~ By Nadia Cuthbertson of Perth Weekend.

If you’re planning a road trip through the stunning natural landscapes of Western Australia you’re in for a treat! WA is home to some of the best beaches you’ve ever set foot on, from the iconic shores of Cottesloe Beach to frolicking with stingrays at Hamelin Bay to the unique Shell Beach where tiny shells replace the sand. Whether you’re into surfing, snorkelling or just kicking back on the sand – there’s Western Australia beaches for everyone!

Cottesloe Beach

Located on the stunning Indian Ocean coastline and just 20 minutes from the heart of Perth, Cottesloe Beach is not to be missed! It’s one of the most beloved Western Australia beaches, known for the 100-year-old Norfolk Pines that line the shore, the iconic pylon out to sea and the Indiana Tea House building that stands proudly on its shore.

While you’re visiting be sure to grab some fish and chips to enjoy as you watch a spectacular sunset over the ocean. If you happen to be in the area in March make sure you stop by the annual Sculptures By The Sea event where the beach transforms into an outdoor gallery and attracts artists and visitors from all over the world. 

Lucky Bay Beach

Located in Cape Le Grande National Park near Esperance, Lucky Bay is one of WA’s most famous beaches. This one frequently tops “Best Beaches in the World” lists, and for good reason – visitors are often lucky enough to spot friendly kangaroos right on the beach! It’s also home to crisp white sands and bright turquoise water. 

For the ultimate Lucky Bay experience why not spend the night at the campground right near the beach and check out the coastal views from the scenic drives and hike trails of the National Park? 

Meelup Beach

Meelup Beach is located near Dunsborough in the Margaret River region. It’s known for its calm crystal-clear waters, gentle waves and the beautiful bushland that surrounds it. Meelup is a great beach destination for families with plenty of activities on offer like snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. 

Make a day of it – there are excellent picnic and BBQ facilities lining the beach. After lunch enjoy a walk along the Meelup Reserve Trail, a 7km trail through the native bushland with stunning coastal views. 

Hamelin Bay Beach

Also located in the Margaret River Region, Hamelin Bay Beach is a must because of the friendly local stingrays who call the beach home. The Hamelin Bay Stingrays is a unique WA wildlife experience – they swim right up to the shore. The best time to see the rays is the morning before the crowds rush in.

While you’re in the area make sure you check out some of Margaret River’s famous wineries!

Trigg Beach

Trigg Beach is located in the Suburb of Trigg in Perth and it’s a weekend favourite for many Perth Locals. On a Saturday morning, the atmosphere comes alive as people grab a coffee and go on a morning walk along the coastline of the Indian Ocean. There are also natural limestone reefs offshore and plenty of marine life creating perfect conditions for snorkelling enthusiasts. 

Turquoise Bay Beach

Turquoise Bay is located near the town of Exmouth within the Ningaloo Reef Marine Park. Turquoise bay is most famous for its exceptional snorkelling which is easily accessible right from the shore. Lucky visitors can spot turtles, reef sharks and a heap of fish varieties just a few metres out! For the best snorkelling experience join in the ‘drift snorkel’ by allowing the bay’s current to glide you over coral and marine life. 

When you’re done snorkelling, kick back on the beach and soak in all the natural beauty of the area.

Rottnest Island Beaches

No trip to Perth would be complete without catching a ferry to the nearby Rottnest Island. The Island is home to over 60 stunning Western Australia beaches that can be easily discovered by renting a bike and cycling the island. There’s plenty of marine life to check out here so make sure you pack the snorkel. 

However, the island’s main claim to fame is the adorable quokkas who call it home. No trip to Rottnest would be complete without snapping an iconic selfie with one of these cuties!

Cable Beach

Cable Beach is located in Broome in the Kimberley Region of Western Australia. It’s known for its iconic camel rides over the 22 km stretch of white sandy beaches. Here you can also catch a stunning sunset over the Indian Ocean. History buffs will not be disappointed on a Cable Beach trip – Broome has a rich pearling history and even ancient dinosaur footprints to discover!

Shell Beach

Shell Beach is located within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area in WA’s Gascoyne region. The beach is unique as it’s made up of millions of tiny white shells that are up to 10 metres deep and stretch for over 70 kilometres. The clear turquoise water contrasted against the bright white shells is a stunning sight to see. 

The high salinity of the water contributes to the abundance of cockle species that form the shells. The high salinity also makes this beach a great spot for a relaxing float on the water.

Scarborough Beach

Located in the Perth suburb of Scarborough, Scarborough Beach is a great spot for a day out at the beach – there’s something for everyone to enjoy here. The beach is known for its consistent surf breaks and is a favourite among surfers from beginner to expert. It’s also got a vibrant foreshore area, home to an eclectic mix of cafes, bars and restaurants. You’ll often catch locals getting out and active in Scarborough, enjoying activities like beach volleyball and yoga. 

During the warmer months, make sure you check out the Scarborough Sunset Markets each Thursday evening for some great shopping against a stunning Indian Ocean backdrop. 

Last Words

From the surf-friendly waves of Scarborough Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Turquoise Bay there’s a beach in Western Australia for every traveller. So, next time you’re planning a Road Trip in Western Australia make sure these incredible beaches are on your list!

About the Author

Nadia is the creator of Perth Weekend. She moved to Western Australia eight years ago and quickly fell in love with Perth. Her weekends are usually spent exploring the city’s diverse offerings. She aims to share her knowledge and experiences to help others discover the best of what Perth has to offer, whether it’s a visit to a local beach, a hike through a national park, or meeting the local wildlife.