Travel Perth's Suburbs

As great as Perth City is, there's nothing like being right by the sea, especially when the big wet thing happens to be as impressive as the almighty Indian Ocean. The call of the water brings many backpackers to the beachside suburbs, either to stay or to visit for the day and to watch the sun go down with a cool beer in the local pubs.

The perfect base for any sun and sea loving traveller with a number of hostels and hotels that cater for backpackers, Scarborough has loads of cheap eats, weekend markets and easy access to the city (on Transperth bus #400).

Scarborough is a casual beachside community with its own laid-back identity and sunsets which will blow your mind every evening. With one of the best white-sand surf beaches in Perth it's the ideal Indian Ocean destination to relax and meet the beach lovin' locals. The sand is patrolled by surf lifesavers and all amenities, including boogie and surf board hire, are on hand. You can swim, surf, fish, babe-watch, skate, cycle, windsurf, kite-surf, shop, dine, travel, study, go night clubbing, get fit and explore here, Scarborough has everything in one place. Other beaches within walking distance include Brighton and Floreat Beach to the south, and Trigg Beach, just 1.4km to the north, with its island and rock pools.

Water conditions are usually best in the morning. Even sunny winter days can be calm and beautiful and this is when you'll find the best surf in Perth. If you're into windsurfing you'll be thrilled by the speed and stunt-capacity of Perth's marine windsurfing centre in the afternoons, when the famous sea breeze gets blowing, and Kite-surfing is also becoming increasingly popular.
Although ‘Scabs', as the locals call it, has clubs and bars where dress standards do apply, it is known for its casual atmosphere so ‘dagging around' in thongs (flip-flops) and sarongs is quite OK.

With all that, why live in the city when you can bunk by the beach?

Subiaco

Dedicated followers of fashion should check out Subiaco's super shopping, where funky local designers can be found alongside more established labels. Subi's Theatre Centre and gardens are next to the local library, on the corner of Rokeby and Bagot Roads, and are worth a look for the magical gecko mosaic sculpture.

The Pavilion Markets and nearby Station Street Market, on the other side of the railway station, offer a more relaxed approach to weekend shopping and are a wicked weekend option for lunchtime cruising. Sporty types should duck into the Nike seconds store nearby for bargains, and don't forget to take in a game of Aussie Rules Football at the Subiaco Oval.

Claremont

Claremont's Bayview Terrace, directly opposite the train station, and the surrounding streets is Perth's upmarket fashion Mecca.

Cottesloe

One of Perth's most popular beaches, Cottesloe is a playground for the rich and beautiful, but all are welcome. Cott's beach is nicely sheltered, with shady Norfolk pine trees, cafes, pubs, cycle paths and picnic/BBQ facilities. There is an artificial reef at Cables Station, guaranteeing surfers a wave even when Mother Nature isn't in the mood.

Leederville

With its blend of cafe's and funky fashion Leederville has a slightly alternative feel and is a great coffee quaffing, people-watching hangout. Leederville is close to the city and easy to get to on the Perth - Joondalup line.

Mount Lawley

Just a skip up Beaufort Street from Northbridge is the shopping, cafe and restaurant rich precinct of Mount Lawley. The area holds examples of 1900 to 1950s architecture such as the Astor Theatre. Here are a number of delicatessens, grocers, small local parks and a variety of casual and cafe style dining establishments - as well as pubs. Many savvy students and backpackers choose to rent units or houses in this area as it is close to Perth and not expensive.

Swan Valley

Drive just 20 minutes north east of Perth city along Great Eastern Highway, and you'll find yourself in the picturesque Swan Valley - Western Australia's oldest wine growing region.

Make Guildford the first stop with its enchanting antique furniture stores. Then take a leisurely stroll through town for a look at some of Western Australia's oldest buildings - much of the original town plan is still intact and many fine civic, commercial and private buildings dating from the 1840s can still be seen.

For those keen on sampling local wines, boutique beers and gourmet food, daytrip bus tours are available from the city and there are public bus connections throughout the region. You can hire a vehicle from Perth and explore the Swan Valley at your own pace, or take one the wine cruises from the centre of Perth along the Swan River. See www.swanvalley.com.au