Localista Articles

Escape into Perth’s best boutique bookstores

Looking for a book to enjoy while you’re relaxing on the beach, or a richer alternative to doomscrolling on Tiktok? Fortunately for you, Perth is scattered with quirky, independent bookstores that cater to all kinds of reading interests. Whether you are into the latest bestsellers, vintage classics, or mind-altering sci-fi you are sure to find a...

Melbourne cinemas with a twist

Watching movies in a cinema is a classic experience, but have you ever tried catching a film at a drive-in, an old gas station, or even on a rooftop? Whether you’re planning a memorable date night, seeking a one-of-a-kind movie outing, or you’re a film enthusiast eager to dive into cinema history, we’ve curated a list of six unique cinemas aroun...

Swimming holes under an hour from Perth

One of the benefits of living in the world’s most isolated capital city is that we are surrounded by hidden oases and secret swimming spots. Here, you can lay upon the white sand of your own private lagoon, take a dip in these natural pools that are sheltered from the world, and be lulled into serenity by the peaceful sound of water falling into...

The best walking trails on Rottnest

From the rugged West End to the military heritage of Oliver Hill, explore Rottnest at a more leisurely pace with these walking trails that criss-cross the island’s unique landscape. Wardan Nara Bidi Coastal Vistas and Military Heritage Walk Parker Point to Narrow Neck \ Length: 10km \ Time: Half Day Beginning with a gradual climb be...

10 dog friendly trails to explore around Perth

A day with your dog is a day well spent, so why not make the most of a glorious sunny day and explore one of many dog-friendly trails that fall within 60 minutes of Perth’s CBD. From relaxing 1 hour walks through stunning WA bushland, to tracks for avid hikers and high energy pooches, there is a walk for every four-legged friend and their human ...

Best spots in Perth for a lunch-break picnic

Picnic season is here! Lay your rugs out and take a relaxing lunch break at these green spots around the CBD. Government House Gardens St George's Terrace Enjoy beds of brightly flowering annuals and perfectly manicured grass on the grounds of Government House. Spread over 8 acres of gardens and lined with trees to shade the lawn, this herita...

Local insights best beaches, trails, restaurants and wineries in Denmark

The beauty and curse of Denmark is it’s distance. The 4.5 hour drive is just that little bit longer than other down-south destination, but the distance means no crowds and plenty of space – the Margaret River of old. The reward is a gorgeous coastal town and a region full of incredible wineries, restaurants, boutique shops, nature walks and of c...

Snorkelling sites along the Perth coast

The Perth coast offers a variety of stunning snorkelling sites that can be accessed right on the beach. We’ve listed eight of our favourites plus check out the extensive list on our guide map to Perth’s best snorkelling sites. Image Credit: @outdoorexplorer_wa Coogee Maritime Trail, Coogee Located only 25 meters from the shore, the dive and sn...

Four stunning easy going 4WDbeaches for a great day trip from Perth

Four-wheel driving on a stunning sandy beach is a beautiful way to spend the day and for beginners, it’s much easier than you think. No one knows more about 4WD trails than Total 4×4, with more than 30 years’ experience as one of Perth’s leading 4WD service and equipment suppliers. We asked Mitch one of the local experts, to recommend four be...

Best snorkelling and shipwreck sites around Perth

WA has an extraordinary maritime history and there are plenty of shipwrecks shallow enough to be enjoyed with nothing more than a mask and snorkel. Read on to dive into their unique stories and where to find them. Omeo Wreck in Coogee Just 25 metres from the shore of Coogee Beach rests the remains of iron steamship, Omeo. The star attr...

Dog friendly hiking trails in the Perth Hills

As the days become a little cooler, the Perth Hills offer an escape from the hustle of the city with an abundance of peaceful trails across the majestic Darling Scarp. Embrace the beauty of our native bushland with these trails that cater to all levels of ability and range, from quick loops around natural springs to longer, half-day jaunts. Our ...

Waterfall hikes to enjoy WA’s beautiful landscapes

With WA playing host to some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, there is no shortage of waterfalls and hiking trails to explore. Here’s our run-down on waterfall hikes across the state. Bells Rapids Bells Rapids Swan Valley If you’re a beginner to hiking and looking for the right trail to try, then Bells Rapids is the place to...

Where to find waterfalls in Perth best day trip hikes

Perth is lucky enough to be home to some stunning national parks featuring flowing waterfalls and natural swimming holes. With the colder months being the prime season for waterfalls, now’s the time to plan your visit. There are a variety of hiking trails at each site, suitable for hikers of all abilities, so pack a picnic, bring a friend or the...

Beautiful snorkelling spots along Rottnest Island's coastline

It is no secret that Rottnest Island boasts some of the most enchanting snorkelling locations this side of the country. Protected by limestone reefs, the turquoise bays scattered along Rottnest’s coastline provide for excellent snorkelling conditions and are suitable for underwater adventurers of all ages and abilities. We have the Scoop on wher...

Walking art trail of Mandurah murals and sculptures

From stunning sculptures to interactive street art installations, Mandurah is home to some truly outstanding art. Uncover gems from local talents all across the city, inspired by the unique landscapes of the estuary, the amazing native fauna and flora, and the history of the region. With so many attractions to see, the City of Mandurah has de...

Walking trails to walk, hike, stroll and enjoy

Step outside this winter and enjoy some fresh air with walking trails in Perth's picturesque landscapes. Put on your walking gear, grab a picnic and head off to our pick of the best places for walking, hiking, or just a stroll with friends and family. Araluen Botanic Park Don't let the cooler weather stop you from enjoying is the best time of...

Where to shop for sustainable gifts in Perth

When hunting for gifts, shopping sustainably can be difficult. Luckily, Perth has no shortage of stores that are locally run and specialise in eco-friendly, sustainable gifts. Here are a few to consider for your earth-loving friends. Bstore Although primarily known for selling Birkenstocks, Bstore actually stocks a bunch of other footwear bran...

Where to go stargazing near Perth: must-visit observatories and tours

Winter and spring are the best seasons for viewing the Milky Way and other constellations, so there couldn’t be a better time to check out Perth’s night sky. Plus, the novelty of looking through a telescope never gets old! So, if you’re feeling adventurous and fancy a weekend out of the city, book in for an Astro tour. Or, alternatively, pop int...

Trails in the Valley

The Swan Valley is a convenient, wine-lovers haven. Located only 35 minutes from the Perth CBD, the Valley is the perfect getaway and has tons to offer locals and tourists alike. Our handy trails will have you exploring this region in a car, on your bike or on foot, and will display the many gems of the Valley including breweries, art galleries,...

4WD in the east of WA

With an abundance of abandoned mine tracks in the Golden Outback including some that aren’t even on the map, this region suits 4WDers with an itch to explore, suiting every level of 4WDers. Woodlines Originally, the Woodlines were light railways in the Goldfields built to transport timber to the mines. The abandoned railway sleepers and fo...

4WD in the North-West

The North-West provides a diverse range of 4WDing trails featuring stunning gorges, historical landmarks and natural parks. The weather ranges from arid to monsoonal, depending on what time of year you’re travelling. This makes for diverse but exciting terrain for those exploring the north by 4WD. Gibb River Road The Gibb River Road is ...

4WD in WA

Explore the colossal dunes in the southwest, manoeuvre along abandoned tracks that weave through the outback remnants of the state’s mining history, or find a deserted beach to camp beneath the stars. Go where few travellers have gone before and immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape WA has to offer. Whether you hire one, buy one or borr...

4WD in the South West

The southwest has the best of both worlds with too many beaches to count on the coastline and countless towering forests to explore inland. Spring is the best time to 4WD down south whilst there is still plenty of mud and the wildflowers are in bloom. Mandurah Tims Thicket and White Hill are 4WD-accessible beaches within the City of Mandur...

Hiking the Bibbulmun Track

Boasting plentiful wildlife, towering forests, multiple kid-friendly picnic spots and campsites, the Bibbulmun track is a hiking trail to suit both experienced hikers and families seeking adventure. WA’s finest long-distance walk stretches nearly 1000km from Kalamunda to Albany. To complete the journey in one hit, allow yourself about eight wee...

Diving islands and archipelagos

Islands and archipelagos have a special place in Western Australia – their weather and water quality combined with their remoteness have resulted in astounding diversity above and especially below the water. ​ Islands and archipelagos have a special place in Western Australia – their weather and water quality combined with their remoteness have...