Esplanade Hotel

Overview

Offering five different bars and restaurants, the Esplanade Hotel in Fremantle is a sprawling wonderland of choice. But our pick has to be the magnificent beer garden at the Ball and Chain pub. The name comes from the bar's history as one of WA's oldest pubs and as the building that housed Fremantle's first 75 convicts in 1850.

Heritage aside, the friendly service and atmosphere are what makes this pub so memorable. That and unpretentious and affordable pub grub like southern fried chicken ($15) and lemon pepper onion rings ($7). Oh, and the beer garden is dog friendly, so expect plenty of four-legged friends to pat. And with quiz nights, live music and live sports, you'll never be bored.

November to April, head to the Poolside Bar for full resort vibes.