Some of the world’s most romantic cities begin with the letter ‘P’. Paris… Prague… Perth? That’s right, Perth is the romance capital of Aus, and trust us, we know how to do date night. You’ve got loads of options to choose from, so you’ll be covered from your first date to your wedding anniversary and beyond.
We reckon the best date ideas in Perth start with stuff you both enjoy. You could spend the day by the ocean or get dressed up for a fancy dinner, or one of our faves, wine tasting in the Swan Valley. And if one date just isn’t enough, turn it into a proper getaway. Check out our top picks for couples who want to get romantic on the west coast.
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Beach Day & Picnic
Top of the list of fun things to do in Perth for couples is to go to the beach. And in Perth, we’ve got some pretty amazing ones to choose from. There are some stunning spots along this coast, and each has its own vibe. There’s nothing better than packing a picnic and a good book and soaking up the sun in peace.
Cottesloe is one of our faves for a classic beach date. You’ve got beautiful white sand, Norfolk Island pines and most importantly, some cute cafés for your coffee fix. We’d spend the day by the water and then find a spot on the foreshore for a picnic. For extra brownie points, stick around for sunset, when the Indian Ocean becomes even more magical.
Scarborough is a good shout if you want something a bit livelier, ideal for nervous first dates. There’s plenty going on around the beachfront, so you can mix your beach time with a wander and a bite. Pick up some pizza for the world’s easiest beach picnic; we’re totally on board.
Bring a blanket, some cold drinks and plenty of beach-friendly snacks. And if you want to make an impression, bring a bouquet of flowers. If you decide to go swimming, check conditions and stick to the flagged area when lifesavers are on duty. Nobody wants to be rescued or end up in hospital on a date. We also recommend bringing a jacket for later on; things can start to get breezy on the coast.
Romantic dinner
Let’s move on to Perth’s fabulous dining scene, where you won’t be short of a romantic table for two. There are loads of great foodie spots here, including some local heroes and some international flavours too. Whether you want something fancy and quiet or lively and fun, we’ve got four options for your date ideas in Perth right here.
Wildflower
If you’ve got a big occasion coming up, we’d choose Wildflower as our go-to. It’s just above COMO The Treasury in the CBD, so it’s got some amazing views across Perth and the Swan River. The menu is contemporary Aussie, and because it bases the menu on the six seasons of the Noongar calendar, they use local ingredients, which add to the experience
We’d choose this for couples who love something a little different from their food. Pick a tasting menu and let the kitchen talk you through the courses. The menu changes regularly, so who knows what you’ll end up with in front of you? Be sure to book ahead, especially if it’s for a special occasion.
Coogee Common
For the couples who like a slower meal and maybe a garden setting, we give you Coogee Common at 371 Cockburn Road, Coogee. The menu is seasonal and oh so good; dishes are made with ingredients from the restaurant’s own gardens, so things get switched up regularly.
We’d start with the wood-fired bread and a garden dip, then look at the ricotta gnocchi or maybe the wood-fired chicken. Or get both and share. We’d leave room for dessert too; previous menus have included a sticky date pudding and dark chocolate mousse.
This is a lovely choice for a long lunch or relaxed dinner away from the CBD. And it will show off your local knowledge with this incredible find.
Lulu La Delizia
You can’t go wrong with pasta. It worked for Lady and the Tramp, didn’t it? And dinner at Lulu La Delizia is one of the best date night ideas in Perth for pasta lovers. This Subiaco restaurant specialises in handmade pasta and Northern Italian cooking and has an epic wine list to match.
It might be a small restaurant, but the energy is buzzing. Order from the changing pasta selection or go for the Signature Chef's Banquet and let the kitchen choose. Keep an eye out for favourites such as Nonna’s meatballs and tiramisu ‘corretto’, which you’ll find in both the restaurant and neighbouring Cantina menus.
Emily Taylor Bar & Kitchen
This adventurous date night idea in Perth could be perfect for people who like ordering a bit of everything. We love Emily Taylor Bar & Kitchen. This cool spot is tucked behind Fremantle Markets, with a colourful courtyard and an Asian-inspired menu that’s perfect for sharing.
Our dream menu would start with bao, maybe some roast duck or an aromatic fish dish. Order a few plates between you and see which becomes your favourite. It’s a good option when you want date night to feel lively and sociable, and there’ll be plenty to talk about on the table. You can get there from William Street or Market Lane in Fremantle. Walk-ins are welcome, but booking is recommended if you don’t want to miss out.
These are just some of our top picks, but there are plenty of others in our guide to where to eat in Perth CBD.
Cocktail Bars
Sometimes the best date nights involve a catch-up over a good drink. And sometimes, what you need is arcade games, music and some friendly competition. Perth has bars for both.
Planet Royale
If you’re looking for a spot to jump in and break the ice, we’d go straight to Planet Royale at 12 Lake Street, Northbridge. You’ve got arcade games, pinball machines, bars and food, all under one roof. So there’s loads going on, making this one of our highly recommended couple activities in Perth to try out.
Challenge each other to a game, grab something to eat and find out who gets surprisingly serious about the scoreboard. It could be make or break! And if you’re planning dinner, you can book a table.
Foxtrot Unicorn
If you’d prefer a tucked-away city drink, try Foxtrot Unicorn. It’s in the basement at 101 St Georges Terrace. Finding the entrance is part of the fun: keep an eye out for the little fox sticker by the glass door and then follow the stairs down.
It’s a good shout for couples who want a proper cocktail and a lively vibe. Settle in, ask the team for a recommendation and take your time chatting over drinks.
Bookings are for groups of ten or more, so a date for two means walking in. Get there close to opening to give you a better chance of finding a spot before the evening gets going.
El Grotto
If you’re already spending the day at Scarborough, then check out El Grotto, at 5/148 The Esplanade. Think Mexican food, margaritas and a lively seaside setting.
It’s the best place to go for tacos, drinks and plenty of energy. If you’re lucky, there’ll be some live music too!
The Lucky Shag Waterfront Bar
It’s easy to enjoy a romantic night in Perth. And The Lucky Shag Waterfront Bar at Barrack Square is a great choice for date night. It’s got some stunning views across the Swan River towards South Perth and is perfect for a casual drink after spending some time exploring Elizabeth Quay.
This is a great fit for couples who love to spend a bit of time outdoors. You can stay for food, see the sunset and then just see where the night takes you. You can make a booking if you want to guarantee a table.
Bobeche
For something a little cosier, head below The Heritage at 131 St Georges Terrace to Bobeche. The dim lighting, red curtains and leather sofas give it a lovely old-world feel, which makes for a more intimate date night.
We’d go for a classic cocktail and a little something to snack on from the bar menu. It’s a good option for a drink after dinner, especially if you want to stay in the CBD.
Walk-ins are welcome, but if you want to go at a particular time, it’s a good idea to make a booking. It can get really busy on a Friday or Saturday night.
Wine Tasting in the Swan Valley
If you really want to impress your date, take them OUT of the city. We reckon wine tasting is a top couples activity in Perth and can feel super romantic. The Swan Valley is around 25 minutes from the city, depending on where you’re going, but you might want to book a designated driver or take a taxi for this one!
Edgecombe Winery
Edgecombe Winery is at 1733 Gnangara Road in Henley Brook, and is a fantastic spot for couples who want wine, food and somewhere to settle in.
This one is worth turning into a leisurely stop rather than rushing straight to the next venue. Make sure you check tasting and dining availability before visiting; regular open times are currently Friday to Sunday, with Monday to Thursday visits by appointment only.
Tyler’s Vineyard
Want a little keepsake from your date? Something you can open in a year or five years’ time? Tyler’s Vineyard lets you create a personalised label for your bottle. How cute! Bring a favourite pic or take one at the vineyard, then turn it into something to take home.
The vineyard specialises in grenache-based wines and has a relaxed, small-producer feel. This could be a really special date if you’re planning something big like a proposal or anniversary.
You’ll find it at 301 Padbury Avenue, Millendon. Remember to confirm opening hours before setting off, especially for a weekday visit.
The House of Honey
For something a bit different, stop at The House of Honey at 867 Great Northern Highway, Herne Hill. It’s something different to wine tasting, with some honey to explore, an amazing café and mead. There’s a real buzz about the place!
It’s a fun thing to do in Perth for couples who enjoy discovering local producers. You could book a honeybee tour or workshop to make more of the visit, then pick up a jar for breakfast back at your accommodation. A sweet souvenir, literally.
Museum & Gallery Date
If you want to add a little culture to your date, then a gallery date is an awesome idea. You’ll have plenty to talk about, even if you don’t agree on the art. It’s also a good option when you fancy a few hours indoors or don’t want to revolve the date around eating and drinking.
Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts
PICA is at 51 James Street in the Perth Cultural Centre. The exhibitions are free, making it a handy budget date choice. You’ll mainly find contemporary art here, so it’s a bit different to your average museum. Take your time, compare favourites and see what catches your eye. Don’t forget to look up current exhibitions and gallery opening days before heading over.
PS Art Space
If you’re spending the day in Fremantle, add PS Art Space to your plans. You’ll find it at 22 - 26 Pakenham Street and is where you’ll find modern exhibitions inside a cool building.
This is a good one to pair with a wander around Freo and dinner at Emily Taylor after. Check what’s showing before visiting; the gallery currently lists opening hours from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm.
Getaway to Esperance
Sometimes, you just need to escape to enjoy the perfect date. We reckon Esperance is more than worth the journey. It’s around an eight-hour drive from Perth, or a 90-minute flight, so it’s not really one to arrange last-minute! So be sure to give this one a proper place in your holiday plans. We’d say spend at least three or four days here to really enjoy it, with some extra time if you’re driving.
The beaches are incredible. There’s everything you could want for a romantic time, including stunning white sands and clear blue water. Spend a day exploring Cape Le Grand National Park and Lucky Bay, then leave time for a drive along the famous Great Ocean Drive.
If you want to make the most of the weather, go in the summer. Spring is also lovely to see the wildflowers. Having a car makes it really easy to get to the beaches and explore at your own pace. Pick up some picnic supplies, choose a scenic stop and enjoy a few days together without rushing.
Where to Stay in Perth
If you want to turn your date into a city break, stay at Oaks Perth Hotel. You’ll be close to shopping, restaurants and Perth Station, so you’ve got a handy base for exploring the city.
The spacious studios come with a kitchenette, living area and inclusive Wi-Fi. There’s also Oak & Vine Perth onsite for an easy meal or drink when you want a nightcap or a meal at the hotel.
We reckon it’s a great option for couples who want to mix city dates with trips to the beach or Fremantle. And if you want more ways to fill your stay, check out our Weekend Getaway in Perth guide.
To Wrap It Up!
There are plenty of amazing date ideas in Perth to choose from, including loads of beaches and amazing places to eat and drink. You can easily find something you’ll both enjoy, and you can even go a little bit further to make a long weekend of it with wine tasting and drives along the coast. Move over Paris, Perth is the place to go for romance and lasting love.
