Western Australia had long been the final frontier on my Aussie travel bucket list – and after four unforgettable days in and around Fremantle, I can finally see why people say, “west is best.”

If you’re after a stunning long weekend packed with turquoise waters, cheeky wildlife, legendary breweries and a smorgasbord of great eats, this slice of paradise won’t disappoint.

I based myself in East Fremantle, staying in a cosy cottage about 20 minutes from the main shopping and dining strip.

Rottnest Island: Meeting the locals

After arriving late at night, my alarm was set early for day one of exploring. By 8am I was on board the SeaLink ferry and off to meet the locals on Rottnest Island.

And by locals, I mean the quokkas.

Cute, brazen, confident and curious, I first spotted the famous furry mammals crawling for crumbs at the Settlement (where the main shops and pubs are).

The island is famous for its pristine bays and beaches, perfect for summer swims and snorkelling – with an abundance of marine life calling Rotto home too.

Fur seals are another Rottnest attraction. Photo Tourism Western Australia.

Getting around Rottnest

Bikes, e‑scooters and segways are the best modes of transport for visitors, with plenty of hire options available. I went with the island institution Pedal and Flipper to get myself a set of wheels and snorkel gear, but the main ferries also rent bikes and snorkel sets.

I chose a regular pushbike and honestly found it a bit of a slog to get up the hills, especially with the strong island winds. If you’re chasing a more enjoyable ride, I’d recommend upgrading to an e‑bike.

Beaches and scenic highlights

After grabbing some snacks and water, I set off on my beach‑hopping adventure. The best beaches I found for a dip and snorkel were Little Salmon Bay and Little Parakeet Bay, defined by beautiful rock structures, stunning clear water and a plethora of underwater life.

Two other must‑visit spots include Cathedral Rocks, where a playful colony of fur seals usually hangs out, and the Wadjemup Lighthouse, situated at the island’s highest point.

The popular Fremantle Markets. Photo Tourism Western Australia.

Discovering Fremantle

Day two was earmarked for Fremantle exploration, setting off on foot to see where the coastal breeze took me. It wasn’t long before I stumbled across the bustling Fremantle Markets.

The colours, smells and sounds were almost overwhelming. From fresh fruits to authentic international delicacies, clothing and creative knick‑knacks, it was a sensory experience to behold – and one that shouldn’t be missed.

Fremantle Prison

For the history buffs, a visit to the old Fremantle Prison is a must. The prison operated for nearly 140 years before being decommissioned in 1991 and was the first WA building added to the World Heritage List in 2010.

There’s a range of daily tours on offer, each with different themes and durations. I chose the Behind Bars tour, which delved into the prison’s more recent history and included a sobering stop at the gallows.

Shopping and local finds

If retail therapy is more your thing, don’t worry – Freo is a vintage shopper’s dream. Quirky boutiques and retro outlets line the streets, promising treasures for those willing to hunt.

Food and drink highlights

All that exploring is enough to work up an appetite. Fortunately, Fremantle boasts an impressive selection of restaurants and breweries.

Bread and butter pudding at Bread in Common.

My favourites?

• Gage Roads Brewery – perfect for a sunset beer overlooking the harbour.
• Bread in Common – serving up an elevated bread and butter pudding.
• Eugene’s Pizzeria in East Freo – laid‑back, delicious and a top pick for casual dining.

Plan your WA adventure

To make your WA adventure a breeze, check out racq.com/travel-wa for the latest tours and package deals.

If Rottnest Island is on your itinerary, don’t forget to explore current member benefits, including discounts on ferry transfers and island tours with RACQ Member Benefits.