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4D3N In Perth: Your Itinerary For The Perfect Muslim-Friendly Long Weekend Getaway

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Nasreen Nasir •  Apr 03, 2019

Looking for an escape over the Good Friday or Vesak Day long weekends full of sunny days, lovely beaches, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture? That’s what you can expect in Australia’s sunniest cities - Perth! ?

Credit: Giphy

If you’re planning a trip there soon and not looking to travel too far from the CBD, we’ve got the perfect 4D3N itinerary just for you and your family to explore Perth and its offerings.

Prior to your arrival in Australia

Pre-trip essentials

Before you plan your trip, don’t forget to apply for a visa (AUD20). The processing time is pretty fast as you’ll most likely get the confirmation email within a few days. The visa, or known as an ETA, is valid for 3 months during a 12-month period.

It’s also important to note that Australia is very particular about what you can and cannot bring including food so it’s best to check the list of prohibited items and food here to ensure that you can pass customs.

Getting to the city centre from Perth International Airport

The easiest way to get to the city centre from Perth International Airport is by taxi or bus which will take you about 20 minutes. When in CBD, you can plan your journey on Transperth where you can check the timetable for all of the transportation services in Perth.

Transport in Perth

Those who are staying in Central Perth can travel around for free! CAT, or Central Area Transit Buses is a free bus service within the CBD, Fremantle and Joondalup. All you need to do is start and finish your journey within the free zone! Click here to view the map.

Day 1

Explore Perth CBD and check out some Instagram-worthy spots

Credit: @_endless_adventure on Instagram

  • Kickstart your day right in the heart of Perth - the CBD! And what better way to explore the nooks and crannies of this sunny city than by walking?
  • While you’re at it, get your phones ready because you’ll come across plenty of Instagram-worthy spots along the way!
  • Start with the iconic Wolf Lane ? It may look unassuming, but once you enter the hidden alleyway, you’ll discover a magical realm with unique urban street art and abstract paintings colouring every wall!

  • Our favourite spot is the large-scale colourful mural painted by American artist, Maya Hayuk!
  • After you’re done, don’t forget to check other street art along the area.

Credit: @adelaeva on Instagram

  • Time to continue your journey to Elizabeth Quay! This vibrant place is the hub of it all! Here you’ll find food, jogging and cycling trails, mosaic walls, monuments and of course, Instagram-worthy spots!
  • Head over to the Spanda - a sculpture that is in the form of the ripple-wave pattern on the pavement and elliptical orbits from the galaxies.

Credit: @instaafran on Instagram

  • If you didn’t already know, Elizabeth Quay is full of photo opportunities. Besides the Spanda, add the Carousel to your photo bucket list too!
  • The traditional handcrafted Venetian carousel is sure to delight young Instagrammers who are into vibrant colours and chirpy music.

Credit: @maidenna on Instagram

  • Once you’re done taking in the sights and sounds of Elizabeth Quay, there lies another picture-perfect spot right in the CBD - the newly built Yagan Square!
  • Just 10 minutes away from Elizabeth Quay by foot, this community place houses the PERTH sign that’s perfect for your Instagram feed.
  • While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the market hall and chill at the garden ?

Have a break and enjoy a hearty meal at halal-certified Insan’s Cafe

Credit: @malina__siam on Instagram

  • Hungry already? Lucky for you, the CBD has a few halal options and we recommend checking out the popular Insan’s Cafe at Murray St.
  • Anyone who’s from Malaysia will definitely fall in love with the cafe as it reminds you of home ;) Dine to your heart’s content with their rice dishes like Nasi Goreng Kampung and Nasi Lemak!

Continue your journey with the perfect view of Perth skyline at Kings Park & Botanic Garden

  • End your day with only the best view you can get in the city - at King’s Park and Botanic Garden. Did you know that the park is bigger than NYC’s Central Park?
  • If you’re not up for a walk, Kings Park offers Segway Tours so you’ll get to glide along natural bush trails, open parklands, and stunning botanic garden over the skyline!
  • The 1 ½-hour ride costs AUD129 for Adults, $115 for Children and Senior Citizens and AUD414.80 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children.

Credit: D Coetzee on Flickr

  • If you prefer to walk, we recommend that you head over to the Lotterywest Federation Walkway to enjoy scenic views of the city skyline while you wait for the sun to set by the beautiful Swan River ;)
  • After you feast your eyes on the gorgeous sunset, it’s time to head back to the CBD and have dinner!

End your day at Australia’s favourite fast food chain

  • As most stores in Perth close as early as 5pm, it can be tough to find dinner but fret not as Lord Of The Fries closes pretty late!
  • Known as the go-to place for midnight meals, this fast-food chain caters to all kinds of dietary requirements such as halal, kosher and vegan!
  • If you’re looking to share, order the Halal Snack Pack - a fun snack comprising of doner kebab meat and chips.

Day 2

Start your day early and travel out of Perth

Credit: @flyingitchyfeet on Instagram

  • Escape the cosmopolitan Perth and travel a little further down south and explore the Margaret River region.
  • In just 2 hours total on the road, start your adventure at Busselton Jetty - one of the region’s most renowned landmarks. With a rich history spanning over 150 years, it’s also one of only five underwater observatories in the world, and the longest timber jetty in the Southern hemisphere!

Credit: @azzurra_eyebrowmania on Instagram

  • Don’t miss the opportunity to ride the electric Jetty Train out to sea and take a tour through the Underwater Observatory.
  • You’ll see an amazing display of colourful corals and over 300 species of marine life while you descend 8 metres beneath the water’s surface.

Visit the popular Margaret River Chocolate Factory and sample some free chocolates

Credit: Tourism Western Australia

  • Continue your journey to Margaret River Chocolate Factory for some gourmet chocolates. Dive headfirst into the delicious world of truffles, bars and cocoa-flavoured treats that are handcrafted to perfection and with love.
  • You can also join a tour and check out the process of chocolate making through the viewing windows.

Credit: @margaretriverchocolatefactory on Instagram

  • Pay attention to the various techniques for dipping and glazing to create different chocolates. You can even try some for free!
  • #HHWT Tip: Some products contain alcohol, so be sure to ask the staff first before you proceed with the tasting!

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  • If you’re up for some light bites (other than the chocolates), you can chill at their cafe and treat yourself to some salads and some scones to keep you full until dinner!
  • #HHWT Tip: The cafe is not halal-certified, however, they do have vegan options, therefore we recommend our readers to check with the staff before ordering.

Challenge yourself and join a cave tour at the family-friendly Mammoth Cave

Credit: @zammokta on Instagram

  • Ready for your next adventure? Your trip to Margaret River will not be complete without checking out the exotic caves in the region. The most easily accessible and family-friendly cave is the Mammoth Cave.
  • For the best experience inside the cave, join a self-guided tour and listen to its history and scientific accounts that will make your experience even worthwhile.

Credit: @akaruiandrea on Instagram

  • Be in awe of the limestone walls and be on the lookout for ancient fossils of long-extinct giant animals!
  • Your tour will end with a breezy walk down the boardwalk and through the mesmerising marri forest where you’ll be greeted by stunning displays of towering karri forest.

Stop by the Margaret River town and have some bites at Kappadokia Kebabs and Turkish Bakery

Credit: Kappadokia Kebabs & Turkish Bakery on Facebook

  • Before you head back to the CBD, stop by Margaret River town and have dinner at halal-certified Kappadokia Kebabs & Turkish Bakery!
  • From doner kebab meat to pizzas and even local dish like fish and chips, treat yourself a fulfilling meal after a long day of adventure.

Day 3

Take a half-day trip to Rottnest Island

  • The best way to get to this beautiful island is by boat! Hop on Rottnest Express, an experienced cruise that departs to Rottnest Island daily. The journey will take you around 35 minutes.

  • Do consider hiring a bike when you book your ferry tickets online as Rottnest Island is a car-free zone, so the only modes of transport available around the island include bicycle and Segway.
  • There are 4 types of bicycles that you can choose from - child and adult bikes. Parents with infants can enjoy the convenience of baby seats and trailers. But they’re very limited so it’s best to book as early as possible! For safety purposes, every rider will be provided with a helmet.

Credit: Rottnest Island, Western Australia on Facebook

  • For Segway, the one-hour tour costs $89 for Adults, $79 for Seniors and Children, $285.60 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children, whereas if you opt for a 1 and a-half hour adventure, it’ll cost $129 for Adults, $115 for Seniors and Children, and $414.80 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children! Click here for more info!

  • Once you get your transportation sorted, get ready to go on your first mission: finding Quokkas! Fun fact about Quokkas: they are the only marsupials that are native to the island and you can’t find them anywhere else but here.
  • Getting a #quokkaselfie with the world's happiest animals is a must but when you encounter one, it’s not advisable to touch or even feed them as there is a risk of being bitten or infecting them with diseases. So do be careful and refrain from close contact.

Credit: @thedanielsfamilyravels on Instagram

  • You can’t leave Rottnest Island without exploring its underwater world and the best way to do that is by snorkelling! ?
  • There are many snorkelling spots around the island including The Basin, Little Salmon Bay, Parakeet Bay, Parker Point, and Little Armstrong Bay. If you prefer somewhere closer to the jetty, we recommend the Basin.
  • You can choose to hire snorkel sets on the island at Rottnest Island Pedal & Flipper or you can book them online on Rottnest Express.

Credit: @thelane_rottnest on Instagram

  • Done with snorkelling? Head over to The Lane Cafe for some fresh juices, smoothies and acai bowls.
  • Although this eatery is not halal certified, they have some vegetarian options as well. We recommend the refreshing Acai Bowl.
  • Packed with a bunch of proteins and nutrients, it’s the perfect snack to have by the beach ? For coffee enthusiasts, you can also grab a cuppa here!

Credit: Rottnest Island, Western Australia on Facebook

  • Before you leave the island, don’t forget to drop by the Visitor Centre Gift Shop to bring home a range of locally designed souvenirs like books, hand-painted scarves and even baby outfits!
  • Or if you like smaller gifts, you can always get your hands on the tea towels or postcards with photos of the island ;)

Head back to Fremantle and have lunch at Cicerello’s

Credit: @cicerellos on Instagram

  • Located right by the harbour, treat yourself to some of the freshest seafood at the Muslim-friendly Cicerello’s! The locals often flock to this eatery for its scrumptious fish and chips.
  • Within 8 minutes walking distance from the Port of Fremantle, grab a table by the harbour and indulge in the grilled seafood and some sides for a hearty meal ?

Spend your afternoon in Fremantle and chill at the Esplanade Reserve

Credit: @lostdia on Instagram

  • Anyone who loves the outdoor will definitely love Esplanade Park! This parkland is a popular place for families and visitors to relax under the sun whilst enjoying a picnic.
  • Besides having a picnic, you can also ride the Tourist Wheel just around the corner!
  • For only AUD12 (Adult) and AUD10 (Children), get ready to be transported 40 metres high in fully enclosed gondolas and feast your eyes on the gorgeous views of Fremantle town and harbours.
  • For something a little extra special, you can opt for the private gondola for AUD60! Come between 7pm and 8pm to see the sun setting so beautifully by the harbour.
  • Kids can also have fun at the playground area with swings and a large climbing frame!

End your day at one of Perth’s popular beaches, Cottesloe Beach

Credit: Tourism Western Australia

  • With so many beaches around vast Western Australia, it’s easy for Cottesloe Beach to slip under the radar. If you come in March, you shouldn’t miss the interesting Sculpture by the Sea exhibition as it’s only available in March.
  • You can even snorkel with turtles, dugongs, manta rays and reef sharks as it’s a popular snorkelling spot. We recommend that you bring your own snorkel gear as you might not be able to hire one.
  • Alternatively, you can always walk around the beach and watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Day 4

Get up close and personal with penguins at Penguin Island

Credit: Tourism Western Australia

  • It’s your last day in Perth! Start your day early and head over to Rockingham to meet some penguins.
  • Located in the spectacular Shoalwater Islands Marine Park and just 45 minutes south of Perth is Penguin Island - an unspoilt nature reserve home to little penguins as well as dolphins, sea lions, stingrays, pelicans and ospreys!

Credit: @waparkswildlife on Instagram

  • The best way to get to the island is by ferry from Rockingham and it’s only 5 minutes away! There are a few tours you can choose from and tickets can be purchased here.
  • Once you arrive on the island, be sure to visit the Penguin Discovery Centre where you can see them in close range and learn about their lifestyle. Feeding times are at 10:30am, 12:30pm and 2:30pm so don’t miss out on that!
  • #HHWT Tip: The centre also has information panels and touch-tables to help you plan your day

Credit: @dina.yulita on Instagram

  • As there is no halal food within the vicinity, we advise our readers to pack some light bites and have a picnic on the shaded grass area amongst the trees. Parents can also let their kids explore the area at their leisure.
  • If time permits, explore the nature trails and boardwalks to get amazing views of the marine park.

Head back to Rockingham and have lunch at Rockingham Kebabs & Pizza

Credit: @kaiser_khairi on Instagram

  • Still hungry? No worries, as soon as you disembark from Rockingham Wild Encounters, take the bus at Penguin Rd Before Mersey Rd (Stop ID: 21267) and stop at Kent St Rockingham Post Office (Stop ID: 17218).
  • That’s where you’ll end up at Rockingham Kebabs & Pizza, a halal-certified Turkish restaurant!
  • Savour their various pizzas from Beef & Lamb, Meat Lovers, or the classic Margarita!

Return to Perth CBD and meet some furry friends at Perth Zoo

Credit: @perthzoo on Instagram

  • Can’t get enough of Australian wildlife? You can always visit Perth Zoo and meet exotic as well as rare animals like the Red Pandas or cute little otters!
  • For the more adventurous, spend half of the day there and get up-close by booking an Eye to Eye experience to grab a chance to feed a giraffe, meet a koala or touch the rough skin of a bearded dragon.

Credit: @themonkeybythesea on Instagram

  • If that’s not enough, walk over to the Zoorasic Park - an interactive park that features robotic displays of prehistoric creatures that roamed the same land we live today. You probably know what they are - dinosaurs! ?
  • Explore the park and learn about their extinction and what led to it. While you’re touring, enjoy the live sounds of lemurs, lions and other animals in the background ?

End your day with some Malaysian food at D’Ankasa

Credit: @fonfonpalida on Instagram

  • Last day in Perth calls for a good meal and there’s no better place to do that than D’Ankasa, right at Hay St.
  • Treat yourself to some satays, sauteed kangkung and even the classic roti canai ? You can also choose some side dishes from seafood and chicken dishes to complement your white rice.

Squeeze in some shopping before you leave

Credit: @penaberkala on Instagram

You can’t go on a long weekend getaway without getting some shopping done ? Watertown Brand Outlet and Direct Factory Outlet are 2 amazing places full of hundreds of shops and outlet stores for you to peruse. Whether you’re looking for kid’s apparel, houseware goods, or a new bag or pair of shoes - Perth has it all for you!

So there you have it - 4 fun-filled days in Australia’s largest region! Who knew you could do so much in just 4 days? ? With plenty of things to do, we hope this itinerary will convince you to plan a trip there!

This article was brought to you by Tourism Western Australia.