Perth has some of the best beaches in Australia, with clear waters, soft sand, and long summer days perfect for a swim or a stroll.

From popular beaches to beaches where the surf rolls in just right, there’s a beach for every kind of day.

Some are great for families, others for catching a wave or just sitting back with fish and chips as the sun dips low.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through eight of the best beaches in Perth that you have to visit if you’re in the mood for a dip, a walk, or just want to cool off.

Best Beaches in Perth

1- Coogee Beach

Coogee Beach, recently ranked among Australia’s top 15 beaches, is located just 30 minutes from Perth and a few minutes south of Fremantle.

This 4-kilometre stretch of soft sand and turquoise water is one of the best beaches in Perth for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying a laid-back day by the ocean.

If you are a nature lover, you can explore the walking trails and historic jetty at Woodman Point, while adventurers will love the Coogee Maritime Trail.

Only 25 metres from shore, this snorkelling and diving route features the shipwrecked Omeo, sunk in 1905, along with maritime relics, sculptures, and vibrant marine life like stingrays, seals, and dolphins.

At the southern end, the Jervoise Bay Sailing Club continues Coogee’s strong sailing traditions with races from October to May.

Whether you’re looking for underwater exploration or relaxing by the shore, Coogee Beach is a must-visit when planning things to do in Perth.

2- Cottesloe Beach

Cottesloe Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Perth, is just 15 minutes from the city and is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and sunset watching.

Locals affectionately call it “Cott,” and you can easily reach it by car, bus, or train, with a short walk from Cottesloe Station.

The shaded Norfolk Pines, terraced lawns, and pristine white sands make Cottesloe Beach ideal for family picnics or lazy afternoons.

The clear, calm waters are great for swimming, while nearby reefs attract snorkelers eager to see marine life.

Along the beachfront, you’ll find a lively mix of cafés, restaurants, and bars offering everything from breakfasts to sunset cocktails.

With its combination of natural beauty, safe swimming spots, and vibrant dining, Cottesloe Beach is not only one of the best beaches in Perth but also a top pick for visitors on the quest for the perfect coastal day out.

3- City Beach

City Beach is a clean, relaxed beach located just 20 minutes west of Perth, making it a convenient choice for anyone exploring the best beaches in Perth.

It’s very popular among local surfers, backpackers, and families, thanks to its gentle waves, soft sand, and wide open spaces.

The beach offers excellent facilities, including showers, picnic areas, and a playground with ocean views.

A scenic boardwalk links City Beach to Floreat Beach, making it perfect for coastal walks.

Above the beach, grassy areas and restaurants serve fresh food paired with stunning Indian Ocean sunsets.

City Beach also hosts community events like the annual City to Surf marathon, which finishes here each August.

While local accommodation is limited, nearby Scarborough offers plenty of options.

If you’re making a list of things to do in Perth, a sunny afternoon at City Beach should be near the top.

Also Read: Best Beaches in Mornington Peninsula

4- Scarborough Beach

Scarborough Beach, located 20 minutes from Perth on the Sunset Coast, is one of the most vibrant and lively beaches in Perth.

Surfers love its consistent waves, while families enjoy attractions like the Whale Playground, skate bowl, and heated Scarborough Beach Pool overlooking the Indian Ocean.

The bustling esplanade is lined with cafés, bars, and boutiques, making it a great spot to relax after swimming or surfing.

If you visit during the Sunset Markets, you can enjoy live music, street food, and local artisan stalls.

Scarborough Beach also offers surf lessons, beachfront yoga, and scenic bike paths.

Sunset Hill is the perfect place to watch the sun dip below the horizon, while WA’s only coastal amphitheatre hosts events year-round.

Easily accessible by car, public transport, or rideshare, Scarborough Beach is a must-visit when looking for fun things to do in Perth and the ultimate coastal escape.

5- Trigg Island Beach

Trigg Island Beach is often listed among the best beaches in Perth thanks to its famous surf break and stunning turquoise water.

Surfers and bodyboarders flock here year-round, while swimmers enjoy the calm inshore areas and soft white sand.

The limestone outcrop attracts birdlife like pied cormorants and silver gulls, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

It’s more than just a surfing beach—Trigg Island is popular for fishing, coastal walks, and even dolphin spotting.

Families can relax at the grassed picnic areas with barbecues, grab a snack from the kiosk, or dine at the nearby restaurant.

Public change rooms and regular Surf Life Saving patrols make it a safe and convenient choice.

Located about 20 minutes northwest of Perth along the Sunset Coast, Trigg Island offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and beachside leisure, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Perth beaches.

6- Port Beach

Port Beach, just five minutes from Fremantle, is one of the best swimming spots in Perth.

With wide stretches of white sand and calm, clear waters, it’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.

The views across the Indian Ocean to Rottnest Island make it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Families love the nearby café, enclosed playground, and patrolled swimming area.

Summer weekends can be busy, so visit early for a quieter beach experience. In winter, the nearby Sandtrax surf break attracts local surfers looking for consistent waves.

Public transport is easy, with a bus stop right near the beach.

Whether you’re here for a morning swim, an afternoon coffee, or to watch a spectacular sunset over the ocean, Port Beach delivers a laid-back coastal charm.

It’s a top choice for anyone looking to explore beach life in Perth without travelling far from the city.

Also Explore: Things to Do in Perth

7- Rockingham Beach

Rockingham Beach is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Perth, offering calm, sheltered waters perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.

Just 45 minutes south of Perth, it’s also a hotspot for marine encounters, where visitors can see dolphins or join tours to swim with sea lions.

The upgraded foreshore connects directly to a range of cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it ideal for a full day out.

With 37 kilometres of coastline, Rockingham Beach offers activities for every type of beachgoer—kayaking, kitesurfing, jet skiing, scuba diving, and fishing.

It’s also famous for takeaway fish and chips enjoyed right on the sand at sunset.

For thrill-seekers, a skydive over the coastline ending on the beach is unforgettable.

Easily accessible by car or train, Rockingham Beach is a must-see for anyone creating their list of best beaches in Perth.

8- Leighton Beach

Leighton Beach, just north of Fremantle, is one of the most accessible Perth beaches for families, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts.

With clear, shallow waters and soft sand, it’s ideal for kids and casual swimmers.

On windy days, it transforms into a playground for kitesurfers and windsurfers, adding color to the coastal horizon.

Calm days are perfect for snorkeling, revealing marine life just beneath the surface.

Regular ocean swimmers use its flat conditions for long coastal swims, and the northern end serves as a popular off-leash area for dogs.

Evenings at Leighton Beach are special, with breathtaking sunsets over Rottnest Island.

With plenty of parking and a short walk from North Fremantle train station, Leighton Beach is an easy addition to any Perth beach itinerary.

Just five minutes from Fremantle and 30 minutes from the city, it’s a favorite beach for locals and visitors alike.