There’s so much more to the sunny city of Perth than Kings Park and our turquoise-watered, boast-worthy beaches. Yes, they are spectacular. But, sometimes it’s good to get off the beaten track and explore. That’s why we’ve rounded up 13 of Perth’s best-kept secret spots to inspire you to get out and see Perth. And trust us, you won’t be disappointed!
Long Pool
Long Pool is so secret that it’s not even recognised on Google Maps – now that’s something worth discovering. Not to be confused with Honeymoon Pool, which is more common than not with Instagram location tags, Long Pool is the last of four magnificent swimming and picnic spots along Lennard Drive in Wellington National Park near Collie. So, if you’re looking for somewhere away from the crowds, this might just be your golden ticket.
Lions Lookout
There’s no better place to park up for sunset and to watch the twinkling city lights than Lions Lookout in Korung National Park. It’s situated on the Lion Lookout Walk Trail – a four-kilometre loop which, at its highest peak, provides stunning views over Perth. The best time to visit is spring when the landscape comes alive with wildflowers, and you might even spot a friendly quenda!
Black Diamond Lake
Black Diamond Lake is one of WA’s most Instagrammable destinations and a rare jewel in Australia’s South West. Set five kilometres west of Collie, this former open-cut mine has been given a new lease on life as a picturesque, oh-so-blue lake. Ever satisfying snap-happy folk.
The location is perfect for a day trip, spent on, and by the lake with picnic baskets and pals. If you’re keen to get active post-feed with stand-up paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, and inflatables, be sure to check the water quality before making the splash. The lake is best enjoyed on a clear, sunny day when it sparkles and radiates a magnificent azure colour. It might just be the bluest water you’ve ever seen!
Eagle View Walk
With a name like Eagle View, you’d expect beautiful views, wildlife, and maybe an eagle or two. Well, you hit the nail right on the head. Set in John Forrest National Park, this challenging, 16-kilometre circuit walk is a bushwalker’s delight, sporting magnificent vistas across the Swan Coastal Plain to Perth. Not to mention the spectacular wildflowers in the spring months. If you’re a nature lover or hiking enthusiast, this one is for you.
Zig Zag Scenic Drive
If you’re looking for some spectacular city views and you’ve done Kings Park to death, Gooseberry Hill’s scenic Zig Zag Drive is well worthy of the hit list. It’s an idyllic, one-way road, down the western side of the Darling Ranges, offering extraordinary views over the Perth metropolitan area.
The trail is open for walkers and cyclists from 8:30 pm to 11:00 am, and for walkers, cyclists, and vehicles from 11:00 am to 8:30 pm. Keep in mind that walkers and cyclists may move up or down Zig Zag, however vehicles can only drive down.
Gwelup Secret Garden
Maybe this isn’t Perth’s best-kept secret anymore, as thanks to Instagram, word spread pretty quickly! But if you haven’t already visited the Gwelup Secret Garden, consider it a must. Over the years, the lush location has become a haven for photographers and locals alike, trying to capture golden hour amongst the enchanting, fairytale-like setting. And we don’t blame them, we’ve spent our fair share of time there, too!
Ellis Brook Valley
Is this Perth’s best view? Sure, there’s Kings Park, the South Perth foreshore, and a postcard-perfect sunset over Cottesloe Beach. But all you need is one glimpse from the top of Ellis Brook Valley and we have a winner. Home to more than 500 species of wildflowers, Ellis Brook Valley is known as the richest wildflower location in the Perth metropolitan area.
Lesmurdie Falls National Park
At Lesmurdie Falls National Park, not only will you discover stunning views over the Swan Coastal Plain from the lookout platforms. But in spring, you’ll enjoy flowing falls and blooming carpets of wildflowers. Be sure to pack a picnic to really make a day of it!
Araluen Botanic Park
If you were to ask us to describe the famed Araluen Botanic Park, heaven in the hills, is immediately what comes to mind. Nestled 40 minutes from Perth, Araluen is a place rich in both history and beauty. It’s known for its annual Tulip Festival, which lights up the stunning bushland backdrop with a kaleidoscope of colour and more than 170,000 tulips. Not to mention 40,000 spring bulbs, an international camellia collection, and heritage roses in full bloom.
This is made possible by the park’s unique micro-climate and loam soils which provide an opportunity to cultivate exotic and cool climate plants, resulting in exquisite gardens all year round. It’s safe to say, you’ll feel as if you’re walking in a dream.
Serpentine National Park
You could easily lose a day at Serpentine National Park. Not only is Serpentine Falls home to one of Perth’s most popular swimming holes. The national park also features the Serpentine River valley, panoramic Swan Coastal Plain views, gorgeous rock pools, woodlands, and granite outcrops.
Swan View Tunnel
Located on the southern side of the Jane Brook valley, the Swan View Tunnel is a former railway tunnel that opened in 1896. After its closure, the tunnel was reopened as part of a heritage trail and is now the only historical railway tunnel in WA that you can walk through!
Raeburn Orchards
If you’re like us and guilty of scouting the best locations for Instagram, then we have the perfect autumn spot for you. Nestled in the Perth Hills, Raeburn Orchards is a vibrant paradise, only 30 kilometres from the CBD. Come May, the orchards transform into a sea of bright crimson and orange, so it’s no surprise that people from all over Perth flock to witness the spectacle.
While you’re at it, be sure to visit the packing shed to pick up fresh fruit and local goodies to take home. Or, grab a coffee and cake at Coffee@The Shed.
Bells Rapids
Located about 45 kilometres from Perth, Bells Rapids is a series of streams and waterfalls that make up the Avon River. It’s best known as a fabulous viewing point for WA’s annual white water race, the Avon Descent. Year-round, it’s also a popular hiking and picnic spot, loved for its rural views, majestic boulders, and gushing waters in the winter.
John Oldham Park
An oasis in the middle of the city? That’s the best way to describe the tranquil escape that is John Oldham Park. And you know what, you’ve probably driven past dozens of times! Think picturesque gardens, cascading waterfalls, and dense luscious greenery. The reserve is also home to a collection of walking and cycling paths, park benches, and public barbeque facilities, so you’ll be well versed to while away the afternoon.
