10 Beautiful Beaches in Perth for Fun Days in the Sun

We may not have hustle culture, or snowy mountains, or proximity to Europe, but beaches? Beaches we have, and in abundance.

Perth’s beaches are actually some of the best in the world, so whether you're seeking an adrenaline-pumping surfing adventure, amazing snorkelling, or a day of fun and relaxation with family or friends, these quiet bays and winning waves truly have it all.

Here are our picks of the best beaches in Perth, for everything from a quick dip, to a fun-filled day in the sun. 

Cottesloe Beach 

A true icon of Perth, Cottesloe Beach offers a blend of natural beauty and vibrant energy. Soak up the sun on its golden sands, swim in the postcard-perfect water. After building up an appetite, stroll along Marine Parade and take your pick of some delicious lunch options;  enjoy gnocchi and a cocktail at Il Lido or enjoy the beach-club vibes of the Cottesloe Hotel. Don't miss the annual Sculpture by the Sea exhibition, which transforms the beach into an open-air art gallery.

The Basin

A bucket-list beach thanks to its naturally hollowed out reef, it’s easy to see why The Basin is one of the most popular beaches on Wadjemup (Rottnest Island). Only a 10-minute walk from the main settlement, it’s the dreamiest place to relax and reconnect, to feel the soft sand between your toes and the warm sun on your face. Take a languid dip in the safe, turquoise waters or put on your mask and snorkel to discover another world below the surface. The beach itself has been recently refurbished, so make the most of the new BBQs, outdoor showers and toilet facilities. The perfect day out. 

Scarborough Beach

Scarborough is famous for its great surf and buzzing atmosphere and is up there as one of the best beaches in Perth for these reasons alone. Go surfing or take a dip in the ocean, then refuel at Scarborough Beach Bar, with front row seats to that epic Indian Ocean sunset. The foreshore has had a recent glow-up, and now features a swimming pool, skate park, huge nature-based kid’s playground and plenty of bars and cafés along the strip. Scarborough Beach is also famous for its weekly sunset markets, where you can shop for unique crafts and indulge in delicious street food.

City Beach

With one of Perth’s most expansive stretches of white sand, lush grass, crystal clear waters and incredible facilities, City Beach is a hot contender for best beach in Perth. You can easily spend all day here; after a refreshing swim, grab a coffee and a bite from one of the open-air cafes, or sprawl on a picnic rug under a shady tree and fire up one of the free barbecues. Stroll along the boardwalk and take in those phenomenal views, hit up one of the restaurants or have a game of beach volleyball, then sit back and enjoy the sunset. 

Coogee Beach

You have access to an underwater wonderland at Coogee Beach, recently named one of Australia’s best 15 beaches. This sweeping stretch of sand is half an hour from Perth and just a few minutes south of Fremantle.

With almost almost 4 kilometres of stunning, turquoise-fringed coastline, it provides the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the walking trails and historic jetty of Woodman Point, then grab a pair of flippers and soak up the unforgettable sights below the water’s surface, including the atmospheric remains of the shipwrecked Omeo, and a wealth of inquisitive stingrays, seals and dolphins. 

Rockingham Beach

Renowned for its its safe, calm, shallow-water swimming and sandy shoreline, Rockingham Beach is perfect for a family day out. There's even an award-winning revitalised foreshore precinct included in the package deal, making Rockingham an iconic destination - and one of the best beaches in Perth. Be sure to also stick around for some gorgeous sunset views. 

Trigg Beach

Loved for its powerful waves and prime surfing conditions, Trigg Beach is a playground for experienced and novice surfers and bodyboarders. If you're new to surfing, don't worry; there are surf schools nearby that offer lessons, so you can confidently ride the waves under the guidance of expert instructors. If you prefer a more laid-back experience, find a spot on the sand to bask in the sun, search for crabs and starfish in the rockpools, or soak up the sunshine and beautiful views over lunch at Canteen or Island Market. It's a turquoise-hued coast with the most and one of the best beaches in Perth. 

Bathers Beach

This stunning Fremantle beach offers a unique urban beach experience. Have a swim, take a walk, explore the historic Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbor, and hit up Bathers Beach House, a chic beachfront eatery that is also home to Australia’s first licensed beach bar, so you can indulge in some tasty post-swim fare and refreshing cocktails with your toes in the sand.

Mettams Pool 

A true suburban oasis, Mettam’s Pool is a tiny bay nestled between Trigg Beach and North Beach. It's a truly beautiful Perth beach. Its calm water makes the secluded rock pool area the ultimate spot for a dip. If you’re planning to hang out all day, pack your snorkel (there’s tons of colourful fish, coral and underwater life to explore) and a picnic, to make the most of the serene surroundings post-swim. 

Floreat Beach

Surrounded by dunes and lush greenery, Floreat Beach is a haven for both surfers and beachgoers. Catch a wave or enjoy a leisurely swim, then head to The Kiosk Floreat Beach for lunch; grab a table outside to really soak up that relaxed beach ambience. There’s also a great playground for the kids and sheltered picnic huts with free barbecues; making this one of the best beaches in Perth to throw down a rug and enjoy the sunset. 

From the first rays of the day, to the magical sunsets, see for yourself why these beautiful Perth beaches are truly some of the best in the world. For more adventuring, check out our guides to the 11 most unmissable experiences in WA, and most romantic accommodation in Margaret River.