Step into a dreamscape in WA

Think of Western Australia and what comes to mind? Is it endless sunshine and pristine beaches, otherworldly landscapes that come to life through ancient stories, or outstanding Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon?

Perhaps it's the world's happiest animal, dreamy sunsets over the sparkling Indian Ocean, or surfing one of Australia's most iconic breaks?

The country's largest state, with the longest coastline and sunniest capital city, boasts a mesmerising array of destinations delivering unforgettable experiences from awe-inspiring wilderness and boundless natural adventures, to premium wine and food and indulgent escapes to re-energise your soul.

With so much to see, starting your WA journey in Perth is a great way to embrace a mixture of culture, cuisine and creativity.

Ease into your adventure by raising a glass at one of Perth's pristine beaches or at beautiful Kings Park / Kaarta Koomba, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world.

Framed by the Swan River, our great western capital is a modern city nestled in nature with world-class restaurants, lively rooftop bars and unique cultural experiences.

For the most serendipitous culinary experience, make sure you pair the celebrated local drops with food at the ever-expanding contingent of acclaimed restaurants serving up the best of local produce, from the freshest of local seafood to locally-grown truffles.

Where to start? Perhaps book a table at Lulu La Delizia in Subiaco, recently named WA's best, go rooftop fine dining at Perth's Wildflower with its menu celebrating native ingredients, or head to the nearby historic port of Fremantle / Walyalup for a swim and explore followed by succulent seafood at Madalena's.

Perth is also home to the Swan Valley - the only wine region within an Australian capital. Cruise down the Swan River or take a short drive to WA's oldest wine region with signature grape varieties including Chenin Blanc, Verdelho and Shiraz.

Perth is a handy base to day trip it to Rottnest Island / Wadjemup, a pocket of paradise that's home to a very famous resident - the quokka. Take the short ferry ride to this car-free protected nature reserve for the pure joy of a face-to-furry-face meeting with the little marsupial that's earned the moniker of the happiest animal on earth because of its natural smile.

While you're there hop on a bike to explore some of the island's 63 stunning beaches and 20 jaw-droppingly beautiful bays, and drop into the legendary Rottnest Island Bakery for a jam doughnut.

Just a two and a half hour drive south of Perth is the iconic Margaret River region. This wine lover's paradise best known for its acclaimed chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon, is home to more than 150 wine producers from well-known names like Vasse Felix and Voyager Estate, to niche options like Woodlands, Carpe Diem or Larry Cherubino for more curious wine lovers to discover.

It's not just about wine. Surfers, farmers and creatives also congregate in Margaret River; inspired by its natural beauty, from farmland and awe-inspiring tall-timber forests, to rugged cliffs and world-class surf breaks. The addition of delicious restaurants, distilleries and abundance of produce from beef and venison to chocolate and cheese, makes the region a dream destination.

Truly feel the freedom in this incredible region with a visit to Boranup Forest and its towering karri trees.

It's also where you can tackle the Cape to Cape Track. Rated as one of the country's top ten walks by Australian Geographic, the track meanders for 135 kilometres across spectacular coastline, passing through coastal heath and woodlands, with sweeping clifftop views and spectacular beaches.