Riverside Park

The 'three waters' surrounding this small, vibrant city (Indian Ocean, Leschenault Estuary and Collie River) keep the vibe relaxed; you're never far from a riverside path or cycle trail and a quiet spot to fish. Hiring bikes is a tiptop way to take in this city of eye catching wall art, street cafés and chic boutiques, but if you want to take it easier, hop on the restored tram. You can cruise the bay and estuary by boat or get closer to the water, body boarding at Back Beach. Local firms take divers out to explore the wrecks off the coast while a heritage walk with a guide from the local Noongar tribe will take you further back in time. Tradition has it that the rural town of Dardanup (15 minutes) is the start of the Ferguson Valley, and it's a good place to start. This region of green hills, lush pastures and laidback little towns is easy on the eye but less so on the waistline. Wineries and dairies, growers of produce and makers of delicious things are dotted throughout the valley. Worry not though, work it off in Wellington National Park (40 minutes) walking the trails and swimming the reservoir.