Top Perth Attractions That Don’t Cost the Earth

There are a number of Perth attractions which almost every tourist will do. The first is Kings Park, then Fremantle, then a bit of the Western Australian bushland, and then after that Rottnest Island and various other places. Rottnest Island is a large island located 12 km off Fremantle, which has been made into the ideal tourist destination. There are a huge variety of places to stay, and being an island, there is always somewhere nice to be.

Rottnest Island has a huge number of bays, all of which are good for surfing and snorkelling (some are better than others). The best thing about the island is that regardless of where the wind is coming from, you will always find a protected bay which is flat calm. Fishing is permitted in some of the bays, but not all of them. Many people like to take their boats over to Rottnest Island, but you want something that is over 16 feet and is reliable. On days where there is poor weather, you can get into serious trouble with a boat that isn’t reliable.

Another place very similar to Fremantle is the Rockingham Foreshore. This has plenty of fish and chip stores, a large number of other restaurants, several jetties and a fantastic view. People are always fishing off the beach in various areas, and there are other little entertainments too. I love walking up and down the Rockingham foreshore as the sun is setting. With masses of grass and plenty of families out enjoying the area, it’s a great place to be.

No list of affordable Perth attractions is complete without mentioning Kings Park, one of the world’s largest inner-city parks and completely free to enjoy. Its expansive walking trails, picnic spots and panoramic views of the Swan River and city skyline make it a favourite for both tourists and locals. The Botanic Garden is home to thousands of native plant species, offering a beautiful and easy way to experience Western Australia’s unique flora without leaving the city. Whether you’re wandering along the treetop walkway or simply relaxing under the shade of a giant gum tree, Kings Park is a must-visit that won’t cost a thing.

If you’re keen to experience the Western Australian bushland more closely, there are many accessible natural reserves around Perth where you can immerse yourself in local wildlife and rugged Aussie landscapes. Places like Bold Park and John Forrest National Park offer kilometres of walking trails through untouched bush, where you can spot kangaroos, colourful birdlife and wildflowers in season. These areas are perfect for travellers wanting a taste of WA’s natural beauty without needing to pay for guided tours or long drives into remote regions.

To balance your trip with a coastal vibe, you can also explore the nearby beaches and foreshore areas that make Perth such an easy-going destination. Spots like the Rockingham Foreshore provide beautiful ocean views, safe swimming areas and plenty of space to unwind—all for free. With grassy parks, jetties, sunset views and a lively atmosphere, they’re excellent low-budget alternatives to the more commercial tourist hotspots.