Western Australia is nature’s playground, no matter the season

16 February 2026

With vast horizons and a climate that promises endless adventure, Western Australia invites you to discover its distinctive charm throughout the seasons. Thanks to its title as Australia's sunniest state, there is always somewhere at its peak - whether you want wild encounters, lazy beach days, or great food and wine. Let us walk you through when and where to visit in Western Australia, so you can make the most of every journey.

Western Australia is nature’s playground, no matter the season

Perth and surrounds: gateway to year-round encounters

Best time to visit: September to April for Mediterranean weather and wildlife

Perth City / Boorloo blends city living with easy access to nature. Between September to April, you’ll enjoy warm days, colourful parks, and sparkling beaches. See western grey kangaroos grazing on Heirisson Island and dolphins leaping in the waters off Rockingham. Fremantle / Walyalup, affectionately known as ‘Freo’, is a lively port city rich with heritage, offering bustling markets and a thriving arts scene. Venture to the Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region, for cellar-door tastings and gourmet dining just a short drive from the city centre. Swan River / Derbarl Yerrigan remains a symbol of Perth life, with black swans gliding on its calm waters and plenty of riverside spots to relax, late spring also brings Kings Park and Botanic Garden / Kaarta Koomba alive with wildflowers. For a dose of nature’s wonder, a day trip north to the Pinnacles Desert reveals striking limestone formations in an otherworldly landscape.

Ningaloo Reef: giants of the deep and coral coastal magic

Best time to visit: March to October for ideal weather and abundant marine life

The clear waters and world's largest fringing reef of Ningaloo / Nyinggulu set the stage for some of Australia’s most memorable wildlife experiences. Swim alongside gentle whale sharks from March to August or snorkel with graceful manta rays, playful turtles, and wild dolphins throughout the year. Between July and October, humpback whales make their annual migration, offering unforgettable viewing and swimming encounters. On the way to the world heritage listed Ningaloo Reef, venture to the Shark Bay World Heritage area to see Australia’s iconic ‘big red’ kangaroo - towering at over six feet high, it’s the largest marsupial in the world.

Rottnest Island: the world’s happiest face and rare coastal wildlife

Best time to visit: September to April for idyllic encounters

If you love wildlife, Rottnest Island / Wadjemup is renowned as the home of the quokka, affectionately called the ‘world’s happiest animal’ and found nowhere else but Western Australia. Visitors flock here for the rare delight of spotting these curious marsupials, whose adorable nature makes them a favourite for wildlife lovers and photographers.

The island’s wildlife offering doesn’t end with quokkas. Dolphins are a common sight in the island’s sheltered bays, while sea lions and fur seals bask on the sun-warmed rocks.

The Kimberley: Australia’s greatest wilderness

Best time to visit: April to September during the dry season, when the region is most accessible

With open roads and rivers making it easy to explore its unspoilt landscapes, the dry season is truly the peak for visiting The Kimberley. This is the prime time to spot kangaroos and wallabies in the wild, enjoy remarkable birdwatching, and witness cascading waterfalls. Between July and September, watch as thousands of humpback whales migrate along the coast. The Staircase to the Moon, a striking natural phenomenon in Broome / Rubibi between April and October, rounds out the season with unforgettable moonlit views.

The South West: cool forests, rugged coasts, and nature’s grand stage

Best time to visit: September to April for mild weather and standout wildlife moments

While the South West is known for its towering forests and world-class wineries, it’s the wildlife encounters that truly set this region apart. Offshore at Bremer Bay, the Southern Ocean comes alive from January to March as orca pods gather just beyond the coastline, offering one of Australia’s most thrilling marine experiences. Later in the year, from August to October, southern right whales arrive to calve in the region’s sheltered bays, while November and December see the gentle giants of the sea again as blue whales pass through on their annual migration. On land, Esperance / Kepa Kurl delivers one of Western Australia’s most iconic scenes at Lucky Bay, where kangaroos are often found lounging on the white sands.

Ready to explore wild Western Australia in all its seasonal glory? Contact your personal Travel Counsellor today.

Why Mare Ayia Napa Is a dream for food lovers

02 July 2026

For many travellers, great food is what turns a good holiday into a memorable one, and Mare Ayia Napa has made dining one of the standout parts of the experience. Set on Cyprus' south-east coast, just minutes from Cape Greco National Forest Park and the lively centre of Ayia Napa, this beachfront resort pairs relaxed Mediterranean living with an impressive variety of places to eat and drink. With eight restaurants, five bars, international branded beverages, and an all-inclusive package that goes well beyond the expected, there's always something different to look forward to. Even your arrival feels considered, thanks to a stocked mini fridge waiting in your room.

Why California is the perfect USA holiday for every type of traveller

26 June 2026

California has a habit of exceeding expectations. Many people picture the Hollywood Sign, the Golden Gate Bridge, or palm-lined beaches, but there's far more to the Golden State than its famous landmarks. Stretching for almost 900 miles along the Pacific Coast, California is one of the most diverse destinations in the USA. Within a single trip, you can drive spectacular coastal roads, hike through ancient forests, sip wine in world-famous vineyards, visit iconic cities, or spend time in national parks that feel a world away from everyday life.

Travel Counsellors explore the best of New Zealand

22 June 2026

New Zealand packs an extraordinary amount into a relatively small corner of the world. From island vineyards and geothermal landscapes to glacier-fed lakes and dramatic alpine scenery, every region feels different from the last. On a recent trip, some of our Travel Counsellors travelled from Auckland in the North Island to Lake Tekapo in the South Island, experiencing some of the country's most iconic sights and gaining first-hand insight into what makes a journey through Aotearoa so special.