Best spots for stargazing in Perth, WA
Western Australia offers some of the clearest, darkest skies in the world, making it a haven for stargazers (thanks to all that outback). Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just curious about the night sky, Perth and its surrounding areas offer plenty of incredible spots to explore the stars away from the bright city lights. From iconic landmarks like Kings Park to the vast, remote Pinnacles Desert, the opportunities for stargazing in Perth are unparalleled.
This guide will walk you through what stargazing is, what you’ll need, when to go, and the best spots in and around Perth to experience the magic of the night sky. So, pack your campervan, load up your gear, and let’s hit the road for an unforgettable road trip across Australia, where the sky is the limit—literally!
Looking for more ideas of things to do on your upcoming campervan adventure? Check out our top Western Australia guides below:
Tips for stargazing in Perth
Getting excited to do a little stargazing in Perth on your upcoming road trip? In the following section, we have outlined a few of our top tips for stargazing in WA. But first...
What is stargazing, exactly?
While you may immediately think of observatories and a guided tour with knowledgeable guides and telescopes, stargazing doesn't have to be that complicated.
Stargazing can be as simple as taking the time to soak up the wide-open cosmos of the night sky with the naked eye. Western Australia is full of remote locations perfect for parking up overnight to enjoy the starry views. Whether you’re scanning for the constellations, tracking planets, or simply gazing at the vastness of the Milky Way, the night sky holds endless beauty.
For centuries, people have looked up in wonder, using the stars for navigation, storytelling, and scientific discovery.
Australia is one of the best places for stargazing due to its wide-open spaces and low light pollution. Moreover, its location in the Southern Hemisphere allows you to witness uniquely Southern constellations like the Southern Cross and the Milky Way in all its glory.
If that wasn't enough, stargazing in Perth gives you the unique opportunity to learn about Aboriginal astronomy. Learning about the night sky from Aboriginal elders adds a whole new level of cultural insights and traditional knowledge to a traditional stargazing tour. Plus, visitors will often have the chance to hear Dreamtime stories from Aboriginal elders, enriching the experience with cultural storytelling.
What you need for stargazing in Perth
Stargazing can be one of the simplest and most rewarding activities—you don’t need much, just clear night skies. However, if you’re planning a serious stargazing trip, a few key items can enhance the experience:
When to go stargazing in Perth
Stargazing is a year-round activity, but the time of year and night can significantly affect the wow factor of your experience. October and February are ideal months for stargazing in Western Australia. During these months, the moon’s brightness won’t obstruct your view, and the weather tends to be mild.
For the best stargazing, aim to head out when the sky is at its darkest—typically around midnight. You’ll want to avoid full moon nights when the moon’s light can wash out the stars. Instead, choose nights with a new moon or when the moon is just a slim crescent. Clear skies are crucial, too, so check the weather forecast before heading out to avoid cloud cover. Choosing nights with minimal light pollution will ensure a pristine dark night sky, perfect for viewing the Milky Way and trying your hand at some astrophotography.
What to look for in the night sky in WA
Stargazing in Perth, WA, offers a unique opportunity to see stars and constellations that are visible only in the Southern Hemisphere. Here are some key constellations to look out for:
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The Milky Way: For those who want to see the Milky Way, WA will not disappoint. This band of stars stretches across the sky like a cloudy river of light, a stunning sight that’s visible with the naked eye. It appears as a dense concentration of stars that spans across the horizon, with darker regions where interstellar dust clouds block the light. In Perth, the Milky Way is most visible in winter, when the core of our galaxy rises in the night sky.
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Southern Cross: The most famous constellation in the Southern Hemisphere, the Southern Cross looks like a small, tilted kite or a crucifix, made up of five stars. It’s easily spotted in the southeastern sky and has been used for centuries to navigate the southern seas. Look for two bright “pointer stars” (Alpha and Beta Centauri) nearby, which guide your eye to this iconic shape.
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Tarantula Nebula: Though faint, this nebula is worth seeking out. It resembles the legs of a spider spread across the sky, glowing faintly through the haze of stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a dwarf galaxy close to the Milky Way.
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Alpha Centauri: The closest star system to Earth, Alpha Centauri is part of the constellation Centaurus. This system contains three stars, including Proxima Centauri, the closest known star to our solar system. When viewed through binoculars, you may even see the distinct separation between Alpha Centauri A and B.
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Emu in the Sky: Unlike the constellations made of stars, this Aboriginal constellation is formed by the dark spaces between them. The Emu stretches across the Milky Way and is best visible in the spring. It takes the shape of a running emu, with the bird’s head formed by the dark Coalsack Nebula near the Southern Cross and its body stretching along the Milky Way.
Best places to stargaze near Perth
Western Australia is home to some of the most impressive stargazing locations, with Perth offering a mix of easily accessible spots and remote areas perfect for spotting constellations and the Milky Way. From iconic parks within the city to off-the-beaten-track destinations, you'll find plenty of places where you can stargaze in Perth.
1. Kings Park
Located in the heart of Perth, Kings Park is a beautiful green space during the day and transforms into an excellent stargazing location at night. With panoramic views of the Perth city skyline and the Swan River, this park provides a great mix of urban and natural beauty. To stargaze, head towards areas like Fraser Avenue Lookout, where city lights are less intrusive. Bring binoculars or a telescope to get the best views of constellations like the Southern Cross or even a glimpse of the Milky Way on a clear night.
Location: Kings Park is about a 5-minute drive from Perth’s city centre.
Why we love it: It's such an easy location to bring a blanket and enjoy a little evening of stargazing after watching the sun set over the city.
2. Lake Leschenaultia
Lake Leschenaultia, located about 45 minutes east of Perth, is a tranquil spot nestled in natural bushland. This peaceful location is perfect for stargazing, thanks to its distance from city lights, offering clear, dark skies ideal for observing constellations. For families travelling by campervan, this spot offers an added bonus—camping facilities right by the lake, allowing you to spend the night under the stars. The calm waters of the lake reflect the night sky, making it a great destination for photographers.
Location: 45-minute drive east of Perth, near Mundaring.
Why we love it: This is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Book a camping spot and bring along a telescope or binoculars to capture the full beauty of the night sky.
3. John Forrest National Park
John Forrest National Park, one of Australia’s oldest national parks, is about 24 km east of Perth. With its rugged landscape and secluded spots, it offers excellent opportunities for stargazing. For the best views, head to Eagle View Lookout, where the elevated position provides unobstructed sky views. The dark skies make it perfect for observing the Pleiades (Seven Sisters) and the Milky Way, especially during the winter months.
Location: A 30-minute drive east of Perth.
Why we love it: Feeling adventurous? Pair your stargazing with one of the many hikes in the park.
4. Lancelin Sand Dunes
The Lancelin Sand Dunes, located two hours north of Perth, offers a surreal backdrop for stargazing. The wide, open spaces of the dunes create a sense of isolation from light pollution, making the night sky appear even brighter. With the cool desert air and miles of rolling white dunes, this spot feels otherworldly under the stars.
Location: A two-hour drive north of Perth.
Why we love it: The rolling sand dunes offer a stunning backdrop if you’re into astrophotography.
5. Pinnacles Desert
Located in Nambung National Park, the Pinnacles Desert is a must-visit for stargazers. About two hours north of Perth, this unique landscape features thousands of limestone pillars rising out of the sand. Under the night sky, these natural formations cast eerie shadows, creating a dramatic foreground for your stargazing experience.
Want a guided tour? Lumineer Adventure Tours offer an exciting way to explore the Pinnacles Desert with stargazing experiences. Plus, with minimal light pollution, the Pinnacles are an exceptional location for astrophotography.
Location: A two-hour drive north of Perth, within Nambung National Park.
Why we love it: This location is perfect for catching a glimpse of the Southern Cross and, if you’re lucky, the Magellanic Clouds, which are visible to the naked eye. The Pinnacles Desert is a key location for Perth stargazing, offering stunning views that are free from light pollution.
Image: Tourism Western Australia
6. Serpentine National Park
Located about 55 km southeast of Perth, Serpentine National Park is another great spot for stargazing near Perth. The area around Serpentine Falls is particularly popular, offering dark skies far from city lights. During the day, you can explore the park’s stunning waterfalls and hiking trails, then settle in for a night of stargazing. The Southern Hemisphere constellations are easily visible from this location, and it’s a favourite spot for locals looking to escape the light pollution of Perth.
Location: 55 km southeast of Perth, about an hour’s drive.
Why we love it: Arrive early for a day hike, and as night falls, stay for the stargazing.
7. Perth Observatory
Perth Observatory, located in the scenic hills of Bickley, is the oldest observatory in Western Australia and a top destination for stargazing. As a centre for astronomical research and education, it offers a range of public viewing nights and guided tours where visitors can access powerful telescopes to observe distant galaxies, planets, and constellations. If you’re looking for a deeper understanding of the night sky, the observatory provides an immersive experience. With the experts on hand, you’ll get a chance to see planets like Saturn and Jupiter up close or catch a glimpse of nebulae and star clusters with their world-class telescopes.
Location: Bickley, a 35-minute drive southeast of Perth.
Why we love it: Perfect for beginners looking to learn more about the night sky! But don't forget to book your stargazing night in advance, as the sessions are popular!
8. Mundaring Weir
Mundaring Weir, located 40 km east of Perth, is a serene spot nestled in the heart of the Perth Hills. Surrounded by dense forest, the weir offers dark, clear skies perfect for stargazing. The area is peaceful and relatively isolated, meaning you’re far from city lights and can enjoy unobstructed views of the night sky.
Location: About a 40-minute drive east of Perth.
Why we love it: Pack a picnic and make an evening of it. Arrive early to explore the weir before settling in for a night of stargazing.
9. Yanchep National Park
Yanchep National Park, located 45 minutes north of Perth, is known for its limestone caves and local wildlife, but it also offers exceptional stargazing. Best of all, the park’s campgrounds make it easy to stay overnight and enjoy a full night of stargazing without rushing back to the city. You’ll have the opportunity to spot constellations like the Southern Cross or even catch a meteor shower if your timing is right.
Location: 45 minutes north of Perth.
Why we love it: Plan ahead as the park gates close at night. Stay at a nearby campsite to ensure you can stargaze without any interruptions.
10. Gingin Observatory
About an hour north of Perth, the Gingin Observatory offers a structured and professional stargazing experience, including public night visits. These scheduled evening events allow guests to experience the dark sky and learn about astronomy through specialised sessions. The observatory is equipped with large telescopes, allowing visitors to observe distant stars, galaxies, and nebulae with incredible clarity. Guided tours also are a great way to help you understand what you’re seeing in the night sky, making it a fantastic educational experience. It’s a must-visit for families or individuals who want to learn more about astronomy in a fun, hands-on way.
Location: Gingin, an hour’s drive north of Perth. There is on-site parking available for campervans at the Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory.
Why we love it: This is perfect for those who like a more structured experience. Be sure to book your spot in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons.
Where to stay in Perth
Finding a good base while you explore Perth’s stargazing spots is essential, especially when travelling by campervan. Luckily, Perth offers several well-equipped caravan parks where you can stay overnight and easily drive out to stargazing locations. Here are some of the best options.
Perth Central Caravan Park
Perth Central Caravan Park is an ideal base for exploring the city and surrounding areas. Located just a short drive from the heart of Perth, this caravan park provides all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including powered sites, a swimming pool, BBQ areas, and laundry facilities. It’s perfect for those who want to explore Perth’s attractions during the day and enjoy stargazing at nearby Kings Park or other spots at night.
Location: About 15 minutes from the Perth city centre.
Facilities: Powered campervan sites, BBQ areas, a swimming pool, and laundry facilities.
Discovery Parks – Swan Valley
If you’re looking to combine stargazing with a day spent exploring the famous wineries and breweries of the region, Discovery Parks – Swan Valley is the perfect choice. This park is located in the heart of the Swan Valley, just 30 minutes from Perth. The park offers spacious powered sites for campervans, along with great facilities like a swimming pool, playground, and BBQ areas. The rural location means you’re close to some great stargazing spots without being too far from Perth.
Location: 30 minutes northeast of Perth, in Swan Valley.
Facilities: Powered sites, swimming pool, playground, BBQ areas, and WiFi.
Karrinyup Waters Resort
Karrinyup Waters Resort is a tranquil caravan park located just 20 minutes from Perth’s city centre. It’s a fantastic base if you want to stay somewhere quiet but still close to Perth’s beaches and attractions. The resort offers powered campervan sites, swimming pools, a heated spa, and a beautiful lakeside setting.
Location: 20 minutes north of Perth.
Facilities: Powered sites, swimming pools, a heated spa, a lake, and BBQ areas.
Think stargazing in Perth sounds like fun?
With so many incredible spots for stargazing near Perth, it’s easy to see why the region is a favourite in the astronomy community. From the surreal landscape of the Pinnacles Desert to the family-friendly facilities at Yanchep National Park, there’s a perfect spot for everyone to enjoy. Ready to explore the stars with a campervan hire? You can book your Apollo camper online and pick it up from any Apollo branch to start your stargazing adventure in Western Australia.
Happy stargazing!