Whether you’re searching for an outdoor adventure or some indoor fun, you’ll find a range of attractions and things to do just north of the CBD. Set only 27 kilometres from Perth, Joondalup is a place where brag-worthy food and drink, nature, and entertainment collide. In terms of getting there, the destination is easily accessed via the Joondalup train line — with the station nestled right in the city’s heart. Once you’re in town, the free CAT bus is a great way to move around.
Day Trip Itinerary
From lush nature walks to shopping and everything in between, here’s how to spend the ultimate day trip in Joondalup.
9:00 am: Breakfast at Luca Café Joondalup
To kick off your Joondalup day trip itinerary with a coffee fix and delicious breakfast from Luca Café. The casual eatery specialises in mouth-watering plates including Turkish eggs, French toast, and mushroom bruschetta. For something savoury, we recommend the chilli scram. But the sweet tooths will love the granola panna cotta and the baked goods are equally drool-worthy.
10:30 am: Walk or cycle Yellagonga Regional Park
Take a stroll or cycle through the leafy oasis of Yellagonga Regional Park — one of Joondalup’s hidden gems. Often touted as the Kings Park of the north, Yellagonga’s name nods to the Aboriginal leader of Mooro people who inhabited the region north of the Swan River at the time of colonial settlement. Stretching south from Burns Beach Road in Joondalup to Hepburn Avenue, the lakes, wetlands, and green spaces are home to long-necked turtles, frogs, kangaroos, and a wide variety of birdlife. Not to mention abundant cultural significance if you’re a history buff.
The park is best explored from Neil Hawkins Park, situated only a short saunter from the Joondalup City Centre. Nature lovers can then adventure around the native bushland surrounding the 16 kilometre Lake Joondalup circuit. If you’re keen for a healthy dose of cardio, there’s a six kilometre trail to Beenyup Swamp Boardwalk, or a five kilometre return trip to Picnic Cove in Edgewater. Alternatively, you can head 700 metres north to the Yellagonga Scenic Lookout for magnificent vistas across Lake Joondalup.
12:30 pm: Enjoy lunch at Paper Ave Café
If you’ve worked up an appetite after the walk around Yellagonga, stop by Joondalup hard-hitter Paper Ave for one of their delicious bagels or toasties. If you’re keen for something more substantial, park up for lunch in the form of burgers, tacos, and nourish bowls. Set in a vibrant little street, the relaxed eatery revolves around an ethos of great coffee, paired with quality, healthy food. They also offer a 50% discount on drinks if you bring your reusable cup!
2:00 pm: Explore Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City
If you’re in the mood for a little retail therapy, take a stroll around Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City. The premium shopping destination boasts all things affordable fashion and entertainment, so you’re sure to find something you love. Myer, Target, Kmart, Big W, H&M, Uniqlo and the brand-new Rebel superstore, are just some of the names you’ll recognise. Plus, a fashion mall jam-packed with popular brands like Seed, Billini, Universal Store, General Pants, and Politix. There are more than 300 specialty retailers, as well as a cinema, two food courts, and multiple outdoor dining options.
5:00 pm: Wind down at Risq Small Bar and Lounge
Pop into Risq Small Bar and Lounge to wind down to the tunes of live artists and DJs with an ice-cold beverage in hand. Located along the Central Walk entertainment and dining precinct, you’ll find predominantly Western Australian wine, alongside international labels, a wide range of beers, and an impressive collection of classic and experimental cocktails. If the weather is fine, be sure to snag a table in the laneway alfresco area.
7:00 pm: Settle into dinner at Sapori Veri
As the sun goes down and your Joondalup day trip draws to a close, sashay your way to Sapori Veri in Central Walk for an authentic Italian dinner. All time classics like the bruschetta, spaghetti marinara, and fettucini carbonara are always crowd favourites. Not to mention the fettuccine gamberi because who doesn’t love a good prawn and tomato pasta?
9:00 pm: Stay the night
Joondalup is a fabulous destination for a convenient weekend getaway or extended staycation, so why not stay the night? Book a modern, open-plan studio, or one or two bedroom apartment at Quest Joondalup, so you can do it all over again tomorrow!
