Western Australia boasts some of the country’s most spectacular and diverse beaches, from the tropical north to the rugged south, offering everything from whale watching to world-class surfing spots.
Western Australia’s somewhat 12,000km coastline stretches from the tropical Kimberley in the north to the rugged Southern Ocean shores, offering some of the most unique and spectacular beach experiences on the planet. Unlike the crowded eastern shores of Australia, WA’s beaches often provide that rare combination of almost untouched natural beauty and blissful solitude.
The state’s relative isolation may have earned its reputation as a “Nanny state”, but it has also preserved these coastal spots in near-perfect condition, creating environments where wildlife thrives both above and below the waterline. From the iconic red-dirt-meets-turquoise-water scenes of the northwest to the powder-white squeaky sands of the south, Western Australia delivers beach experiences that feel almost otherworldly in their beauty, and here are just a handful of them.
Cottesloe Beach, Perth
The OG of Perth beaches, Cottesloe (or “Cott” to locals), is peak beach culture. Just 15 minutes from the city centre, this iconic stretch combines pristine swimming conditions with a buzzing social scene.
What makes it unique is the perfect balance between natural beauty and amenities. The terraced lawns overlooking the Indian Ocean make for prime sunset viewing spots, while the heritage-listed Indiana Tea House provides that perfect beachfront dining vibe.
Come during the annual Sculpture by the Sea exhibition in March when the beach transforms into an outdoor art gallery, and you’ll learn why this place is low-key famous worldwide.
Cable Beach, Broome
If riding camels along a 22km stretch of white sand as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean sounds like your jam, Cable Beach is where it’s at. Located in the Kimberley region, this beach earned its name from the telegraph cable connecting Australia to Java laid in 1889.
What sets Cable Beach apart is its dramatic tidal range – sometimes exceeding nine meters – creating a constantly changing landscape. The beach’s rusty red cliffs contrast spectacularly with the turquoise water and white sand, making it a photographer’s dream.
Pro tip: Time your visit between March and October to avoid the jellyfish season and to witness the natural phenomenon of the “Staircase to the Moon” – when the full moon reflects on the exposed tidal flats, creating an optical illusion of stairs leading to the moon.
Greens Pool, Denmark
Not your average beach, Greens Pool in William Bay National Park is basically nature’s infinity pool. Giant smooth boulders protect this beach from the wild Southern Ocean, creating a tranquil swimming area with crystal-clear waters.
The unique draw here is the surreal rock formations, particularly Elephant Rocks just around the corner, which resemble a herd of elephants wading into the water. The biodiversity is fire too – snorkellers can spot colourful fish, seagrass meadows, and beautiful reefs in the protected waters.
This spot hits differently during the early mornings when you might have the entire beach to yourself – a true rarity along Australia’s popular coastline.
Turquoise Bay, Exmouth
Living up to its name, Turquoise Bay serves some of the most vivid blue waters you’ll ever lay eyes on. Located adjacent to Ningaloo Reef (Australia’s other great reef), this beach offers an accessible snorkelling experience that’s next level.
Its most distinctive feature is the famous “drift snorkel”, where you can ride the gentle current from one end of the bay to the other, floating over coral gardens and encountering marine life with minimal effort. We’re talking reef sharks, turtles, and hundreds of fish species just meters from shore.
For extra clout, time your visit between March and July when whale sharks and humpback whales cruise these waters.
Lucky Bay, Esperance
When they say Australia has the whitest beaches in the world, Lucky Bay is the flex. Located in Cape Le Grand National Park, this beach regularly tops global white sand rankings thanks to its silica content that literally squeaks underfoot.
What makes Lucky Bay iconic are the kangaroos that casually hang out on the beach – yes, actual kangaroos lounging on pristine white sand. It doesn’t get more Aussie than that.
The contrast between the impossibly white sand, turquoise water, and the rounded granite peaks of the Recherche Archipelago creates a landscape that looks straight-up Photoshopped.
Camping spots overlooking the bay are the ultimate way to experience this remote paradise – just book well ahead because this place is no secret anymore.
Mettams Pool, Perth
This hidden gem in Perth’s northern suburbs is the ultimate natural swimming pool. Protected by a reef that creates a sheltered lagoon, Mettams offers safe swimming conditions while still delivering that authentic beach experience.
What makes it stand out from nearby beaches is the accessibility of its marine life. Snorkelling newbies can spot an impressive array of fish, crabs, and starfish in the clear shallows. During low tide, fascinating tidal pools form among the rocks – especially perfect for young explorers.
The local vibe is unmatched, with far fewer tourists than Cottesloe but all the beauty that Perth beaches are known for.
Hamelin Bay, Margaret River
Beach with a side of wildlife encounters? Hamelin Bay delivers with its resident stingrays that swim right up to visitors at the shoreline. Located in the Margaret River region, this white-sand beach combines historical significance with natural beauty.
Its unique appeal comes from the combination of dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and the remains of old jetty pylons that tell the story of the bay’s past as a timber port. The sheltered conditions make it perfect for swimming, while the surrounding wine region provides the ideal post-beach activity.
Smith’s Beach, Yallingup
A surfer’s paradise within the Margaret River region, Smith’s Beach offers something for every level of wave rider while still catering to those who prefer to stay dry. This expansive bay is flanked by headlands that create diverse conditions along its length.
What distinguishes Smith’s is the perfect combination of natural beauty and amenities – pristine wilderness meets convenient facilities. The beach is backed by the luxurious Smith’s Beach Resort, allowing visitors to experience both upscale accommodation and untouched coastline.
During whale migration season (September to December), there’s a chance you’ll spot Southern right whales and humpbacks breaching offshore – the cherry on top of an already perfect beach experience.
