Last Updated on 21 November 2023 by Ariana Svenson
Perth weekend getaways are so varied and, and so wonderful you will find it difficult in which direction to head. We’ve included eleven of our favorite weekend getaways from Perth, as well as some that 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 an actual weekend getaway from Perth, these are our recommendations.
While I currently travel with my kids, I’ve made some suggestions for romantic getaways Perth couples will absolutely love, just in case you can make time for a quick escape.
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Who Are We?
We are a family of four, an adventurous mother and 3 kids. We love getting out and about and have discovered that when we take a family weekend getaways from Perth we are so much “better” in the weeks to follow. Happier, more present and better spirits overall. As locals we have visited all of 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 sport. These short breaks from Perth provide a chance to disconnect, reconnect with family, and discover what a rich variety there is to see in the local area.
We have limited travel time to 3 hours each way (eg, 6 hours total) which is the maximum amount of travel we would personally want to do over a weekend. This means that we have included Margaret River (which comes in just over 3 hours) but not places further afield, like Pemberton or Albany. This is a personal choice, and obviously if you have the energy the world is your oyster, you can go as far as you like!
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 for 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. 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, then head next door to the Gravity Discovery Centre for a solar-system walk. Don’t miss the Leaning Tower of Gingin! From Gingin to New Norcia is a short 1-hour drive through picturesque farmland. Gingin town also has new playground, park areas and historic waterwheel.
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, there are animal feedings and a great restaurant on-site.
Located on the banks of the Moore River, New Norcia is a monastic town 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 plenty of 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 as well as 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, f you would like to be seated and enjoy a leisurely lunch, take a look at Stringybark Winery & Restaurant.
If you are looking for the best time for a visit to this area, in the spring the orchards are full of blossoms, or in harvest time there is a great range of fruits that are ripe for the picking. Why not take some delicious local produce home? This is the perfect way to savor your Perth weekend getaway!
If you are traveling 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? Make a stop at the Udamung Brook Reserve to see Pin Cushion Cone flowers and different Dryandras. And, if you are truly 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 give you the option of enjoying 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. If you have any mini mechanics or big boys in your group, you will want to do this too. 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 that were operating around the rail station. This was followed by a superb hearty lunch at the Dwellingup Pub.
As an old mill town, Dwellingup really sums up what ‘charming country town’ is all about. Also in close proximity there are a number of 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 Dwellingup
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
The Ferguson Valley is located 2 hours from Perth and is 30 minutes inland from the port city of 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 that is. For me, it ticks all the boxes when it comes to a romantic or couples getaway, but also has enough to do to be enjoyable for families.
Oh, and 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 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 (2022) 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 chances for relaxation. Don’t miss a visit to 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 doubt
Where to Stay in the Ferguson Valley?
For families, our favorite place to stay is the Ferguson Farmstay which offers kids farm activities galore. For the parents, there are stunning views and a wonderful 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 (2022).
Another option that you could consider; and a touch closer to Perth is the Harvey area. Check out Fun Things to do in Harvey WA (2022).
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 in 2023, I wondered whether Collie was close enough to the Ferguson Valley to be included in that section. At 2.5 hours from Perth, Collie certainly fits the bill for a short weekend trip and is very near to 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 of note is the Black Diamond Lake near Collie, famous on Instagram, and Lake Kepwari. Formerly a mine and 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 Perth and shouldn’t be overlooked in preference for the more famous destinations to the south! Yes, I am looking at you Margaret River! In our suggestion for this short itinerary, we definitely recommend stopping at the Thrombolites, just past Mandurah.
Bunbury city has a number of 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 that 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: Best Indoor Pools for a Winter Family Escape.
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 that is dependent on the dolphins themselves, so a dolphin sighting is not guaranteed.
Another really enjoyable way to experience Bunbury is by taking a walk (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.
On our next Perth weekend getaway, we have two items on the agenda. 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 then we highly recommend the Discovery Parks Bunbury Foreshore. This very nice family oriented park has a wide range of accommodation (including pet friendly cabins!) and is located very close to not one or 2 but THREE amazing free playgrounds!
Jurien Bay, The Pinnacles, and Cervantes
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 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 snorkeling on the 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 people say that sunrise has better light and fewer people which makes 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. While 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.
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 getaways 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 watching 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 which are separate from the main house.
Another great York accommodation option in 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 for 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 good option for an overnight trip from Perth. Better yet, a long weekend getaway as this is the longest drive getaway on the list at nearly 4 hours from Perth, one way. Sip some wine as the sun sets over Wave Rock, or float in the Lake Magic to get rid of the stress of the week. Having a high density of salt its 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.
Rottnest Island
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 is top on the list of ultimate weekend getaways from Perth! And, 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 really is just as well deserved on this list. In summer, you can spend your days lounging on the beach, snorkeling and then spend your evening sipping cocktails looking over the beautify bays, with their turquoise water and white sands. With a little bit of imagination, it feels like you are in Greece! This is definite 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. I don’t know if it’s true, but I’ve read in a few places that because of the Leeuwin Current the water temperate 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 Mindblowing! The Best Beaches in Western Australia as one of the best beaches near Perth.
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 to stick 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 months when many resorts are booked out 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 which 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
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:
An Excellent Guide to the Busselton Caravan Parks
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. It’s 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 the some of the most amazing luxury accommodation in Western Australia. 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 a stop in the little town of Cowaramup to see the Cows, taste produce form the local farms and visit the sweet shop – the Candy Cow.
While Margaret River is 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 (2023).
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 three 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 every 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 accommodation 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 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 Perth Weekend Getaways
As you can see, there are so many different Perth weekend getaways. Short breaks from Perth are not hard to come by. Whether you are on a couples weekend or 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.
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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