Province guides
Australia
Attractions
Western Australia is a land of striking contrasts, known for its awe-inspiring nature, abundant wildlife, white-sand beaches and ancient river gorges. Although it covers a third of the continent, only around 10 percent of Australia's population lives here, which means visitors often find long stretches of coastline and wide-open landscapes almost entirely to themselves. The state is also home to some of the country's most spectacular hiking trails, from coastal walks to multi-day wilderness routes.
Perth, the state capital, offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, with modern architecture, excellent dining and a lively arts and entertainment scene. Across much of the state, particularly in northern regions such as the Kimberley and Pilbara, Aboriginal culture is strongly present, adding depth and perspective to Western Australia's identity and visitor experience.
Monkey Mia Resort
Located near the town of Denham, about 525 miles (830 km) north of Perth in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Monkey Mia offers one of Australia's most remarkable wildlife experie…
Monkey Mia Resort
Located near the town of Denham, about 525 miles (830 km) north of Perth in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Monkey Mia offers one of Australia's most remarkable wildlife experiences. Each morning, a small group of wild bottlenose dolphins swims close to shore, where park rangers oversee carefully managed feeding sessions. Visitors can watch from the shallows and learn more at the Dolphin Information Centre. Nearby, Shell Beach dazzles with billions of tiny white shells, while some of Denham's early buildings were built from these shells, adding to the region's unique charm.
Website www.monkeymia.com.au
Wildflower Region
Western Australia's Mid West is celebrated as the state's wildflower region, especially between late July and early September, when seasonal rains transform the landscape into vivi…
Wildflower Region
Western Australia's Mid West is celebrated as the state's wildflower region, especially between late July and early September, when seasonal rains transform the landscape into vivid fields of yellow, pink, and white everlastings. Kalbarri National Park, about 370 miles (590km) north of Perth near Geraldton, is home to more than 800 species of native flowering plants. The area also attracts botanists, photographers, and nature enthusiasts to hotspots such as Eneabba and the Arrowsmith River. Easily reached by car via the North West Coastal Highway, the Mid West combines rich natural beauty with outback and coastal experiences.
Website www.kalbarri.org.au
Goldfields
East of Perth lies the Goldfields, a region steeped in mining history and legend. Its heart is Kalgoorlie-Boulder, home to the Super Pit, one of Australia's largest open-cut gold m…
Goldfields
East of Perth lies the Goldfields, a region steeped in mining history and legend. Its heart is Kalgoorlie-Boulder, home to the Super Pit, one of Australia's largest open-cut gold mines. Measuring roughly 2,000ft (600m) deep, one mile (1.5km) wide, and two miles (3.5km) long, the mine forms part of the famed 'Golden Mile', once known as the richest square mile of gold-bearing earth in the world. From the Super Pit Lookout, visitors can watch enormous haul trucks in action and, on occasion, witness a controlled blast, which is a dramatic reminder of the region's enduring connection to gold.
Margaret River
Southwest of Perth, the Margaret River Region is defined by rolling vineyards, forested valleys, and pristine beaches, making it one of Western Australia's most popular holiday des…
Margaret River
Southwest of Perth, the Margaret River Region is defined by rolling vineyards, forested valleys, and pristine beaches, making it one of Western Australia's most popular holiday destinations. First popularised by surfers in the 1960s, it now attracts visitors for its award-winning wineries, farm-to-table restaurants, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. The region also boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, craft studios, and potteries scattered among charming small towns. Beneath the surface lie spectacular limestone caves, including Jewel, Lake, Mammoth, and Moondyne, where guided tours reveal extraordinary underground formations. With its combination of fine wine, natural beauty, and laid-back atmosphere, Margaret River captures the essence of Western Australia's southwest.
Website www.margaretriver.com
Fremantle
Though now part of Perth's metropolitan area, Fremantle, affectionately known as 'Freo', retains a strong sense of its own identity. The port city's inner harbour, designed by visi…
Fremantle
Though now part of Perth's metropolitan area, Fremantle, affectionately known as 'Freo', retains a strong sense of its own identity. The port city's inner harbour, designed by visionary engineer C.Y. O'Connor and opened in 1897, transformed Fremantle into Western Australia's first deep-water port and laid the foundation for the state's modern economy. O'Connor, who also masterminded the Goldfields Water Supply pipeline that carried water hundreds of miles to the desert mining towns, is honoured with a bronze statue near the Fremantle Port Authority. Once a working harbour town, Fremantle has evolved into a vibrant, creative hub filled with outdoor bars, restaurants, and markets. With its bohemian spirit, historic architecture, and relaxed seaside charm, Freo continues to draw day-trippers and visitors seeking a distinctive slice of Western Australian life.
Website www.fremantle.wa.gov.au
Nambung National Park
Located on the Swan Coastal Plain about 120 miles (190 km) north of Perth, Nambung National Park is home to one of Western Australia's most remarkable natural attractions, the Pinn…
Nambung National Park
Located on the Swan Coastal Plain about 120 miles (190 km) north of Perth, Nambung National Park is home to one of Western Australia's most remarkable natural attractions, the Pinnacles Desert. Here, thousands of limestone pillars rise dramatically from the golden sand, some reaching 11ft (3.5m) in height, creating a landscape that feels both unearthly and unforgettable. The desert is especially striking in September and October, when wildflowers carpet the surrounding plains with colour. Along the coast, the park also offers white-sand beaches and excellent opportunities for picnicking, swimming, fishing, and snorkelling, making it one of the state's most rewarding day trips.
Website parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/park/nambung