Time your visit to coincide with the arrival of the humpback whales to Perth’s waters between September and December and you’ll get to see these graceful giants making their annual migration to their breeding grounds in the far north west. Head to Hillary’s Boat Harbour – just a 25-minute drive north of Perth on the Mitchell Freeway – and hop on a half-day whale watching tour for your first marine life encounter. Be sure to book in advance. Step off the boat and onto the harbour for lunch at one of myriad eateries before stepping into AQWA – the Aquarium of Western Australia. In just one afternoon, you’ll explore the entire length of the State’s 12,000-kilometre coastline, from Great Southern sea dragons to sharks, manta rays, turtles and clownfish of the tropical north. Stay by the sea for an evening drink and a bite to eat. Choose from the many oceanfront restaurants dotted along the West Coast Drive and Highway, from Sorrento to Cottesloe Beach, before returning to Perth. Overnight in Perth.