10 Best Beaches in Perth

Along the Sunset Coast, Trigg Beach’s white sugar sand and shimmering cerulean waters make it a picture-perfect getaway. Spend the day surfing and swimming or enjoying a barbecue on its pristine grassy areas.

The beach is strewn with rocks that are frequented by silver gulls, pied cormorants, and other seabirds, making it a great spot for birdwatching. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins playing in the waves. Trigg Beach hosts plenty of events in the summer, so keep your eyes on the events calendar.

Cottesloe Beach, or “Cott,” as locals call it, sits just a stone’s throw from central Perth. Its crystal-clear waters draw swimmers, snorkelers, and surfers. After an exhilarating day of marine activities, head to a waterfront eatery to soak in a dazzling sunset with a cocktail in hand.

Art enthusiasts should plan their visit in March to catch Sculpture by the Sea, a striking outdoor exhibition featuring unique installations along the shore. In summer, the beach’s grassy terraces provide a wonderful setting for live outdoor concerts.

Scarborough Beach offers an energetic atmosphere with plenty of activities, from windsurfing and bodyboarding to kitesurfing. Enjoy a barbecue or picnic with a stunning ocean view, then take a short stroll up to Sunset Hill for an unforgettable evening vista.

The area comes alive at night, buzzing with bars and restaurants offering casual beachfront dining and a diverse range of cuisines, including Mexican and Italian. Nearby attractions include a geo-thermally heated pool and an outdoor amphitheater that hosts a variety of performances and community events. Scarborough Beach is just a 20-minute drive from Perth’s city center.

Renowned as one of Perth’s finest beaches, City Beach’s design makes it an ideal location for swimming and fishing. Families will love the nearby playground, barbecue facilities, and expansive picnic areas.

Take a leisurely walk along the boardwalk to the neighboring Floreat Beach or enjoy a meal at a beachfront restaurant with live music and delicious cuisine. During summer, don’t miss the Surf Life-Saving Carnival, where lifesavers showcase their impressive skills. City Beach is only a 15-minute drive from the city.

The stunning and unique Mettams Pools is a paradise for snorkelers. With calm, shallow waters, this naturally formed lagoon is home to an array of marine life, such as buffalo bream, sea mullet, blowfish, sand whiting, abalone, and anemone.

If you’re planning to swim or snorkel, head there first thing in the morning as the waves can pick up in the afternoon. On windy days, the waters beyond the reef become a playground for kitesurfers and windsurfers. As there are no rental shops nearby, be sure to bring your own gear.

With gentle waves and soft white sand, this beach just north of Fremantle is a beloved spot for families and beachgoers looking to relax. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing, or just soaking in the sunshine.

Beyond the shimmering turquoise waters, you can see the nearby islands of Rottnest, Carnac, and Garden. Grab a delicious meal from a nearby cafe and enjoy a picnic on the grassy waterfront lawn. If you're feeling adventurous, try a surf lesson from the beach’s surf school.

Bathers Beach, with its fine sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant dining scene, is a fantastic destination for a day trip from Perth. Relax in the sun, take a refreshing swim, and then indulge in a delicious plate of fish and chips at a beachfront cafe.

Bathers Beach is also a treat for art lovers. It’s home to the Kidogo Arthouse and the Bathers Beach Art Precinct where you can feast your eyes on paintings, sculptures, and photos by some of the region’s most celebrated artists.

Voted one of Australia’s top beaches, Coogee Beach boasts an extensive stretch of sand and mesmerizing blue waters. Stroll along the coastal trails or simply unwind with stunning seaside views.

One of the highlights of Coogee Beach is the Coogee Maritime Trail, a snorkeling and diving route that will take you to the Omeo shipwreck and bring you up close to marine creatures like pink snappers, sea squirts, and starfish. Keep your eyes peeled for the striking underwater sculptures strewn along the trail.

A 30-minute ferry ride from the port city of Fremantle, Rottnest Island is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The island is home to over 60 pristine beaches, all connected via cycling and walking trails. As you kick back on white sand beaches, look out for humpback whales, seals, and dolphins. Alternatively, hop into the water with a snorkel to observe colorful coral and tropical fish.

Don’t forget to snap a selfie with a quokka, Rottnest’s iconic friendly marsupial. To dive into the island’s rich history, visit the Wadjemup Museum. To stay overnight, book a luxury tent or a cozy cabin at one of the glamping spots or reserve a room at a beachfront hotel.

The calm waters of Yanchep Lagoon brim with vibrant marine life, coral, and tide pools, making it a great place for seaside adventures. Snorkelers can expect to encounter aquatic creatures such as crayfish, octopus, and manta rays. If you prefer fishing, head to the southern end of the lagoon to catch cuttlefish and abalone alongside locals.

The reef can be rough and slippery, so it’s best to bring a pair of water shoes with you. Be mindful of strong currents in some areas and always stay within the flagged swimming zones.