view from the ocean of the long white sandy cottesloe beach with a sandstone buildings with people on the beach and swimming in the ocean

15 Best Beaches in Perth: A Locals Guide

Finding one of the best beaches in Perth, Australia, is easy. Just head to the Indian Ocean, and you’ll be met with a beautiful white sandy beach and turquoise water.

Perth has 197 km of coastline stretching from Lancelin in the north to Preston Beach in the south, with beaches for surfing, snorkelling, kitesurfing, and swimming.

Being Perth locals and loving the beach, we’ve come up with our 15 top beaches in Perth.

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15 Best Beaches in Perth

1. Cottesloe Beach

🏖️ 🏊‍♀️ ☕️ 🧺🍹🛝🚻🚿

Cottesloe Beach is one of Perth’s most popular beaches due to its 1.5 km of soft white sand and its surrounding cafes, restaurants, and bars. On a sunny day, the turquoise waters and white sand combined with the iconic Indiana Tea House create an unbeatable atmosphere.

Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club patrol the beach on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays from October to March.

The suburb of Cottesloe is one of Perth’s most affluent suburbs, with stunning coastal properties lining the streets but maintaining its original feel.

The Sculpture By the Sea exhibition is held annually, attracting thousands of visitors to admire the unique art installations.

Cottesloe Beach is easily accessible, as it is only a 20-minute drive or 20 minutes on the Fremantle train line from the city (plus a 15-minute walk to the beach).

one of the best beaches in Perth cottesloe beach packed with people looking at sculptures on the beach walking and swimming on a sunny day
Cottesloe Beach during Sculpture by the Sea

2. Scarborough Beach

🏖️ 🏄‍♀️ 🏊‍♀️🛹🧺 ☕️🍹🛝🚻🚿

Scarborough Beach is one of the best beaches in Perth due to its large grass area, clean sandy beach, and vibrant pedestrian promenade.

Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, surfing, picnicking, walking, kite surfing, windsurfing, and skateboarding. Surf Life Savers patrol Scarborough Beach during peak season.

The beach also hosts several events throughout the year, including pop-up art installations, live music, and the Scarborough Sunset Markets.

Children enjoy the climbing wall, a half-court basketball court, the skate park, and the adventure playground. The beach is also conveniently located just 20 minutes from the city centre, making it an easy day trip from Perth.

There’s a wide array of food and drink from the beach-side bars, cafes, and restaurants.

an outdoor swimming pool with lots of lanes and people relaxing under the shade of umbreallas with the ocean as a backdrop
Outdoor pool at Scarborough Beach

3. Mullaloo Beach

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Mullaloo Beach is a stunning and popular destination for beachgoers of all ages. With its soft white sand, it is no wonder why Mullaloo is considered one of the most picturesque beaches in Perth. Whether you want to soak up the sun, take a refreshing swim, or enjoy some water sports, Mullaloo Beach has something for everyone.

Aside from its natural beauty, Mullaloo Beach also offers a range of amenities with plenty of barbeque and picnic areas, playgrounds for children, and cafes and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat. The beach also has lifeguards on duty during the peak season to ensure the safety of swimmers and beachgoers.

If you’re an adventure seeker, Mullaloo Beach has plenty of water-based activities to keep you entertained. You can try your hand at surfing or stand-up paddleboarding. The walking and cycling path along the coast is perfect for those who want to take in the scenic views and get some exercise at the same time.

the wide stretch of white sand at mullaloo beach perth
Mullaloo Beach

4. Port Beach

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Port Beach in Fremantle is just 16 km from the Perth CBD, with views of the Fremantle port. Soft sand and clear waters make it perfect for families, while first-time surfers will find the swell relatively mild and easy to navigate. In addition to surfing, Port Beach is also great for swimming and snorkelling. Fremantle Surf Life Saving Club patrols Port Beach over the weekends and public holidays between October and April each year.

For those who prefer to stay on land, there are several picnic areas and BBQ facilities available, as well as a playground for children. A bike path also runs along the beach, perfect for a leisurely ride. Facilities include toilets, changing rooms, and outdoor showers.

One of the best things about Port Beach is its proximity to Fremantle. After a day at the beach, you can easily make your way into town to explore the many cafes, restaurants, and shops. Fremantle is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, so visit the local galleries and museums.

a wide white sand beach curved round with huge cranes in the distance and people walking on the beach
Port Beach

5. City Beach

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City Beach is a popular spot for surfing, with consistent waves perfect for all skill levels. The beach is known for its challenging breaks and is a popular destination for surfers from all over the world. Lifeguards patrol the beach, so it’s a safe place to swim.

This beach has a great range of facilities, including picnic tables, BBQs, a children’s playground and toilets, making it ideal for a family day out. There is also a short nature walk from City Beach to Floreat Beach.

City Beach can be easily accessed by bus and is only a 15 minute drive from the city centre.

After a lazy day in the sun, head to Clancy’s Fish Bar, right on the beachfront. With stunning ocean views, this laid-back bar is the perfect place to enjoy a cold drink and some food.

a large expanse of white soft sand before the blue ocean
City Beach Perth

6. Mettams Pool

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Mettams Pool is north of Perth, along West Coast Drive, in the suburb of North Beach. With crystal clear water and fine white sand, Mettams Pool is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

There’s parking, toilets, outdoor showers and picnic tables here. If you’re looking for a bite to eat or a coffee, some great cafes are close by.

The highlight of Mettams Pool is the beach itself. It’s a sheltered bay with calm water, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The surrounding rocks and coral reefs make it an excellent spot for exploring marine life. You can expect to find an array of colourful fish, sea urchins, and even octopuses.

The coastal walk from Mettams Pool offers breathtaking views no matter which direction you go.

a calm bay at mettams pool with swimmers surfers and snorkellers
Mettams Pool

7. Coogee Beach

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Coogee Beach, south of Fremantle, is perfect for families, offering a sheltered swimming area, barbecues, picnic tables, and toilets. It is also a great spot for snorkelling, swimming, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding.

The Omeo Shipwreck provides an interesting snorkel spot, as underwater plaques provide facts about the shipwreck and marine life.

The beach is easily accessible, located just a half-hour drive or an hour’s train ride from the city centre. It is also patrolled, so you can take advantage of the safety of swimming in a safe area.

coogee beach with lots of people snorkelling and walking along the expanse of white sand
Coogee Beach

8. Trigg Beach

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Trigg Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Perth for experienced surfers due to its larger waves. It is perfect for those with intermediate to advanced surfing skills, and surfing lessons are offered through the WA surfing school. Swimming is also possible here, but it is recommended only for confident swimmers due to the waves and strong rips. If you wish to swim, stay between the flags to remain visible to lifeguards.

The beach is also great for those who want to relax and enjoy the sun, with grass lawns at Clarko Reserve and wonderful views of the area. If you’re looking for a bite to eat or a coffee, Island Market Trigg and Yelo Trigg are the perfect spots.

surfers in the blue ocean at Trigg Beach perth wa
Trigg Beach

9. Yanchep Lagoon

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Nestled along the western coast of Perth lies a beautiful natural beach known as Yanchep Lagoon. Its crystal-clear waters and 400m reef make it an excellent swimming and snorkelling spot. In calm conditions, the beach is reasonably safe, but you should swim between the flags and be cautious of the strong current which flows out of the lagoon into deeper water.

Yanchep Lagoon and Yanchep Beach are popular for beach fishing. However, fishing between the patrolled red and yellow flags and spearfishing is strictly prohibited.

When the sea breeze comes in, head to Yanchep National Park to see the koalas, take a walk, or visit the cave.

the stretch of white sand and green scrubland early morning in Yanchep Lagoon and beach
Yanchep

10. Hillarys Boat Harbour

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Hillarys Beach, in Perth’s northern suburbs, is the best Perth beach for families with young children, as there are no waves due to the small beach being part of the marina. Grassed picnic areas and the playground are a great addition.

Sorrento Surf Life Saving Club patrols Hillarys Marina on weekends and public holidays between October and April.

Hillarys Marina offers several facilities and amenities, including shops, restaurants, cafes, snack bars, and shower and toilet facilities. The Aquarium of Western Australia is a nearby attraction showcasing the diverse marine life surrounding Perth.

small childrens playground on the sandy beach at hillarys boat harbour perth
Hillarys Marina

11. Swanbourne Beach

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Swanbourne Beach is divided into two sections: South Swanbourne, a family-friendly beach, and North Swanbourne, a clothing-optional beach. North Swanbourne is hidden from public view and secluded, perfect for those looking for a more natural beach experience.

Swanbourne Nedlands Surf Life Saving Club conducts patrols of Swanbourne Beach over weekends and public holidays between October and April.

The beach is a 20-minute drive from the city.

12. Bathers Beach

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Bathers Beach in Fremantle is a 20-minute drive from the city centre; it features 300m of clean white sand and calm water that’s perfect for swimming or SUPing.

Bathers Beach House have sun lounges, on-sand service, and delicious cocktails. Perfect for watching the sunset.

Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour, the Maritime Museum, and Esplanade Park are all within walking distance, providing visitors with plenty of activities to explore and a wide choice of eateries.

yellow sun umbrellas on the wooden boardwalk with sun loungers on the beach at bathers beach house fremantle
Bathers Beach House Fremantle

13. Leighton Beach

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Leighton Beach is a popular beach in Perth’s southern suburbs due to its stunning 1.5 km of soft white sand, beautiful water, and location close to Fremantle.

The calm ocean provides a great place to swim and snorkel, while the northern end is good for windsurfing and kite surfing (this part of the beach is also dog-friendly).

Fremantle Surf Life Saving Club patrols Leighton Beach on weekends and public holidays between October and April.

It has BBQs, picnic tables, toilets, and change rooms – making it ideal for a sunny picnic with family and friends.

The North Fremantle train station is 800 m from the beach, and plenty of parking is available.

aerial view of Leighton Beach Perth with surf life savers tent
Leighton Beach by Tourism Western Australia

14. Rottnest Island

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Rottnest Island is the perfect beach destination for anyone looking for a relaxing day out from Perth. Located 18 kilometres off the coast, the island is home to an incredible 63 secluded beaches and 20 bays, as well as its famous resident quokkas. With a variety of beaches and activities, it’s a popular getaway for locals and visitors alike.

Thomson Bay is the first beach you’ll see as you alight the ferry. This is the closest beach to the main settlement, where you will find bars, cafes, and restaurants.

The Basin is one of the most popular Rottnest beaches with a picnic area and toilet facilities. It’s between Pinky Beach and Longreach Bay, only 10 minutes from the settlement. The beach is sheltered and perfect for families and novice snorkelers due to its shallow reefs and gentle swells.

Surf Life Saving WA conducts patrols of The Basin over weekends and public holidays between November and January.

Little Salmon Bay is another great spot for families due to its sheltered bay, making it ideal for snorkelling and swimming.

Other beautiful beaches are Parakeet Bay, Little Parakeet Bay, Pinkys Beach, and Parker Point.

Book your ferry to Rottnest here.

the beautiful little salmon bay with cystal clear water showing reef and rocks with people swimming and snorkelling
Little Salmon Bay Rottnest Island

15. Burns Beach

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You may not have heard about Burns Beach, but it’s our local beach and a beautiful one. Like most Perth beaches, it has soft white sand and clear water.

It’s popular with locals walking or cycling along the coastal path or enjoying coffee at the local café. The beach is divided in two by a groin – the southern bay is protected, and the northern beach is a good fishing spot. Look out for dolphins who make regular appearances and our resident seal.

The Iluka Bar is a ten-minute walk from the beach if you want a cold beer or glass of wine.

long stretch of beach with calm crystal clear water showing exposed reef at burns baech
Burns Beach

Best Beaches in Perth for Swimming

When it comes to swimming, here are some of the top Perth beaches to visit:

  • Cottesloe Beach: This is a popular spot for swimming, with clear waters and soft sand.
  • City Beach: Another great beach with crystal-clear water and soft sand.
  • Scarborough Beach: One of Perth’s most famous beaches, Scarborough has excellent facilities, including showers, changing rooms and BBQ areas.
  • Hillary’s Beach: This family-friendly beach has no waves and shallow waters.
  • Mullaloo Beach: One of the quieter beaches on this list, Mullaloo is perfect for a relaxing swim.
calm blue ocean and soft white sand at mullaloo beach
Mullaloo Beach

Best Surfing Beaches in Perth

Perth is home to some of the best surfing beaches in Australia. Here are a few that are worth checking out:

  1. Trigg Beach – Trigg Beach is known for its consistent surf breaks, suitable for surfers of all levels. It’s a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.
  2. Scarborough Beach – Just a short drive from Trigg, Scarborough Beach is another popular surf beach in Perth. With a variety of beach breaks and reef breaks, it’s a great place to catch some waves.
  3. City Beach – Located just a few kilometres west of Perth, City Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline with some excellent surf breaks. It’s a great spot for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
  4. Cottesloe Beach – This iconic Perth beach is known for its clear waters and white sand but also has some decent surf breaks. It’s popular with longboarders, as the waves tend to be smaller and mellow.

Those are just a few of the best surfing beaches in Perth – there are plenty more to explore if you have time!

aerial view of a surfer surfing the waves at cottesloe beach perth
Cottesloe Beach by Tourism Western Australia

Best Beaches in Perth for Snorkelling

Perth has some fantastic beaches for snorkelling. Here are a few of the best:

  1. Mettams Pool – Located on the northern coast of Perth, this beach offers crystal clear waters and abundant marine life.
  2. Rottnest Island – A short ferry ride from Perth will take you to this beautiful island, where you can snorkel in turquoise waters and see colourful fish, coral, and even sea turtles.
  3. Coogee Beach – Just south of Fremantle, Coogee Beach has a man-made underwater snorkel trail that takes you past the Omeo Wreck teeming with marine life.
  4. Shoalwater Islands Marine Park – About an hour’s drive south of Perth, this marine park boasts several snorkelling spots, including Penguin Island, where you can swim with wild dolphins.
  5. Yanchep Lagoon – This beach may not be as well-known for snorkelling as others, but the calm waters and reef make it ideal for beginners or those who might feel intimidated by rougher ocean conditions.

Check the weather and ocean conditions before heading out, and always snorkel with a buddy or in a group for safety.

Best Beaches in Perth for Families

Perth has many beautiful beaches that are perfect for families with children. My favourites are:

  1. Cottesloe Beach – This popular beach is known for its wide, sandy shorelines and calm waters, making it a great spot for kids to play and swim.
  2. Scarborough Beach – Scarborough is a family-friendly beach with plenty of amenities, like picnic areas, playgrounds, and a skate park.
  3. Mullaloo Beach – Located about 20 km north of Perth, this beach is a favourite among families thanks to its gentle surf and shallow waters, ideal for young children.
  4. Hillary’s Beach – Hillary’s Boat Harbour has perfect conditions for families with young children with no waves and a sand beach. The small playground, toilets, and eateries make it an easy beach option.
  5. Rockingham Beach – About 45 minutes south of Perth, this beach boasts calm, clear waters for swimming, paddling, and snorkelling. There’s also a large playground nearby for kids to enjoy.

These are just a few of the many family-friendly beaches in Perth. Remember to pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, and don’t forget to keep an eye on your little ones while they’re in the water.

large inflatable obstacle course at hillarys boat harbour water park
Hillarys Boat Harbour

Best Beaches in Perth for Sunset Picnics

Perth is known for its stunning sunsets, and many beaches offer beautiful views of the sun sinking into the Indian Ocean. Here are a few of the best beaches in Perth for sunset picnics:

  1. Cottesloe Beach – This iconic beach is known for its beautiful sunsets, and there are plenty of grassy areas and benches where you can enjoy a sunset picnic.
  2. Trigg Beach – Trigg Beach is another popular spot for sunset watching, with plenty of picnic tables and barbeques available.
  3. Leighton Beach – Located just north of Fremantle, Leighton Beach offers uninterrupted ocean views and is great for a romantic sunset picnic.
  4. Burns Beach – This quiet, secluded beach to the north of Perth is great to watch the sunset in peace and tranquillity.
  5. Hillarys Boat Harbour – While not strictly a beach, Hillarys Boat Harbour offers plenty of restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating that provide excellent views of the sunset over the marina.

Bring a blanket, some snacks or a picnic dinner, and something warm to wear, as it can get chilly once the sun goes down.

sunset over the ocean on a cloudy evening with a bright orange sky
Sunset over the Indian Ocean

Dog Beaches in Perth

If you’re travelling to Perth with your dog, these beaches are dog-friendly:

  • Quinns Dog Beach, Quinns Rocks
  • Whitfords Dog Exercise Beach, Hillarys
  • North Beach Dog Beach, North Beach
  • Trigg Dog Beach, Trigg
  • Ada Street Dog Beach, Watermans
  • Peasholm Street Dog Beach, Wembley Downs
  • South City Beach Dog Beach, City Beach
  • South Fremantle Dog Beach, South Fremantle
  • North Coogee Dog Beach, North Coogee
  • Woodman Point Dog Beach, Woodman Point
  • Rockingham Dog Beach, East Rockingham
  • Secret Harbour Dog Beach, Secret Harbour
  • Golden Bay Dog Beach, Golden Bay
  • Doddi’s Beach, Mandurah
golden retriever dog on the sandy dog beach in perth western australia

Beach Dangers in Perth

Let’s be clear – there are dangers at most beaches worldwide, not just Perth. A tourist hasn’t been attacked by a shark in WA. Although they do happen, it is rare. Sharks attack a couple of people each year in Australia, but over 300 die from drowning over the same period.

Non-tropical marine stingers, such as the Bluebottle (physalia) or Hair Jelly (cyanea), are usually found south of Geraldton. Their stingers are not generally life-threatening, but they can cause discomfort.

The number one danger on Perth beaches are rips. See this guide from Surf Lifesaving on how to spot a rip and how to get out of one. It could save your life.

Stick to patrolled beaches, never swim/snorkel/surf alone, pay attention to the signs, and swim between the red and yellow flags.

For full information on beach dangers in WA, visit Surf Lifesaving.

What makes Perth a great place for beach lovers?

Perth is an excellent place for beach lovers due to the many stunning beaches spread along its coastline. From Yanchep in the north to Coogee in the south, the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean provide the perfect backdrop for a day of fun in the sun. In addition, many of the beaches have plenty of facilities such as BBQs, picnic tables, toilets, showers, changing rooms and playgrounds, making them ideal to relax and enjoy a day outdoors.

Perth also has more sunny days than any other capital city in the world, ensuring beach-goers don’t need to worry about bad weather ruining their plans.

large bowl at scarborough skate park overlooking scarborough beach
Scarborough Skate Park

FAQs for Perth Beaches

Can you swim at Perth’s beaches year-round?

While you can technically swim at Perth’s beaches year-round, the water temperature can be chilly in winter and spring. The water is at its warmest in March with an average of 23.4°C (74°F) and dips down to 19.4 – 21.3°C (67 – 70°F) in winter.

Are there any nude beaches in Perth?

There is one official nude beach in Perth, Swanbourne Beach.

Is it safe to swim at Perth’s beaches?

Perth’s popular beaches are well-monitored by lifeguards. However, visitors should know the potential for riptides and other hazards.

What activities can you do at the beaches in Perth, Western Australia?

You can enjoy many activities at the beaches in Perth, including swimming, surfing, snorkelling, diving, fishing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, beach volleyball, cycling, and walking.

Are there any beaches in Perth with playgrounds, skate parks and other attractions?

Several beaches in Perth have playgrounds, skate parks, and other attractions.
Scarborough Beach has a playground for children, a skate park, and an outdoor swimming pool. Hillarys Boat Harbour offers plenty of family-friendly activities, including a beach with a playground, a water park, and an aquarium. Mullaloo Beach has a large grassy area with a playground.
These are just a few examples of the many beaches in Perth that offer a range of family-friendly activities and attractions.

Are there any beaches in Perth with coral reefs and marine life?

Perth has several beaches with coral reefs and marine life. One popular beach is Mettams Pool near Trigg, which features a limestone reef that is home to a variety of fish and other marine creatures. Another option is Rottnest Island, known for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Some of the best spots for snorkelling and diving on Rottnest Island include Parker Point, Parakeet Bay, and Little Salmon Bay.

Are there any beaches in Perth that are suitable for scuba diving?

Several beaches in Perth are suitable for scuba diving. Some popular ones are Rottnest Island, Marmion Marine Park, Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, and West Coast Dive Park. You may need a boat to access some dive sites.

Read Next: Best Beaches in Western Australia

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Perth is undoubtedly a paradise for beach lovers. Whether you prefer quiet secluded coves or bustling beachfronts with plenty of amenities, there’s a beach to suit everyone. So if you’re planning a trip to Perth, don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, grab your towel, and head to one of these breathtaking beaches.