Perth might be Australia’s most isolated major city, but that also means it’s one of the best places in the country to enjoy memorable dinner experiences that combine stunning scenery with local flavor. The city’s proximity to natural wonders like the Pinnacles Desert and its glorious rivers makes for unique ways to dine under the stars, on the water, or amidst breathtaking landscapes. We’re especially fond of the Pinnacles Desert Sunset Dinner and Stargazing Tour, which offers a blend of otherworldly scenery, local storytelling, and an unforgettable night sky. It’s the kind of experience that sticks with you, especially after sharing a barbecue dinner with a glass of wine while surrounded by glowing desert formations.
While Perth’s dinner options run from elegant river cruises to adventurous sandboarding and star-gazing, each experience offers something special. Whether you want to relax on the water, marvel at the desert sunset, or explore the night sky, Perth delivers on authentic, scenic dining experiences. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the seven best dinner experiences in Perth, each with its own unique charm and appeal.
1. Pinnacles Desert Sunset Dinner and Stargazing Tour
Starting off our list is the Pinnacles Desert Sunset Dinner and Stargazing Tour. This tour is a standout because it combines the surreal beauty of Western Australia’s most famous natural feature—the Pinnacles—with the magic of a desert sunset and the silence of the night sky. The tour lasts around 9 hours, making it a full-day adventure with plenty of highlights.
You begin by visiting the Lancelin Sand Dunes, where sandboarding is optional but fun, along with taking some great photos. Then, a stop at the Nilgen Nature Reserve offers a chance to see wildflowers in season or, if weather doesn’t cooperate, a quick visit to Hangover Bay to walk on the beach and learn about indigenous plants used as Bush Tucker. The main event is at the Pinnacles, where you witness an incredible sunset over the surreal limestone formations. After dinner—barbecue and wine—you’ll stay behind for guided stargazing, complete with telescopes. Reviewers love the “spectacular views,” and many mention how the guides’ insights make the experience even richer. The combination of scenery, food, and stars is truly unique—perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a memorable night under the desert sky.
Bottom line: This tour appeals to those who want a full-day adventure blending natural wonders, outdoor activities, and night sky magic in one seamless experience.
2. From Perth: Pinnacles Sunset and Stargazing Tour with Dinner
For those seeking a slightly more budget-friendly but equally immersive option, the Pinnacles Sunset and Stargazing Tour with Dinner offers a well-rounded experience that also lasts about 9 hours. This tour emphasizes the scenic drive from Perth, with commentary from your guide, making it ideal for travelers who love learning along the way.
Highlights include a visit to Nambung National Park to see the Pinnacles at sunset, complemented by a picnic dinner with local wine under the stars. The Lancelin Lookout provides sweeping views of Western Australia’s largest dune network, adding an extra layer of drama to the landscape. As with the previous tour, the star-gazing includes telescopes, allowing you to spot constellations and planets. The reviews mention the “great weather” making the star-watching exceptional and note that this is an ideal choice for those who want a relaxed, scenic dinner with a touch of adventure.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic drives, outdoor exploration, and starry skies all in one day without the full desert experience.
3. Pinnacles Sunset Stargazing Dinner Experience Small Group Tour
If intimacy is your priority, the Pinnacles Sunset Stargazing Dinner Experience offers a more personal touch, with small group sizes and a focus on comfort and detailed storytelling. This tour, priced around $125, takes you away from crowded buses to enjoy the same amazing sunset at the Pinnacles, but with fewer fellow travelers.
The tour includes national park entry fees and a guided walk through the pinnacles, plus time to soak in the landscape from the Nilgen Lookout and Hangover Bay. The highlight is a picnic dinner with wine in a more relaxed setting, followed by astrophotography and star-gazing with a telescope. Many reviews mention the “knowledgeable guide Casper,” who shares lots of insights about the area and stars alike, making the experience educational and fun. The tour offers a well-paced itinerary that balances driving, light walking, and plenty of star time.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who prefer smaller groups and a more personalized experience, combining scenic beauty with relaxed dining and star-gazing.
4. Swan River Dinner Cruise
For a more elegant and relaxed evening, the Swan River Dinner Cruise provides a luxurious way to enjoy Perth’s skyline. This cruise lasts about 2.5 hours and is perfect if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a different perspective of the city.
As the boat glides along the Swan River, you’ll enjoy live music and a buffet dinner featuring a variety of hot dishes and desserts. The views of the illuminated Perth skyline from the water are striking, especially at sunset when the city’s lights start to sparkle. Reviewers appreciate the “friendly staff,” “delicious food,” and the opportunity to relax without the hustle of land-based tours. It’s a more refined, low-key experience ideal for couples or anyone wanting a quiet, scenic meal with a touch of class.
Bottom line: This cruise offers a smooth, sophisticated way to see Perth from the water, particularly suited for those celebrating or seeking a romantic evening.
5. Perth: Swan River Dinner Cruise
If your main goal is to combine a dinner with sailing on Perth’s iconic river, the Perth Swan River Dinner Cruise is a solid choice. Priced slightly lower at around $99, it’s a shorter 2.5-hour excursion but still delivers a memorable night.
You’ll enjoy a buffet dinner with a range of options, along with live entertainment and the chance to see Perth’s sparkling waterfront illuminated at night. Many reviewers comment on the “delicious food” and “friendly staff,” making it a relaxing option after a day of sightseeing. The cruise’s central focus is on offering a visual feast of Perth’s skyline combined with a good meal, making it perfect for travelers who want an easy, enjoyable evening with minimal planning.
Bottom line: It’s a great choice for those who want a straightforward, scenic dinner experience with the added bonus of a river cruise.
6. Perth: Pinnacles Desert Sunset and Stargazing with Dinner
Another excellent option is the Pinnacles Desert Sunset and Stargazing with Dinner. This tour is about 8 hours, focusing on the moon-like landscape of the Pinnacles at sunset, with the added thrill of no light pollution for optimal stargazing.
It includes koala sightings en route, which adds a touch of Australian wildlife to the experience. After sunset, the landscape transforms into a glowing scene, and you’ll enjoy dinner at a local pub atmosphere—informal but authentic—before settling in for night sky viewing. Reviewers highlight the stunning sunset views and the chance to see stars without city light interference.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting to combine wildlife, sunset views, and night sky magic in one memorable tour.
7. Perth: Swan River Kayaking Tour with Dining and Wine Tasting
Finally, for active travelers, the Swan River Kayaking Tour with Dining and Wine Tasting offers a fun, hands-on way to see the city’s waters. For around $109, you get a 4-hour tour that combines paddling along the river with a wood-fired pizza dinner and private wine tasting in a garden setting.
The tour teaches basic paddling techniques, making it accessible for beginners, and allows you to enjoy Perth’s scenery from a different angle. Reviewers mention the “great combination” of activity, food, and wine as a highlight, especially for active couples or groups interested in pairing exercise with excellent fare. It’s a good option if you’d like to blend physical activity with a memorable meal.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want an energetic, interactive experience with a focus on food and wine.
$109 per person
How to Choose the Best Dinner Experience in Perth
When deciding among these options, think about your budget, interests, and the type of experience you want. If you’re after a romantic night with stellar views, the Swan River Dinner Cruise offers elegance. For adventure and nature, the Pinnacles Desert Sunset Tour and its small-group cousin are hard to beat. Active travelers might prefer the kayaking tour, while wildlife lovers will enjoy the Koala sightings on the desert tour.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular outdoor tours in good weather. Also, consider the time of year—August to November generally offers the best clear skies for stargazing, and summer will bring warmer evenings.
Final Thoughts
Perth offers a diverse range of dinner experiences that highlight its natural beauty and unique landscapes. For a truly out-of-this-world experience, the desert sunset and stargazing tours are top contenders. If water-based scenery appeals more, the river cruises deliver memorable vistas and relaxing atmospheres.
Whether you’re after an adventurous day with sandboarding and wildflowers or a romantic cruise with city lights, Perth has something to suit your style. To ensure you don’t miss out, book your preferred experience early, especially during peak seasons. With so many options, you’ll surely find a dinner experience that turns your trip into a special memory.