Cheap Things To Do In Perth – Your Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Guide

ByEric James Updated on

Thinking about exploring Western Australia but worried your wallet can’t keep up with your wanderlust? It’s a common feeling. Perth is known for its stunning landscapes, but it also has a reputation for being one of Australia’s more expensive cities, which can feel intimidating for any traveler, camper, or vanlifer on a careful budget.

We promise you can experience the wild, rugged beauty of this incredible city without draining your bank account. The best parts of Perth—its turquoise waters, ancient forests, and sprawling parks—are often completely free to enjoy. This isn’t just about saving money; it’s about connecting with nature in a more authentic way.

In this guide, we’ll break down the very best cheap things to do in Perth. We’ll show you how to find epic coastal hikes, explore the Perth Hills, discover hidden snorkeling spots, and master the art of frugal, sustainable travel. Get ready to explore smarter and go further.

Embrace the Coastline: Free Beach Days and Coastal Trails

Perth’s coastline is its crown jewel, and you can enjoy nearly all of it for the cost of a bus ticket and a packed lunch. Forget expensive tours; the real adventure lies in exploring its sandy shores and limestone cliffs on your own terms.

Find Your Perfect Beach

From the iconic to the secluded, Perth’s beaches offer something for everyone. Instead of just dropping a towel, turn your beach day into a micro-adventure.

  • Cottesloe Beach: The classic Perth postcard scene. Perfect for a morning swim and watching the sunrise. It gets busy, so head there early to claim a good spot.
  • Scarborough Beach: A hub of activity with a lively atmosphere, skate park, and a public swimming pool. It’s great for people-watching and catching a sunset, but can be crowded.
  • Mettams Pool: Our top pick for easy, accessible snorkeling. It’s a natural rock pool protected from large waves, making it ideal for beginners. Bring your own snorkel and mask to save on rental fees.
  • City Beach: A quieter, more family-friendly option with wide-open spaces, great for a long walk or a simple picnic.

Hike the Wardun Beelier Bidi Coastal Trail

For a more immersive experience, tackle a section of the Whadjuk Trail Network. The Wardun Beelier Bidi (Coastal Plain Trail) section from Cottesloe to Fremantle is a fantastic, low-impact hike.

This walk takes you along the coast, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. It’s a great way to see multiple beaches in one go. Pack your daypack with at least 2 liters of water per person, sunscreen, a hat, and some snacks. Good walking sandals like Chacos or sturdy trail runners are all you need.

Explore the Perth Hills: Hiking and Picnics on a Budget

Just a 30-40 minute drive from the city, the Perth Hills feel like another world. This region is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, offering a perfect escape from the urban hustle. This is where you can truly practice sustainable Cheap things to do in Perth by connecting with the local environment.

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Tackle a Section of the Bibbulmun Track

The world-famous Bibbulmun Track starts in Kalamunda, right in the Perth Hills. You don’t need to be a thru-hiker to experience it. The Northern Terminus offers several fantastic day-hike loops.

Pick up a map from the visitor center and choose a trail that matches your fitness level. The trails are well-marked, winding through beautiful jarrah and marri forests. This is a fantastic opportunity to test out your hiking gear without committing to a multi-day trek.

Discover Waterfalls at Lesmurdie Falls National Park

Lesmurdie Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Perth region, especially after winter rains. The park has several walking trails of varying difficulty, from a short, easy walk to the lookout platform to a more challenging 2km loop trail down to the base of the falls.

Pro Tip: Pack a lunch and have a picnic at the top. There are free BBQ facilities available, but bringing your own food is the most reliable and budget-friendly option. A simple camp stove like a Jetboil can give you hot coffee or tea with your view.

Kings Park and Beyond: Perth’s Best Free Green Spaces

You can’t create a guide to cheap things to do in Perth without dedicating a section to Kings Park. At over 400 hectares, it’s one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, and nearly everything inside it is completely free.

Get Lost in Kings Park

This is more than just a park; it’s a hub for outdoor and cultural experiences. Spend a full day here without spending a dollar.

  • Western Australian Botanic Garden: Home to over 3,000 species of the state’s unique flora. It’s an incredible display of biodiversity.
  • Lotterywest Federation Walkway: This treetop walk takes you 16 meters above the ground through a canopy of eucalyptus trees, offering spectacular views of the city skyline and Swan River.
  • Free Guided Walks: The Kings Park Volunteer Guides run daily free walks. This is an amazing resource, offering expert insights into the park’s history, flora, and fauna. Check the schedule online before you go.

Explore Other Urban Oases

While Kings Park is the star, don’t overlook Perth’s other green spaces. Hyde Park, with its beautiful lakes and massive Moreton Bay fig trees, is a perfect spot for a quiet afternoon. Bold Park offers a more rugged, bushland-in-the-city experience with extensive walking trails and panoramic coastal views.

Snorkeling and Wildlife Spotting for Less

Experiencing Western Australia’s incredible marine life doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With your own gear and a bit of planning, you can have world-class underwater adventures for free.

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Your DIY Snorkel Safari

Investing in a decent mask and snorkel set is one of the best Cheap things to do in Perth tips we can offer. It pays for itself after just one use compared to rental costs.

  • Mettams Pool: As mentioned, this is the go-to spot for beginners. The calm, clear water is teeming with fish.
  • Omeo Wreck, Coogee: This purpose-sunk shipwreck is now an artificial reef and a fantastic, easily accessible snorkel and dive trail. It’s just 25 meters from the shore, making it perfect for a self-guided tour.
  • Burns Beach: The reef here runs parallel to the shore, creating a protected lagoon that’s great for spotting a variety of marine life on calm days.

Quokkas on a Budget?

Rottnest Island is famous for its friendly quokkas, but the ferry can be pricey. To cut costs, look for “Telethon Tuesdays” or other mid-week deals, which often offer significantly cheaper fares. Pack your own food and water, and rent a bike on the mainland (or bring your own if possible) to save even more.

Mastering Frugal Exploration: Practical Tips and Best Practices

Knowing how to Cheap things to do in Perth involves more than just finding free activities. It’s about adopting a smart and resourceful mindset. These are some of the best practices for any budget-conscious adventurer.

Use Public Transport

Perth’s Transperth system of trains, buses, and ferries is efficient and affordable. Get a SmartRider card upon arrival. It offers discounted fares compared to cash tickets, and there’s a daily cap, meaning you can take unlimited journeys for a fixed low price after you hit the limit.

Pack Your Own Food and Water

This is a core principle for any outdoor enthusiast. Eating out for every meal adds up quickly. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your campsite or accommodation. Pack lunches and snacks for your day trips in a small cooler or insulated bag.

Always carry a reusable water bottle. There are plenty of public water fountains to refill it, especially in major parks and along coastal paths. This is a key part of any eco-friendly Cheap things to do in Perth strategy.

Visit Local Markets

Instead of supermarkets, head to local farmers’ markets for fresh produce. Places like the Subi Farmers Market or the Kalamunda Farmers Market offer great value and a chance to support local growers. It’s a great way to stock up your RV pantry or grab ingredients for a picnic.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap things to do in Perth

What is the absolute best free thing to do in Perth?

Hands down, spending a day at Kings Park. You can take a guided walk, experience the treetop bridge, explore the Botanic Garden, and enjoy panoramic city views, all without spending a cent. It offers a full day of diverse, world-class experiences.

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How can I get around Perth cheaply?

The most cost-effective way is by using the Transperth public transport system with a SmartRider card. For areas outside the network, like the Perth Hills, having your own vehicle is best. If you’re traveling with others, splitting the cost of fuel makes it very affordable.

Are there any free camping spots near Perth?

True free camping (or wild camping) is very restricted close to Perth. However, there are numerous low-cost campgrounds in the national parks and state forests in the Perth Hills and further afield. Use apps like WikiCamps to find Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW) sites, which often have basic facilities for a very small nightly fee.

When is the best time to visit Perth for cheap outdoor activities?

The shoulder seasons—spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May)—are ideal. The weather is pleasant for hiking and swimming, and you’ll avoid the peak summer crowds and prices. Spring is especially beautiful, with the famous Western Australian wildflowers in full bloom.

Exploring Perth on a budget is not about sacrifice; it’s about discovery. It pushes you to seek out the local trails, the quiet beaches, and the simple pleasures of a sunset picnic. By focusing on the incredible natural assets the city has to offer, you’ll find that the most memorable experiences are often the ones that cost nothing at all.

So pack your daypack, fill up your water bottle, and get ready to explore. The best of Perth is waiting for you. Stay safe, travel smart, and enjoy the adventure!

Eric James
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