Sunsets at the local beach, hosting friends and family in your backyard and hearty BBQs are at the top of any West Aussie’s list for our endless Summer.

Living in WA sure has its perks in summer. Perth in particular is in an ideal location to take advantage of our coastal living. What else is there to do in Perth to take advantage of our Mediterranean summer? We have created a list of the top 15 things to do!

  1. Watch an Indian Ocean sunset Many idyllic beaches cover our coastline. Grab some chairs, pick-up some fish and chips and enjoy our magnificent sunset.

  2. Take a Swan River Cruise Discover our city from the river. Captain Cook Cruises offer a range of cruises including lunch, dinner and twilight cruises. RAC members receive 15% off!

  3. Day Trip to Rottnest Located 18 km’s off the coast, it’s a picturesque island getaway. Many activities are available on the island such as snorkelling, fishing, diving, swimming and kayaking. Hit up Pinky Beach or the Basin to snorkel crystal clear water. RAC members also receive up to $25 off Rottnest Express and Fast Ferries

  4. Visit Penguin Island or swim with wild dolphins Rockingham Wild Encounters host tours to Penguin Island as well as swimming with wild dolphins. RAC members receive great savings when booking tours direct. 

  5. Taste the Bickley Valley Discover the gourmet delights of the Bickley Valley. Dotted with boutique wineries, vistas of vineyards and orchards, beautiful forests and delicious cider. Lesmurdie Falls is not to be missed, with picturesque picnic spots and barbeque facilities available. RAC members save 15% off Bickley Valley Day Tours.

  6. Catch a show at the Fringe Festival For the months of January and February, Perth is dazzled by the Fringe World Festival. All types of shows are available such as circuses, comedy, burlesque and even something for the little ones. 

  7. Discover historical Freo Wander through markets, grab a coffee on the Cappuccino Strip, have a meal on the water or visit the old prison. Fremantle Prison hosts a variety of tours. 

  8. Get active on the many walking trails Some of our favourites include Bells Rapid, the Law Walk – Kings Park, Matilda Bay Reserve and Scarborough-Trigg Heritage trail. 

  9. Hop on a paddle board It’s a great way to get out on the water and take sights in at your own pace. Stand-up paddle boards can be hired in a variety of locations including Bicton Baths, Matilda Bay , Point Walter, South Perth foreshore, Leighton Beach and Woodman Point.

  10. Take a dip at Bicton Baths The water is crystal clear, a beautiful spot for a swim and snorkel. Pack a picnic or grab some food for a barbeque. Look out for the wooden interpretation facility located next to the jetty to learn more about the history of Bicton Baths. 

  11.  Cool off with culture Soak up Perth’s art scene on those boiling-hot days, where air-conditioned premises are a must. The Art Gallery of WA is always showcasing something different. From quirky photography, historical and modern exhibitions and art displays. 

  12. Watch a movie under the stars There are a range of outdoor cinema’s in Perth. From open-air, to drive-ins and rooftop. 

  13. Dance the summer night away at Scarborough beach Every Sunday evening, the Scarborough Beach Amphitheatre hosts WAZouk, a night of social dancing. Dance to the sounds of DJ Momo playing a mix of Latin and Brazilian music and watch for free, dances of Zouk, Samba, Forro, Salsa, Kizomba and Bachata. 

  14. Taste the world at street markets Experience a range of stores jam packed with homemade goods, creative delights and pure gourmet bliss. Markets are held all around Perth, Forrest Place is a favourite.

  15. Go star-gazing The Space Place Observatory is located in Toodyay. It is an Open Night Sky Observatory (dome free) and of course, best to do when there is clear skies! RAC members save on tickets.