13 Best Beaches in Perth 2023 for a Salty Swim

Dive into the best beaches in Perth. They’re charming, unspoilt and definitely calling your name.

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Country on which this adventure takes place who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants, for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Which are the best Perth beaches?

When it comes to discovering the best beaches in Perth, you’ll find a few common denominators; long stretches of unspoilt white sand coastline harmonised with translucent waters and epic sunsets over the Indian Ocean.

Hordes of people? Playing a round of towel Tetris? Nope, none of that; Perth beaches are in the double digits. From tranquil dips, chasing waves surfing, and prime snorkel spots, there’s a beach suited to all water babies, so solitude is available for all in the Western Australia capital.

Make a splash by dipping your toes in seven of the best beaches in Perth, including some local favourites.

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1. Cottesloe Beach

Distance from Perth: 12km south
Time from Perth: 22 minutes
Length: 1.5km

Cottesloe Beach is one of the best beaches in Perth and is a top tourist destination in its own right.

Its heritage-listed art deco Indiana Teahouse, sentinel pylon of an ill-fated shark net, and tiered grass area are just some of its iconic sights; all set against a golden coastline bound by brochure blue waters.

Locally known as Cott, the white sand beach attracts swimmers, surfers, snorkelers, and sunbathers, making the most of its sublime locale, just 12km south of Perth CBD.

Tourism WA

Take a break from the sun and sea with many places to retreat. Local institutions, Cottesloe Beach Hotel, Ocean Beach Hotel, and trendy Latino-inspired hot spot Indigo Oscar, all bring on the sunset happy hour vibes, and tiptop eats. Happy days.

2. Trigg Beach

Distance from Perth: 16km north
Time from Perth: 22 minutes
Length: 1.5km

Wave chasers have found their calling at Trigg Beach. Located in Perth’s northern suburbs, it’s one of Perth’s best beaches for surfing, known for its consistent breaks.

The area is prone to rips and large waves, so we recommend experienced swimmers only diving into this part of the Western Australia coastline.

If you’re not keen to combat waves, you can still join in on the fun at Trigg Beach. Play beach sports along its snow-white coast or clifftop at Clarko Reserve. Make sure to use the barbeques for a sizzling sunset.

@arostron on flickr

3. Mettams Pool

Distance from Perth: 16.1km north
Time from Perth: 18 minutes
Length: 500m

Mettams Pool is the ultimate snorkelling spot just off the mainland. (This is besides Rottnest Island, of course!) Its natural lagoon formation makes it one of Perth most famous beaches however its true coastal charm is found below.

The North Beach aquatic playground boasts serene waters and bountiful marine life lurking along its 1.5-metre reef. Only a few flipper strides from shore, it’s easy enough to go back and forth with sightseeing and sunbathing.  No wonder it is one of the most ‘grammed beaches in Western Australia!

4. Scarborough Beach

Distance from Perth: 14km north
Time from Perth: 18 minutes
Length: 2.5km

The great thing about Western Australia is that it lacks high rises along the coast, which no doubt aids its untapped appeal.

But if we must name a developed coastal playground, Scarborough Beach wears the title.

Tourism WA

In prime position along West Coast Highway, Scarborough Beach is one of Perth’s best beaches for many reasons. Besides attracting surfers with its moderate waves, it attracts swimmers of all skillset, whether in the ocean or its neighbouring public pool.

Those not interested in donning swimwear can occupy their time elsewhere and still soak up Scarborough’s buzzing atmosphere.

Spot other brazen boarders doing gnarly manoeuvres at the skatepark, little ones having a field day on the marine-themed children’s playground or choose to grab a bite at Scarborough’s hip sunset street food markets every Thursday in summer.

With many oceanside eateries, bars and surf shops at your peril, you’ll find it hard to leave Western Australia’s most bustling beachside destination. If ever.

Read more: 10 Best Spots for Beach Camping in Western Australia

5. South Beach

Distance from Perth: 26km south
Time from Perth: 34 minutes
Length: 1.2km

If you want the ultimate laidback, free-spirited vibe, head to South Beach.

Located at the edge of uber cool, buzzing port city Fremantle, this small beach attracts people from all walks of life – the acoustic guitar heroes, budding slackline pros, fire twirlers and, of course, budding beachgoers.

Absent of waves, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing swim or a stand-up paddleboard jaunt along the coast before retreating to its coastal grasslands to chill. If inclined to make a grand splash, scissor kick your way to its pontoon and jump on in.

@koolgary on flickr

A day of activities is in a short radius. South Beach boasts a shipping container sauna, basketball court, and kiosk just moments from shore.

Brewery and distillery Running with Thieves, local favourite Sealanes Fish and Chips and trendy bars and restaurants along the city’s famed South Terrace strip are within easy walking distance.

There’s a dog-friendly beach too, so bring your best furry friend along for a refreshing cool-off. Brrr!

Read more: 10 Dog Friendly Walks in Perth 2023

6. Port Beach

Distance from Perth: 26km south
Time from Perth: 34 minutes
Length: 1.2km

Look no further than Port Beach if seeking a beach without fanfare. The aptly named beach is just moments away from North Fremantle’s bustling port but don’t let the sight of cranes put you off – they’re a marathon swim away.

What you’ll find – or won’t see – along Port Beach’s white sandy shores, are big crowds or various attractions. It’s back to basics here, with one main casual beachside pub, Coast Port Beach, overlooking a sugary white coastline skirted by calm, crystal-clear waters. Ah, the serenity.

@erick_photomurals on flickr

7. Coogee Beach

Distance: 28km south
Time from Perth: 15 minutes
Length: 1.25km

Keeping south is another oceanic playground, Coogee Beach. At its juncture is the T-shaped wooden jetty, a much-loved spot for chasing cheap thrills such as performing divebombs or flicking a line into the Indian Ocean.

Cockburn’s Coogee Beach is also one of Perth’s top snorkelling spots, home to the Omeo shipwreck. Shipwrecked in 1905, the iron steamship forms part of a 200m maritime trail.

Along the way, you’ll be able to explore a thriving purpose-built reef with abundant marine life and various sculptures, including a historic cannon and a giant starfish, so be GoPro-ready.

Make sure to recharge your energy levels at the nearby Coogee Common. The coastal heritage hub houses a restaurant, bar, and small farm – the things that nourish the soul just as much as a dip in the ocean.

Make a night of it by staying in the nearby caravan park at Discovery Parks Coogee Beach.

8. Mullaloo Beach

Distance from Perth: 26km north
Time from Perth: 36 minutes
Length: 3km

Embark on a mini road trip to Perth’s northern suburbs.

Stretching over 3km, Mullaloo Beach is a northern shore favourite. The popular beach appeals to swimmers of all ages and skill sets, boasting the stock standard of what you’d find at Perth beaches – pristine sands with inviting blue waters.

@illusiax on flickr

The north shore paradise sits along the Sunset Coast coastal path, an epic 14km pedestrian and cycle trail that starts from Marmion Marine Park: a scuba diving and snorkelling nirvana.

The scenic route then weaves through bushlands and coastal lookouts via seaside entertainment hub Hillarys Boat Harbour and ends at Burns Beach. Worried about leg power? We recommend hiring an e-bike to make the most of the best Perth beaches.

9. City Beach

Distance from Perth: 12km west
Time from Perth: 19 minutes
Length: 500m

What’s in a name? City Beach is Perth’s beach, easily accessed less than a 20 minute drive from the city centre.

City Beach lures the crowds, not that it should deter you: there’s plenty of space along its 500m wide sandy stretch. The beach is relatively calm, with two groynes helping to prevent massive waves in the main swimming area.

Due to its popularity, there are multiple lifesaving towers along the coast.

Tourism WA

But there’s more to City Beach than just relaxing swims. BYOB – in City Beach speak, that stands for bring your own ball – and test your aim with a game of volleyball along one of the few courts along the sand. Gather your mates and have a shot!

After exerting yourself, head to the huge grassed area fringing the beach. Cook a feast over a barbeque, have a picnic and watch the sun go down.

If you want to treat yourself or need to refuel, head to one of the food and beverage outlets overlooking the beach. There are fancy restaurants like Oydessea and Hamptons City Beach Bar + Kitchen, laidback vibes perfect for a takeaway coffee at Clancy’s Fish Pub, and spontaneous carb-fuelled sessions at Rapid Fired Pizza.

10. Bathers Beach

Distance from Perth: 21km south
Time from Perth: 34 minutes
Length: 300m

Tucked away from Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour is Bathers Beach. Easily accessed from Fremantle Train Station, this calm, secluded spot is perfect for a swim post-shop, Esplanade Park hangs, skate park tricks or urban adventure around the colourful port city. Or vice versa.

Tourism WA

Strewn across white sands are relics of an old wooden jetty to the left and sun lounges to the right.

These sun lounges belong to Western Australia’s only sandy beach bar, Bathers Beach House, sitting opposite the shore. Enjoy sips (responsibly!) with swims and repeat.

@seif

Another favourite pastime is refuelling on local delicacies, fish and chips, from one of the many seafood restaurants along the harbour.

I advise watching out for starving seagulls, as they’re notorious for stealing chips from your hands (I write this as a chip-deprived beachgoer at Bathers Beach!).

A few minutes’ walk from Bathers Beach is the historic Fremantle Roundhouse. Perched on a small hill, this heritage-listed building is considered to be Western Australia’s oldest building, dating back to 1831.

The limestone building was built by convicts and used as a gaol. Nowadays, it’s free to roam, with tours available to uncover its troubled past. Slammers, swims, and cocktail sips – now that’s an intriguing mix.

11. Leighton Beach

Distance: 15km west
Time from Perth: 29 minutes
Length: 1.5km

If Perth’s famed Cottesloe Beach sounds too ‘touristy’ or ‘busy’ for you, take a short drive south or a short walk from North Fremantle Train Station to grace Leighton Beach.

Located off West Coast Highway, this tucked-away beach is absent of crowds. Hidden behind sand dunes, Leighton Beach is best known for its vodka-clear waters on a good day and is mostly calm, making it perfect for stand-up paddle boarders.

Tourism WA

It’s a much-loved spot among South of the River residents who prefer less vibe and more tranquillity, with beachgoers able to find their solitude across 1.5km of soft white sand. And when the winds pick up, expect to see kite surfing or windsurfing taking flight.

Besides its long gorgeous white sands, Leighton Beach’s surroundings are distinctive. Fremantle Port’s colourful giraffes (read: cranes) and shipping containers are located left of neighbouring Port Beach.

Before your feet touch the sand, there’s a tear-drop-shaped grass area with picnic tables and barbeque areas. Canteen-style café, The Orange Box, serves the usual café goods – coffee, baked treats, and sandwiches.

Next door is Bib & Tucker, a local favourite upmarket eatery. The all-day modern Australian eatery atop the surf lifesaving club offers stunning ocean views while serving quality eats using local produce and goods. Or head across the road to MRKT Space, a gourmet café, bar, and market.

If you have your pooch with you, there’s a dog friendly beach north of Leighton Beach. Laidback with good eats, drinks, and plenty of sand for your doggo to cruise on, beach life doesn’t get any better than that.

12. Swanbourne Beach

Distance from Perth: 13km west
Time from Perth: 25 minutes
Length: 12km

When visiting Swanbourne Beach, make sure to check if you’re in the right place. North Swanbourne Beach is known as Perth’s nudist beach, where being au naturel in nature is widely accepted.

So if nude sunbathing excites you, head 300m north of the car park where coastal utopia awaits.

If you’re wanting to keep your kit on, head to the south end of the car park. This side of Swanbourne Beach is more family-friendly, swimming attire expected, and usually has low waves up to one metre.

It also has a lifesaving club, as there are the occasional rips.

Make a day of it at bougie eatery The Shorehouse overlooking the beach. Simply spectacular on all fronts.

@ozmark17 on flickr

13. Sorrento Beach

Distance from Perth: 21km west
Time from Perth: 23 minutes
Length: 600m

Take a dip in one of Perth’s most popular beaches north of the river.

Sorrento Beach is a perfect beach for families, known as one of the safest due to a reef located 3km offshore. With 600m of white sand fringing the sea, there’s plenty of space for all, sandcastle building included.

A short trip away is Hillarys Boat Harbour, a seaside entertainment district with a nice boardwalk area aligned with cafes, bars, and eateries. It’s extremely popular during school holidays, so if excited kids and crowds aren’t your beach vibe, stay in Sorrento. After all, it’s one stunning beach to lay your towel on.

FAQS Best Beaches in Perth

What is the nicest beach in Perth?

The nicest beach in Perth is Cottesloe Beach, considered one of the top tourist destinations in Western Australia.

What is the calmest beach in Perth?

Most Perth beaches boast calm waters, with Port Beach and Leighton Beach considered local favourites.