Sunshine. Salt in your hair. A glowing Indian Ocean sunset. If that sounds like your kind of holiday, then Perth, Western Australia’s laid-back coastal capital, is calling your name. With 19 pristine beaches dotting its cityscape and surrounds, Perth knows how to serve summer every single day.
But if you’ve only got time for the best of the best, we’ve rounded up the top 5 beaches in Perth that deliver everything from family-friendly swims and world-class surf to underwater adventures and island escapes. So, grab your towel, slap on some SPF 50+, and let’s dive in.
1. Cottesloe Beach: Perth’s Most Iconic Coastal Strip
Imagine this: golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see, the gentle rhythm of waves rolling in, and a front-row seat to one of the most jaw-dropping sunsets in Australia. That’s Cottesloe Beach - the heart and soul of Perth’s beach scene.
Cott (as the locals call it) has been winning hearts for generations. It's ideal for families, sunbathers, snorkellers, and romantic wanderers alike. The calm, clear water makes it perfect for a float or paddle, while the grassy terraces and art deco architecture give it retro seaside charm.
Hot tip: Time your visit with Sculpture by the Sea (March), when this beach transforms into an open-air gallery of awe-inspiring installations from artists around the world.
Don’t miss: A sunset cone from Cottesloe’s iconic gelaterias or sundowners at the Cottesloe Beach Hotel.
2. City Beach: Sophisticated Seaside Cool
Sleek, stylish and just 15 minutes from the city centre, City Beach is where beach culture meets cosmopolitan chill. With its wide-open shorelines, modern architecture, and beachside dining that feels straight out of a lifestyle magazine, this spot is where locals go for a quick fix of salt, surf and relaxation.
The water here is beautifully clear and great for swimming, while a dedicated surf and bodyboarding area ensures everyone’s happy. There’s even a large grassy area with playgrounds and BBQ facilities - perfect for families, dates or laid-back Sundays with mates.
Hot tip: Stake your spot early in the morning to enjoy the calmest surf and softest light. Afterwards, grab breakfast at Odyssea - their eggs benny is legendary.
Don’t miss: An evening swim followed by a beachfront dinner at Clancy’s Fish Pub under fairy lights. It’s where locals go to unwind after a long, hot day.
3. Trigg Island Beach: Surf, Sand and Soul
Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you. Trigg Island is Perth’s go-to surf beach - a wild, rugged stretch of coast with powerful breaks and serious beach cred. This is where the local surf culture thrives. If you’re not into riding waves, it’s still a beautiful place to feel the ocean’s energy and watch the pros do their thing.
But don’t worry, there’s more than just surf. Trigg’s northern end has calmer waters ideal for rockpool exploring and swimming. And behind the dunes? A laid-back beach café and coastal trail that’s perfect for recharging between dips.
Hot tip: Head to the northern end if you’re looking for calmer water to paddle in. It’s quieter and great for relaxing away from the main surf zone.
Don’t miss: Coffee and people-watching at Yelo Café. Sit on the deck, feel the breeze, and soak up the view with one of Perth’s best flat whites.
4. Coogee Beach: Snorkel a Shipwreck Just Metres From Shore
If you’re craving something a little different - a little secret, a little magical - then Coogee Beach is your hidden gem. Located south of Fremantle, this beach is calm, family-friendly and home to one of Perth’s most unique attractions: the Coogee Maritime Trail.
Here, just 25 metres offshore, lies the sunken Omeo shipwreck, part of a purpose-built underwater snorkel and dive trail that also features sculptures, reef balls and interpretive signs. It's an underwater playground bursting with marine life - and it’s easily accessible for beginners.
Hot tip: Pack your own snorkel gear and go early in the morning for the clearest visibility. The Omeo wreck is easily reached even by beginners!
Don’t miss: The Coogee Maritime Trail, with its underwater sculptures and interpretive signs, is one of Perth’s most accessible dive experiences!
5. Rottnest Island Beaches: Paradise Just a Ferry Ride Away
We saved the best for last! While it’s not on the mainland, Rottnest Island (Wadjemup) is just a 25-minute ferry from Perth and home to some of the most postcard-perfect beaches you’ll ever see.
There are 63 beaches and 20 bays to explore, each more jaw-dropping than the last. Think sugar-white sand, aqua water, coral reefs, and not a high-rise or car in sight. Plus, it’s home to the world’s happiest animal, the quokka, always ready for a selfie!
Hot tip: Rent a bike (or e-bike if you're short on time) and follow the beach loop around the island. Stop at The Basin early before the crowds arrive.
Don’t miss: A quokka selfie! But also snorkel the coral gardens at Little Salmon Bay, one of the clearest, calmest spots on the island.
Why Perth’s Beaches are Like Nowhere Else
Whether it’s the laid-back vibes of Cottesloe, the surfy spirit of Trigg, the adventure of Coogee, or the escape of Rottnest, Perth’s beaches offer more than just sand and sea - they’re a way of life. A place where time slows, tans glow, and every sunset feels like the world is giving you a standing ovation.
And the best part? You don’t have to choose just one. Build your dream beach holiday with a custom self-drive itinerary from Holidays of Australia - where we take you from city sands to island dreams in one unforgettable escape.
Ready for an adventure? Click here to view our top Perth packages, or get in touch with one of our travel experts!
1300 854 897 | holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
