Just 30 minutes out from Perth City centre is the bustling, port city of Fremantle. Freo is a vibrant cultural hub with a fantastic cross of historical architecture and information, a student city that is equally friendly to families, young adults, and retirees.
So, without further ado, here’s our list of the best things to do in Fremantle this summer.
Wander and experience the city
If you’re new to Fremantle, we recommend getting to know the area by having a walk around! Have a wander into the independent stores, see the local art studios and local cafes as they may be running seasonal menus or pop-ups. Plus, the architecture of Fremantle makes it perfect to walk around and beat the heat. Curving streets, smaller laneways, and long shadows mean you can dodge the sun while you shop.
When the sun starts to dip towards the horizon, stroll along the waterfront and cool down with the afternoon sea breeze (there’s a reason we call it the Fremantle Doctor). If you’re hungry, grab some classic fish and chips at the Kailis Fishmarket Cafe or Cicerellos, a long-time favourite of locals and tourists alike.
Take in Fremantle’s live music scene
The hot Perth summer weather pairs perfectly with live music. From buskers at the Fremantle Markets, to solo and acoustic sets at your favourite pubs, and even big-name music festivals. Discover local and national artists playing at venues all over town, including Port Beach Garden Bar, Freo Social, Fire In Your Belly Music Bar, and the Duke of George (this venue is particularly well known for its Jazz, Blues, and Motown events).
Pier 21 is located in North Fremantle, offering easy access to the RAC Arena by train for concert-goers. You can also plan your stay to coincide with the iconic SpiltMilk Festival, returning to Claremont Showground in early December 2025.
Put your beer knowledge to the test
Fremantle is home to some incredible breweries, and whether you’re just starting your journey into craft beers or are an aficionado, we highly recommend attending BeerFest! Ready to quench your summer thirst, BeerFest 2025 will be held in the heart of Fremantle and brings together the best of Western Australia’s breweries, along with delicious food trucks, live music, and a lively festival atmosphere.
Running from the 14th-16th Nov 2025, this event allows you to sample a range of local and international craft beers (cocktails and ciders are also available!), discover new favourites, and soak up the vibrant coastal vibe of Freo while enjoying a day out with friends or family. Fremantle BeerFest is a great way to make memories and celebrate the summer season in style.
Spend the day at Rottnest Island
While there’s plenty to do in Fremantle, a day trip to Rottnest Island is an absolute must. Just a short ride on a fast ferry from Freo, Rottnest is one of Western Australia’s favorite islands, full of natural beauty and adventure. With 63 pristine beaches to choose from, plus incredible snorkelling and scuba diving spots, you can hire a bike or hop on the island’s convenient coach to explore at your own pace.
When it’s time to refuel, settle in at Hotel Rottnest, a much-loved island landmark where you can enjoy a relaxed beachfront atmosphere, cold drinks, and unbeatable ocean views. Or, for a touch of coastal Italian flair, make your way to Isola Bar e Cibo, serving up fresh seafood, pasta, and spritzes that pair perfectly with the sea breeze.
And, of course, no visit is complete without meeting the island’s famous residents — the adorable quokkas! Their sweet, friendly nature has made them the stars of countless viral selfies. While it’s tempting to get up close, please remember to respect the rules: don’t feed or touch them, and give these charming marsupials plenty of space in their natural habitat.
Pier 21 is located just a 10-minute drive from the Rous Head ferry terminal, and from there, it’s only 20 minutes from the port to the island. Leave your luggage with us and know that after a busy day exploring the island, you’ll still have some home comforts and a wonderful night’s sleep with Pier 21.
School holiday activities in Fremantle
Fremantle is a fantastic holiday spot for families, as there is such a variety of things to do with kids of all ages.
Take a tour of the Fremantle Prison, and learn about Fremantle’s convict past. Discover the spooky ghost stories that aren’t any less haunting on a hot summer’s day.
Explore the fun and vibrant Walyalup Koort Play Space. Made for little adventurers, it features lots of fun things to run around and climb on, including playground versions of the iconic Fremantle giraffes.
For arty kids, check out the exhibitions at Fremantle Arts Centre. Looking for something even more hands-on? Fremantle Arts Centre has a range of one-day courses for kids to try their hand at creating, colouring, and imagining their own artwork.
If you prefer being indoors—locked indoors, even—keep them guessing at the range of escape rooms dotted around the town. Featuring a range of challenge levels, it’s sure to help burn both mental and physical energy.
SailGP comes to Fremantle!
From 17–18 January 2026, Fremantle transforms into a launchpad for the 2026 season of the Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix, presented by KPMG — the opening act of the global Rolex SailGP Championship that pits national teams in identical, cutting-edge foiling catamarans hurtling over 100 km/h just metres from the shore.
Set against the spectacular backdrop of Bathers Beach, SailGP is a two-day spectacle that invites guests to experience front-row action from newly installed ‘race-stadium’ grandstands, premium waterfront decks, or relaxed beach club seating — all within the lively historic streets and seaside vibe of Fremantle.
Immerse yourself in the buzz of Fremantle with a stay at Pier 21, where you can enjoy an unforgettable weekend of world-class sailing paired with clean, comfortable, and conveniently located accommodation for the whole family.
Relax on the water at our holiday apartments in Fremantle
A 35-minute drive from the Perth CBD, Pier 21 offers holiday apartments in Fremantle that are perfect for helping you explore the city.
We’re summer-ready, too, with both indoor and outdoor pools, poolside barbecue facilities, and free paddleboard hire to get you out on the cool waters of the Swan River.
So when you’re planning your summer holidays, get out of the city, head to Fremantle, and book your stay at Pier 21.