Last Updated on 7 January 2025 by Ariana Svenson
Perth weekend getaways are so varied and wonderful that you will find it difficult to decide which direction to head. We’ve included eleven of our favourite weekend getaways from Perth, and some we have planned for the future.
There are so many things to do in Perth that sometimes we forget there are many amazing Perth getaways to be explored. Whether you are looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway from Perth, these are our recommendations. And if you want to visit Perth with your kids in winter, check out this blog post on Amazing things to do in Perth in winter.
While I currently travel with my kids, I’ve made some suggestions for romantic getaways and Perth weekend getaways for couples you will love, just in case you can make time for a quick escape.
Who Are We?
We are a family of four: an adventurous mother and three kids. We love getting out and about and have discovered that when we take a family weekend getaway from Perth, we are so much “better” in the following weeks. By this I mean, we are happier, more present and in better spirits overall.
As locals, we have visited all these places on weekend escapes and love discovering new gems to share with you all the time.
Great Weekend Getaways From Perth
A weekend getaway is the perfect opportunity to provide that circuit breaker from our everyday lives. Sometimes, we get bogged down in routine or work, and the weekends pass during chores around the house or weekend sports.
These short breaks from Perth provide a chance to disconnect, reconnect with family, and discover the wide variety of things to see in the local area.
We have limited travel time to 3 hours each way (e.g., 6 hours total), the maximum amount of travel we would personally want to do over a weekend.
This means we have included Margaret River (which comes in just over 3 hours) but not places further afield, like Pemberton or Albany. Check out our blog post on things to do in Pemberton – there is so much to explore!
This is a personal choice; if you have the energy, the world is your oyster; you can go as far as you like!
What’s the best way to enjoy these short escapes from Perth?
If you are a Perth local then it’s a no-brainer that you will take your own car to explore. If you are a visitor to Western Australia, then we highly recommend hiring your own car. This way you will be able to go at your own pace and also visit a larger number of attractions on this list.
If you aren’t confident hiring a car, or travelling alone, then we have sprinkled a range of interesting and highly recommended tours throughout the information to give you some ideas!
New Norcia
Best For: Short break and history buffs
Driving Time (one way – with no stops): 1.5 hours
New Norcia is an easy 2-hour drive from Perth, making it the perfect place for a weekend escape from Perth. It is a fascinating visit for lovers of history and beauty.
Without a doubt, the New Norcia buildings are one of the architectural wonders of Western Australia.
You have many options when travelling to New Norcia, as you will travel through the charming Swan Valley, a romantic getaway in its own right. You could do some wine tasting en Route if you have a designated driver.
For kids, we are keen to visit the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm.
If your family has older kids, we’d head to Gingin, check out the wonders of space through a fully retractable roof at the Gingin Observatory, and then head next door to the Gravity Discovery Centre for a solar-system walk. Don’t miss the Leaning Tower of Gingin!
Gingin town also has a new playground, park areas and a historic waterwheel. From the historic town of Gingin, New Norcia is a short 1-hour drive through picturesque farmland.
If your family enjoys playing mini-golf, a stop at Caladenia Mini Golf Park is in order (though a bit out of the way). Besides an 18-hole mini-golf course, animal feedings and an excellent restaurant are on-site.
The Moore River National Park is also well worth a visit.
Located on the banks of the Moore River, New Norcia is the only monastic town in Australia, and was founded by Benedictine Monks in 1847. Today, the Benedictine Monks still own and operate the settlement.
The town is gorgeous and peaceful, with olive trees and many historic buildings. Take a stroll along the river walk, eat at the local establishments, and visit the missions interpretive center and gift shop.
Not to be missed is the Museum & Art Gallery, which houses religious art from Europe and memorabilia from the mission and monastery.
On the way back to Perth from Norcia, travel via the abundant Chittering Valley. For lunch, enjoy country food at the popular Bindoon Bakehaus. Or, if you would like to be seated and enjoy a leisurely lunch, look at Stringybark Winery & Restaurant.
If you are looking for the best time to visit this area, the orchards are full of blossoms in the spring, or in harvest time, there is an excellent range of fruits ripe for the picking.
Why not take some delicious local produce home? This is the perfect way to savour your Perth weekend getaway!
If you are travelling from late July through to November (depending on the season, of course), keep in mind that around New Norcia and Chittering, there will be displays of wildflowers.
Why not plan your Perth weekend getaways so that you are in the area during the wildflower season? Stop at the Udamung Brook Reserve to see Pin Cushion Coneflowers and different Dryandras. And, if you are genuinely interested in wildflowers, Where to Find the Best Wildflowers in Western Australia is a must-read post.
Where to Stay in New Norcia?
Sadly, the famous New Norcia Hotel closed in 2020, ending an area. You can still choose to stay in the Benedictine community for a different experience, or why not take a look at the Bindoon Valley Escape or Orchard Glory Farm Resort? Both allow you to enjoy the fresh air on your weekend escapes Perth.
Dwellingup
Best For: Adventure and outdoors
Driving Time (one way – with no stops): 1.5 hours
We had one of the best weekend trips from Perth when we visited the small town of Dwellingup with our cousins! We planned to go on one of the weekends that the Hotham Valley Railway was running.
You will want to do this, too, if you have any mini mechanics or big boys in your group. Check out our post A Day On The Hotham Valley Railway about the Hotham Valley Railway.
We spent the Saturday of our Perth weekend getaway at the Hotham Valley Railway and then at the markets operating around the rail station. A superb hearty lunch at the Dwellingup Pub followed the train ride.
As an old mill town, Dwellingup sums up what a ‘charming country town’ is all about. Also nearby there are several fantastic national parks to explore, including the Lane Poole Reserve. Take a look at our Things To Do In Dwellingup Western Australia!
Trees Adventure Dwellingup is for families who love adventure. If you want to go flying amongst the trees on a zip line, the Dwellingup Treetop Adventure Park is for adventurers of all ages.
Our kids loved it, and we believe it is one of the best Perth getaways for families. You can read our review here: Fly High at Trees Adventure Dwellingup.
Lane Pool Reserve is a lovely place to connect with nature and also the beautiful Murray River, which flows through this part of the Jarrah forest.
If you are heading back to Perth on a Sunday, don’t forget to stop at family-friendly Caraholly Orchard, which is open on Sundays. There is a fresh produce market, food trucks, and sometimes live music.
Where to Stay in Dwellingu
We stayed at the Jarrah Forest Lodge and also visited the Dwelling Forest Heritage Centre, which was within walking distance. Another Dwellingup Accommodation option would be Noble River Estate.
Ferguson Valley
Best For: Fine food and relaxing
Driving Time (one way – with no stops): 2.25 hours
If you’re looking for getaways 2 hours from Perth, the Ferguson Valley is the place to go. It’s also just 30 minutes from Bunbury. When it comes to weekend getaways from Perth, the Ferguson Valley is a well-kept secret and the perfect spot for a recharge.
This gorgeous valley is filled with rolling green hills, vines, wineries, and even a King – Jarrah tree. For me, it ticks all the boxes when it comes to a romantic or couples getaway, but it also has enough to do to be enjoyable for families.
The most fun thing to visit in the Ferguson Valley is a crazy collection of garden gnomes that make up Gnomesville. Fun and quirky Gnomesville is one of the highlights of the entire Ferguson Valley area. A Guide to Visiting Gnomesville WA will help you plan a visit.
After all the sightseeing you are sure to work up a hunger. On many of our Perth weekend getaways, food features are highly on the agenda, and the Ferguson Valley is no exception!
Amongst the rolling hills, there are wineries, cafes, and restaurants- A Guide to the Luscious Ferguson Valley Restaurants, Wineries and Breweries is a great resource.
The other major attraction in the Ferguson Valley is the beautiful and tranquil Wellington National Park, filled with beautiful forests and relaxation opportunities. Don’t miss a visit to a romantically named Honeymoon Pool.
For a full review of the Things To Do In Ferguson Valley check here. Ferguson Valley is one of the best Perth weekend getaways, without a doubt.
Where to Stay in the Ferguson Valley?
For families, our favourite place to stay is the Ferguson Farmstay, which offers kids’ farm activities galore. For the parents, there are stunning views and an incredible feeling of serenity. Our Ferguson Farmstay Review – It Was Amazing! gives you all the details.
Also, a great resource is The Best Ferguson Valley Accommodation to Rest and Recharge. Another option you could consider, and a touch closer to Perth, is the Harvey area. Check out Fun Things to do in Harvey WA.
Collie
Best For: An adventure weekend getaway
Driving Time (one way – with no stops): 2.5 hours
A new addition to this list of Perth Weekend Getaways, I wondered whether Collie was close enough to the Ferguson Valley to be included in a post about getaways near Perth.
At 2.5 hours from Perth, Collie fits the bill for a short weekend trip and is very near the Ferguson.
Collie has been working hard to shake off its coal mining past and spruce itself up. Not only do they have a fantastic mural trail around town with 40 murals, but Collie is a great base to visit the Wellington Dam Mural, the largest in the southern hemisphere.
The concept to revitalize Collie is an impressive one; not only is there the mural trail and hiking trails, but it’s now considered a mountain biking hub with the most challenging trails in the state.
Also noteworthy are the Black Diamond Lake near Collie, famous on Instagram, and Lake Kepwari. Formerly a mine, it is now filled with water from the Collie River, making it perfect for lakeside camping, swimming and other water activities like canoeing.
Where to Stay in Collie?
The Black Diamond Lodge has family rooms and is affordable. If you are more into camping, you might like to stay in the Wellington National Park, which is what we did. Complete Potters Gorge, Wellington Dam, Honeymoon Pool Camping Reviews is packed with information.
Bunbury
Best For: An adventure weekend getaway
Driving Time (one way – with no stops): 2.5 hours
Seriously, Bunbury is great for short breaks in Perth and shouldn’t be overlooked in preference for the more famous destinations to the south! Yes, I am looking at you, Margaret River! Bunbury is also one of the best destinations for family weekend getaways from Perth.
In our suggestion for this short itinerary, we recommend stopping at the Thrombolites, just past Mandurah.
Bunbury City has several really gorgeous murals and a rich history. We spent an enjoyable couple of hours wandering the small, quiet streets, finding them, before heading back to our hotel, the Quality Hotel Lighthouse, to watch the sunset and walk around the dunes near the lighthouse the hotel was named for.
Also, this hotel gets a rave review for its indoor swimming pool. It was featured in our post Best Family Accommodation in South West WA. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Perth, Bunbury is one of the best places to go.
Other places for families to visit in Bunbury are the recently redeveloped Dolphin Discovery Centre, which has some great new exhibits for people to understand dolphins. There is also a wild dolphin interaction area dependent on the dolphins themselves, so a dolphin sighting is not guaranteed.
Another really enjoyable way to experience Bunbury is by walking (or the kids on bikes, if you prefer) along the Mangrove Walk around an inlet. The mangroves are the most southern mangroves in Western Australia.
One is to visit the Wardandi Boodja; a five-and-half-meter steel bust sculpture representing a Noongar face created by local artists
The other is to spend some time at the Bunbury Wildlife Park. It’s described as a small park but very relaxing and friendly. It sounds like the kangaroos are chilled out and the birds friendly. Plus, there is a play area for kids and a café on site.
Before you go home, stock up on fresh produce from Bunbury’s Farmer’s Markets.
Where to Stay in Bunbury?
On our last getaway to Bunbury, we stayed at the Bunbury Hotel Koombana Bay, which has large rooms, great views over the Bay, and a heated swimming pool.
We have also stayed in the Quality Hotel Lighthouse which is also close to the town centre and also features a heated pool.For families looking for a complete getaway, we highly recommend the Discovery Parks Bunbury Foreshore. This very nice family-oriented park has a wide range of accommodations (including pet-friendly cabins!) and is located very close to not one or two but THREE amazing free playgrounds!
Best For: A dose of Vitamin sea
Driving Time (one way – with no stops): 2.5 hours to Jurien Bay
We’ve also listed The Pinnacles, in Nambung National Park, as a great one-day trip from Perth, but honestly, if you have more time, it is better.
Without a doubt, this is one of the most awesome Perth weekend getaways! We recently spent a weekend in the coastal town of Jurien Bay during winter.
Even though we couldn’t delight in the sea lions or snorkelling on the Jurien Bay Marine Park, it was without a doubt a rejuvenating overnight trip from Perth.
Even if you can’t swim during winter, the white sand beaches and views of the Indian Ocean mean that you can get a great dose of Vitamin Sea and fresh air. We also went for a lovely walk at Lake Thetis and dodged showers at the Pinnacles!
One of the advantages of staying overnight in either Jurien Bay or Cervantes is that you can see the Pinnacles at sunrise or sunset.
Many say that sunrise has better light and fewer people, making it a better option. The light on the Pinnacles at sunset is stunning, and many tour groups get the best views and then take people on a stargazing tour.
In the middle of the summer, you can enjoy the ocean at either Jurien Bay or Cervantes. A “must do” on either the way north or south from Perth is to stop at the Lancelin Sand Dunes! These are a great place for Insta beautiful photos as well as adrenalin as you shoot down the hills at speed.
For all the details, read Fun Things to do in Jurien Bay WA and Things to do in Lancelin.
Where to Stay at the Pinnacles?
For weekend getaways from Perth, we’d choose to stay at the Pinnacles Edge Resort or the RAC Cervantes Holiday Park.
York Western Australia
Best For: Winter getaway and history buffs
Driving Time (one way – with no stops): 1.5 hours
If cute country chic is more your style, historic York is a better option for a quick trip or weekend trips from Perth. Located on the banks of the Avon River.
While York is nice to explore, you won’t want to miss absolutely gorgeous Avon Valley. We recommend a visit in late winter and spring when the canola fields are in full bloom.
For motor enthusiasts, you won’t want to miss the York Motor Museum. For history buffs, definitely check out the Residency Museum which covers the Western Australian agricultural history and some time to discover the heritage buildings.
Shoppers will want to wander the main street of York. Visit antique shops or sit back and watch the world go by in the gorgeous little cafes.
Places to Stay in York, Western Australia
Faversham House is a gorgeous historical mansion on 5-acres of Heritage parkland. All the rooms in the main house are air-conditioned and have views of Mount Brown.
For some a bit different, they also have rooms in the old servant’s quarts separate from the main house.
Another great York accommodation option is Lavendale Farmstay and Cottages. This is a working farm. The kids will enjoy feeding the animals and running around in the open space. Each unit is self-contained, and families would like to be able to self-cater.
Hyden and Wave Rock
Best For: Wide open spaces
Driving Time (one way – with no stops): 4 hours
Located in the Wheatbelt Region, a weekend trip to Wave Rock at Hyden is a good option for an overnight trip from Perth. Better yet, a long weekend getaway as this is the most extended drive getaway on the list at nearly 4 hours to this Perth weekend getaway one way.
Sip some wine as the sun sets over Wave Rock, or float in Lake Magic to relieve the week’s stress. Having a high density of salt, it’s impossible to sink – surreal and unreal! Both are an unforgettable experience!
We cover everything you need to know in Best Things to do in Wave Rock WA & Hyden Accommodation. Facts About Wave Rock Australia – Everything you need to know! is a great resource as well.
Best For: Everyone
Travel Time (one way – with no stops): Approx: 25 minutes from Fremantle, 45 minutes from Hillarys Boat Harbour, or 90 minutes from Perth’s Barrack Street Jetty.
This beautiful island of Rottnest is the perfect weekend escape from Perth. It is one of the most well-loved vacation spots for all Western Australians.
Rottnest Island is another place that we listed on our best day trips from Perth, but it really is just as well deserved on this list.
In summer, you can spend your days lounging on the beach, snorkelling, or stand-up paddle boarding and then spend your evening sipping cocktails and looking over the beautiful bays, with their turquoise water and white sands. Make sure you watch one of the amazing sunsets!
With a little bit of imagination, it feels like you are in Greece! This is one of our go-to recommendations for a romantic weekend getaway from Perth!
Don’t rule Rottnest out as a winter getaway from Perth, either! To start with, you can get some excellent accommodation deals that are so cheap you might want to extend your stay on Rotto to a week. These are perfect if you’re searching for the best cheap weekend getaways from Perth.
I don’t know if it’s true, but I’ve read in a few places that because of the Leeuwin Current, the water temperature is only a few degrees cooler in the winter. If so, that makes Rottnest Island one of the great weekend getaways from Perth, even in the winter.
With no cars on the island, Rottnest is super fun for cycling around, and in winter, you escape the hot summer sun. Don’t miss climbing Wadjemup Lighthouse for the ultimate views across the whole island. We featured Rottnest in our Best Beaches in Western Australia post as one of the best beaches near Perth. Feel free to read our blog post about the Best Beaches in Perth as well!
Where to Stay on Rottnest Island?
Accommodations on Rottnest Island vary. You can choose anything from camping to a luxury villa with stunning ocean views.
We recommend either Karma Rottnest or DiscoveryParks Glamping. There truly is something for every preference and budget. The Samphire Rottnest is also an option to check out.
Busselton and Dunsborough
You will often see these two coastal towns listed as being part of the Margaret River Wine Region, and they are. However, as weekend getaways from Perth, they really need to be mentioned in their own right.
Busselton is an easy 2 hours and 30 minutes drive down from Perth. While Dunsborough is another 20 minutes along the shores of Geographe Bay.
If you are visiting either place for the weekend, I would strongly suggest sticking to activities in the Busselton area, as if you start driving down to Margaret River, you will find that you spend your time in the car.
While the main attraction in Busselton is the wooden piled jetty, there are plenty of eateries and things to do for families, couples, and those on a romantic getaway.
Busselton and Dunsborough are extremely busy during the summer when many resorts are booked well in advance.
Again, we’ve had some wonderful weekend getaways to Busselton in late Autumn or winter and paid less for our accommodation.
In recent years, Busselton has become home to three breweries that we’ve visited. They are covered here in Visit a Busselton Winery and the Best Busselton Breweries! There are also a couple of wineries.
More resources:
What to do in Busselton for Families
How to Get from Perth to Busselton
Where to Stay: Busselton or Dunsborough?
Of all the weekend getaways from Perth on this list, Busselton and Dunsborough have the widest range of accommodation options.
These are resort towns and the majority of the distance between them is filled with resorts. They range from 5 star through to the most basic Caravan Park style options.
There is literally something for everyone and plenty of activities within easy reach.
We have several reviews on Busselton accommodations:
Gorgeous Pullman Resort Bunker Bay: Margaret River Luxury Accommodation
A Review – The Exclusive Beachfront Abbey Beach Resort Busselton
Broadwater Resort Busselton Review
Margaret River
Honestly, when you say ‘weekend getaway from Perth’ I think most Western Australians would immediately think of their beloved “Margs’ or “Margies” which is why I put it at the end of the list. The Margaret River is one of the BEST weekend getaways from Perth!
It’s also one of the more obvious options! This popular spot is truly gorgeous and a great place to spend quality time with your family.
Just 3 to 3.5 hours from Perth, Margs is one of the best places for stunning beaches, beautiful countryside, world-class wineries, and some of the most amazing luxury accommodations in Western Australia. If you’re looking for luxury Perth weekend getaways, Margaret River is the place for you.
There is so much to love about the Margaret River region for a weekend getaway. Highlights are the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park and exploring Mammoth Cave or one of the other Margaret River Caves. Also very popular is a visit to Hamelin Bay to see the stingrays. However, make sure you do your research as they are wild animals and don’t visit all the time.
We also like to stop in the little town of Cowaramup to see the cows, taste produce from the local farms, and visit the sweet shop – the Candy Cow.
While Margaret River is a lovely place to sample a glass of wine or two at some world-class wineries, it is also now home to an amazing range of breweries. You can learn more in The Best Margaret River Breweries – All Family Friendly
We’ve comprehensively covered what to do in our post How to Ace the Perth to Margaret River Road Trip.
If you are looking to stay in Margaret River, there are so many different accommodations that cater to every budget – read our blog post on the best family accommodation in Margaret River for more inspiration. Traveling with a doggo? Totally Woofable! Dog & Pet Friendly Accommodation In Margaret River comes in handy. For a list of Margaret River accommodations and to compare prices, look here.
Options for Short Breaks from Perth
Yanchep
When I was a child, Yanchep was most definitely considered a great spot for a weekend getaway.
Now just 45 minutes north of the Perth CBD, people might more correctly call it a Perth staycation or do Yanchep as a day trip.
That doesn’t take away from the fact that there are some beautiful beaches in the area. These include the Yanchep Lagoon and Yanchep National Park.
Yanchep National Park is an absolutely lovely place to connect with nature, see some koalas, and do a cave tour. In addition, there is a Trees Adventure in Yanchep offering thrilling ropes courses.
Where to Stay in Yanchep?
Sometimes you just need to change your perspective in order to reset and recharge. That’s what short trips are all about. I have great memories of staying at Club Capricorn as a kid.
Club Capricorn Resort features 2 outdoor swimming pools, 4 tennis courts, a restaurant and a bar. Guests can enjoy a soak in the heated spa pool or relax in the sauna.
Mandurah
Also, now part of Perth’s ever-expanding urban sprawl is Mandurah, about 45 minutes south of Perth. Being such a short drive, you can really maximize your time doing the things you love.
We’ve attended a couple of weddings in Mandurah and stayed in some great places! Each time we get home, I feel like I’ve travelled a million miles away.
If you stay in an apartment on the canals of Mandurah, you certainly can conjure up a European feel.
There is loads to do to fill up two days easily. There are also some great eating spots in the central part of Mandurah.
For families, the accommodations I have recommended below are all within walking distance of the Mandurah Esplanade Playground.
We’ve packed our scooters and headed up there each day. The kids have loved the murals around town.
Still on our list is the Pirate Boat Cruise or a cruise of the Mandurah waterways at Christmas (it books out really fast).
Places to Stay in Mandurah?
A few places worth checking out are the Atrium Hotel Mandurah, the Dolphin Quay Apartments, and Mandurah Ocean Marina Chalets.
Perth Hills
Like Mandurah and Yanchep, the Perth Hills are now technically part of Perth. It is about a 50-minute drive from the Perth CBD. However, as you travel east and upwards to the hills, you get a sense this weekend will be all about the great outdoors! We like the Perth Hills for a winter escape.
It is also home to some beautiful Perth Waterfalls and walks, and these are most spectacular in the winter months. Spring and Autumn are also the best times to visit with plenty of wildflowers.
Also of note is the Araluen Botanic Park and its wonderful Tulip Festival, which is held each September. Given you can spend the whole day there, why not stay overnight and do some exploration in the Perth Hills the next day?
For example, you could do the Bickley Valley Wine Trail or visit the Lesmurdie Falls.
Places to Stay in the Perth Hills?
We recommend checking out the Avocados Accommodation.
The Verdict – The Best Weekend Getaways from Perth
As you can see, there are so many different weekend getaways from Perth. Short breaks from Perth are not hard to come by.
Whether you are on a couples weekend or a weekend getaway from Perth with the entire family, there is something on the list for everyone.
Often the destinations that are great for kids have activities and sights to keep adults entertained as well.
If you’re looking for some destinations further afield or a longer trip, make sure you read about the best Western Australia road trips from Perth and our South West Australia road trip ideas.
Do you have anything to add to our Best Weekend Getaways Perth post? If so, please leave us a comment below!
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