What is Perth known for?
Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is known for its sunny climate, beaches, Kings Park and its location as one of the most isolated major cities in the world. It is also a gateway to Rottnest Island and its quokkas.
Perth lies on the Swan River near the Indian Ocean. The nearest city with more than a million people is Adelaide, more than 2,000 kilometres away, which is why Perth is often called one of the world's most isolated cities.
The city has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Beaches such as Cottesloe and Scarborough are popular, and sunsets over the ocean are a highlight.
Parks and islands
Kings Park, overlooking the city and river, is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world and includes a botanic garden of Western Australian plants.
Rottnest Island, a short ferry ride away, is famous for quokkas, small marsupials known for their smiling appearance. Fremantle, at the mouth of the Swan River, is known for its historic port, prison and markets.
Perth's economy is closely linked to mining, especially iron ore, gold and natural gas from Western Australia.