Perth, the sunniest capital city in Australia, is not only known for its vibrant urban life but also for the stunning landscapes that surround it. From pristine beaches to rugged coastlines, lush forests to vast outback, Western Australia offers some of the most picturesque drives that one can experience.
Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor wanting to explore the best of what this region has to offer, these scenic drives will leave you in awe. In this comprehensive guide, I will introduce the top 10 scenic drives around Perth to you, each offering unique and breathtaking views, along with tips on the best stops, things to do, and essential travel information.
1. The Indian Ocean Drive
The Indian Ocean Drive stretches from Perth to Geraldton, covering approximately 270 kilometers of coastal beauty. This drive is renowned for its stunning ocean views, white sandy beaches, and charming coastal towns.
Highlights
- Yanchep National Park: Just an hour’s drive from Perth, this park is perfect for a picnic, wildlife spotting, and exploring the Crystal Cave.
- Lancelin Sand Dunes: Ideal for sandboarding and off-road adventures, these dunes offer a unique desert-like experience.
- The Pinnacles Desert: Located in Nambung National Park, the Pinnacles are limestone formations that rise eerily from the desert floor. The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre provides fascinating insights into their history.
- Jurien Bay: A great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. The sea lions here are a major attraction.
- Dongara and Port Denison: These twin towns offer beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Tips
- Plan your trip during the wildflower season (August to October) to see the landscape come alive with colors.
- Keep an eye out for roadside wildflowers and coastal vistas for photography opportunities.
2. The Great Eastern Highway to Kalgoorlie
The Great Eastern Highway takes you from Perth to the historic gold mining town of Kalgoorlie, covering around 600 kilometers. This route offers a blend of history, outback landscapes, and unique attractions.
Highlights
- Mundaring Weir: A great spot to learn about the history of Perth’s water supply, enjoy walking trails, and picnic by the dam.
- Wave Rock: Although a slight detour from the highway, this natural rock formation in Hyden is worth the visit.
- Merredin: A charming town with historical sites and the fascinating Merredin Railway Museum.
- Coolgardie: Known as the birthplace of the gold rush, explore its museums and heritage buildings.
- Kalgoorlie: Visit the Super Pit, one of the largest open-cut gold mines in the world, and explore the rich history of this vibrant town.
Tips
- Start early to allow time for stops and exploration along the way.
- Carry extra water and fuel, as services can be sparse in some stretches.
3. The South Western Highway to Margaret River
The South Western Highway leads you to the world-renowned Margaret River wine region, covering about 270 kilometers from Perth. This drive offers lush forests, rolling vineyards, and stunning coastal scenery.
Highlights
- Dwellingup: A small town surrounded by forests, perfect for hiking, canoeing, and mountain biking.
- Harvey: Famous for its dairy industry, Harvey offers beautiful parks and the Harvey Dam.
- Bunbury: Visit the Dolphin Discovery Centre and enjoy the beaches and coastal walks.
- Busselton: Home to the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, complete with an underwater observatory.
- Margaret River: Explore the vineyards, gourmet food, and beautiful beaches. Don’t miss the limestone caves and surf spots.
Tips
- Allocate enough time to visit several wineries and sample the local produce.
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
4. The Coral Coast Highway to Exmouth
The Coral Coast Highway takes you from Perth to Exmouth, covering approximately 1,250 kilometers. This route is perfect for those looking to explore the stunning Ningaloo Reef and other coastal wonders.
Highlights
- Cervantes: Visit the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park.
- Geraldton: Explore the HMAS Sydney II Memorial and the beautiful beaches.
- Kalbarri: Known for the Kalbarri National Park with its dramatic coastal cliffs and inland gorges.
- Shark Bay: Visit Monkey Mia for dolphin encounters and explore the Francois Peron National Park.
- Coral Bay: Snorkel right off the beach and explore the Ningaloo Reef.
- Exmouth: The gateway to the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area, offering diving, snorkeling, and whale shark tours.
Tips
- Plan your trip according to the whale shark season (March to August) for an unforgettable experience.
- Ensure your vehicle is well-prepared for long stretches of driving with limited services.
5. The Avon Valley
The Avon Valley drive offers a picturesque journey through rolling hills, historic towns, and lush farmlands. This route covers approximately 100 kilometers from Perth to York.
Highlights
- Bells Rapids: A scenic spot for a picnic and watching the Avon Descent, an annual whitewater event.
- Swan Valley: Enjoy wine tasting, gourmet food, and local arts and crafts.
- Toodyay: A charming historic town with heritage buildings and beautiful parks.
- Northam: Known for its hot air ballooning and historic architecture.
- York: Western Australia’s oldest inland town, offering museums, antique shops, and beautiful gardens.
Tips
- Visit during the spring (September to November) to see the wildflowers in bloom.
- Check the local events calendar for festivals and markets in the Avon Valley towns.
6. The Albany Highway to Albany
The Albany Highway takes you from Perth to the historic port city of Albany, covering around 415 kilometers. This drive offers a mix of farmland, forests, and stunning coastal landscapes.
Highlights
- Mount Barker: Known for its wineries and the nearby Porongurup National Park.
- Stirling Range National Park: Offers excellent hiking opportunities, including the challenging Bluff Knoll.
- Albany: Visit the ANZAC Centre, explore the stunning beaches, and witness the dramatic coastline of Torndirrup National Park.
Tips
- Allocate time to explore the national parks and enjoy the scenic hikes.
- The drive is particularly beautiful in autumn (March to May) when the landscape is rich with color.
7. The Caves Road
The Caves Road offers a scenic journey through the heart of the Margaret River region, running parallel to the coast from Busselton to Augusta. This 110-kilometer drive is known for its vineyards, forests, and stunning coastal views.
Highlights
- Ngilgi Cave: A fascinating limestone cave with guided tours and stunning formations.
- Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse: Offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and whale watching opportunities.
- Mammoth Cave: Another impressive limestone cave with self-guided tours.
- Boranup Forest: Drive through towering karri trees and enjoy the serene beauty of the forest.
- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse: Located at the southwestern tip of Australia, where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet.
Tips
- Allow time to visit the caves and lighthouses, each offering unique experiences.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the way.
8. The Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail
The Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail is a 32-kilometer loop that starts just 25 minutes from Perth. This route is perfect for food and wine lovers, offering a variety of gourmet experiences.
Highlights
- Wine Tasting: The trail is home to over 40 wineries, including some of the oldest in Australia.
- Local Produce: Sample fresh produce, including olives, cheeses, chocolates, and honey.
- Breweries and Distilleries: Enjoy craft beers, ciders, and spirits at the local breweries and distilleries.
- Art and Craft: Visit galleries and studios showcasing local art and handmade crafts.
- Dining: Numerous restaurants and cafes offer delicious meals made from local ingredients.
Tips
- Plan your visit to include a mix of wineries, breweries, and local produce shops.
- Designate a driver or consider joining a guided tour to fully enjoy the wine tastings.
9. The Great Southern Highway
The Great Southern Highway takes you from Perth to Hyden and the famous Wave Rock, covering approximately 340 kilometers. This route offers a mix of farmlands, small towns, and unique natural attractions.
Highlights
- York: Explore Western Australia’s oldest inland town with its historic buildings and museums.
- Beverley: A charming town known for its heritage architecture and aviation museum.
- Brookton: Visit the Brookton Railway Station and enjoy the local parks.
- Corrigin: Known for its dog cemetery and wildflower displays.
- Hyden: The highlight is Wave Rock, a natural rock formation that looks like a giant wave.
Tips
- Visit during the wildflower season (August to October) to see the countryside in bloom.
- Allow time to explore the small towns and enjoy their unique attractions.
10. The Sunset Coast Tourist Drive
The Sunset Coast Tourist Drive runs along the coast from Cottesloe to Mindarie, covering approximately 40 kilometers. This route is perfect for beach lovers, offering stunning ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Highlights
- Cottesloe Beach: Famous for its white sands, clear waters, and vibrant beach culture.
- Scarborough Beach: A popular spot for surfing, swimming, and beachside dining.
- Trigg Beach: Known for its surf breaks and natural beauty.
- Hillarys Boat Harbour: A bustling marina with shops, restaurants, and the Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA).
- Mindarie: Offers a picturesque marina and a range of dining options.
Tips
- Visit during the late afternoon to enjoy the spectacular sunset views over the Indian Ocean.
- Pack your swimwear and beach gear for a day of sun, sand, and sea activities.
Perth and its surroundings offer an incredible array of scenic drives, each showcasing the diverse landscapes and natural beauty of Western Australia.
From the coastal vistas of the Indian Ocean Drive to the historic charm of the Great Southern Highway, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.
