Weekend Drives in Perth

Feel like a Sunday drive but not sure which direction to head? See our big guide to day trips in Perth for some inspiration! You don’t have to drive very far to discover something new. Here’s some great ideas for a lovely day out in Perth any day of the week:

Weekend Drives in Perth – North of the River

Yanchep National Park

Take a drive to the northernmost tip of Perth’s metro area and explore Yanchep National Park. The park is perfect for picnicking, spotting koalas and kangaroos, enjoying a pint at the historic Yanchep Inn, a cuppa at the café and even exploring caves! See our Guide to Yanchep National Park

Hillarys Boat Harbour

There’s so much to pack into a day at Hillarys Boat Harbour. There are shops to browse, plus bars, restaurants and cafes to dine at. A great place to visit is AQWA, with its aquariums full of sea life. In warmer months, there’s a mini fairground and the calm harbour beach provides perfect paddling for grandkids or the young at heart. See our guide to Hillarys Boat Harbour here.

Scarborough

It may be close to home if you live in the northern suburbs, but for those south of the river, Scarborough is a brilliant spot for a day out. Walk along the long sandy beach, enjoy a dip in the ocean side pool, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes. With expanses of lush lawn and BBQ facilities, Scarborough is a lovely spot for a sunset picnic. See our guide to Scarborough here.

Weekend Drives in Perth – East and Perth Hills

Kalamunda & Bickley Valley

Spend a day exploring Kalamunda and the neighbouring Bickley Valley! Start with brekkie at a cosy Kalamunda Café, or wandering around the Sunday farmers markets. Then head to the fascinating Kalamunda History Museum or enjoy an easy bushwalk at the stunning Lesmurdie Falls. Afterwards, drive the winding roads of the Bickley Valley discovering wineries and orchards, before finishing your day in the Perth Hills by driving down the Zig Zag. See our guide to Kalamunda here.

Swan Valley

A day in the Swan Valley is always a delightfully delicious adventure! Enjoy crepes for breakfast at French favourite Maison St Hornore. Taste Chocolate at the Margaret River Chocolate Co. Indulge in a long lunch at a winery or brewery and finish the day with a trip to the Swan Settlers Markets (open weekends)! See our guide to Swan Valley wineries here.

Mundaring

Historic Mundaring has many places to grab a cuppa, like the lovely Café Mojo. This is within walking distance of the Railway Heritage trail, a popular spot for a long or short bushwalk. Drive to Mundaring Weir, where you can take a walk along the picturesque dam wall, explore or picnic at the CY O’Conner Hub and finish your day with lunch at the historic Mundaring Weir Hotel – their popular lamb on a spot is available from 3pm on Sunday afternoons. See our guide to Mundaring Weir here.

John Forrest National Park

John Forrest National Park is a beautiful spot for getting back to nature. Found in the Perth Hills, the national park is one of Australia’s oldest conservation areas and WA’s very first national park. Entry to the park is $15 per car. You can spend the day bushwalking, picnicking and enjoying the friendly roos. See our review on John Forrest National Park here.

Lake Leschenaultia

Lovely Lake Leschenaultia has been a popular picnic spot for generations. The lake and surrounding bushland are teeming with wildlife and there’s lots of long and short bushwalk trails. Plenty of picnic and free BBQs are found here, as well as a train playground. See our guide to Lake Leschenaultia here.

Roleystone

Roleystone is beautiful, particularly in spring, when the stunning Araluen Botanic Park comes to life with colourful blooms. During Autumn and Spring, visit the Raeburn Orchards to see the falling leaves and blossom. There are also plenty of places to eat in Roleystone. Seven Sins is a very popular spot, with beautiful views, while the Naked Apple Cider House has tasty cider.

Weekend Drives in Perth – South of the River

Fremantle

The port city of Fremantle has to be Perth’s favourite spot for a day trip. There is so much to see and do. Spend time exploring the historical town at the Maritime Museum, Fremantle Prison or the round house. Shop at the eclectic Fremantle Markets and finish your day with fresh fish ‘n chips at the Fishing Boat Harbour.

Rockingham

Courtesy Eight on the Beach, Rockingham

Enjoy a wander along the Rockingham foreshore, which is lined with many tasty cafes, restaurants and bars. Penguin Island is a beautiful place to visit for wildlife lovers. The ferry leaves from Shoalwater Bay, in Rockingham.

Rottnest

The only driving that you will need to do on this trip, is to drive to your ferry departure point! Once you arrive on Rottnest Island, relax and enjoy the beaches, cafes and historical sights. Get active and cycle around the island or take the easy and inexpensive bus service to a part of the island you haven’t explored. Have you spotted the fur seals at the island’s west end? See our guide to Rottnest Island here.

Have we missed your favourite location for a weekend drive or day trip in Perth? Let us know in the comments below.

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About Stella B

Stella is loving retirement! Besides her loves of gardening, reading and painting, she adores spending time with her family and being out and about in Perth. Living in the Perth Hills, her time is often spent brunching with her husband at one of Kalamunda’s many cafes or enjoying a food platter over a glass of wine at a Bickley Valley winery.