Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is a city that surprises many young people. Everyone knows Sydney or Melbourne—but Perth? This city is something special: modern, relaxed, surrounded by nature, and located right on the Indian Ocean. If you’re young and looking for sun, surfing, and adventure, you’ll love Perth!
Between the sea and the outback
Perth is located in a fairly remote location on the west coast of Australia. The nearest large city is over 2,000 kilometers away! This is precisely what makes Perth so unique: a big city with skyscrapers, shopping malls, and sports stadiums—yet at the same time, you are immediately surrounded by nature. The beaches are right on your doorstep, and the vast, wild outback begins in the hinterland.
Pure sunshine
Perth is considered one of the sunniest cities in the world. With more than 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, you can almost always be outdoors. Summers (December to February) are hot and dry, perfect for swimming and surfing. Winters (June to August) are mild, rarely colder than 50 degrees Fahrenheit—nothing like European winters.
Culture & atmosphere: Young, creative, relaxed
Perth is a young city with a really relaxed vibe. In the afternoons, lots of people sit in cafés, meet up in parks, or enjoy the sunset on the beach. The many festivals are particularly cool, such as the Fringe World Festival with street performers, music, and comedy. There is also plenty of street art, small galleries, and markets where you can find handmade items, vintage fashion, and exotic food.
The heart of the city is Northbridge, a colorful neighborhood full of restaurants, cinemas, and meeting places for young people. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, Elizabeth Quay on the riverbank is the perfect place to hang out and meet people.
Animals, islands and red soil
Perth and its surroundings offer experiences that cannot be found anywhere else. Just half an hour away by ferry is Rottnest Island, home to the famous quokkas – small marsupials that always look like they are smiling. A selfie with them is a must!
The red desert landscapes and national parks are also typical of Western Australia. A trip to the Pinnacles Desert with its mysterious rock formations is a real adventure. And if you like animals, you should definitely watch the Swan River dolphins or visit the kangaroos at Caversham Wildlife Park.
Sports & Surfing: Nonstop Action
Perth is a paradise for sports fans. Surfing is almost a way of life here: popular beaches such as Cottesloe Beach, Scarborough Beach, Mullaloo Beach, and Trigg Beach offer perfect waves for both beginners and advanced surfers. If you want to practice first, you can rent a board and take lessons.
In addition to surfing, you can play beach volleyball in Perth, go kayaking on the Swan River, or let off steam at skate parks. Mountain bike trails in the Perth Hills are ideal if you’re looking for action in the countryside.
Conclusion:
Perth is not a city that shouts “Here I am!”—it’s more of an insider tip. But once you’ve been here, you’ll fall in love with the combination of sun, sea, nature, and relaxed lifestyle. With its perfect climate, friendly atmosphere, and many opportunities for sports and discovery, Perth is a city that inspires. Perhaps it’s just the place for an Australian adventure.
Experience the city
- Elizabeth Quay – Chill out on the riverbank, eat ice cream, take photos of the skyline
- Kings Park & Botanic Garden – One of the largest city parks in the world, with amazing views of the city and the Swan River
- Northbridge – Street art, youth culture, Asian food, secondhand stores
- Perth Mint – See gold bars and learn about mining history
- Shopping on Murray Street & Hay Street – Everything from big brands to small shops
Beaches & surfing
- Cottesloe Beach – Iconic beach, sunsets, and learn to surf
- Scarborough Beach – Surf spot with skate park, cafes, and often live music
- Mullaloo Beach – Home of the Northern Beaches Surf School
- Trigg Beach – For more adventurous surfers, often bigger waves
- City Beach – A little more relaxed, great for hanging out after school
- Snorkeling at Mettam’s Pool – Quiet bay with colorful fish
Animals & Nature
- Rottnest Island – Quokka selfies, cycling, gorgeous beaches
- Penguin Island – Watch little penguins and sea lions
- Caversham Wildlife Park – Feed kangaroos, see koalas
- Swan River Dolphins – With luck, you’ll see wild dolphins
- Perth Zoo – Ideal for seeing lots of Australian animals at once
Action & Outdoor
- Mountain bike trails in the Perth Hills – For action and nature at the same time
- Kayak or SUP tour on the Swan River – see the city from a different perspective
- Beach volleyball in Scarborough
- Skatepark Scarborough or Fremantle – meeting place for young people
- Hike in John Forrest National Park – waterfalls, kangaroos, pure nature
Excursions & adventures
- Pinnacles Desert (day trip) – mystical limestone pillars in the middle of the desert
- Wave Rock – Huge rock wave in the steppe – great photo spot
- Fremantle – Port city with markets, street food, music, and a young scene
- Sunset in Yanchep National Park – With kangaroos in the meadow
- Boat trip on the Swan River to Fremantle – Relaxed and beautiful
Culture & everyday life
- Fringe World Festival (January/February) – Comedy, music, art
- Perth Cultural Centre – Museums & galleries around Northbridge
- Fremantle Markets – Stroll, eat and meet people on Saturdays
- BBQ in the park – An Australian must-do with friends
- Try Tim Tams & Vegemite – Classics of Australian food culture
Extra experiences for insiders
- Sunset at Cottesloe Beach – With fish & chips on the grass
- Night walk along the Swan River – Skyline glitters, bats flutter
- Street Art Tour in Perth or Fremantle – Mega Insta spots
Click on images to enlarge
Red: State Schools; White: Private Schools; Green: Regional Schools (For details see The Australian Education System; Prices see under Prices and Services)
