Beyond the Usual Raya: Celebrate, Explore & Feast in Western Australia!
Western Australia (WA) offers a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate Hari Raya, blending breathtaking landscapes, cooler autumn weather, and an array of Muslim-friendly experiences. Whether exploring the vast outback with loved ones, sharing a delightful halal feast with family and friends, or coming together for Raya prayers in a welcoming community, Western Australia offers a heartwarming and exciting way to celebrate Raya abroad.
1. A Raya Celebration Surrounded by Nature
Imagine welcoming the first day of Raya in your best festive outfit with Western Australia’s stunning natural wonders as your backdrop. Instead of the usual cityscape, families can embrace a more serene setting and capture picture-perfect moments in the picturesque Margaret River region or against the golden hues of the Pinnacles Desert.
A must-visit for nature lovers is Karijini National Park, where deep red gorges, cascading waterfalls, and lush rock pools provide a breathtaking setting for both adventure and Raya portraits. Families can enjoy post-Raya picnics surrounded by nature, making the celebration even more memorable.
For those seeking a coastal escape, Lucky Bay in Esperance offers powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and even friendly kangaroos lounging by the shore. Celebrating Raya with a beachside family gathering here with the sea breeze complementing vibrant Raya attire is an experience like no other.
2. Muslim-Friendly Dining Across WA
Nasi Lemak at Sedap Place
A growing number of restaurants in Western Australia are catering to Muslim travellers. Cities like Perth, Fremantle, and Albany offer a variety of halal eateries, from authentic Malay cuisine to Middle Eastern and Indian specialties.
Seafood lovers will find plenty of options, especially in Fremantle, where iconic spots like Cicerello’s and Kailis’ Fish Market Café serve up fresh fish and chips by the waterfront. Further north, Lobster Shack in Cervantes offers freshly caught seafood, including halal options, in a stunning coastal setting.
For those craving authentic Malaysian cuisine, Perth is home to excellent halal restaurants such as Sedap Place, D’Ankasa Restaurant and Satay on Charcoal, known for their traditional flavours and perfectly grilled satay respectively.
Additionally, many family-friendly cafes and restaurants across WA provide vegetarian and seafood options that accommodate the dietary preferences of Muslim travelers exploring the state.
3. Raya Prayers & Community Gatherings
Muslim visitors in Western Australia can celebrate Raya while staying true to their traditions, from attending prayers at local mosques to joining festive gatherings. With welcoming communities and familiar rituals, Raya away from home still feels meaningful and connected.
In Perth, the historic Perth Mosque and the Malaysian Hall serve as central hubs for the Muslim community, offering prayer facilities and open-house celebrations. The Association of Malaysians in Western Australia (AMWA) also hosts festive gatherings, bringing people together to mark the occasion.
Beyond Perth, mosques in towns like Bunbury, Geraldton, and Broome provide facilities for Raya prayers, ensuring that visitors can observe their religious traditions no matter where they are. Regional towns such as Katanning embrace the spirit of Hari Raya with public celebrations organised by the local Malay community.
These events often feature communal meals, cultural activities, and opportunities for visitors to experience the traditions and hospitality of Raya. Whether attending prayers at a mosque, joining an open-house gathering, or participating in community festivities, Muslim travellers will find a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere to celebrate Hari Raya in Western Australia.
4. Unique Raya Experiences in WA
Wave Rock, Hyden
Celebrating Raya in WA isn’t just about a change in scenery, it’s about creating new traditions and unforgettable memories. With the state’s cooler autumn weather, families can explore Wave Rock or embark on a hot-air balloon ride over the Avon Valley.
For those who love adventure, Stirling Range National Park is a must-visit during Raya. Known for its dramatic peaks, wildflower-filled landscapes, and refreshing cool air, this park is ideal for scenic drives and light hiking. The famous Bluff Knoll, WA’s highest peak, offers breathtaking views, and the cool mist rolling over the mountains in the morning makes it a surreal experience. Whether enjoying a post-Raya morning hike or a quiet family picnic amidst nature, the Stirling Range provides a peaceful and rejuvenating retreat.
Meanwhile, history lovers can take a trip to Fremantle, where they can explore bustling markets, learn about WA’s colonial past, and even visit the WA Maritime Museum, home to fascinating shipwreck stories and artefacts.
5. A Road Trip Adventure Like No Other
Road Tripping, Margaret River Region
For those who love to explore at their own pace, a Raya road trip across WA is the perfect way to experience the region’s diversity. WA’s well-connected highways make it easy to venture beyond the city and discover hidden gems. Apart from that you can also Drive the Dream in Western Australia on one of the world’s longest EV networks, with 110 fast chargers across 49 locations, enabling sustainable road trips through stunning landscapes
The Coral Coast Drive from Perth to Exmouth is one of the most scenic routes in the world, offering a journey through breathtaking landscapes and unique natural wonders. Along the way, travellers can explore the otherworldly limestone formations of the Pinnacles Desert, witness the striking beauty of Shark Bay’s turquoise waters, and experience the vibrant marine life of Ningaloo Reef. Families can snorkel among colourful coral, encounter playful dolphins at Monkey Mia, and take the unforgettable opportunity to swim with majestic gentle whale sharks in the crystal-clear waters of Exmouth.
For a shorter but equally breathtaking journey, the South West Edge drive takes you through rolling hills, towering karri forests, and charming seaside towns. Along the way, travellers can explore world-class wineries in Margaret River, hike through the ancient Valley of the Giants tree-top walk, take in stunning coastal views at Albany’s Torndirrup National Park, and relax on the pristine white sands of Greens Pool.
Western Australia offers a fresh and exciting way for Malaysian Muslims to celebrate Raya, combining natural beauty, delicious halal food, and welcoming communities. Whether it’s a family road trip along the Coral Coast or a seaside feast in Busselton, WA promises a Raya celebration like no other, one filled with adventure, togetherness, and unforgettable moments. To discover more Muslim Travel experiences in Western Australia for your next visit, please visit: https://www.westernaustralia.com/sg/pages/western-australias-muslim-travel-guide
ABOUT TOURISM WESTERN AUSTRALIA (TOURISM WA)
Tourism WA is the WA Government agency responsible for promoting Western Australia as an incredible holiday and events destination. Our role is to inspire more people to visit WA from Australia and around the world.
We do this by marketing the state to the world through innovative campaigns; developing, attracting and promoting major sporting, arts, cultural and business events; working with government and the tourism industry to improve access, accommodation and tourism experiences for our visitors; and by informing and empowering the WA tourism industry through sharing key insights and global trends, building stakeholder relationships and providing leadership to the sector.
For more information visit tourism.wa.gov.au.
-AsiaNewsToday
