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Serpentine National Park

Perth, Australia

Perth is known among tourists for its beautiful beaches, making its equally stunning natural pools the perfect place to soak up some sun without the crowds. Feeling a little city weary? Pack a picnic, hop in a car and head for Serpentine National Park – if you don’t have a car, Perth’s notorious public transport means the trip isn’t so easy but where there’s a will, there’s a way. Despite only being an hour from the city centre, this green space feels like a world of its own with lush landscapes and valleys, but the park’s real appeal is the Serpentine Falls. Water cascades over a sheer granite rock face into a glittering pool below – the perfect spot for a dip to cool down in the Australian heat. The falls are surrounded by soft grass so lay down the picnic blanket and bask in the natural splendour – you may even spot a kangaroo or two.

Address

100 Falls Road Serpentine WA 6125

+61 8 9525 2128 Go to website

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Go to the Beach

Perth, Australia

While this is certainly the most obvious suggestion on the list, there’s an art in choosing the perfect Perth beach for you (although they’re all pretty great). Cottesloe is the most famous, and with good reason. This popular spot offers all the things that come to mind when you think of Australian beaches: clean waters, soft white sand and lots of tanned people drinking VBs and tossing around AFL balls. While this beach tends to get pretty crowded, in true Australian fashion the vibe stays chilled despite the numbers. If you’re looking for a scene that’s a little different but every bit as lush, Mettam’s Pool in Trigg is a swimming spot loved by locals for its protective reefs, shady gazebos and clean waters – bring your snorkel. (The nearby Yelo café is also a huge pull). Making waves in recent years is North Beach which is an oasis in more ways than one. The nearby School of Surf will supply all the equipment and knowledge if you’re looking to have a go at the quintessentially Aussie sport. Besides the gnarly waters and practically perfect scenery, North Beach boasts some of the best beachside eats in Perth including the famed (and highly Instagrammed) breakfast spot Tropico, as well as the laid-back North Beach Deli which serves all day – perfect if you fancy a serving of chips post sunset swim.

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Freo Market

Perth, Australia

Visiting Freo Market on a weekend is nothing short of a ritual for most locals. There’s truly nothing better than a relaxing Sunday browsing its stalls and eating good food with good friends. Local artisans peddle wares ranging from clothing to Indigenous art. But the real appeal is the food – you’ll want to taste it all, and it’s recommended you do. Freo Gozleme’s spiced beef and melted cheese flatbread, Muffle and Co’s fully loaded ice cream and The Honeycake’s eponymous bake are high up on must-eats with everything else coming a close joint second. If you’re looking for more of a night out as opposed to a family affair, go on a Friday evening when the market is BYO and younger locals are out and about.

Address

Corner South Terrace & Henderson Street Fremantle WA 6959

+61 8 9335 2515 Go to website

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Margaret River

Perth, Australia

Lovingly dubbed Margs, this is a destination that every Perthite holds dear to their heart. Margaret River quite literally has something for everyone. Kick back with a glass of red at one of the many vineyards, all of which offer pristine vistas of surrounding farmland. Alternatively the naturally blessed terrain of Margs means hiking, surfing, swimming, mountain biking, stand up paddling, canoeing, scuba diving, fishing, whale-watching and rock climbing are all on the agenda. You’ll want to hit the farmers market on a Saturday morning – the locally made chocolate is mouth-wateringly good. For a nighttime activity that’s a little different, head to Cape Mentelle where starry skies and beanbags are the preferred backdrop for an outdoor screening. Pack your weekenders and spend a good few days experiencing all the natural splendour Margs has to offer.

+61 8 9780 5911 Go to website

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Perth Cultural Centre

Perth, Australia

Home to the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Heath Ledger Theatre, the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts and the PICA Bar, the Perth Cultural Centre is aptly named and extremely practical if you’re looking to explore Perth’s arts and culture scene under one roof. Ahead of your visit, check out what performances and exhibitions are on. This tends to be a quieter part of the city, so if you’re looking to escape the noise for an afternoon or the beating sun in favour of some air conditioning, it’s the place to be.

Address

Francis Street and William Street Northbridge WA 6003

+61 8 9427 3365 Go to website

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Watch an AFL game

Perth, Australia

The lesser-known but equally confusing sister to America’s NFL, an AFL game is a must-see in Perth – even if the rules elude you. The Perth Optus Stadium sits a rowdy 60,000 so you’ll enjoy a buzzing atmosphere and a chance to bond with locals. If you’re looking for a sport a little closer to home, the city’s soccer team Perth Glory regularly plays at the Perth Oval stadium – you may not find such a raucous crowd but at least you’ll (perhaps) understand what’s going on.

Address

333 Victoria Park Drive Burswood WA 6100

N/A

Go to website