Yearning for a change of scenery?

By Julia D'Orazio

Head a 30-minute drive north of the Perth CBD to experience the Wanneroo area, but not as you know it. Starting at Mindarie, which boasts pristine beaches and calm harbour waters, the laidback district has a wealth of outdoor activities and adventures on its sandy doorstep. 

Be sure to pack your bathers, hiking boots, and flippers as we share our top things to do in Wanneroo.

Yanchep National Park

Yanchep National Park is Perth's premier outdoor playground. The park offers all kinds of adventures within its bushlands and wetlands. Explore life in the underground discovering all that shimmers and shines in Perth's only tourist cave, Crystal Cave. The limestone cave is naturally bejewelled with stalactites, stalagmites and helictites, impressive at every head turn.

See Australia's cutest tree-huggers koalas feasting on eucalyptus from a viewing platform. Test your strength and might at Treetops Adventure. The Ninja-Warrior-style concourse among the trees offers various obstacle courses and zip lines to get your adrenaline going. Take advantage of your bird's eye view to spot park resident grey western kangaroo and tawny frogmouth. The park also has many hiking trails to choose from, ranging in difficulty and length, to work those leg muscles. 

Please note: Park fees apply. $15 per standard vehicle (up to 8 passengers) or $8 per concession (up to 8 passengers). See more information here.

The Marina, Mindarie

The Marina, Mindarie, is the beating heart of this coastal suburb. Hardly exert yourself for a leisurely day out, strolling along the marina's Mediterranean-style wooden boardwalk and discovering its exciting dining and entertainment outlets. 

Start the day with brunch at Sistas. The popular all-day breakfast spot offers innovative perk-me-up feeds, including breakfast gnocchi and chicken waffles. Mingle with locals and revel in the lively atmosphere at The Boat. The much-loved waterside pub offers bistro eats, with its outdoor beer garden a magnet for those chasing coastal sunsets. For a relaxed vibe, hop over to microbrewery Indian Ocean Brewing Co to sample their award-winning craft beers. 

In summer, sip and splash at Cabana Pool Bar. The poolside bar offers creative cocktails, share plates, and DJ spins for you and your mates to make the most of the Las Vegas-style day out.

Wanneroo Botanical Gardens

Head to where the flowers bloom at Wanneroo Botanical Gardens. The former shrubland is now alive with colour, with over 500 plant species mixed in with tranquil streams, towering palms and the lively Leapfrogs restaurant. Putt your way around the gardens, testing your swinging abilities with two 18-hole mini golf course suitable for all ages. Come at night and see the green light up with novel glow golf balls. How fun!

Yanchep Lagoon

You don't have to go far to have a flippin' good time. One of Perth's premier snorkelling spots, Yanchep Lagoon, is a 25-minute drive north of The Mindarie, Marina. The popular snorkel spot extends 300 metres and lures keen snorkellers for its colourful universe below. The lagoon's rock barrier is teeming with marine life, and its calm waters make it a pleasant discovery session. For a more relaxed affair, submerge yourself in one of the lagoon's rock pools - now that's the beauty spot!