Travelling beyond the city is one of the best parts of living in or visiting Perth. Once you head outside the metro area, the landscape changes quickly, coastlines open up, wine regions appear, and vast outback towns tell the story of Western Australia’s mining and pioneering history.
For many travellers, especially those who prefer a slower pace, comfort and ease of travel matter just as much as the destination itself. That’s where regional WA really shines, there are incredible places to explore without the need for long international trips or complicated itineraries.
Here are five regional Australian destinations from Perth worth considering.
1. Margaret River
Margaret River is one of WA’s most well-known regional destinations, and for good reason. It combines world-class wineries with rugged coastline, tall forests, and relaxed towns.
It’s an ideal short getaway from Perth, offering:
- Boutique wineries and cellar doors
- Scenic drives through forest and farmland
- Coastal walks and beaches
It’s also one of the easiest regional escapes, making it especially appealing for travellers who prefer shorter, more comfortable journeys.
2. Broome
Broome offers a very different pace of life. Known for its tropical climate and iconic Cable Beach, it’s a destination built around relaxation.
Highlights include:
- Sunset camel rides along Cable Beach
- Warm, dry winter escape
- Pearl diving history and local culture
For many older travellers, Broome is appealing because it feels like a holiday the moment you arrive, no rush, no crowds, just space to unwind.
3. Esperance
Esperance is often described as one of the most visually stunning coastal areas in Australia. Its white sand beaches and turquoise waters feel almost untouched.
What makes it special:
- National parks with accessible viewpoints
- Quiet, uncrowded beaches
- Gentle pace suited to relaxed travel
It’s a destination that encourages slow exploration rather than fast-paced sightseeing.
4. Kalgoorlie
Kalgoorlie is one of Western Australia’s most important mining towns, home to the famous Super Pit and a long history of gold mining.
It’s not just a destination for Australian FIFO and mining charter flights, but also a fascinating regional hub for visitors keen to experience WA’s mining history, outback culture, and one of the most iconic gold mining operations in the country.
Key experiences include:
- Tours of the Super Pit (one of the largest open-cut gold mines in the world)
- Historic pubs and architecture from the gold rush era
- Insight into the mining industry that helped shape WA’s economy
For travellers interested in history, industry, or simply seeing a very different side of Australia, Kalgoorlie offers something genuinely unique.
5. Exmouth
Exmouth sits on the doorstep of the Ningaloo Reef and is one of Australia’s premier marine destinations.
Visitors are drawn to:
- Coral reef snorkelling directly off the beach
- Whale shark and marine life encounters
- Small-town atmosphere with big natural experiences
Despite its remote location, Exmouth is surprisingly accessible via regional flights, making it a popular choice for those looking to experience nature without the physical demands of more crowded destinations.
Why Regional WA Travel is Different
One of the defining features of Western Australia is distance. Many of these destinations are not just “weekend trips” in the traditional sense; they require planning, timing, and often multiple travel legs.
For travellers who value comfort, particularly older Australians or those with tighter schedules, this is where more streamlined travel options become important. Reducing layovers, avoiding busy terminals, and accessing regional airstrips directly can make a significant difference to the overall experience.
