A perfect place to go when the baking Perth sun comes out, Cottesloe Beach is an ideal spot for swimming, surfing, or just lounging on the beach all day long. Cottesloe has been a popular destination since the late 19th century and it has been a favoured haunt for holidaymakers ever since, with its consistent surf and its water temperature barely ever dropping beneath 21 degrees Celsius.
You can even go fishing in these parts. Head to the pier and drop a line to try and catch whiting or bream. Or you can delve into the water yourself: rent some snorkelling kit and admire the protected Cottesloe Reef system, and even find sea dragons hiding away amid the seagrass.
If you’re a keen surfer, head south of the Arch Monument and its towering stone Sundial, or paddle further afield. Swells are typically gentler for swimmers the closer you go to the Indiana bistro building.
For a rather more sedate experience, find a quiet spot beneath a tall Norfolk pine and laze all day looking across the Indian Ocean. Head for Marine Parade along the beach, where you’ll find food and drink on offer including fresh sea fare. Watch the sun setting whilst savouring a glass of wine at one of the local pubs. In mid-March you can also explore the annual Sculpture by the Sea event right here.
If you’re bringing youngsters, head for the Groyne, a quiet part of the beach where they can enjoy a splash in the water. In the distance you’ll be able to see the Rottnest Island and visit the Vlamingh Memorial named after a Dutch explorer.
Only about 11 kilometres from the centre of Perth, Cottesloe Beach is easy to reach by public transport. If you’re driving you can park at no cost on Marine Parade. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards through the evening in the summer, and be sure to stay in the safest patch between the flags when you go for a swim.
