Hillarys Boat Harbour Tours

Hillarys Boat Harbour is one of the most popular entertainment spots on Perth’s coastline. It’s home to a sheltered beach, a children’s playground, shops of all kinds, and dozens of restaurants. The harbor was named after a pioneer resident, Bertram John Hillary, who built a boat shed here in the 1930s. The waterfront area has grown to become a major tourist destination.

Walk along the breakwaters and boardwalks to admire the yachts and sail boats or just gaze out across the Indian Ocean. Have a chat with the local fishermen or book one of the many exhilarating activities that leave the harbor daily. Join a whale-watching trip, from September through December, or charter a deep-sea fishing boat. If you are a scuba diver, book a guided dive to get up-close to colorful fish and coral. You can even join a tour on a Harley-Davidson trike.

Cool off with a dip at the beach or sit back under the shade of a palm tree. Kids will want to spend an hour or two at the Great Escape amusement park. They can ride water slides and bounce on giant trampolines. There’s also a rock-climbing wall, a high-ropes course and mini golf for the whole family. Find educational activities about local marine life at the Naturaliste Marine Discovery Centre.

Grab a bite to eat at a restaurant along Sorrento Quay. Dining options range from gourmet seafood to classics like burgers and steaks. Explore the boutiques along the quay to pick up gourmet chocolates, local art, Western Australian pearls or designer clothing. Enjoy a Italian-style coffee or ice cream while you watch the sun set over the ocean.

Hillarys Boat Harbour is in the northern suburb of Hillarys, about 13.5 miles (22 kilometers) from central Perth. Driving there is the easiest option and there are plenty of free parking spots available. Public transport services run to and from Perth and Fremantle throughout the day. Shops, restaurants and other attractions keep varied hours, so check the respective websites for details.