Beaches near Perth

It's a fact that the vast majority of Australia's population lives within 50 kilometers of the coast. And that fact has shaped Australian culture, making beach life part of the national identity. That's true in Perth, just as it is almost everywhere else in the country.

You'll find so many incredible places to explore here, whether you want to visit the best surf breaks in Western Australia, explore the famous Rottnest Island and its unique wildlife, or engage in the incredible tourism Western Australia has to offer. There are so many beaches to enjoy in and around Perth that you could visit a different one every day of your trip and never run out. From small locations like Bathers Beach and Mettams Pool to Port Beach in North Freemantle, the list is seemingly endless.

Perth enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which means long, hot summers and mild winters. Plus, with more than 3000 hours of sunshine each year, it's Australia's sunniest capital. That means plenty of great days for spending on the beach, so make sure you bring your sunscreen and your bathing suit with you before planning a trip here. With the Indian Ocean right on the doorstep of the city, you can enjoy warm water and almost endless sunny days, making this a fantastic base for a beach vacation.

4 excellent Perth beaches

There are so many great beaches in the Perth area that you're going to have to be selective in which ones you visit. Think about what your perfect beach day looks like. Do you want to spend time lazing on the soft sand perfecting your tan? Or are you more interested in learning to surf? Do you want lively beaches full of activities with restaurants nearby, or would you prefer a quiet location where you can enjoy nature? Check out some of Perth's beaches below and choose the one that works best for you.

City Beach

City Beach is one of Perth’s most popular beaches, located just 10 kilometers west of the city center. It’s easily accessible by car, with the drive taking about 15-20 minutes from central Perth. Parking is abundant and free near the beach, though it can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. Public transportation is also a convenient option, with buses running regularly from the Perth CBD to City Beach in about 30 minutes.

City Beach is known for its wide stretch of soft white sand and clear, turquoise waters - just an overall stunning setting for beachgoers. The beach is particularly popular with swimmers, surfers, and families due to its clean, well-maintained shores and excellent facilities. The waves at City Beach are moderate, so both beginners and experienced surfers can take to the waves here. The beach’s proximity to the city combined with its scenic beauty makes it a perfect getaway for those wanting a quick escape from urban life without having to travel far.

One of City Beach’s standout features is its modern beachfront precinct, which includes grassy picnic areas, shaded spots, and an abundance of beachside cafes and restaurants. The beach’s amenities, such as showers, changing rooms, and BBQ facilities, are top-notch.

City Beach isn’t just about swimming and sunbathing - there’s plenty to do both in and around the beach. The nearby City Beach Surf Life Saving Club offers surf lifesaving training and activities for those looking to get more involved in the local beach culture. You can also join in on a game of beach volleyball or take a stroll along the promenade, which offers fantastic views of the Indian Ocean.

City Beach is so close to the city that it's tempting to want to explore right away. The first thing you should do before enjoying any of the beaches in Perth is drop off your bags at a convenient luggage storage. With your hands-free, you'll be able to enjoy these incredible beaches much more easily.

Cottesloe Beach

Cottesloe Beach is one of Perth’s most iconic beaches, located just 11 kilometers west of the city center. You can easily reach the beach by car, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Public transportation is also convenient, with the Fremantle Line train taking you to Cottesloe Station, followed by a 10-minute walk to the beach.

Cottesloe Beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The beach is ideal for swimming as the calm, gentle waves make it suitable for all ages. It's also a popular spot for snorkeling and surfing, with designated areas for both activities.

Cottesloe is especially known for its breathtaking sunsets, with locals and visitors gathering along the shore to watch the sun dip into the Indian Ocean. The beach has a well-maintained grassy area with shady spots perfect for picnics, and there are plenty of benches where you can sit and soak in the views.

As a hub for outdoor activities, you can enjoy snorkeling around the rocks or explore the nearby Cottesloe Reef, which is home to vibrant marine life, at Cottesloe Beach. The beach is also great for surfing, particularly in the northern section, where the waves are larger and attract surfers of all levels.

If you're traveling as part of a group, chances are good you're bringing a lot of stuff with you. And even if you're traveling alone, a day at the beach requires things like bathing suits, towels, sunscreen, and other items that can quickly fill up space in your bag. Make things easier on yourself by dropping off your belongings at a Bounce luggage storage, and you can enjoy the white sandy shores of the beach hassle-free.

Leighton Beach

Leighton Beach is located just north of Fremantle and about 15 kilometers southwest of Perth’s city centre, making it easily accessible by both car and public transportation. If driving, the beach is about a 20-minute drive from central Perth, with ample parking available along the foreshore. You can also take the Fremantle Line train to North Fremantle Station, which is just a short 5-minute walk from the beach.

Leighton Beach is known for its pristine, expansive shoreline and clear turquoise waters. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to some of the more popular beaches near Perth. The beach features soft white sand, making it ideal for sunbathing, and its calm, shallow waters are perfect for swimming, particularly for families and beginner swimmers. What sets Leighton Beach apart is its excellent conditions for water sports, especially windsurfing and kite surfing, thanks to the consistent sea breezes along this stretch of the coast.

The beach is also dog-friendly in certain areas, so it’s a great place for dog owners to enjoy a day out with their pets.

This is one of the best beaches to reach by public transport, but you don't want to be getting the train with heavy bags. Leave them behind with a Bounce luggage storage location so you can enjoy one of the best beaches in the area.

South Beach

On the other side, south of Fremantle, the aptly named South Beach is only about 20 kilometers from Perth’s CBD. It can be reached by car in as little as 25-30 minutes from central Perth, and parking is available along the beachfront. Public transportation is also a convenient option, with buses running from Fremantle Station, which is just a short distance from the beach.

South Beach is popular for its calm, family-friendly atmosphere and wide sandy shores. The water is generally calm and so it's great for young swimmers and anyone who isn't super confident in the water. The beach also features grassy areas and shaded picnic spots, perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy a picnic by the sea. It’s a great spot for beachgoers looking to enjoy a peaceful day out, with plenty of space to spread out and unwind. The sunset views here are also spectacular, so have your phone handy!

South Beach also has a vibrant community vibe and you can expect to see visitors and locals mixing together around the BBQ areas, playgrounds, and shaded spots. The nearby South Beach Cafe is a popular place to grab a coffee, snack, or meal. Just a short walk away is the lively hub of Fremantle, where you can explore the markets, art galleries, and restaurants after a day at the beach.

For those interested in outdoor activities, there are scenic walking and cycling paths along the beach that connect South Beach to the heart of Fremantle. The paths provide beautiful views of the coastline and are perfect for a low-key walk or a more active adventure.

There are so many great beaches to explore around Perth. Along with the ones mentioned on this list, you can visit Scarborough Beach and the Sunset Markets, Trigg Beach, Coogee Beach, and tons of other great locations around the city. All you need to do is leave your bags behind with Bounce to really enjoy your trip.