The best things to do in Fremantle

Freo (or Fremantle, if we’re being formal) is the portside pocket of Perth that’s equal parts grit and charm. Home of convict tales and more good coffee than one suburb should legally be allowed to have.

You’ll find history peeking out from every corner, indie shops filled with things you didn’t know you needed, and a food scene that punches way above its weight. One minute you’re learning about shipwrecks, the next you’re sinking a pint by the water.

It’s a favourite for day trippers and weekend wanderers, and the perfect place to swap the usual Perth routine for something a little more fun. We’ve pulled together a guide full of the best things to do in Fremantle. Locals love it, tourists flock to it, and after this, you might just be tempted to call it home too.

For families and little explorers

WA Shipwrecks Museum

A hands-down favourite for curious kids and history-loving grownups. It’s tucked inside a beautiful 1850s building and packed with real relics, including the famous Batavia shipwreck.

Also, the entry is by donation, which is always nice when you’ve already spent a small fortune on snacks.

• WA Shipwrecks Museum
• 47 Cliff Street, Fremantle WA 6160

Walyalup Koort Playground

Right in the heart of town, this port-inspired playground in Kings Square is all ropes, towers, colour and chaos (in the best way). It’s close to cafés and shops too, so grownups can grab a coffee while the kids go full stevedore!

• Walyalup Koort Playground
• Newman Court, Fremantle WA 6160

Esplanade Park

This big shady park is right near the harbour and perfect for a mid-adventure recharge. There’s a brilliant playground, space to scoot, and plenty of grass to sprawl out on.

If you’re feeling brave, hop on the Fremantle Tourist Wheel for a skyline view with a side of squeals.

• Esplanade Park
• Marine Terrace, Fremantle WA 6160

For foodies and market mavens

Fremantle Markets

Image courtesy of Destination Perth.

Open Friday to Sunday, these century-old markets are the heartbeat of the Freo food scene. You’ll find global street eats, artisan treats, and fresh local produce all under one beautifully chaotic roof. We recommend that you don’t leave without trying the cinnamon doughnuts or a cheeky bao bun.

• Fremantle Markets
• South Terrace & Henderson Street, Fremantle WA 6160

The Old Synagogue Precinct

A beautifully restored heritage site turned into a buzzing food and drink hub. Inside, you’ve got Tonic + Ginger for bold, mod-Asian dishes served in a seriously cool setting, plus The Arbor for breezy rooftop drinks and bites. Mr Chapple brings the laidback brunch vibes and live music, while L’Chaim is a moody little cocktail bar hidden behind a bookcase (yes, really). It’s got big “just one drink turned into four” energy.

• The Old Synagogue
• 92 South Terrace, Fremantle WA 6160

Gage Roads Brew Co

Image courtesy of Tourism Western Australia.

Right by the harbour, this laidback spot serves up ocean views, crisp beers and crowd-pleasers like tacos and woodfired pizzas. Kid-friendly, dog-friendly, beer-lover friendly, it’s a solid all-rounder for sunny days.

• Gage Roads Brew Co
• Peter Hughes Drive, Fremantle WA 6160

Cappuccino Strip

The unofficial caffeine capital of Perth. South Terrace is lined with cafés, trattorias, and spots to sit back and watch the world go by. Grab a coffee, stay for a wine, and don’t be surprised if you end up here for breakfast and dinner.

• Cappuccino Strip Fremantle
• South Terrace, Fremantle WA 6160

For culture lovers and history buffs

Fremantle Prison

UNESCO World Heritage-listed and famously eerie, this former max-security prison ran until the ‘90s and still tells stories of escape attempts, convict labour and ghostly sightings. The guided tours (including the underground tunnel trek) are genuinely gripping and we highly recommend it!

• Fremantle Prison
• 1 The Terrace, Fremantle WA 6160

Fremantle Arts Centre

Set in a gothic limestone building that started life as a lunatic asylum, this creative hub now hosts contemporary art exhibitions, markets, music gigs and community workshops. Come for the art, stay for the shady courtyard and surprisingly great coffee.

• Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre
• 1 Finnerty Street, Fremantle WA 6160

Army Museum of Western Australia

Not quite in the main town centre but well worth the wander. This museum inside a heritage-listed artillery barracks covers WA’s military history from colonial times through to modern day, with everything from uniforms to tanks and medals.

• Army Museum of Western Australia
• Artillery Barracks, 6 Burt Street, Fremantle WA 6160

The Round House & Whalers Tunnel

Fremantle’s oldest public building and still standing strong since 1831. Step inside the 12-sided lock-up, then head through the Whalers Tunnel beneath it to pop out right by Bathers Beach. It’s a short and sweet visit, but one that connects you to Freo’s earliest roots.

• Fremantle Roundhouse
• 15 Captains Lane, Fremantle WA 6160

For nature seekers and adventurers

South Beach Reserve

Image courtesy of City of Fremantle.

Calm waters, plenty of shade, and that easygoing South Freo vibe. It’s great for a swim, a picnic, or a sandy nap after one too many hot chips. The café nearby does a decent coffee, and there’s always something happening, like yoga on the grass, beach volleyball, sunset drum circles, and a steady stream of travellers soaking it all in.

• South Beach Reserve
• South Fremantle WA 6162

Leighton Beach

Just north of the harbour, Leighton is where locals head when they want a peaceful swim without the crowds. The water here is clear and turquoise, and the sand stretches for days. Perfect for long walks, lazy swims or kicking back with a book and a pastry from the Orange Box café nearby.

• Leighton Beach
• Port Beach Road, North Fremantle WA 6159

Freo’s hidden gems locals know

Ootong & Lincoln

A retro café in South Freo with mismatched furniture, vintage flair, and two giant zebras painted on the side that are impossible to miss. The brunch menu hits all the right notes (yes, there are hash browns), and it’s the kind of spot that feels like a local favourite without trying too hard.

• Ootong & Lincoln
• 258 South Terrace, South Fremantle WA 6162

New Edition Bookshop

One of those rare bookshops you can happily get lost in. Shelves stacked high, local titles mixed in with indie gems, and a quiet, calming feel that makes you want to switch your phone off. It’s perfect for a post-lunch wander.

• New Edition Bookshop
• 41 High Street, Fremantle WA 6160

Common Ground Collective

Part retail space, part creative community, this tucked-away shop features handmade wares from WA artists and makers. Here you’ll find a bunch of ceramics, candles, art prints and wearable treasures you won’t find anywhere else.

• Common Ground Collective Fremantle
• 82 High Street, Fremantle WA 6160

Why not live closer to the things you love

If Fremantle already feels like your kind of place, maybe it’s time to make it yours.

Browse our current houses for sale or chat to one of our friendly real estate agents in Fremantle. We’ll help you find the right spot, close to the coffee, coastline and everything in between.