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Western Australia is the place to expand (or shrink) — your bucket list! Find the most adventurous things to do in Perth, plus all the best places to stay.
Pulse-Pounding Perth
Have you ever envisioned a wild escapade in Australia? Look no further than its Western corner! There’s a spectrum of adventurous things to do in Perth that will leave you breathless, from deep-sea adventures to rugged outback treks. It’s no wonder thrill-seekers are always eager to book a return ticket.
With Perth being the world’s most secluded major city, there’s plenty to see and do before you even get to the nearest city. Adelaide is a staggering 2,100 km. away, so there are plenty of natural wonders to bike, hike, and uncover.
In our previous guides, we took you to the best places to visit in Perth as well as the city’s must-see landmarks. This time, we’re pedaling through rugged mountain trails, gliding on the water with the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset, and skydiving from 15,000 ft. Apart from a list of adventurous things to do in Perth, we’ve also got the scoop on the best places to stay to be close to the action. All that’s left to do is buckle up!
10 Adventurous Things to Do in Perth
We’ve handpicked the most exciting and adventurous things to do in Perth that take you from the vast oceans to towering cliffs and up into the limitless sky. Only because we know you’d like the sound of your heart pounding in your ears:
1. CATCH A WAVE AT SCARBOROUGH BEACH
Scarborough Beach, famed for its steady waves, is the place to be for both surf veterans and novices. Even newbies can get their slice of the swell here, what with the many local surf schools and instructors nearby.
2. SKYDIVE OVER ROCKINGHAM
If skydiving is on your bucket list, you better head straight to Rockingham. From 15,000 ft., you’ll be treated to views of the vast Indian Ocean and Perth’s shoreline. Packages for solo, in-tandem, and group diving are available, with shuttle services included.
And if you’re planning to pop the question in a unique, over-the-top, and memorable way, you can avail of the skydiving proposal package from local operators. Once you get that sweet ‘yes’, you can then wind down with a bottle or two, and with the help of our guide to the best wine tours in Perth.
3. RIDE THE RAPIDS OF AVON RIVER
Ignite your spirit of adventure as you tackle the Avon River’s rapids. Exhilarating turns and mesmerizing surroundings add to the excitement of white water rafting, and Avon River’s got plenty of those.
4. QUAD BIKING THROUGH PINNAROO VALLEY
While many adventurous things to do in Perth are done on water, this one lets you stay on sweet terra firma. Navigate Pinnaroo Valley on a quad bike. This activity is perfect for groups or families, with vast landscapes offering room for some fast-paced action. You can find off-road excitement with high-speed fun at its best here.
5. DIVE INTO ROTTNEST ISLAND’S MARINE WORLD
Dive deep and discover Rottnest Island’s underwater paradise. Beyond the corals and marine creatures, once you’re back on land, keep an eye out for the ever-smiling quokka. Remember, snapshots are welcome, but please, do remember to keep your hands off these cute marsupials!
6. JET BOATING ON THE SWAN RIVER
Embrace speed on Swan River aboard a jet boat. The captivating Perth skyline adds charm to the thrill as the boat twists and turns. But, if you prefer tranquility, perhaps a riverside rental with complimentary kayaks is more your style.
7. CLIMB UP AT WUNGONG GORGE
Test your mettle against the sheer cliffs of Wungong Gorge. Tailored climbs are available, ensuring both beginners and experts enjoy the ascent. Always remember that safety is always first, so make sure you trek according to your skill level and with proper guidance.
8. PEDAL AWAY IN KALAMUNDA
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Kalamunda Circuit is your playground. Brimming with steep descents, technical ascents, and edge-of-the-seat drop-offs, it’s pure adrenaline. You can even find attractive places with gorgeous views here to rest after a biking trip.
9. KITE SURFING ON PERTH’S NORTHERN SHORES
For an unparalleled thrill, try kite surfing on Perth’s northern beaches. The strongest winds blow from November to April, so book your hotel close to the most adventurous things to do in Perth during these months to ensure a good kite-flying season.
10. EXPLORE JOHN FORREST NATIONAL PARK ON FOOT
Witness Perth’s oldest national park from a unique angle as you abseil its magnificent cliffs. Partner with local adventure groups; they’ll guarantee your descent is safe and exhilarating.
Where to Stay in Perth, Australia
After an electrifying day ticking off adventurous things to do in Perth, it’s time to find a comfy retreat where you can wind down and recharge. If you want curated recommendations, you can either browse our listings or check out our top Perth accommodation picks.
For now, here are five districts located close to the city’s prime adventure spots as well as other attractions and facilities:
SCARBOROUGH
More than just a surfer’s haven, Scarborough thrives as a beachy suburb bursting with a vivacious dining culture. Fuel up with fresh, local delicacies at the famed Wild Fig Cafe or The Sandbar. And if you’re looking to relax your muscles, the Scarborough Beach Pool offers geothermal warmth with oceanic vistas.
ROCKINGHAM
Rockingham serves up picturesque boardwalk cafes, trendy boutiques, and penguin-spotting opportunities. Aquatic activities can be enjoyed at the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, and breathtaking scenery at Cape Peron.
ARMADALE
Armadale is positioned near the majestic Wungong Gorge and provides a serene hideaway from Perth’s city bustle. Between shopping sprees at Haynes Shopping Centre and strolling in the tranquil Araluen Botanic Park, it’s the ideal backdrop to slow down after embracing the more adventurous things to do in Perth.
KALAMUNDA
Set amidst rolling hills and lush greenery, Kalamunda is your rustic escape. Post mountain biking, sip on some local wines, or dive into history at the Kalamunda Library and History Centre. And if you’re around on a Sunday, the Kalamunda Farmers Market is a great place to get to know and support the friendly locals.
NORTHBRIDGE
Minutes away from Swan River, Northbridge is an eclectic hub for culture enthusiasts. Immerse in its rich artscape, from the Art Gallery of Western Australia exhibits to the back-to-back events at Perth Cultural Centre. The area boasts a plethora of dining options, too, with Francoforte Spaghetti Bar as the top pick for anything Italian.
Quench Your Appetite for Adventure With Hotala
With a roster of adventurous things to do in Perth, the next step is finding that dreamy spot to kick back and recharge. Enter Hotala: your go-to for finding hotels, resorts, and holiday rentals that align with your needs, style, group size, and desired location.
With 10 million property listings worldwide, you can rely on us as your trip-planning partner wherever you go. Kick-start your Perth escapade with Hotala today!
And if you’ve been there and done that, you can subscribe to The Hot List to get weekly updates on the Hottest destinations! Travel farther, experience more, and discover hot deals in hot destinations with Hotala.
