Now back to those West coast beaches. If you love to surf, then Leighton or Swanbourne beaches are your best bet, or if you prefer a quiet dip in calm seas, then Port Beach is a perfect option.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite with an early morning swim, head to North Street Store in Cottesloe for one of their legendary cinnamon scrolls and coffee. North Street Store is easy to find; the queue will be snaking around the block - but don’t be put it off - it’s worth the wait. northstreetstore.com.au
After breakfast it’s time for a spot of shopping; so head to Karrinyup Shopping Centre to check out its fancy new Fashion Loop. Recently reimagined, this fashion extension to the centre features all new stores and makes it one of WA’s biggest shopping malls. karrinyupcentre.com.au
As you’re already in the car and its near lunchtime, take the five-minute drive to Trigg Beach’s Island Market cafe for a sumptuous lunch.
This Instagram worthy café on the beach is not only full of photographable nooks; the food is downright delicious; think barbecued octopus, local fish and calamari with the Mediterranean inspired sides and a super relaxed vibe. You’ll feel ready to take on the rest of the day after a couple of hours here. islandmarkettrigg.com
Once you’ve refuelled, head back to your apartment hotel, freshen up (leave the car behind) and head into the city for a stroll. Although you can drive into the city and there’s free City of Perth parking available, best to catch a bus or train instead. It takes the stress out of heading into the city and will leave you free to enjoy another relaxed wine if you so desire.
One of the best new openings in some time is The Royal Hotel, part of the Raine Square redevelopment. Local publican John Parker has lovingly restored this gorgeous old dame.
The Royal opened in mid November, and already its upstairs balcony overlooking Yagan Square and the streets below has become one of the top people-watching spots in the city. Add to that a thoughtful colonial renovation and a great beer and wine list, and you’ve got yourself the perfect Perth afternoon.
Take a walk through the city to Elizabeth Quay and indulge in handmade heaven from Gusto Gelato gustogelato.com.au - owner Sean Lee makes fresh gelato every day and learnt his craft from the masters in Italy.
And while you’re enjoying a gelato, you might want to indulge your inner child (or your real children if you happen to have them with you) with a twirl around Elizabeth Quay’s beautifully restored Venetian Carousel.
After you’ve had your fill of the city, the best place to enjoy one of those sunsets the west does best is the iconic Cottesloe Beach.
It’s a Cott institution to grab yourself some fish & chips from Amber Jacks on the beach then roll out a blanket to secure your spot and watch the sun go down. amberjacks.com.au
If you’ve had enough of sunsets and beaches, there’s also a neighbourhood pizza restaurant in Wembley that is 100 per cent worthy of your attention. A local Italian family runs Monstarella, and their handmade woodfired pizzas are delicious. It’s BYO, you can sit outside, and the service is on point. monsterella.com.au
A laid back city with beaches, bars and some seriously good food and wine; after a weekend spent unplugged in Australia’s wild west, you’ll be back for more.