20 Beaches in Perth

While Perth might be the most isolated capital in the world, it has some of the best beaches – think sugary sand and crystal clear, blue waters. Not only do these beaches seem to stretch on forever, but they’re also highly accessible. Most beaches are less than a 20-minute drive from the city centre.

Unfurling from either side of the city, Perth presents an exceptional 80-km stretch of pristine coastline. So whether you’re looking for a beach to snorkel in, to unwind with family or to relax and enjoy the perfect beach-going weather, you’ll bound to love one or more of these beaches in Perth.

Beaches in Perth and Surrounds

20 Perth Beaches 

1- Scarborough Beach

Scarborough Beach should be your beach of choice if you’re a fan of people-watching.

It’s a short drive from Perth – just 20 minutes – and an iconic sand spot in Western Australia.

It has impressive surf breaks and a long stretch of white sand, perfect for swimmers and surfers alike.

Scarborough Beach also comes alive in the evening with many restaurants and cafes.

You won’t want to miss this popular ocean oasis surrounded by a high-rise cityscape.

Not only is it the perfect destination for safe and sheltered swimming conditions, but it’s also ideal for relaxation.

2- City Beach

If you love a sunset beach picnic, tick City Beach off your list, as it’s only a 15-minute drive from the city and a busy spot for summer barbecues and surfing.

Grab a smoothie and some tacos from one of the many open-air cafes and restaurants, and lay your towel down to soak up some rays.

There are also plenty of shady grass areas for a nice picnic, a boardwalk and multiple shaded playgrounds.

This popular premium beach spot is conveniently located and offers a wide range of activities, from swimming to surfing and fishing.

3- Port Beach

A little further along, Port Beach is perfect for those windy days around Fremantle Harbour.

While it may not be as picturesque as some of the other beaches, its sheltered location makes it a prime spot.

Port Beach also comes with some great swells if you’re into surfing.

As it’s not far from Fremantle, there’s the added bonus of spending the afternoon exploring the shops and restaurants in the surrounding hub.

Port Beach also has incredible Indian Ocean views and is ideal for enjoying a perfect Fremantle sunset.

4- Coogee Beach

With its incredible white sand and crystal clear water, Coogee Beach is your ideal spot for an afternoon out and a great place to catch a spectacular sunset.

About a 30-minute drive from Perth City, Coogee Beach is located near the sandy shores of Cockburn.

There are plenty of shaded grass areas for a picnic and it’s also near an abandoned power station.

Since Coogee Beach comes with a jetty, it’s the ideal spot for some fishing or if you’re looking to jump off a jetty.

For families, there’s also a great play area nearby for the kids.

5- Cottesloe Beach

When visiting Perth, you absolutely can’t miss Cottesloe Beach.

It’s a short 20-minute drive from Perth and is a popular beach in Perth.

Not only is it surrounded by a gorgeous coastline, but it also comes with plenty of entertainment and is perfect for swimming.

From the large children’s playground to the plethora of restaurants situated at the beachfront, there are plenty of options for all the family.

If you are at Cottesloe Beach in March, don’t miss Sculpture by the Sea – a free exhibition on the shoreline that allows visitors to submerge themselves in art.

Stay until sunset, as this beach in Perth is famous for its gorgeous sunsets.

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6- Trigg Beach

Enjoy surfing?

Then you definitely can’t miss Trigg Beach, a 20-minute drive from Perth and has swells perfect for experienced swimmers and surfers.

It’s rated as one of the best beaches in Perth for surfing, so expect it to get a little crowded.

Even if you’re not a surfing fan, Trigg Beach has plenty of BBQ facilities, picnic tables and a large playground to keep you and your family busy.

Spend an afternoon just watching the waves and taking in the view of the stunning blue waters.

7- Swanbourne Beach

Swanbourne beach should be your top choice for those looking for a nude beach.

It’s 20 minutes from the city and has gorgeous waters and the opportunity for nude sunbathing.

It’s easily accessible and one of the official nude beaches in Perth.

There’s even a ‘clothing optional’ sign to let you know you’re on the right beach.

As Swanbourne Beach is hidden from public view, you’ll be able to enjoy sunbathing away from the crowds and as it faces west, it’s a great spot to catch the sunset.

8- Bathers Beach

Who says beaches have to be just about sunbathing?

At Bathers Beach, which is a 30-minute drive from Perth, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Fremantle.

Wander around the area and immerse yourself in its coastal charm by visiting The Maritime Museum, having a picnic at Esplanade Park or grabbing a bite to eat at The Fishing Boat Harbour.

While you’re there, don’t forget to grab a cocktail on the sand at Bathers Beach House.

It’s the only beachfront venue in Perth.

9- Mettams Pool

A 20-minute drive away, Mettams Pool is the perfect spot for those who enjoy snorkelling.

This gorgeous, naturally formed lagoon is perfect for those looking for a gentle swim, as it has pool-like conditions all year round.

There’s a diverse array of marine life at Mettams Pool, from fish to starfish.

Just remember to get there early, as it can get crowded.

After you’ve enjoyed a morning at Mettams Pool, drive along the West Coast Drive and wander down the scenic stretch of the coast to one of the cafes.

10- Peashom-Floreat

Just a 20-minute drive from the city, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a coastal oasis with its vast stretch of white sand.

Perfect for walks and relaxed swims, this is a more secluded beach that’s not as well known to the public.

You can also head to Peashom Dog Beach if you’ve got a dog.

At this beach, there are plenty of facilities for your pet, from fountain facilities to bins with poo bags and a large grassy area.

Occasionally, you may even find a mobile dog-washing service offering their services near the beach.

At Peashom-Floreat, there are some swells here, making it a good spot for surfing.

It’s also great for a quiet morning or afternoon to yourself with a book as you listen to the crash of the ocean waves.

11- Leighton Beach

One of Perth’s best dog-friendly beaches, Leighton Beach is about a 20-minute drive away from the city.

Its calm water stretches for quite a distance and is perfect for snorkelling.

While at Leighton Beach, grab some coffee from the Wooden Wagon or relax and unwind in one of the grassy areas.

During the summer, Leighton Beach is also a popular spot for kitesurfing.

Dining options are also aplenty in this area, from an afternoon at Bib and Tucker, to a good choice of restaurants and cafes.

12- South Beach

If you’re not an experienced swimmer or have kids, you’ll want to check out Serene Beach.

It’s a 30-minute drive away and a great spot to build confidence in your swimming and snorkelling abilities.

There’s plenty of marine life on this beach, and you can also do paddle boarding here.

With soft white sand and large grassy areas, this beach near Perth is ideal for a picnic.

Children will also enjoy the kids’ playground and the newly developed sports hub.

The vibrant Fremantle cappuccino strip is a short stroll away with plenty of dining offerings, so there’s no need to pack a lunch.

13- Mullaloo Beach

If you’re looking for long stretches of uninterrupted coastline, you can’t go wrong with Mullaloo Beach.

It’s around a 30-minute drive away and is ideal for families with children.

There’s plenty to do, from taking a dip in the Indian Ocean to running or biking on the beach paths. And with ample playground facilities and parklands, children won’t be bored.

If you’d like to have a picnic, the shady trees are ideal for sitting under for an afternoon picnic or for taking in the stunning Western Australian sunset.

One of the best times to visit Mullaloo Beach is late November to early April, and if you enjoy beach fishing, Mullaloo Beach is the place to be.

14- The Basin (Rottnest Island)

Rottnest Island consists of a treasure trove of beaches 25 minutes by ferry from Fremantle.

The island’s clear blue waters and reefs are perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

The Basin is the place to head to if you’d like to paddle and snorkel in clear and calm waters.

It’s just 10 minutes from the main settlement and is ideal for those who want to swim, snorkel or play beach cricket.

With crystal clear waters and colourful shallow reefs, The Basin is an underwater snorkelling playground to tick off your list. Find out more here.

15- Little Salmon Bay (Rottnest Island)

Another gorgeous spot for snorkelling, Little Salmon Bay, is on the south side of Rottnest Island.

As it’s protected from the wind, it’s another great spot for swimming and snorkelling.

The bay is not difficult to get to as it’s a spot on the Rottnest Island bus route and is easy to cycle to.

One of the great things about Little Salmon Bay is its snorkel trail, which allows you to learn about the different types of fish swimming around the waters of Rottnest Island.

Pick up a picnic from the general store or island bakery, soak up the perfect weather and have the perfect beach day near Perth.

16- The West End (Rottnest Island)

Located on the western point of Rottnest Island, this rugged coastline isn’t suitable for swimming, but it’s a breathtaking spot to gaze out onto the Indian Ocean.

While there is no protection from the elements here, you can scuba dive or shorefish if you’d like.

This is also an excellent place to spot dolphins, whales and even New Zealand fur seals if you’re lucky.

With its fantastic coastal scenery, The West End is the place to admire bays and coves and spot wildlife.

17- Pinky Beach (Rottnest Island)

A short walk from the Discovery Centre, Pinky Beach is one of the best beaches on Rottnest Island.

Not only is it calm, but it comes with fantastic views.

Bathurst Lighthouse is just nearby, and you can also snorkel, kayak and SUP on this beach.

If you’re hungry, Pinky’s Beach Club is just nearby.

You can watch the sunset and soak in the views while enjoying modern Australian cuisine and cocktails – it can’t get any better.

18- Geordie Bay (Rottnest Island)

One of the largest beaches on Rottnest Island, Geordie Bay doesn’t just have vibrant blue waters but also powdery white sand.

It’s a popular swimming spot and is the perfect beach to relax and watch the sunset with a drink.

Near the Geordie Bay area, there are also plenty of accommodation options along with a cafe, making it convenient to have everything you need close to the beach.

It’s one of the best spots to snap a photo with a quokka.

19- Parakeet Bay (Rottnest Island)

While Parakeet Bay might be small, it’s certainly picturesque.

Not only is Parakeet Bay teeming with seabirds, but it also comes with gorgeous turquoise water.

It’s easily accessible, has some great snorkelling and is generally relatively quiet.

If you’re looking for soft powdery sand and a spot where you can read a book and take the occasional dip to cool down, this is the beach for you.

It’s the epitome of an island paradise and a spot you won’t want to miss.

20- Thomson Bay (Rottnest Island)

Thomson Bay’s roped-off swimming area is ideal for young children.

It also comes with a sweeping stretch of white sand and is exceptionally close to the main settlement – an area with plenty of cafes, restaurants, shops and more.

Known as the Island Playground, here at Thomson Bay, you can get a selfie with a quokka, soak in the sunset and the sights of the ocean dotted with ferries and explore the surrounding areas.

As you can see, Perth is a city with fantastic beaches, whether you’re looking for something family-friendly, a spot to catch the sunset, or just somewhere to unwind with a good book while occasionally taking a dip in the water. 

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