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Top things to do
The Optus Stadium Tour
Explore behind the scenes of one of Australia’s most impressive stadiums with city and river views.
- What it is: A guided behind‑the‑scenes tour of one of Australia’s largest and most beautiful stadiums, including the locker rooms, rooftop walkways and sweeping views of the river and city skyline.
- Best for: Sports fans, travellers curious about stadium architecture, and anyone who enjoys panoramic city & river views.
- Best time to visit: Daytime tours; plan for about 90 minutes to explore comfortably.
- Insider tip: Opt for the rooftop “Halo” tour. You get a 10‑meter elevated walkway for dramatic skyline and river views.
Recommended experience
Optus Stadium Tour Tickets
Rottnest Island day trip
Escape the city for a day of beaches, wildlife, and island adventures.
- What it is: A quick ferry ride from Perth to a beautiful island paradise that's ideal for a relaxing day trip with beaches, wildlife, and coastal scenery.
- Best for: Beach‑lovers, nature fans, and those wanting a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
- Best time to visit: Morning departure to maximise daylight on the island usually makes for a full, enriching day.
- Insider tip: Rent a bike or e-bike on the ferry before you arrive because rentals on the island often sell out by midday, especially on weekends.
Recommended experience
Rottnest Island Day Trip Tickets
Pinnacles Desert tour
Discover the otherworldly limestone formations of the Pinnacles Desert.
- What it is: A guided tour to the stunning Pinnacles Desert, where you’ll see unique limestone formations rising from golden sands in a surreal desertscape.
- Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and travellers interested in landscapes quite different from typical city or beach trips.
- Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon; the light at those times accentuates the dramatic shapes of the Pinnacles.
- Insider tip: Combine the tour with a sunset or stargazing segment if available. The remote location offers minimal light pollution and spectacular night skies.
Recommended experience
Pinnacles Desert Tour Tickets
Margaret River Lighthouse tours
Explore dramatic coastline views and maritime history.
- What it is: A guided tour of one of Margaret River’s famous lighthouses, offering panoramic ocean lookouts.
- Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and anyone wanting iconic coastal views.
- Best time to visit: Late morning or early afternoon for the clearest visibility.
- Insider tip: For the best photos, stand on the south-facing balcony. It offers the clearest ocean views and the best chance of spotting whales (June - Nov).
Recommended experience
Margaret River Lighthouse Tours
Your perfect New Year's itinerary
Day 1: New Year’s Eve (December 31)
Morning
- Meal: Kickstart your day with a gourmet breakfast at La Veen Coffee in the heart of the city.
- Activity: Wander through Kings Park and Botanic Garden and soak in sweeping city and river views, perfect for photos and fresh morning air.
Afternoon
- Meal: Enjoy a riverside lunch at The Island Brew House, with sparkling water views.
- Activity: Dive into the festive buzz at Elizabeth Quay with live music, interactive activities, and food trucks offering tasty treats.
Evening
- Meal: Indulge in a dinner cruise along the Swan River with live entertainment and stunning skyline views.
- Activity: Ring in the New Year from a rooftop bar like The Aviary, or catch the spectacular midnight fireworks at Elizabeth Quay or South Perth Foreshore.
Day 2: New Year’s Day (January 1)
Morning
- Meal: Brunch at Mary Street Bakery in Highgate, perfect for a slow, indulgent start.
- Activity: Stroll along the Swan River or enjoy close encounters with wildlife at Perth Zoo for a calm, rejuvenating morning.
Afternoon
- Meal: Snack your way through local markets or grab bites at city cafés.
- Activity: Discover hidden gems at art galleries or soak up sun and surf at Cottesloe Beach, a perfect way to unwind.
Evening
- Meal: Treat yourself to a riverside dinner in East Perth or casual eats in the vibrant Northbridge precinct.
- Activity: End your New Year’s getaway with a peaceful sunset walk along the foreshore, reflecting on the celebrations.
Best New Year’s Eve parties in Perth
Red Sky New Year's Eve
Premium waterfront party with multiple stages, house/electronic/Top 40 DJs, spectacular fireworks views until 3am.
- Tickets: AU$150 - AU$250
- Where: Elizabeth Quay waterfront
- Best for: 25-40 year-olds wanting sophisticated party vibes
- Dress code: Smart-casual
- Restrictions: Drinks purchased separately; 18+
Northbridge New Year's Eve Block Party
Open-air cultural precinct party across multiple venues with alternative, indie, and hip-hop music.
- Tickets: AU$50 - AU$80 (venue-specific) or free street access
- Where: Northbridge cultural precinct
- Best for: 20-35 year-olds seeking an edgy, authentic Perth experience
- Dress code: Casual
- Restrictions: 18+ at licensed venues
Cottesloe Beach Hotel's Sunset Sessions NYE
Laid-back beachfront celebration with live Aussie rock bands, beer garden flowing onto sand, ocean views.
- Tickets: AU$120 - AU$180
- Where: Cottesloe Beach, western suburbs
- Best for: 25-45 year-olds wanting relaxed coastal vibes
- Dress code: Resort-casual
- Restrictions: Book early (very popular with locals); seafood buffet included
QT Perth Rooftop Revelry
Exclusive boutique hotel rooftop with craft cocktails, deep house/nu-disco DJ, and unobstructed city views.
- Tickets: AU$250 - AU$350
- Where: Perth CBD, Murray Street area
- Best for: Stylish 28-45 crowd seeking a curated premium experience
- Dress code: Smart-casual to cocktail attire
- Restrictions: Limited capacity (200 people); premium drink packages available
Getting around Perth on New Year's Eve
Public transport (Most recommended)
Rideshare & taxis
Walking
Driving (Not recommended)
E-scooters & bikes
Transperth runs FREE services until 3am on NYE across trains, buses, and ferries.
- Trains: Most reliable option; runs every 15-20 minutes
- Buses: Free, but can get stuck in traffic near the city center
- Ferries: Scenic option for Elizabeth Quay or South Perth routes
Pro tip: Avoid the midnight rush (12am–1am) – services are absolutely packed. Leave early or wait until 1:30am.
Expect surge pricing 3-5x normal rates from 10pm onwards.
- Uber/Didi: AU$25 trip becomes AU$80-AU$125 after midnight
- Taxis: Slightly cheaper but hard to find; book ahead via 13CABS app
- Wait times: 30-60 minutes during peak times (11pm-1am)
Pro tip: Walk 10-15 minutes away from major venues to avoid surge zones and find rides faster.
Perth CBD is compact – most venues are 15-25 minutes walk from each other.
- Elizabeth Quay ↔ Northbridge: 20 mins
- CBD ↔ Kings Park: 25 mins (uphill)
- Safe, well-lit paths along the waterfront
Pro tip: Download offline maps before midnight when networks crash.
- Road closures around Elizabeth Quay, Northbridge, from 6pm
- Parking: AU$20 - AU$40, fills by 7pm at major spots
- Police: Heavy drink-driving checks until 4am
- Traffic: Gridlocked 11pm-2am in the city center
Better option: Park at outer train stations (free parking) and catch free trains in.
- Neuron/Beam scooters are available but geofenced (disabled) in party zones after 9pm.
Bike paths are busy but usable along the Swan River.
Know before you go
- Weather: New Year’s Eve falls in peak summer, around 28–35°C. Carry sunscreen, a hat, and light clothing.
- Dress code: Keep it casual and breathable; comfy shoes are ideal for walking between riverside spots.
- Crowds: Elizabeth Quay and foreshore areas fill up fast for fireworks, so it is best to arrive early.
- Budget: Set aside costs for meals, drinks, and any NYE events; book cruises and rooftop parties in advance.
Frequently asked questions about spending the New Year in Perth
Is the New Year a good time to visit Perth?
Yes, the New Year is one of the most exciting times to visit Perth, with citywide celebrations, fireworks, and summer weather.
What is the weather like at New Year in Perth?
Expect warm, dry evenings with temperatures around 65–85°F (18–29°C). It’s ideal for outdoor events and late-night festivities.
Are attractions and restaurants open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day?
Most attractions and restaurants remain open on New Year’s Eve, though some may close early on New Year’s Day. It’s best to check ahead and make reservations.
Where are the best places to watch the fireworks in Perth?
Elizabeth Quay, South Perth Foreshore, and Kings Park offer some of the best views of the midnight fireworks.
Are there family-friendly New Year’s events in Perth?
Yes, venues like Perth Zoo and Elizabeth Quay host family-friendly events with early fireworks and entertainment for kids.
Do I need to buy tickets for New Year’s Eve events?
Many public events are free, but cruises, rooftop parties, and some special events require advance tickets.
Is public transport available on New Year’s Eve in Perth?
Public transport runs late on New Year’s Eve, with extra services to help people get home safely after midnight.
Can I swim at Perth’s beaches on New Year’s Day?
Yes, Perth’s beaches are open and popular for swimming and relaxing on New Year’s Day.
Are there any unique New Year’s traditions in Perth?
Locals often gather for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor celebrations, making the most of the summer weather.
What should I pack for the New Year in Perth?
Pack light summer clothing, sunscreen, and a hat for daytime, plus a light jacket for cooler evenings.