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Best Coastal Walks, Perth Beaches, Dog Walks & Sunset Spots In Perth

Author: Daria Osipova | Updated Jan 16, 2024

Discover the best coastal walks in Perth, the best beaches in Perth for swimming, the best dog beaches, and where to watch the beautiful Perth sunset!

If you plan to head to the beach during the next public holiday or Perth school holidays, check out the dates for the WA school holidays and public holidays in Western Australia.

The Best Beaches In Perth, WA.
The Best Beaches In Perth, WA. Image: Nathan Hurst on Unsplash

โญย ย Discover school holiday fun today!ย Check out the ultimateย school holiday activities Perthย offers for toddlers, kids and teenagers, including school holiday events, free school holiday activities and fun things to do in Perth school holidays.


Best coastal walks in Perth, Western Australia

Among heaps of fun things to do in Perth for families, you'll find many scenic coastal trails perfect for family walks. From captivating beach walks with stunning Indian Ocean views to nature walks surrounded by native beauty, there's something for everyone in your family to enjoy.

Beautiful beaches in Perth aren't just for swimming. To truly enjoy the ocean views and pristine beaches in Perth, beach walks and nature walks are a must!

Here are our picks for the most beautiful beaches in Western Australia, the best bush walks near Perth, and the best beach and coastal walks Perth offers.

Some of the best coastal walks and nature walks near you:

  • Floreat Beach Nature Walk

  • Iluka Coastal Path and Foreshore Park

  • Point Peron Beach and Foreshore Park


Floreat Beach Nature Walk

Floreat Beach Nature Walk is perfect for enjoying Perth sunsets and sunrises and beautiful Perth views of the Indian Ocean.

Please note that:

  • Jogging is not allowed on the boardwalk,

  • Dogs must be on a leash at all times.

Floreat Beach is one of the nice beaches in Perth that offers one of the best beach walks with beautiful views.
Floreat Beach is one of the nice beaches in Perth that offers one of the best beach walks with beautiful views. Source: TravelAddict on Google Images

After enjoying the Floreat Beach Nature Walk, head over to Floreat Beach Perth. It's perfect for families!

Kids will love the Floreat Beach Playground, a shaded play space that overlooks the Ocean.

Please note that dogs are not allowed here on Floreat Beach Nature Walk or on Floreat Beach.

A beautiful Perth sunset at Floreat Beach Perth nature walks.
A beautiful Perth sunset at Floreat Beach Perth nature walks. Source: Chanchira on Google Images

Floreat Beach map directions

๐Ÿ“ Get directions to Floreat Beach Perth Nature Walk.


Iluka Coastal Path and Foreshore Park

Iluka Coastal Path is one of the best dog-walking trails & Perth beach walking trails. It connects Burns Beach, Iluka Beach and Foreshore Park and offers beautiful ocean views.

Iluka Coastal Walk Perth is one of the best beach walks, dog-friendly walking trails and nature walks.
Iluka Coastal Walk Perth is one of the best beach walks, dog-friendly walking trails and nature walks. Source: Simon Shaw on Google Images

Iluka Beach Perth is a perfect setting for watching the gorgeous Perth sunset. Moreover, it could be the best place to watch the sunset in Perth!

It's also one of the best dog-friendly bush walks Perth has to offer.

Don't miss the Iluka coastal walking trail and the best sunset in Perth.
Don't miss the Iluka coastal walking trail and the best sunset in Perth. Source: Wayne Pickard on Google Images

This spot is perfect for visiting Perth with family!

There are cafes, parking, public toilets, picnic spots, and BBQ facilities at Burns Beach Foreshore Park and Iluka Foreshore Park.

There are playgrounds at both parks, too.

Iluka Foreshore Park has a playground, picnic tables and more. There are many Perth playgrounds near the beach to discover.
Iluka Foreshore Park has a playground, picnic tables and more. There are many Perth playgrounds near the beach to discover. Source: Ashwin Masarkar on Google Images

Dogs are allowed on leash on the walking trail. However, dogs are not permitted on Iluka Beach and Burns Beach, Western Australia.

๐Ÿ“ Get directions to the Iluka Coastal Path Nature Walk in Perth here:


Point Peron Beach and Foreshore Park

Point Peron Beach and Peron Foreshore Park are unique spots full of history, where native bushland meets the pristine coastline.

Itโ€™s perfect for exploring with the whole family, with some of the best Perth bushwalks and beach walks for you to enjoy.

The beautiful Point walks and one of the best bush walks with dogs Perth has to offer.
The beautiful Point walks and one of the best bush walks with dogs Perth has to offer. Source: Martin Hadley on Google Images

Point Peron Beach is great for swimming or enjoying a picnic on the shore, taking in the beautiful scenery, and maybe even a Perth sunset!

Fantastic rock formations at Point Peron beach in Perth.
Fantastic rock formations at Point Peron beach in Perth. Source: LEO LI on Google Images

Look closely for native wildlife, including dolphins in the ocean!

Dogs are allowed on leash at all times.

A dolphin was spotted at Point Peron beach in Perth.
A dolphin was spotted at Point Peron beach in Perth. Source: Adam Bent on Google Images

Point Peron map directions

Point Peron Beach is a 1-hour drive from Perth City, perfect for a day trip or road trip for the whole family with kids.

Here's the Point Peron map to explore the beach in Perth, bush walks and more.
๐Ÿ“ ย Get directions to Point Peron here.


Best beaches in Perth, Western Australia

There are lots of very good beaches in Perth, Western Australia. Whether you're looking for the best beaches near Perth for swimming or dog walks, we've got you covered!

Some of the best Perth beaches are:

  • Leighton Dog Beach Perth

  • South Beach Perth

  • Cottesloe Dog Beach

  • Peasholm Dog Beach in Perth

  • Mettamโ€™s Pool Perth


Leighton Dog Beach Perth

Leighton Beach in Perth, Australia, is a pristine beach that is popular with locals. It's one of the best Perth beaches for swimming in crystal clear water.

Leighton Beach, one of the dog-friendly beaches Perth WA.
Leighton Beach, one of the dog-friendly beaches Perth WA. Source: Andrew MacFarlane on Google Images

There are cafes to grab a snack and BBQs and picnic spots in the park nearby.

It's a perfect place to come watch the beautiful Perth sunset too.

Leighton Beach is one of the best Perth sunset spots.
Leighton Beach is one of the best Perth sunset spots. Source: Travis Hydzik on Google Images

Leighton Beach is a dog-friendly beach Perth has to offer. Itโ€™s just past the family-friendly swimming area heading towards Mosman Beach.

Dogs are allowed off-leash, and many dogs are often running around playing together.

Leighton Beach is perfect for off-leash dog walks (Perth, Western Australia).
Leighton Beach is perfect for off-leash dog walks (Perth, Western Australia). Source: Andrew MacFarlane on Google Images

Leighton dog beach map directions


South Beach Perth

South Beach is also one of the most beautiful beaches in Perth. It's also popular with families with young kids and toddlers.

South Beach is one of the best Perth beaches for swimming and offers a great dog-friendly beach nearby.

South Beach is the best Perth beach for swimming and families.
South Beach is the best Perth beach for swimming and families. Source: Firdy M on Google Images

Dogs are allowed off-leash at South Beach and on the grass areas. However, staying on a leash when other people have picnics on the grass would be best.

South Beach will be your dog's happy place! It's one of the best dog walks Perth WA.
South Beach will be your dog's happy place! It's one of the best dog walks Perth WA. Source: alexpaolino1 on Google Images

There is lots of space on the beach and grass areas nearby with shade and picnic spots. And if you're looking to stretch your legs and enjoy Perth beach walks with your dogs with lovely ocean views, South Beach is the place to be!

South Beach is one of the nicest beaches in Perth and one of the favourite dog-friendly walks Perth has to offer.
South Beach is one of the nicest beaches in Perth and one of the favourite dog-friendly walks Perth has to offer. Source: Angela Cornelio on Google Images

South Beach Perth map directions


Cottesloe Dog Beach

Locals love Cottesloe Beach in Perth because there's something here for everyone: you can go swimming (it's a patrolled beach), enjoy a beach walk, and have a picnic.

Cottesloe Beach is also a lovely place to walk the dog and have a coffee, ice cream or fish and chips.

The Dog Beach Cottesloe can get a little crowded during peak periods, such as on weekends, WA public holidays and Perth school holidays.

Cottesloe Beach is a family-friendly beach great for swimming, beach walks and picnics.
Cottesloe Beach is a family-friendly beach great for swimming, beach walks and picnics. Source: Peter Day on Google Images

The beautiful Cottesloe Beach is also home to Sculpture By The Sea, a sculpture exhibition by talented local Australian artists.

Check when the next annual Cottesloe exhibition is scheduled here.

A unique sculpture on Cottesloe Beach exhibition Sculpture By The Sea.
A unique sculpture on Cottesloe Beach exhibition Sculpture By The Sea. Source: giulia carpanedo on Google Images

How long does it take to get from Perth to Cottesloe Beach?

It's a 25-minute drive from Perth to Cottesloe Beach or a 40-minute public transport journey.


Peasholm Dog Beach in Perth

Peasholm Beach is one of the most popular Perth dog beaches that both puppies and big dogs will love!

There are shower and hose facilities and a small carpark that can get busy during weekends.

Peasholm Beach is the perfect dog-friendly beach in Perth.
Peasholm Beach is the perfect dog-friendly beach in Perth. Source: Andrea Basile on Google Images

It's excellent for enjoying the Perth sunset with your dogs too!

Don't miss the fantastic sunset at Peasholm Beach in Perth.
Don't miss the fantastic sunset at Peasholm Beach in Perth. Source: Dan Kong on Google Images

Peasholm Perth dog beach map

๐Ÿ“ Get the directions to Peasholm Dog Beach here.


Mettams Pool Perth

Mettams Pool is a lovely family-friendly beach in Perth City. Itโ€™s popular for snorkelling to discover unique fish on the reefs.

There are many rocks, including sharp rocks, so this beach is better for older kids. Also, keep in mind it can get crowded on weekends and public holidays.

Mettam’s Pool is one of the best family-friendly beaches in Perth.
Mettamโ€™s Pool is one of the best family-friendly beaches in Perth. Photo: Matt Rowcliffe, Google images

๐Ÿ“ Get the directions to Mettams Pool:


๐Ÿง‹ After exploring the stunning beaches of Perth, be sure to check out one of the best bubble tea Perth City and surrounds have to offer.


Best Perth sunset-watching spots

Don't miss these best sunset spots Perth beaches have to offer. You can enjoy a picnic and quality time with your family during the Perth school holidays or on weekends.

Some of Perth's best beaches to enjoy sunset are:

  • Scarborough Beach

  • Whitfords Dog Beach

  • Trigg Dog Beach


Scarborough Beach

Scarborough Beach is popular for sunset watching and swimming and is one of the best surfing beaches in Perth.

However, big waves are common, so swimming for young kids isn't recommended.

Scarborough Beach in Perth is a famous surfing beach that has many things to do in Perth for families.
Scarborough Beach in Perth is a famous surfing beach that has many things to do in Perth for families. Source: Mr Lee Out And About on Google Images

There is lots of space to settle down with a picnic or take away to enjoy the stunning Perth sunset on the beach, grass areas or picnic tables.

Incredible Perth sunset from Scarborough Beach.
Incredible Perth sunset from Scarborough Beach. Source: Clint Christison on Google Images

It's a bustling area with cafes, restaurants and many locals and families enjoying a picnic, beach walks, cycling and more.

There are also many fun kids' activities, including a skate park, basketball court, rock climbing wall and an awesome Whale Playground!

Kids will love the Whale Playground in Perth.
Kids will love the Whale Playground in Perth. Source: Greg McPhee on Google Images

How long does it take to get from Perth to Scarborough Beach?

It's a 20-minute car ride from Perth to Scarborough Beach or 30+ minutes on public transport from Perth CBD. ๐Ÿ“ Get directions to Scarborough Beach Perth here.


Whitfords Dog Beach

Whitfords Beach is peaceful and one of the prettiest beaches in Perth. It's perfect for dog walks and watching the gorgeous Perth sunset.

Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and no lifeguard or patrol.

Enjoy the gorgeous Perth sunset at the dog-friendly Whitfords Beach.
Enjoy the gorgeous Perth sunset at the dog-friendly Whitfords Beach. Source: Rina Shah on Google Images

๐Ÿ“ Get directions to Whitfords Beach here:


Trigg Dog Beach

Trigg Beach is a favourite surfing beach in Perth. However, Trigg Beach is not the best beach for swimming due to the large waves and strong currents.

It's one of the best spots for catching the gorgeous Perth sunset, but be careful of snakes and spiders reported in the area.

You'll find a gorgeous picnic spot there, with the beach just across the walkway. There are covered picnic tables and free BBQs.

Look at that sunset in Trigg Beach - truly one of the best Perth beach sunsets.
Look at that sunset in Trigg Beach - truly one of the best Perth beach sunsets Source: Rodrigo Marcolino on Google Images

The beach itself is impressive, with a large rock you can climb and sit on while you admire the fantastic view.

Trigg Beach is also a fantastic dog park in Perth. You'll find a children's area there, making this stunning Perth beach a perfect spot to meet up with friends or just walk your furry friend.

๐Ÿ“ Get Trigg Dog Beach directions here:


I hope this list gave you some ideas for more free things to do in Perth with your family!

Share this article to help more families discover ideas for fun things to do with kids in Perth on weekends, public holidays and school holidays!

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Perth is the capital city of the state of Western Australia.

Yes, the Western Australia and Perth border are open from 3 March 2022. All people arriving into WA, including returning residents, must meet all the current entry requirements listed on WA government website: https://www.wa.gov.au/government/announcements/was-border-opening-thursday-3-march-2022.

Perth is known for being the most isolated city in the world with hot and sunny weather, enjoying more sunshine hours than any other Australian capital city. Going to the beach in Perth is one of the most popular activities. Read on to discover the best beaches in Perth.

There are many beaches in Perth city and surroundings, including 19 Perth city beaches, many more dog-friendly beaches in Perth, and lots of beaches in Perth for swimming. Read below for the best beaches Perth has to offer.

According to the shark attack data from the Global Shark Attack File (GSAF) created by the Shark Research Institute, there have been 8 shark attacks at Cottesloe Beach in Perth since 1900. There is a shark net enclosure around the part of Cottesloe Beach for swimming. However, shark sightings can occur so it is important to look for any signs indicating that a shark was spotted when visiting the beach.

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