Cottesloe Beach Perth: Swimming, Cafes, Sunsets & Snorkelling
After visiting hundreds of beaches around Australia, I would have to say Cottesloe Beach in Western Australia is one of our top favourites.
We spent many days here on our latest lap of Australia, and prior to that, I would spend almost every afternoon here when I lived in Perth. I would lie under the tall trees, watching the ocean. There aren’t many places that I can think of that allow you to view the waves from the shade, on grass. Other days, I would jump in the water and just float around.
This list will cover the best things to do in and around ‘Cott’, as the locals say.
Our Fav Resources
– Book your day tours here: Viator.com
– Book your camper hire here: StarRV.com.au
– Best accommodation site: Booking.com
About Cottesloe Beach
Cottesloe Beach, located just 15 minutes south of Perth or a few minutes north of Fremantle, is one of Western Australia’s most iconic coastal spots. It is a simple train ride; Cottesloe station is a short walk from the beach.
It’s also easy to pair with other great days out from the city – hop a ferry across to Rottnest Island, or check out our full list of day trips from Perth for more ideas.
Cottesloe has soft white sand and this beautiful, crystal-clear Indian Ocean water. It’s perfect for swimmers, snorkelers, and families. It’s different from the city; Cottesloe has this laid back vibe, and everything just feels calm.
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Cottesloe Beach is also a world-famous surf location, with waves breaking left and right off the groyne, just a little way from the main beach. If you’re not into surfing, kids will love the playground, try the outdoor gym – or visit one of the many cafes.
There is a reason why Cottesloe Beach is one of the most popular in Western Australia!
Best Things To Do In Cottesloe Beach
Cottesloe Beach has a variety of things to do. Swimming and surfing are high on the list, but there are plenty of other activities for when the weather is colder or if you prefer not to swim.
Looking for a simple day tour from Perth? Click here for rates and details
Swim in the ocean
Bring your bathers, and take a dip in the clear water. During October and March (the best times to swim), a shark barrier net is installed around the main swimming area. Sharks are known to be all around the coastline, but it gives reassurance for those concerned to swim inside the net.
The lifeguards are on duty during the weekends and public holidays over the summer season. As always, on any beach, always swim between the flags.
Snorkelling is fantastic to the north of the main beach, or to the south, you’ll find some rock pools and if you look closely, you might see some leafy sea dragons.
To really immerse yourself in the ocean, why not complete a Scuba Course while you’re here? Learn to dive at one of the best locations in Australia!
👉🏻Book your PADI dive course here
Or, if you’re already qualified – this is the day-long dive trip I recommend
Surf a world-famous break
Most surfing is left from the groyne at Cottesloe Beach. For those who don’t know what a groyne is, it is the man-made section of rocks that protrude out into the ocean, creating a calmer area on one side.
Just slightly further south is another well-known break called the Cove and Seconds. Just be cautious, as it is very shallow.
For any surfing lessons, Leighton Beach is your closest location in North Fremantle. If you need any gear or replacement parts, check out Vidlers at 14 Station St, Cottesloe.
Watch a famous WA sunset
As the sun sets in the west, you’ll see a beautiful display of vibrant colours over the sea. Grab a picnic, and sit and watch from the grass terraces, one of the best vantage points we’ve seen – and something that we do very frequently!
Sculpture by the Sea: annually in March
View unique sculptures made by 600 artists from 44 different countries displayed along the beach and foreshore at Cottesloe Beach. It is one of the largest free events made public in the world. Check out Sculpture by the Sea for more information.
Play golf with the best views!
I don’t know anything about golf, but I know a fantastic location when I see one! The Seaview Golf Club has to be one of the best locations, just one street back from the main beach. For those who know more than I do about golf, it’s a nine-hole repeating course, check out their website for more info!
Play a round of golf, or head to the bar and bistro for a meal.
Where To Eat
There are a variety of places to eat within walking distance from Cottesloe Beach. Choose from fancy dining, take away or icecream, the options are endless! Here are our top picks:
Eat at Indigo Oscar
Located right on the foreshore at Cottesloe Beach, you can’t go past without stopping in for a meal or a drink. Choose from a delicious menu of Australian cuisine, and let the kids choose from the kids menu.
Check out their webpage for the latest in entertainment and book yourself a package deal that sometimes includes music and drinks. I’d recommend booking a table, especially during the busy times – weekends and school holidays, so you don’t miss out.
Amberjacks Fish and Chips Cafe
Who doesn’t like fish and chips when spending the day at the beach?! Amberjacks Fish and Chips Cafe is a short walk from the beach, located on Marine Parade.
Open 7 days, order yourself a delicious selection of fresh Australian fish, homemade products and cold drinks. You can either dine in or take it back to the grass terraces for a relaxing beach meal. See their menu here
Il Lido Italian Canteen
Known for its 1930’s art-deco atmosphere, Il Lido Italian Canteen serves amazing Italian food and coffee, right near the beachside. It is more up-market style dining, but definitely worth it for a wonderful night out.
Choose between sitting in this unique cafe, or grab a bite to eat and a coffee and head for a walk to the beach. They also have an extensive wine list that would please anyone! It is recommended to book ahead to save your table.
Where To Stay
Cottesloe Beach is the perfect seaside location to stay, yet still be in close proximity to Perth. Choose from high-end apartments, and hotels at all price ranges and even try a unique stay.
Cottesloe Blue Apartment: Luxury with beach frontage
Wake up to ocean views at Cottesloe Blue Apartment, a stylish beachfront escape in Perth’s most iconic coastal suburb. With modern amenities, a private balcony, and the beach just steps away, it’s perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Check the rates here for Cottesloe Blue Apartment
✅ Cottesloe Beach Hotel: Front row to the beach.
Stay just steps from the sand at Cottesloe Beach Hotel, a prime spot for ocean access.
Built in 1905, this hotel has stylish rooms, breathtaking sea views, and vibrant dining options. It’s the perfect coastal escape. Enjoy a meal at the Beach Club, sip sophisticated cocktails at the Velvet Lounge or grab a drink at the Verandah Bar after you come back from the beach.
Check the rates here for the Cottesloe Beach Hotel
✅ YHA Fremantle Prison: A very unique stay!
Yes, you read that right! Experience a stay like no other at Fremantle Prison YHA, a heritage-listed hostel inside a historic prison!
Sleep in original cells (with modern comforts), enjoy time in the games room or say hi to other travellers in the TV lounge room. This accommodation is in Fremantle, 5 minutes south of Cottesloe Beach or a few stops on the train, but something so unique I had to share!
Check the rates here for the Fremantle Prison YHA
✅ The Local Hotel: Great Value close to Cottesloe Beach
The Local hotel, a few minutes south of Cottesloe Beach offers a nice stay at a great value. It is located in the heart of Fremantle at The Local Hotel, a trendy boutique stay with stylish rooms and a laid-back vibe.
If you’re looking to save a few dollars, but still want to experience Cottesloe Beach, I would recommend staying here. Enjoy top-notch dining downstairs and explore the surrounding area.
Book now for an unforgettable stay!
Cottesloe Beach Frequently Asked Questions
While Cottesloe Beach is fantastic, there is actually so much more to the Cottesloe area! Here are a few things to know:
Why is Cottesloe Beach famous?
Maybe it’s Cottesloe’s white sands, or perhaps it’s the grass areas surrounding the beach where you can sit under the shade. It’s a well-known surf spot for surfing enthusiasts, but also a spectacular snorkelling location in the surrounding reef.
The historical buildings are iconic to the area, but you’ll just have to see for yourself why this beach is so well known!
What is the prettiest beach in Perth?
There is no surprise when Cottesloe Beach is top of every list. Other beaches around Perth are City Beach – around a 15-minute drive from the city centre, Bathers Beach in Fremantle and Mettams Pool north of Perth.
How far is Cottesloe Beach from Perth?
Cottesloe Beach is just over 30min drive from the centre of Perth, or a 45-minute drive from Perth Airport. There is plenty of parking around the beach areas and restaurants.
Cottesloe Beach is conveniently located within walking distance from Cottesloe train station, a simple few stops from the city centre.
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Our Thoughts
Cottesloe Beach is always a favourite for our family. Before kids, I was visiting Cottesloe for the relaxing vibe, now with kids, we’re in the ocean, building sandcastles and grabbing a coffee on the go.
If you’re visiting Perth, I would highly recommend at least a day’s outing to Cottesloe. If you have a few spare days, a nice relaxing beachside holiday works wonders for everyone!
