Swim, snorkel and splash your way through the best beaches in Perth, Western Australia!
With a coastline that stretches for miles, Perth is a haven for beach lovers. Its pristine sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life have cemented Perth’s beaches as some of the best in the world.
So, join us as we unveil paradise with this list of the best beaches in Perth. Just make sure to pack enough sunscreen on this wild ride!
Photographed by bmphotographer. Image via Shutterstock.
City Beach
For a family-friendly beach day, City Beach is the ideal destination. Its gentle waves and white sands create a safe haven for children and those looking for a relaxed swim. Enjoy beachside picnics, beach volleyball, or simply bask in the beauty of the Indian Ocean. And treat yourself to one of the many great beachside restaurants and cafes along the shoreline. It’s safe to say City Beach is a classic Perth beach for good reason!
Image via Tourism Western Australia.
Cottesloe Beach
Renowned for its pristine white sands and iconic Indiana Tea House, Cottesloe Beach is a perennial favourite among locals and tourists alike. Located within a 15-minute drive from the city centre, this Perth beach is known for its crystal-clear waters that is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and surfing. The beach is also lined with smooth terraced lawns that make Cottesloe great for a chill picnic day. Additionally, the annual Sculpture by the Sea event in March transforms the foreshore into an incredible outdoor gallery unlike any other.
Photographed by bmphotographer. Image via Shutterstock.
Hillarys Boat Harbour
Although it is not considered a traditional beach, Hillarys Boat Harbour offers a vibrant coastal experience with its shops, restaurants, and attractions. Located just 24km north of Perth, this coastal paradise is ideal for a full day of fun. Start with a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, exploring unique boutiques and specialty shops. Sorrento Beach, located nearby, also provides a family-friendly environment with calm waters and excellent amenities. And with a variety of waterfront eateries and stunning sunset views, make sure to visit Hillarys Boat Harbour this summer.
Image via Tourism Western Australia.
Leighton Beach
Located near Fremantle, Leighton Beach is a serene retreat with its soft white sands and azure waters. This beach is perfect for a leisurely swim or a beachfront barbecue with family and friends. Explore the nearby dunes or take a coastal stroll to truly appreciate the natural beauty. Leighton Beach is truly one of the best ways to spend your summer days in Fremantle!
Image via Tourism Western Australia.
Mettams Pool
Welcome to one of the best beaches in Perth! Mettams Pool is natural rock formation that create a protected swimming area. Snorkelers will delight in the diverse marine life, making it a prime location for underwater exploration. Additionally, the sheltered waters and easy snorkelling conditions make it an ideal spot for families and beginners. With its beautiful marine biodiversity and tranquil setting, Mettam’s Pool stands out as a must-visit destination in Perth.
Photographed by Matt Deakin. Image via Shutterstock.
Mullaloo Beach
Mullaloo Beach is a family-friendly destination with its calm waters and extensive grassy picnic areas. The beach is well-equipped with facilities, making it an excellent spot for a day of beachside fun, from swimming and beach games to barbecues and picnics. With lifeguard patrols on weekends and a prime spot for beach fishing, Mullaloo Beach caters to all, making it a perfect spot to admire the stunning Western Australian sunset.
Photographed by Pierre06. Image via Shutterstock.
Rottnest Island
While not strictly part of Perth, Rottnest Island is a short ferry ride away and boasts some of the most spectacular beaches in the region. As one of the most beautiful islands around Australia, there is plenty to see and do in Rottnest, including their beaches. The Basin and Pinky Beach are standouts, offering coral reefs for snorkelling and vibrant marine life, including the famous quokkas. So, if you’re looking for some of the top beaches in Perth, be sure to head on over to Rottnest Island this weekend!
Photographed by Bella Foster. Image via Unsplash.
Scarborough Beach
Surf’s up at Scarborough Beach, where the waves beckon surf enthusiasts and water sports lovers. This bustling coastal hub is brimming with surfers, swimmers and anyone wanting to get a little wet near Perth. Not only are there fantastic surf conditions, Scarborough Beach also has a lively atmosphere with cafes, bars, and a fantastic esplanade for strolling and soaking in the sun. Don’t miss one of our favourite beach spots this summer!
Image via Tourism Western Australia.
Trigg Beach
Trigg Beach is a slice of paradise on Perth’s Sunset Coast. This local gem is a haven for surfers, bodyboarders, and those seeking a more secluded coastal experience. Its turquoise waters, pristine white sands and consistent surf breaks help Trigg stand out. In fact, you might even be lucky enough to spot the bottlenose dolphins that call this part of Western Australian home. With great beach fishing, bird watching, and a lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a fun-filled day out.
Explore more of the outdoors with this Guide to the Best Picnic Spots in Perth. And hook your tastebuds with this list of the Top 8 Fish and Chip Shops in Perth of 2024.
Feature image: Little Salmon Bay, Rottnest Island. Image via Tourism Western Australia.
This article was first published on December 19 2023. It was updated and edited by Hunter and Bligh on November 13 2024.
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