Perth City Guide

Perth's food scene highlights fresh seafood, local produce, and diverse international influences. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available.

Perth has a growing and diverse nightlife scene, with a range of bars, pubs, clubs, and live music venues, particularly concentrated in the CBD, Northbridge, and Subiaco.

Perth has a strong and evolving coffee culture with numerous third-wave coffee shops and specialty roasters. Barista competitions and a preference for quality coffee drinks like the flat white are common.

Tipping is not customary or expected in Australia. If exceptional service is received, a small tip is appreciated but entirely optional.

SIM cards can be purchased at Perth Airport, telco stores (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone) in shopping centers, and even some supermarkets and convenience stores. eSIMs are widely available from major providers like Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone.

Perth is known for being very clean with well-maintained public spaces. Waste collection and recycling services are efficient, and sanitation issues are rare.

Perth has limited 24/7 availability. Some pharmacies and convenience stores offer extended hours, and late-night food options are available in entertainment zones.

Major supermarkets like Woolworths and Coles offer a wide range of international products, and there are also specialty Asian, European, and Middle Eastern grocery stores.

Card payments are widely accepted across Perth, including credit and debit cards, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Cash is rarely needed for daily transactions.

ATMs are readily available at banks, shopping centers, and convenience stores. Major banks like Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, NAB, and ANZ have extensive ATM networks. Fees for using ATMs from different banks can apply, typically around AUD $2-3.

Perth offers a range of public and private schools. Notable international schools include the International School of Western Australia (ISWA) and Hale School.

Perth's digital nomad community is growing with regular meetups, networking events, and nomad-friendly cafes. However, co-living spaces are not as prevalent as in other hubs.

Perth has extensive green spaces, notably Kings Park and the Swan River foreshore, offering lush parks and shaded paths ideal for walking and running.

Perth is excellent for running with numerous scenic and safe routes along the Swan River, in Kings Park, and along coastal paths. Running groups and events are common.

Perth has a wide variety of gyms, from large chain fitness centers to smaller boutique studios.

Tennis courts are widely available at public parks and clubs. Coaching and equipment rental are commonly offered. Padel courts are also emerging.

Padel is growing in Perth with courts available in some clubs. It's a more recent addition to the local sports scene, comparable to tennis.

Perth has a thriving yoga scene with numerous studios offering a wide variety of classes and styles. Most instructors are English-speaking.

Perth has a diverse martial arts scene with a wide array of disciplines and active communities. Traditional and modern styles are available, with English-speaking instructors offering drop-in trials.

There are no ski resorts near Perth. Western Australia does not have a climate suitable for natural snowfall or ski resorts.

Perth's Swan River and coastal areas offer excellent opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing. Rentals and guided tours are available throughout the city.

Perth has several popular surfing spots along its coastline. Spots like Cottesloe and Leighton Beach are suitable for beginners, while Trigg and Scarborough can offer more challenging waves. Autumn and winter often bring more consistent swells.

Perth offers dive and snorkel sites including shipwrecks and reefs, with abundant marine life and generally good visibility, especially around Rottnest Island. Diving is possible year-round, with warmer months offering better conditions.

All hospitals and clinics in Perth have English-speaking staff. Major public hospitals include Royal Perth Hospital and Fiona Stanley Hospital.

Tap water in Perth is safe to drink and meets high Australian drinking water quality standards.

Perth is family-friendly with numerous playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, and attractions like Perth Zoo and Kings Park.

Perth is generally accepting and inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community with friendly venues and events like PrideFEST. Legal protections are strong, though isolated discrimination incidents can occur.

Perth is generally pet-friendly with plenty of parks, pet-friendly amenities, and quality veterinary services available. Pet import requirements are strict.