Matildas captain and Perth’s own Sam Kerr says there’s nothing like a West Australian getaway.

As Kerr prepares to return to WA and play in front of a home crowd in the Paris 2024™ Olympic Games Asian Qualifiers, she has reflected on what makes WA special and shared some of her dreamiest holiday spots in the State.

Feature by Sam Kerr

_{Sam Kerr on Rottnest Island}

What are your top three places in Western Australia?

• Fremantle, WA. Fremantle is part of Perth - it’s home to me. Amazing beaches, restaurants and history.
• Rottnest Island, WA. I went there with my family as a child, and I always go there as an adult. Somewhere you can escape all the busy-ness of life
• Denmark, WA. My sister got married in Denmark, which is five hours’ drive south of Perth. The beaches, wineries and towering forests are like a fairytale!

_{Sam Kerr on Rottnest Island}

Do you have some ‘must-do’s’ for people planning their holidays?

Firstly, travel to the West Coast. I feel like everyone forgets about WA but it’s so worth the trip.  What’s not to love? It has the most amazing coastline, spectacular weather and a great variety of places to eat and drink.

When you’re here, make sure you explore Rottnest Island. There are 63 different beaches and even in the height of summer over the busiest periods you can always find one all to yourself!  There’s nothing like relaxing on a boat on those clear blue Rotto waters – anything to do with water and food, and I’m happy!

My tip is to hire an electric bike, as there are no cars on the island. Then there’s the adorable quokkas – the world’s happiest animal.

My earliest holiday memory is going with my family to Rotto - I have very fond memories of that trip.  I’m sure it’s why I always go there as an adult.

_{Sam Kerr flipping into the water, Rottnest Island}

What is your favourite place to relax and unwind?

Western Australia of course - my home state.  I love going back home to Fremantle, it's where I get the best coffee, see my friends and get to spend quality time with the family.

_{Leighton Beach, Fremantle}

What’s your advice to young travellers?

Go and visit places that other people recommend. Don’t just go to places that you’ve thought of yourself.  It’s all about experiencing.

Published October 2023.