“My sense of direction leads me one way: to the beach.“ – Unknown
Looking to rent a holiday home at the beach in Perth? Let me show you the 5 best beaches in Perth for your family holiday. Cottlesloe, Scarborough, and more. There is very little better than Perth in Summer! With our sub-Mediterranean climate, it is very easily one of the best places in Australia to call home during the summer. Add to this its silky smooth beaches, crystal clear water, and ease of access beach worshipers are in paradise.
1. Cottesloe.
Not much beats Cottesloe, or Cott as the locals call it. Only 20 mins from Perth’s CBD and one of the most renowned suburbs to live in Perth, its iconic Norfolk pines distinguish it from the rest. With plenty of parking, terraced grass seating, and ample room for beach frivolity, old and young alike enjoy the Cott lifestyle.
Protected by a groyne (or breakwall) at the South end of the beach, a lagoon-type effect is created for those not wanting to negotiate the sometimes large swell. For surfers, however, the south end of the groyne has a reef break and is generally rideable. At Cott, proper, surfing is allowed at the main beach from May – September, but not over the summer months due to a large number of swimmers.
The iconic Indiana Tea House sits proudly overlooking the beach and offers a wide variety of sumptuous meals as well as amazing views of the Indian Ocean. If it’s a simple fish & chips meal, then go to Amberjacks. Located 50 meters from the beach, we often will order our food from the beach, wait 10-15 minutes and then collect it on the way up to our car. They offer a wide variety of fish as well as delicious sides.
If it’s a drink you are looking for, the Cottesloe Beach Hotel (The Cott), is an institution. The Sundays Sesh’s here are 2nd to none! There is a dress code, so be sure to wear a sleeved shirt and closed-toed shoes or you may get turned away. The atmosphere is laid back and fun and the good drinks are supplied with top-shelf liquor. Down the road is the Ocean Beach Hotel (OBH to locals) offers a bit more pub-style atmosphere with pool tables, sports on TV, and awe-inspiring sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
This is a highly desirable suburb to live and rent in. Just a few years ago my mother came down for 3 weeks with a friend who had never been overseas and the2 ladies (then in their mid-70’s) spent days lazing on the beach, playing in the ocean and then sipping G & T’s on the balcony reminiscing of times gone by watching the sun set on the Indian Ocean.
If you are a golfer, there is Sea View Golf Course. And what a view it has! It is a par 3 and a lot of fun. Do be aware of the Fremantle Doctor (predominant SW breeze) that blows in the warmer summer months as your ball could be blown backwards when teeing off.
Three Beach Homes in Cottesloe that will Blow you Away
Sun, Sand, Sea and Salty Kisses
Cottesloe Executive Beach House
2. Scarborough.
Just 10 minutes up the road from Cottesloe is Scarborough or Scarbs as the residents refer to their home. Scarbs is a bit more hip, commercial, seaside community. There are residential developments, nightclubs, restaurants and fantastic surf. When the banks are working, the sand breaks are 2nd to none in the world. Fast and clean with the light easterly winds, Scarbs can turn on the goods.
Homes in Scarborough range from 70’s style villas to top-floor penthouses overlooking the Indian Ocean. There are night markets at the Amphitheater in the summer as well as concerts, occasionally. The Coles (supermarket) is conveniently located next to the beach plus other takeaway shops.
There has been a recent multi-million dollar upgrade of the foreshore with the development of the Scarborough Beach Pool a great place to swim laps or take the little ones regardless of the season as it is naturally heated.
Three Beach Homes in Scarborough that will Make you Smile
Beachfront Penthouse & Huge Terrace
3. Floreat / City Beach.
Secluded Floreat is located on the West Coast Highway between City Beach and Scarborough. Hidden behind the dunes this expansive stretch of pristine beach is simply amazing. Floreat Dog Beach is on the northern end and there are showers and a car park. Kitesurfers love this area as it is generally less busy than the other, easier accessible beaches.
The homes behind Floreat and across West Coast Highway are in the suburb of City Beach and have commanding views of the Indian Ocean and thus their price tags are reflective of their outlooks. That is not to say that you can not afford to buy or rent in City Beach, but it is a privilege and a highly desired area. The suburb of Floreat itself is set back to the South East of City Beach and is a bit inland so somewhat less expensive.
The newly upgraded Wembley Golf Course has recently had a $20 million dollar facelift. With 2 x 18 hole golf courses and reasonable green fees, this public course is the best of its kind in the Perth metro area. Either walk or buggy the front or backside or play 36 holes in a day for the more intrepid. The driving range is second to none and features automatic ball teeing. The pro shop is fantastic as well as the atmosphere at the 19th hole for some suds after a long day on the links.
Three Beach Homes in Floreat/City Beach that will Soothe your Soul
Family Home within Walking Distance of Beach
3. Yallingup / Dunsborough.
I knew nothing of this area prior to moving to Perth. I had a mate from years ago that lived down this way and was constantly trying to get me to come & play. After only a short 2 1/2 hour drive from Perth, I was hooked. Some of the most pristine coastlines I have seen in Western Australia is here. From Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse the 135km stretch of silky, smooth beaches are absolutely amazing.
Yallingup Beach is famous for its consistent surf and picturesque scenery. The numerous breaks bring people from around the world to come and have a surf in the Indian Ocean. The small community has locals as well as holidays makers alike residing year-round. If you are looking to rent or buy in Yallingup or Dunsborough, please just ask as we know many of the locals and have access to properties otherwise, inaccessible.
Just down from Yallingup is Indjinup Beach or Inji, It has a great beach break at Car Parks or you can take the 20 minutes to walk out to Indjinup Point to ride the point break. It can get very crowded so dawn patrols or weekday surfs are best. Just beware of the landlord as occasionally he comes looking to collect rent. 😉 There are some amazing holiday homes located at Indjinup. Several on large acreages accommodating 20+ guests and great for weddings, birthdays or anniversaries.
Three Beach Homes in Yallingup/Dunsborough that will Help you Relax
4. Lancelin.
90 minutes north of Perth is the small fishing village of Lancelin. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, quaint feel and fantastic food come here to unwind or have the adrenaline sports adventure of your life. Kite surfing is some of the best in the world with consistent SW winds and the Dhu fishing is consistent.
Homes are reasonable to purchase and can be let for a few nights or weeks at a time. Given its proximity to Perth’s metropolitan area book early as bookings can fill up months before school holidays or summer break.
Three Beach Homes in Lancelin with the Fresh Smell of Salt Air
Those are just a few of our favourite beach holiday suburbs in and around Perth. The West Coast of Australia is adorned with numerous beaches and small communities. With the climate so favourable it is easy to sink into the beach lifestyle and never look back. If you would like any further information on any of the above communities or have an interest in others, feel free to reach out. We have a wealth of resources at our fingertips when it comes to Perth beach communities and would love to share!
