Just a five-hour direct flight from Singapore with no time difference, Perth is arguably one of the world’s most underrated cities. In refreshing contrast to the high-density bustle of life back home, the Western Australian capital is defined by its wide-open spaces, sunny weather and a noticeably more relaxed pace of life.
On my recent trip, I checked into The Ritz-Carlton Perth, nestled along the waterfront at Elizabeth Quay. The perks of this location are that the city’s best restaurants and bars are all within walking distance, and of course, the skyline views are hard to beat. Most importantly, the ferry terminal to Rottnest Island is quite literally on your doorstep. A short stroll from the lobby, and you’re on your way to one of Western Australia’s most beloved island escapes.
What I didn’t expect was just how well the two experiences complemented each other. By day, I was cycling sun-drenched island trails, dipping into turquoise bays, and getting up close with smiley marsupials. By evening, I was back in the city, sipping cocktails with golden hour views and retreating to crisp hotel sheets in a room overlooking the Swan River.
First Impressions of The Ritz-Carlton Perth
When I travel, I’ve always believed that where you stay should feel like an extension of the destination itself. A great hotel should give you a sense of place before you’ve even unpacked. That’s what struck me the moment I walked into The Ritz-Carlton Perth. The lobby alone set the tone: honey-toned timber floors, walls lined with Kimberley sandstone, and a delicate chandelier overhead inspired by water flowing through the Karijini gorges. Every corner is a quiet nod to the Western Australian landscape.
Check-in was smooth. Up in my room, a welcome drink and a handwritten note were waiting for me, bearing the brand’s most iconic line “We are Ladies and Gentlemen serving Ladies and Gentlemen.”
The Room: Where Waterfront Views Do the Talking
I stayed in the Studio Swan River King Room on the 18th floor. The room is remarkably spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows that curve dramatically around the space, flooding it with natural light and drawing your gaze straight to the Swan River, the parklands, and the Perth skyline.
As much as the views stole the show, I also loved how thoughtfully the room was designed. That same warmth from the lobby carries through, featuring soft timber finishes, plush fabrics in muted earthy tones, and curated art and books about Western Australia—alongside all the creature comforts you’d hope for: a Nespresso machine, bottled water, and a mini bar stocked with juices and snacks.
The bathroom was equally impressive. Dual vanities, a standalone bathtub, a rainforest shower, and Diptyque amenities that instantly elevate the space. Best of all, the floor-to-ceiling windows carry through here too, an invitation to draw a bath and soak it all in.
At turndown, the hotel also leaves a pillow spray hand-poured in Western Australia—a soothing blend of lemongrass, patchouli and cedarwood inspired by he Karijini gorges.
The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge
I also got to spend some time at The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge on the sixth floor, which feels more like a stylish living room than a typical hotel lounge. There’s even a bar counter where you can mix your own cocktails. With sweeping views of the Swan River and a calm, unhurried atmosphere, it quickly became my favourite spot in the hotel to unwind between outings.
Breakfast at Hearth
Hearth, The Ritz-Carlton Perth’s signature restaurant, sits at lobby level and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily and if you’re staying here, breakfast is not one to skip. The buffet spread is generous without being overwhelming: fresh pastries, seasonal fruits, juices, hot dishes, and an omelette station made to order. My personal favourite? The free-flow avocado station because of course there is one, and of course it’s excellent. Apparently it draws a loyal local crowd too, which is always a good sign.
A Day on Rottnest Island: Sun, Sea, and Quokkas
The ferry to Rottnest Island departs from Elizabeth Quay and takes around 90 minutes, but don’t think of it as a commute. The journey itself is part of the experience, cruising along the Swan River before heading out into the open waters of the Indian Ocean. It’s a scenic ride that sets the mood for what’s ahead.
On the island, I collected my pre-booked bicycle and set off to explore. No cars, no traffic, just open roads and an impossibly crisp blue sky. One thing to note: the sun out here is no joke, so load up on sunscreen and wear UV-protective clothing before you head out.
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What struck me straight away was just how alive the island felt. It wasn’t just tourists, Rottnest was buzzing with locals soaking up the sunshine, families setting up at beaches, and cyclists weaving along the coastal trails. It had the energy of a beloved weekend escape rather than a tourist attraction. And then, of course, there were the quokkas! The ravens were equally hard to miss, announcing themselves with enthusiastic croaks as if welcoming you to their island. Honestly, the wildlife here has personality to spare.
Sun, Pool, and Golden Hour
I also made sure to carve out some time at the heated outdoor infinity pool on the fifth floor the next day and I’m glad I did. Overlooking the Swan River and the Perth skyline, it’s a lovely spot for a quiet swim or a lazy afternoon lounge. But the real magic happens at sunset. As the sky turned golden and the light hit the water, it quickly became one of the best sunset views I’ve experienced from a hotel.
Right next to the pool is Songbird Bar & Lounge, the hotel’s rooftop bar, which made it all too easy to transition from a dip in the pool to cocktails as the evening set in. (More on Songbird Bar & Lounge in my next post!)
For someone who loves the comforts of city life but craves a hit of outdoor adventure, Perth is the kind of destination that gives you both.
