When you can’t decide between a beach or city break, Perth gives you the best of both worlds – with Indian Ocean sunsets thrown in for that extra ‘wow’ factor. In keeping with the region’s versatility, the best beaches in Perth range from secluded coves, to family hubs and even risqué naturist strips, all within a daytrip from vibrant towns.
Best Beaches in Perth – City Beaches
Cottesloe Beach
The famous Cottesloe Pub, right on the Indian Ocean
The locals call it ‘Cott’ and it’s home to one of Australia’s most iconic beachfront pubs. Cottesloe Beach is a pristine stretch of white sand, backed by aqua water perfect for swimming, snorkelling and dolphin-spotting. It’s just a 30 minute drive from the city, but the vibe is pure, laid-back surf culture. Picnic on the Cottesloe Esplanade, dine along stylish Marine Parade and get ready for an epic sunset, with a wine at the Cottesloe Pub. The town is also one of the best places to stay, to explore all of the best beaches in Perth. Located right across the road from the beach, Cottesloe Beach Hotel offers balconies with ocean views, bars and a restaurant.
Find a room at Cottesloe Beach Hotel
City Beach
Hang out with the locals, on City Beach
If you can’t wait to fill up an esky, pack the Frisbee and throw a snag on the barbie, head to Perth’s northern suburbs and family favourite, City Beach. The water is generally calm for the littlies, though body surfers will love it when the swell rolls in. Grassy parklands along the beach are popular in the early evening, as everyone settles in for sunset sessions. You’ll find restaurants and cafes nearby, but if you’re staying in the CBD, this beach is only about 15 minutes’ drive away. Or, stay in Scarborough, which is just up the road, to visit whenever you like. The Indian Ocean Hotel is great-value, with a bar, bistro, pool and rooms to suit families, couples, singles and groups.
Find a room at Indian Ocean Hotel
Scarborough Beach
High-rises at one end, miles of sand at the other, at Scarborough Beach
When you want some action with your suntan, Scarborough Beach delivers, via a glittering line-up of high-rises, shops, cafes, restaurants, ice-cream vendors and Iron Man events. Surf lifesavers train on the beach, windsurfing, kiteboarding and paddle boarding reign supreme and colourful umbrellas shelter enthusiastic families from the scorching sun. To get there from the city, simply hop on a bus from the Perth CBD bus depot. If you’d rather stay, Scarborough Beach is full of holiday options, including Seashells Serviced Apartments, just steps from the sand, with bright rooms, pools and barbeques.
Marmion Marine Park
Discover underwater life, on the reefs of Marmion Marine Park
For a scuba diving trip within a short distance from the city, head to Marmion Marine Park. Sparkling lagoons and colourful reefs play host to abundant wildlife, including sea lions and whales out in the deeper waters. Enjoy designated zones for fishing, Mettams Pool for snorkelling and plenty of sand for frolicking and fossicking for shells. To make the most of the park over a couple of days, stay in the city of Joondalup, on Perth’s Sunset Coast. The Joondalup Resort is the epitome of country club style, with a golf course and kookaburra’s singing in the natural surrounds.
Find a room at Joondalup Resort
Port Beach
Port Beach is the place to be, for sunset sessions
Located right next to the North Quay Wharf in Fremantle, trendy Port Beach begins at the mouth of the Swan River. There isn’t much in the way of waves, but that’s the beauty of this idyllic swimming spot. It’s a mecca for wind and kite surfers, families love the enclosed playground close by and the views encompass Rottnest Island in the distance. It’s well worth staying in Fremantle to visit all the beaches, including Bathers Bay. If you’re on a budget, try the Sundancer Backpackers Resort.
Perth Dog Beaches
South Beach
Looking for friends for your pup? You’ll find them, at South Beach
Can’t wait to take your favourite, four-legged friend on holidays? The best beaches in Perth offer friendly fun for canines. South Beach, near the Fremantle Sailing Club, is calm and peaceful, with plenty of local pups to play with. Nearby, you’ll find cafes that welcome your pet to, so you don’t have to miss out on the popular ‘Freo’ café culture.
Peasholm Beach
Spoil your furry friend, with an afternoon run on Peasholm Beach
You might have to battle for a slice of sand on a scorching day, at this popular dog beach – but it’ll be worth it. Sitting pretty in the suburb of Scarborough, the long, sandy stretch is doggy heaven, with custom, freshwater drinking fountains and pop-up dog washing services. Most days, the surf is calm for swimming, so it’s a great spot to introduce new pups to the ocean.
Mosman-Leighton Beach
Mosman beach is close to Fremantle action and the perfect spot to walk your pup
Dogs run free on the northern arc of sand between Mosman and Leighton Beaches, across a two-kilometre stretch, with miles of seaweed to explore. It’s close to Port Beach, in Fremantle, and you can spend the day here, with electric barbecues and a kiosk to keep the hunger pangs at bay. Down by the water, you’re far below the dune lines, so you don’t have to worry about your furry friend being off the leash. If you’re looking for pet-friendly accommodation near Perth dog beaches, try the Gallery Serviced Apartments, in Freemantle.
Perth Nude Beaches
Warnbro Beach
Warnbro lets you know where to go, to get your gear off
The Western Australian naturist community has nothing to hide – literally – on the well-known Perth nude beaches. You can reach Warnbro Beach within an hour by car from Perth, with its yellow sand, private dunes and crystal-clear water. The nude section is clearly marked, so, it’s your choice whether to enter that area, or chill out with the clothed locals instead. Hop on a train to Rockingham from the Perth CBD and check out Shoalwater and Port Kennedy beaches while you’re in the area (with your clothes on).
North Swanbourne Beach
Privacy for nude bathers, at North Swanbourne Beach
The nudist section is unofficial, at North Swanbourne Beach, nevertheless it’s been a popular haunt of free-spirits for decades. It’s only accessible via a 300 metre walk from the carpark, with a clothing optional sign to lead the way. At the southern end, the pretty beach plays host to families most days, so make sure you double check before stripping off.
