Autumn in Perth is an absolute gem. It’s the time of year we landed in Australia from the UK, coming from very chilly spring to lovely warm sunshine, which felt like the peak of summer to us at the time!
Once you’ve been here a while, you realise it’s the time of year that the searing summer heat starts to fade, the skies are still blue, and the crisp mornings and warm days make it the perfect season to get out and explore your new country.
Whether you’ve recently moved to Australia or have been here a while and are keen to get to know your new home a little better, Perth offers plenty of fun things to do during the autumn months. Here are 12 of my favourite fun things to do in Perth in autumn to get you started!
12 Fun Things To Do In Perth In Autumn
Get Outdoors for a Nature Walk
Autumn is the ideal time to lace up your hiking boots and head out into nature. The milder temperatures make walking trails far more enjoyable than during the heat of summer.
Kings Park is a favourite for many, offering spectacular views of the city skyline and the Swan River. With its easy paths and abundance of wildflowers, it’s a great spot for families, too.
If you’re after something a bit more adventurous, head to John Forrest National Park. The trails here take you through lush bushland and past waterfalls that are often flowing after the summer rains. Lesmurdie Falls and Bells Rapids are also stunning in autumn. We loved heading through the pitch black tunnel when we visited, so remember your phone as you’ll need the torch!
You’ll find less crowds on the trails during this time of year, and plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife.
I also love Bells Rapids in Brigadoon, and it’s perfect for a picnic when the weather is good.
Go Fruit Picking
Autumn is harvest season, and there’s nothing more satisfying than picking your own fresh fruit straight from the tree.
Drive out to the Perth Hills or the Swan Valley, where you’ll find a range of orchards offering pick-your-own experiences. Apples and pears are ripe for the picking during autumn, and some farms even let you sample the fruit as you go.
Core Cider House in Pickering Brook is a lovely spot with an on-site cidery and restaurant, so you can enjoy a refreshing drink or lunch after your picking session. It’s really family friendly too.
It’s a great way to connect with nature, support local farmers, and stock up on healthy snacks for the week.
Take the Ferry to Penguin Island
Just 45 minutes south of Perth is the picturesque Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, where you can hop on a short ferry ride to Penguin Island.
The island is home to a colony of little penguins (Australia’s smallest penguins), but note that the government has implemented a hot weather policy to protect the island as their habitat. That means when the forecast is over 35 degrees, the island will be closed so do check the island is open before you travel there.
There are also lovely walking trails, picnic areas, and snorkelling spots if you’re feeling adventurous. Autumn is a great time to visit as the weather is still warm, but the summer crowds have thinned.
Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds while you’re on the ferry.
When we visited Penguin Island, we were lucky enough to have the most amazing weather. The water was flat as a pancake and crystal clear. We did the cruise around the islands as well as the ferry, and it was one of our best days out in Perth that we’ve had. We spent the day exploring the island and snorkelling around all the beaches we discovered along the way. I highly recommend visiting Penguin Island as it really is an absolutely amazing day out.
Explore Araluen Botanic Park
Nestled in a valley in Roleystone, Araluen Botanic Park is a stunning spot in autumn. The park is known for its beautiful seasonal colours, with trees turning brilliant shades of red, orange and gold.
Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, enjoy a coffee from the cafe, and bring a picnic to make a day of it.
There are walking trails of varying difficulty, and plenty of peaceful spots to stop and enjoy the scenery. Araluen is particularly photogenic during autumn, so don’t forget your camera!
If you’re into photography, or just love pretty places, this is one of Perth’s top autumn destinations.
Go back in spring for their famous tulip festival too, it’s just glorious seeing all those tulips in bulb. I went with my mum a couple of years ago and it was an unforgettable day for us.
Hit the Beach One Last Time
While the summer heat might be easing up, Perth beaches are still beautiful in autumn.
The ocean is often warmer than the air in early autumn, making it a lovely time for a last swim before winter arrives. Mullaloo, Sorrento, Cottesloe, City Beach, and Scarborough are all popular spots for that last swim of the year before winter well and truly arrives
If swimming isn’t your thing, head to the coast for a morning walk, sunset picnic or fish and chips by the sea. The sunsets in autumn are absolutely magical.
Autumn mornings at the beach are peaceful, and you might even get the place to yourself!
Spend the Day on Rottnest Island
You can’t talk about Perth day trips without mentioning Rottnest Island.
Autumn is a great time to visit – it’s not too hot for cycling around the island, and the crowds are fewer than in peak summer. Hire a bike, pack your bathers, and set off to explore the beaches, bays, and historic sites.
Of course, no trip to Rotto is complete without spotting a quokka or two. These friendly little marsupials are found all over the island. Don’t get too close though, I know quokka selfies are all the rage but if you are going in for one, maintain a respectable distance as they are wildlife. Rottnest has some handy guidelines on spotting the world’s happiest creature on their website here.
Rottnest is an easy ferry ride from Fremantle, Hillarys or Perth city, and makes for a brilliant day out.
Read my blog post on visiting Rottnest Island now, which has everything you need to know about heading to Rottnest and exploring the island.
Enjoy a Picnic in the Autumn Sunshine
The cooler days and golden light make autumn perfect for picnicking.
Pack your basket with goodies and head to one of Perth’s many parks or riverside spots. Matilda Bay Reserve, Hyde Park, and Lake Monger are all lovely options close to the city.
Or venture out a little further to Bells Rapids or Walyunga National Park for a more rustic picnic experience.
Add a thermos of hot chocolate or a bottle of local wine, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect autumn afternoon.
Visit S&R Orchard for Their Annual Autumn Festival
Every year, S&R Orchard in Walliston hosts their popular Autumn Festival, and it’s a must-do for families and photo-lovers.
The orchard transforms into a wonderland of autumn colours, with hay bales, fairy lights, tractor rides, and photo props galore.
There are food trucks, markets, live music, and even an animal farm to keep the kids entertained.
It’s an Insta-worthy outing that celebrates the season in style. Book ahead though, it gets busy on weekends!
Visit the S&R Orchard website for dates and ticket details.
Spot Some Blue Whales
Autumn marks the start of blue whale season off the coast of Perth.
From March to May, these majestic creatures migrate past the coast, and you can join a whale watching tour to catch a glimpse.
Whale Watch Western Australia runs tours from Fremantle, and spotting one of the world’s largest animals in the wild is truly unforgettable.
You might also see humpback whales, dolphins, and seabirds along the way.
Check out Whale Watch WA to find out more.
Take Flight in a Hot Air Balloon in the Avon Valley
If you’re up for an unforgettable adventure, book a hot air balloon ride over the Avon Valley.
Autumn mornings are crisp and clear, making it the perfect season for ballooning.
Drift peacefully over farmland, forests, and winding rivers, and watch the sunrise from above – it’s a bucket list experience you won’t forget.
After the flight, many companies offer a champagne breakfast, which makes the early start totally worth it!
Take a Stroll Around Golden Valley Tree Park
Located near Balingup in the South West, Golden Valley Tree Park is one of WA’s best spots for autumn colour.
It’s home to over 3,000 varieties of trees, and in autumn they put on a dazzling display of reds, oranges, and golds.
There are several walking trails through the park, plus picnic areas and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Perth, so it’s best enjoyed as a day trip or weekend escape. I’ve got a blog about our long weekend in Balingup where I share more info about Golden Valley Tree Park. It’s a stunning spot to visit in autumn and I would love to go back one day soon!
Experience the Bickley Harvest Festival
Held each May in the Bickley Valley, this charming festival is all about celebrating the local harvest.
Think wine tastings, cider samplings, orchard tours, live music and local markets.
The Bickley Valley is just a short drive from Perth, but feels a world away with its rolling hills and boutique vineyards.
The Bickley Harvest Festival is perfect for a laid-back day out, especially if you enjoy food, wine, and supporting local businesses.
Find out more on the Bickley Harvest Festival website.
So, there you have it – 12 fun things to do in Perth in autumn to help you explore, unwind, and settle into your new life in Australia.
Whether you’re chasing autumn colours, fresh air, or unforgettable experiences, this season has something for everyone.
Don’t forget to check out the Proudly South African In Perth online shop for digital products to help you plan your move to Australia. From an emigration checklist, to a cost-of-living calculator and a detailed emigration budget planner, you’ll find everything you need to make your move a little easier!
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