Weekenders from Perth 

With our partners at Nissan, we’re highlighting inviting Western Australia locations that create the ideal weekend road trip from Perth.

Margaret River

In a sentence: Lauded for its wine, this south west town and wider region is no one-hit wonder with a mammoth selection of attractions and landscapes in its arsenal.

The drive: The route remains within touching distance of the coast for the entirety of its 270km-long southbound journey, passing key beachside destinations along the way.

Top attractions in the Margaret River region

• Margaret River Wine Region: Roughly 200 vineyards and 90 cellar doors. Go nuts, responsibly.
• Microbreweries: There’s about a dozen to choose from. And some distilleries, too.
• Beaches: From the famous to the hidden gems.
• Eagles Heritage wildlife centre: Thrilling birds-of-prey viewings and flight displays.
• Margaret River Sculpture Park: Quirky carved creations galore.
• Cowaramup cows: Spot dozens of life-sized fibreglass cows dotted around town.
• Margaret River Gallery: Colourful, light, vibrant.

What’s nearby: You simply must head to star-studded Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. There are epic caves, funky features like Sugarloaf Rock and Canal Rocks, towering trees of Boranup Karri Forest, lighthouses, beaches, and much more.

Stay at: BIG4 Taunton Farm Margaret River.

Denmark

In a sentence: This quiet south west coastal town allows visitors to unwind with ease, but its positioning within grasp of amazing natural attractions means extensive exploration is essential.

The drive: The most direct path slices through state forests and national park on a southeast trajectory. At 415km in length, you might need a long weekend for this one.

Top attractions in Denmark

• Ocean Beach: Scenic and suited to swimming and surfing.
• Denmark Animal Farm & Pentland Alpaca Stud: Headlined by a nursery with various creatures to interact with.
• Denmark Historical Museum: Local history revealed in a former police station building.
• Wineries: There’s plenty of chance to cellar-door hop in this sub-region of the wider Great Southern wine district.
• Wilson Inlet Heritage Trail: Stroll or cycle among beautiful surrounds.
• Boston Brewing Co: Outstanding brews. Features within Willoughby Park, home to a cellar door and restaurant.

What’s nearby: A trio of amazing national parks. William Bay is home to iconic Elephant Rocks and Green Pools, West Cape Howe includes Shelley Beach among a litany of dramatic scenery, and Walpole-Nornalup is headlined by the mighty Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk.

Elsewhere Denmark Dinosaur World is filled with family fun, 40km west of town.

Stay at: BIG4 Denmark Ocean Beach Holiday Park.

Busselton

In a sentence: Set on the shores of Geographe Bay, this picturesque south west holiday hotspot creates a simple escape from city life.

The drive: A 220km southbound coast-embracing journey that passes Rockingham, Mandurah, and Bunbury. The latter is home to the excellent Dolphin Discovery Centre.

Top attractions in Busselton

• Busselton Jetty: Planks aplenty complete with an underwater observatory and train rides.
• Busselton Foreshore: Fun for all in and out of the water.
• Heritage Butter Factory and Busselton Museum: History spread on thick at a relaxing riverside setting.
• Busselton-Dunsborough Bike and Walk Path: Wonderful water views abound.
• Shelter Brewing Co: Impressive venue, tasty craft beers, excellent location.

What’s nearby: Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park teems with eye candy, including iconic Sugarloaf Rock. And the neighbouring Margaret River region is definitely calling.

Stay at: BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks - Busselton.

Ledge Point

In a sentence: A quiet coastal township with a rich cray-fishing culture, Ledge Point is perfect for a city escape while remaining within easy reach of Perth.

The drive: It’s a casual 115km journey north with the coast at arm’s reach. If you wish to draw out the drive, a stop at Yanchep National Park is highlighted by kangaroos and caves.

Top attractions in Ledge Point

• Ledge Point beach: Untouched white sand often with minimal footprints.
• Ledge Point Country Club: Golf and bowls at your fingertips.
• Lancelin sand dunes: Sandboarding just a short drive away.

What’s nearby: Venture further north and peer at the amazing Pinnacles Desert within Nambung National Park.

Stay at: BIG4 Ledge Point Holiday Park.

Want more? All BIG4 parks in WA are here.

For weekender ideas in other state capitals, head here.