For Perth travellers dreaming of a summer escape, some of Australia’s most memorable adventures are closer than they might think.
Virgin Australia connects Perth with regional Western Australia and major east coast destinations, making it easier to plan everything from a coastal weekend away to an outdoor adventure on the other side of the country.
Whether you’re keen to explore Western Australia’s rugged coastline, discover a new city or trade Perth’s familiar surroundings for the forests, mountains and beaches of the east coast, a little planning can open up plenty of possibilities.
With summer holiday planning underway, now is a good time to consider where your next trip could take you.
Where can you escape to from Perth?
Western Australia offers plenty of opportunities for travellers who want to get away without crossing the country. From the laid-back coastal atmosphere of the South West to the dramatic landscapes further north, there are options for beach lovers, food enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
For those looking to venture further afield, Virgin Australia’s domestic network also makes Perth to Melbourne a useful starting point for an east coast holiday. From Melbourne, travellers can explore the city’s renowned food, fashion and arts scenes, head towards Victoria’s scenic coastal drives or plan an adventure in the surrounding countryside.
What are some of the best Western Australian escapes?
Explore the South West
Western Australia’s South West is a natural choice for a summer road trip, with coastal towns, swimming spots, wineries and forest landscapes offering plenty to fill a long weekend.
Travellers can make time for beach walks, local produce and relaxed afternoons exploring the region’s small towns. It’s an appealing option for couples, families and friends who want a mix of outdoor activities and slower-paced holiday time.
Discover the Coral Coast
For those drawn to wide-open spaces and spectacular marine environments, the Coral Coast offers a different perspective on Western Australia. Its coastal landscapes and opportunities to experience nature make it a compelling choice for travellers looking to spend more time outdoors.
Depending on the destination and season, activities can include coastal walks, snorkelling and exploring the region’s distinctive natural attractions. Travellers should check local conditions and seasonal access advice when planning outdoor activities.
Make room for an adventure further north
Travellers with more time can look towards Western Australia’s northern regions for striking landscapes, expansive coastlines and opportunities to experience the state’s great outdoors.
These trips benefit from careful planning, particularly when it comes to driving distances, accommodation availability and access to remote areas. For summer travel, checking weather conditions and any local travel advice before departure is especially important.
Why consider Melbourne for your next east coast holiday?
For Perth residents keen to explore beyond Western Australia, Melbourne offers an accessible starting point for a broader east coast adventure.
The city itself is worth exploring, with its laneways, cafés, restaurants, galleries and live entertainment. Visitors can spend a day discovering neighbourhoods and markets, take in the city’s sporting culture or build an itinerary around its dining scene.
Melbourne also provides a base for exploring some of Victoria’s best-known landscapes.
The Great Ocean Road is a popular choice for travellers interested in dramatic coastal scenery, seaside towns and walking opportunities. Inland, regional Victoria offers food and wine experiences, country towns and nature-based escapes.
For a summer holiday, travellers could combine a few days in Melbourne with a longer regional stay, or simply use the city as the destination for a quick change of pace.
The key is to choose an itinerary that suits the time available. A long weekend might be best spent exploring Melbourne itself, while a week allows more flexibility to venture beyond the city.
Which Virgin Australia fare should you choose for your trip?
Virgin Australia offers different Economy fare choices, including Lite, Choice and Flex. The inclusions and conditions vary, so travellers should compare the fare rules for their specific flight before booking.
The best fare depends on the type of holiday you’re planning and what you’ll need along the way.
For a short city break with minimal baggage, a simpler fare may be sufficient. Travellers packing hiking equipment, extra clothing or other outdoor gear should factor checked baggage into their decision and compare the total cost of the options available.
It’s also worth checking the fare conditions if your plans might change. A little research before booking can help avoid unexpected costs later.
What is Economy X, and is it worth considering?
Longer flights across Australia can make comfort an important part of the travel decision, particularly when you’re heading into a holiday with a packed itinerary.
Virgin Australia’s Economy X offers additional legroom compared with standard Economy seating. It may appeal to travellers who appreciate extra space on longer domestic journeys, including the cross-country flight between Perth and Melbourne.
Economy X availability, seat selection conditions and any applicable fees should be checked when booking, as these can vary by flight and fare.
For travellers planning to arrive ready to explore, considering seating preferences alongside the fare and baggage options can help make the overall journey more comfortable.
Can you earn Velocity Points on domestic flights?
Eligible Virgin Australia flights earn Velocity Points and Status Credits for members of the airline’s Velocity Frequent Flyer program, subject to the applicable program terms and fare conditions.
For regular travellers, that can be another consideration when planning a holiday. Points earned on an eligible flight can contribute towards a future reward flight or other available rewards, depending on the program’s rules and the member’s balance.
If you’re planning several trips over the coming months, it may be worth reviewing your Velocity membership details and checking which flights are eligible to earn Points and Status Credits before booking.
How can you plan ahead for a summer escape?
Summer is a popular time to travel, so planning ahead can give you more opportunity to compare flight times, accommodation and activities before making a decision.
Start by deciding how much time you can take away. A few days may be enough for a city break or a nearby regional getaway, while a longer holiday can make an east coast itinerary or a more remote Western Australian adventure possible.
Next, consider what you’ll be doing at your destination. Outdoor activities may require additional baggage, specialist equipment or advance bookings, while a city-focused holiday could call for a lighter packing list.
Finally, compare the available flights and fare inclusions. Virgin Australia’s domestic network provides options for travellers considering both Western Australian escapes and trips further east, while the choice of fare can help you match your booking to your plans.
Frequently asked questions
What destinations can Perth travellers consider for a summer getaway?
Travellers can explore Western Australian regions such as the South West and Coral Coast, or consider an east coast trip starting with a flight from Perth to Melbourne. The best option depends on available time, interests and the type of holiday you’re planning.
Which Virgin Australia fare is best for checked baggage?
The right fare depends on your baggage needs and the inclusions available for your specific flight. Compare Lite, Choice and Flex, including the cost of adding checked baggage where required, before booking.
Can I earn Velocity Points on Virgin Australia domestic flights?
Eligible flights can earn Velocity Points and Status Credits for Velocity Frequent Flyer members, subject to the applicable fare conditions and program rules. Check the details of your booking and membership to confirm eligibility.
For more information and to book your summer escape, you can visit the website.