Top five things to do in Western Australia

Admiring the underwater locals off Rottnest Island is a popular pastime for tourists to this section of West Australia's coast. There is plenty to see. Photo / Getty Images

Airline lays on more flights to Oz's far west for Kiwis, writes Megan Singleton.

With Qantas launching direct flights from Auckland to Perth over summer, I popped over for a week to have a squiz, grabbed a car and headed out of Perth into Margaret River territory. Here are my picks of what to see and do.

1. Rottnest Island

Named after the quokkers, a rat-like marsupial that wanders around for photo ops, this island is a gem. About 90 minutes by ferry down the Swan River, then across to the island, where you can rent bikes, explore the village, snorkel in crystal-clear water, take a thrilling boat ride to see New Zealand fur seals, dolphins and osprey eagles then finish with a pint at the beachfront pub.

Check out Megan's Rottnest Island photo blog here.

2. Fremantle

Just 25 minutes' south of Perth, Freo is a must for brunch - at least - along the Ponsonby-sounding Cappuccino Strip, or take a few hours to shop at the little independent stores and browse the art galleries. The architecture is what most people exclaim about when they first drive through, but there is also an intriguing maritime history, an old prison and walking tours.

3. Food and wine

The Margaret River region is famous for food and wine so it would be rude not to partake. Book for lunch at the many wineries hidden among the gum trees and detour to artisans for cheeses made from local milk, and for fresh truffles and olive oils. The best thing is stocking up with supplies and going to one of the gorgeous beaches for a killer sunset splash - in a glass, that is.

4. Jewel Cave

This whole peninsula is full of underground limestone caves and many are open for exploring, but Jewel Cave will take your breath away. It has four huge chambers that were lit as we entered each one. I've never seen stalactites as intricate or as long, formations that look like waterfalls, forests and even a huge piece of bacon make this a must-stop.

5. Cape-to-Cape Track

The Margaret River region stretches from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin with a lighthouse at each. You can climb the one at Leeuwin where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet, or, to really explore this incredible scenery, walk (all or part of) the 140km limestone ridge either with a backpack or glamping on a tour over a few days.

CHECKLIST

Getting there: Qantas flies direct from Auckland to Perth until April.