
For clear water and quokkas, catch the ferry to Rottnest Island. For dramatic landscapes, drive north to the Pinnacles.
Respecting the environment
Stay on paths, protect dunes, take rubbish home and follow rules on dogs and fires. National parks generally do not allow pets.
Accessibility
Many beaches have accessible paths and some offer beach matting and wheelchairs. The John Forrest Heritage Trail is mostly flat. Check with councils and parks.
With children
Calm beaches like Cottesloe and City Beach suit families. The Heritage Trail tunnel and Kings Park nature play are favourites.
Where to stay
Stay near the beach in Cottesloe or Scarborough, or in the hills for bushwalks.
Guides in this section
Beaches and outdoors
Perth's best beaches
A guide to Perth's beaches: Cottesloe, Scarborough, City Beach, Mettams Pool, Coogee and more, with beach safety, sea breezes, sunsets and getting there.
Read · 3 min
Beaches and outdoors
Perth Hills and John Forrest National Park
Explore the Perth Hills: John Forrest National Park, bushwalks, winter waterfalls, the railway heritage trail, picnics, wildlife, safety and getting there.
Read · 3 min
Frequently asked questions
What is the best beach near Perth city?
Cottesloe is the closest famous beach to the city by train. Scarborough and City Beach are also popular.
Are Perth beaches patrolled?
Many major beaches are patrolled by lifesavers in summer. Check Beachsafe for patrol times and swim between the flags.
Where can I go bushwalking near Perth?
John Forrest National Park, Kalamunda and the Perth Hills offer walks, and Kings Park and Bold Park have bushland trails in the city.
Is it safe to walk in summer?
Summer is hot, with bushfire risk. Walk early, carry water and check Emergency WA for warnings.
Can I cycle around Perth?
Yes. Shared paths follow the Swan River and the coast. Helmets are compulsory.
When do the waterfalls flow?
Hills waterfalls generally flow in winter and early spring after rain.
Sources and further reading
Facts on this page were checked against these primary and official sources. Conditions change — confirm before you travel or buy.
- Beachsafe — Surf Life Saving Australia
- SharkSmart WA — Government of Western Australia
- John Forrest National Park — Parks and Wildlife Service WA
- Emergency WA — Department of Fire and Emergency Services