Crawley

SuburbPerth, Western Australia

Crawley is a SUB AREA in Perth, Western Australia.

Nestled on the banks of the Swan River and bordering the prestigious University of Western Australia, Crawley is a serene, leafy suburb of Perth that blends academic charm with natural beauty. Stroll through the sprawling UWA campus, admire the heritage architecture of Winthrop Hall, or relax in the tranquil grounds of the Crawley Edge Boatshed—one of Australia’s most photographed jetties. Kings Park and the Botanic Garden lie a short walk away, offering breathtaking city and river views. The area is a haven for walkers and cyclists, with riverside paths leading to the bustling cafes of Nedlands and the CBD. Art lovers can explore the Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery, while nature enthusiasts will enjoy spotting black swans along the river. Despite its small population, Crawley exudes a quiet energy, with bookshops, student hangouts, and local markets adding to its character. It’s an ideal base for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat with quick access to Perth’s urban attractions, beaches, and the Swan Valley wine region.

Best time to visit Crawley

The best time to visit is from October to April, during Perth’s warm, dry spring and autumn. March–April offers pleasant temperatures (20–28°C), less humidity, and fewer tourists than the peak summer months (Dec–Feb). Spring (Sep–Nov) brings wildflowers in Kings Park, while autumn features clear skies and calm rivers—perfect for outdoor activities. Winters (Jun–Aug) are cool and wet but still enjoyable with fewer crowds and lower prices.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 17-23°C, sunny

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Perfect for outdoor dining and river walks.

Know before you go

Getting there

PER

Perth Airport

International

20 km away

Getting around

"Crawley is well-connected by public transport. Transperth buses (routes 950, 23, 24) run frequently to Perth CBD (10–15 minutes) and the University of Western Australia. The nearest train station is Subiaco (2 km away) or Elizabeth Quay (for free CAT buses). Cycling is popular with dedicated paths along the Swan River. Ride-sharing (Uber, DiDi) and taxis are widely available. For exploring Perth’s surrounds, consider renting a car. The free Perth CAT buses in the city centre can connect from the CBD. A SmartRider card (contactless) is recommended for buses and trains."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

35 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cafes, university, and public libraries

Local SIM

Prepaid SIM from $10 at Perth Airport or local shops

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Scams are very rare; common sense prevails.

Night safety

7/10

Scams are very rare; common sense prevails.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Crawley is a very safe suburb with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft—such as unattended bags in cafes or unlocked car doors—can occur. Always lock your accommodation and vehicles. The area is well-lit and popular with students and families. For bushwalking in Kings Park, stay on marked trails and be aware of snakes in warmer months. Cyclists should wear helmets (compulsory by law). At night, use rideshares or public transport rather than walking alone. Avoid the Swan River after dark due to limited lighting and potential slip hazards."

Entry and health

Health information

"Australia has excellent healthcare, but travellers should have comprehensive travel insurance. Crawley is a short drive from Perth’s major hospitals, including Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital and Royal Perth Hospital. Pharmacies are available in nearby Subiaco and Nedlands. The sun is intense; wear SPF 50+ sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Stay hydrated, especially in summer (Dec–Feb). Tap water is safe to drink. No specific vaccinations are required, but routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP) are recommended. Consult a travel doctor 4–6 weeks before departure."

Culture

Local customs

"Australians are generally informal and friendly. In Crawley, casual dress (shorts, T-shirts, sandals) is common, though smart-casual attire is appropriate for nicer restaurants. Always greet with a smile and a simple “hello” or “g’day”. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service (10% at restaurants, round up taxi fares). Queuing is taken seriously—always wait your turn. Smoking is banned in many public areas, including near buildings and at bus stops. Punctuality is valued for tours and reservations. The UWA campus has its own codes of conduct; be respectful of students and staff."
English (official)MandarinArabicCantoneseVietnameseItalianGreekHindiSpanishTagalogEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$12-20 | a typical lunch at a café costs around $15

Hotels

$100-160 | budget hotels or Airbnb range $100-160/night

Local transport

$5 | single bus fare ~$4.50 with SmartRider

Cost notes

Student discounts available on some attractions and transport.

Timezone

Australia/Perth
Local time 06:09

More facts

Population

4,202

Type

Suburb

Frequently Asked Questions

Suburb