Perth’s best weekend getaways

Sometimes, you just need to get out of Perth for a couple of days. Maybe the city’s feeling a bit too hectic, or you just want a change of scenery.

Well, good news! There are plenty of epic spots just a short drive away, whether you’re up for adventure, good food, or just a weekend of doing absolutely nothing by the beach.

So, round up the family or your mates (or ditch them and go solo—why not?), load up your bags, and hit the road. Here are Perth’s best weekend getaways to check out this year.

 Collie (South West)

Collie might not be the first place that comes to mind for a weekend getaway, but this underrated inland town is packing some serious natural beauty. Once known mainly for its mining industry, Collie has transformed into a hotspot for outdoor lovers, with vibrant blue lakes, scenic trails, and lush national parks waiting to be explored.

What you’ll find here:

• Plenty of swimming spots – Black Diamond Lake, Stockton Lake, Honeymoon Pool, and Lake Kepwari just to mention a few!
• Wellington National Park – A stunning pocket of nature with scenic hiking trails and the massive Wellington Dam, which features the incredible ‘Reflections’ mural (the largest dam mural in the world).
• Collie Mural Trail – A self-guided tour of large-scale murals showcasing the town’s history and local artists.
• Mountain Biking Trails – Collie is building a name for itself as a top MTB destination, with trails for all skill levels. If you’re into it, we recommend checking out the Arklow Trails, Wambenger Trails, and the Rays Trails.

Dwellingup (Peel Region)

If you’re into nature, adventure, or just a weekend surrounded by towering forests, Dwellingup is the place to be. This little town has become a go-to spot for outdoor lovers, offering everything from kayaking and hiking to mountain biking and camping. With its lush landscapes, flowing rivers, and a touch of history, Dwellingup is one of our favourite spots to escape from the city.

What you’ll find here:

• Lane Poole Reserve – A massive nature playground with riverside camping, swimming spots, and some of WA’s best hiking and mountain biking trails.
• Hotham Valley Railway – Step back in time with a ride on a heritage steam train that winds through the jarrah forest.
• Trails for days – Take on the King Jarrah Walk Trail for a scenic hike or hit the Marrinup Cycle Trail for a ride through the bush.
• Local eats and drinks – Stop by the Dwellingup Hotel for a pub feed or check out a local cidery or brewery for a well-earned drink after a day of exploring.

Margaret River (South West)

This region has something for everyone. From world-class wineries and gourmet food to epic surf breaks and stunning natural attractions, Margaret River is the kind of place that never disappoints. Spend the weekend sipping award-winning wines, exploring underground caves, or catching a sunset over the Indian Ocean. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, all wrapped up in a laid-back country town vibe.

What you’ll find here:

• Award-winning wineries – With over 200 wineries in the region, you’re spoilt for choice.
• Surfer’s Point – One of the most famous surf breaks in WA, perfect for watching the pros in action or just enjoying the ocean views.
• Mammoth Cave & Lake Cave – Two of the region’s most spectacular limestone caves, complete with underground wonders and ancient fossils.
• Gourmet food scene – Stop by the Margaret River Chocolate Factory, Cheeky Monkey Brewery, or one of the many cheese, olive, and honey producers scattered around the region.

Rottnest Island (Off the coast of Perth)

This island paradise is one of Perth’s best weekend escapes. With no cars, stunning beaches, and the happiest little locals (hello, quokkas!), Rottnest is the perfect place to slow down and soak up the coastal vibes. Spend your days cycling from one turquoise bay to the next, snorkelling in crystal-clear water, or just kicking back with a drink by the beach.

What you’ll find here:

• Quokkas – These friendly little locals are everywhere on the island, and yes, they’re always up for a selfie.
• Cycling around the island – With no cars, the best way to explore is by bike. Bring your own or hire one when you arrive.
• Snorkelling at The Basin & Parker Point – Some of the best snorkelling spots in WA, packed with marine life and coral reefs.
• Pinky’s Beach & Bathurst Lighthouse – A beautiful spot for a sunset drink or a lazy afternoon by the water.

Lancelin (Coral Coast)

How about heading north? You might be surprised at what’s waiting just a short drive from Perth. Lancelin is a small coastal town that punches well above its weight when it comes to adventure. Famous for its massive sand dunes and stunning beaches, it’s the perfect spot for a weekend of action and relaxation. You can carve it up on a sandboard, hit the dunes in a 4WD, or just kick back by the ocean with some fish and chips.

What you’ll find here:

• Sand dunes – The biggest in WA, perfect for sandboarding, quad biking, or just soaking up the epic views.
• 4WD adventures – Bring your own or join a tour for some adrenaline-pumping dune bashing.
• Fishing & kitesurfing – Lancelin’s beaches are a dream for fishers and thrill-seekers, with some of the best kitesurfing conditions in WA.
• Stunning beaches – Crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, perfect for swimming or just relaxing by the shore.

York (Avon Valley)

As WA’s oldest inland town, York is packed with history, heritage buildings, and small-town charm. But there’s more to this town than just stepping back in time. With rolling countryside, scenic drives, and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s a great place to slow down and soak up the fresh country air. Spend the weekend exploring historic streets, checking out vintage cars, or even floating above the Avon Valley in a hot air balloon.

What you’ll find here:

• Historic architecture – Beautiful 19th-century buildings, heritage trails, and a true country-town feel.
• York Motor Museum – A must-visit for car lovers, showcasing vintage and classic vehicles from different eras.
• Skydiving & hot air ballooning – Take in incredible views of the Avon Valley from the air.
• Scenic drives & wildflower trails – Rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant wildflowers (especially in spring).

There’s simply no place like Perth

One of the best things about living in Perth is how easy it is to escape for the weekend. With stunning beaches, charming country towns, and adventure-filled destinations just a short drive away, there’s no shortage of places to explore.

Perth offers the perfect balance of city life and easy access to some of WA’s most incredible destinations. If you’re looking at houses for sale in Perth, this lifestyle is just another reason to make the move.

So, where’s your next weekend getaway? Pack your bags, hit the road, and start exploring Perth’s incredible backyard.