How to Spend a Summer Weekend in Perth

Chasing sun soaked weekends this summer? Perth doesn’t make you look far. Australia’s sunniest capital wears its weather like a smile. It’s made for weekends that begin with salt on your skin and finish with a cold drink somewhere by the water. This guide takes you through a summer weekend in Perth, from that first Friday drink to the quiet of Sunday evening when the city slows down.

A Summer Weekend in Perth

In Perth, summer doesn’t just pass by, it moves in, makes itself comfortable and sticks around.

People swim before work, grab sushi in board shorts, and treat every weekend like it might stretch forever. Cafés fall into the street, sand sneaks into your car, and the whole city smells faintly of salt and sunscreen.

Perth is laid back, a bit wild around the edges, and totally unique. We’ve written a weekend guide that captures that feeling and shows why there’s nowhere quite like it.

Here’s how to spend a summer weekend in Perth.

Looking for a more in-depth guide to Perth? Check out our ultimate guide.

Friday evening

Arrive in time for golden hour and make your first stop Kings Park. This expansive area of greenery one of the largest inner-city parks in the world and easily one of Perth’s most beautiful spots.

As the sun drops, the city skyline glows across the Swan River, and you get that first taste of what makes Perth so special; open space and easy energy. Take a slow walk through the Botanic Garden, where native wildflowers and eucalyptus fill the air, and stop at one of the lookouts for sweeping views of the city below.

Once the light fades, make your way into the city for dinner. Elizabeth Quay is perfect if you want waterfront dining and a bit of buzz, while Northbridge offers a more casual mix of small bars and local restaurants.

Try Petition for shared plates or Fleur for something a little special. When you’re ready for a drink, head up high, Perth does rooftop bars incredibly well. Bob’s Bar is laid-back, with local beers and skyline views that go on forever.

Saturday

Start your morning by the coast. Cottesloe Beach is the classic choice, all white sand and turquoise water, perfect for an early dip or a barefoot walk before the crowds roll in.

If you prefer somewhere that feels more local, City Beach has that relaxed morning feeling with families setting up umbrellas and locals grabbing takeaway coffees. For something a little wilder, Trigg is the spot where the surf is great.

After a swim, find a café nearby, The Shorehouse in Swanbourne does a slow breakfast with ocean views, while Island Market has a breezy, beachside feel. Take your time; mornings in Perth were made for it.

When you’re ready to move on, make your way to Fremantle. The drive along the coast is worth it in itself, with glimpses of sea and that bright, open Perth light.

Once there, spend the afternoon exploring. Fremantle is full of character, from heritage port buildings and local boutiques to record stores and hidden bars tucked behind old facades. Wander through the Fremantle Markets for handmade goods, fresh produce, and the kind of local energy that always feels a little spontaneous.

As the afternoon softens, settle in at a waterfront brewery like Little Creatures. Order something cold, watch the boats drift by, and let the sea breeze do its thing. Stay for dinner by the harbour. There’s nothing quite like that Fremantle light at dusk, when everything glows gold.

Sunday

On Sunday, head inland for a change of pace and scenery. Just half an hour from the city, John Forrest National Park is bursting with wildflowers, waterfalls, and long, quiet bush trails.

Start your morning with a walk through the eucalyptus forest; the Eagle View Trail is a favourite, winding past creeks and rocky lookouts with views that stretch all the way to the coast. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos grazing in the open and cockatoos darting through the trees. When you’re ready for a break, spread out a picnic beneath the gums.

Drive back toward the city in the late afternoon, windows down, that soft end-of-weekend glow settling in. For dinner, wander into Northbridge where you’ll find a mix of casual restaurants and small bars makes it perfect for one last easy meal before the week begins.

Try No Mafia for pasta and good wine, or Shadow Wine Bar for something slower and softer. It’s the ideal ending to a weekend that captures everything Perth does best.

Flying home?

Get a head start to the airport with a stay at Sanno Marracoonda Perth Airport Hotel.

Located just minutes from Perth Airport, Sanno Marracoonda Perth Airport Hotel is the closest place to rest before or after a flight. The rooms are comfortable and convenient, perfect for short stopovers, corporate stays, or travellers passing through.

Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary airport shuttle, making arrivals and departures easy and stress-free.