Sun, adventure, an awesome natural environment and friendly people – it’s what you’ll find on a holiday to Western Australia whatever time of year you visit.

Dive with the world’s largest fish - the whale shark, snorkel with manta rays, swim with wild dolphins, walk amongst the tree tops of ancient trees, sleep under a canopy of stars in the desert, or explore the beehive-like formations of the Bungle Bungles with the help of an Aboriginal guide.

Western Australia truly is an authentic Australian experience.

A climate to suit all occasions

The variety of landscapes and climates in Western Australia means there is always plenty of sunshine, making it a perfect year-round destination.

It is a land blessed with spectacular diversity where the deep reds of ancient interior rock formations contrast with the sparkling blue of the Indian and Southern Oceans and the lush greenery of the stunning southern regions.

Western Australia is famous for its long days of sunshine, spotless blue skies and brilliant beaches.

Western Australia’s many distinct regions

The capital of Western Australia, Perth, is Australia’s western gateway.

Perth offers an easy-going lifestyle – the beautiful Swan River and inner-city parks like Kings Park add to the relaxed, natural feel.

There is much to see and do in this part of the State, from swimming in crystal clear ocean waters to enjoying a sunny afternoon sipping a cold beer at an open-air pub.

From the city, head to the South West for world class wineries, luxury accommodation and forests of tall trees. These taper off to a ribbon of coastal hinterlands of sheltered bays and rivers, often lined with massive granite boulders and stunning outlooks. Here, life is simple and genuine, offering a taste of rural Australian living along with relaxing country retreats and secluded chalets.

The Golden Outback's spectacular outback and goldfields are the place for historic townships, brilliant, starry night skies, and wide open spaces with spinifex and red earth as far as the eye can see. Here too, are the beaches of the Southern Ocean. These seas can be wild one day and brilliant blue calm the next – they’re also home to humpback whales and their calves.

Awesome marine life, endless white sand beaches and warm, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean characterise the state’s far north. Sunshine, cooling sea breezes and the outdoor activities of the Coral Coast make it a relaxing and friendly destination.

If it’s an Aussie frontier adventure you’re after head further north to the North West. Here you’ll find rugged ancient landforms, remnant rainforest, deep red gorges, vast cattle stations and pioneering personalities, ancient Aboriginal culture and unique quality accommodation.

The sheer size of Western Australia beckons visitors back time and again to explore the huge number and range of holiday possibilities.

Some of Australia's best beaches, plenty of nightlife, bustling markets, inner city parks, outdoor dining and amazing marine adventures.

Perth sits beside the widest stretch of the meandering Swan River. Locals enjoy a relaxed outdoors lifestyle, as does the neighbouring port city of Fremantle, at the mouth of the Swan.

Here you’ll find some of the country’s best beaches, plenty of nightlife, bustling markets, inner city parks, outdoor dining and amazing marine adventures.

Just add water

The line-up of water-based fun includes boating, fishing and all dialogues of surfing.

Fremantle’s majestic historic architecture takes you back in time, while its marine heritage draws you to the ocean and a short ferry ride to Rottnest Island. Locals head over to “Rotto” to be soothed into a state of total relaxation among sheltered bays and stunningly clear crystal waters.

Endless beaches stretch from Perth’s famous Cottesloe Beach up the coast towards Lancelin – Western Australia’s windsurfing and sandboarding mecca.

For an awesome view of the Swan River, the city and the Darling escarpment, head to Kings Park and the Federation Walkway, where you can also wander among the treetops.

Or drive south to Rockingham and Mandurah for dolphins, foreshore picnicking and excellent crabbing. The intricate inland waterways lacing this area are perfect for anyone who loves to mess about on the river.

Into the hills and valleys

Inland lies the sweeping Swan Valley – a showcase for local produce, including premium wineries and art galleries. A great time to visit is during the annual Spring in the Valley festival, but you’ll find plenty to see and do at any time of the year.

Travel further east and you’re into the forested Darling Range, the banks of the Avon Valley and the historic towns of York and Toodyay – packed with galleries, craft shops, cafes and heritage museums. For something unique visit New Norcia, Australia’s only monastic town.

Within day trip distance of Perth, this area is a tranquil contrast to city life, and you’ll want to stay longer. Many choose a farmstay for the true rural experience.

Adventurers won’t be disappointed either, as rafting on the Avon River, hot air ballooning, sky-diving and abseiling are all on offer.

The bushwalks and cycle trails alone will keep you busy for a full weekend or longer. So remember to pack your comfortable walking shoes, and prepare to fall in love with Western Australia’s beautiful hills district.