Perth, where stunning beaches are a way of life, holds a standout gem – Cottesloe has one of the best beaches in Western Australia. With its natural beauty, ocean panoramas, and the quaint charm of a small beach town, Cottesloe captures hearts.
Whether you’re all about the beach vibes, love appreciating art, or have a passion for good food, Cottesloe, an icon for Western Australians, welcomes everyone with something special.
Exploring Cottesloe Beach: Why it Stands Out
If you’re visiting Perth for the first time and you are a beach lover then Cottesloe is the perfect place for you with its glistening white sand and crystal-clear waters. But what truly sets it apart from other beaches in Perth? Let’s dive in and find out.
Swimming Safely: The Shark Net at Cottesloe
At Cottesloe, you can swim with peace of mind, thanks to the protective shark net in place from October to March. I love this as I can swim a lot further out into the sea than I would do at any other beach.
The shark net, maintained by Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club, ensures a safe swimming environment for swimmers, allowing them to enjoy crystal-clear waters without worrying about sharks or the presence of offshore reefs.
The Unique Charm of Sculptures by the Sea
There are plenty of attractions at Cottesloe, one of the main ones is the annual Sculptures by the Sea exhibition. Internationally renowned artists showcase their creativity each year by scattering intricate sculptures along the beachfront, creating a unique artistic ambience.
This year is the 20th anniversary event that will take place 1-18 March 2024 featuring 100 unique sculptures along the beach. Walk up to north Cottesloe Beach to see the remarkable fusion of nature, art, and ocean vistas and lively cultural atmosphere.
Dive into The Local Cuisine at Cottesloe Beach
After a day of beachside adventures, it’s time to treat your taste buds to some delicious flavours. From fresh seafood to beachfront cafes, there’s a culinary delight waiting for every food lover.
Signature Dishes to Try at Cottesloe
The Indiana Teahouse, which overlooks Cottesloe Beach, is also an iconic landmark and in 2021 it was added to the Western Australia Heritage Register. The tea house is now home to the restaurant Indigo Oscar which offers a delicious Latin American menu.
For those craving some delicious Italian food then Il Nido Italian Canteen is a favourite amongst the West Australians that you won’t want to miss. You can’t go wrong with any of their pasta dishes, especially the lasagna. If you are lucky then the pianist will be playing.
And of course, a visit to Cottesloe Beach wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the beachfront cafes’ gelato bar, perfect for a sweet treat to cool off under the summer sun.
Popular Bars and Their Specialties
If you are looking for a few drinks at the pub then the Ocean Beach Hotel or Cottesloe Beach Hotel are the place for you.
Making the Most of Your Visit to Cottesloe Beach
Now that you’ve experienced the unique attractions of Cottesloe, let’s ensure you make the most of your time here.
Ideal Time to Visit for a Perfect Beach Experience
For those seeking a perfect beach experience during the warmer months, then plan your visit between November and April. The summer months are between December and March.
Soak up the summer sun, paddle, and surf in the crystal-clear waters of Cottesloe, and don’t miss the iconic beachfront sunset, a magical experience unique to this beach.
Relax on the soft sand or enjoy a dip in the crisp Indian Ocean. Pack a beach picnic, and take in the breathtaking ocean views. The northern parts of the beach are better for those looking to go snorkelling.
How to Get to Cottesloe Beach Perth
To get to Cottesloe Beach Perth, you can easily reach it by public transport or car. If you prefer driving, there is ample parking available near the beach.
Buses also run regularly to and from Cottesloe, and the nearest train station is next to the town of Cottesloe. Cott is one of the easiest beaches to get to by train from Perth city centre, you will need to take the Fremantle line.
Which is the Best Beach for Surfing in Perth?
If you’re looking for the best surfing spots in Perth, Scarborough Beach and Trigg are two of the most popular beaches with the biggest waves. With their consistent swells and pristine waves, they offer a great surfing experience for both beginners and advanced surfers.
Best Accommodation in Cottesloe
There are a few nice places to stay that are along the beachfront. Here are some of our top picks for places to stay in Cottesloe.
Cottesloe Beach Hotel
Situated directly across from Cottesloe Beach, this hotel has two bars and a restaurant. The majority of the rooms feature a balcony that provides unobstructed views of the ocean.
Conveniently positioned for swimming and surfing activities, Cottesloe Beach Hotel is a mere 500 meters away from Sea View Golf Club. Having first opened its doors in 1905, this hotel still maintains its timeless art deco features.
Ocean Beach Hotel
Located in Perth, Ocean Beach Hotel is a property that offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, and a bar. The hotel is conveniently situated 300 meters away from Cottesloe Beach and 600 meters from Swanbourne Beach.
Additionally, it is also close to Claremont Showground (4.4 km) and Kings Park (8.8 km). Guests can enjoy room service and make use of the free WiFi available throughout the property.
Cottesloe Beachfront Ocean View Apartment
Nestled right across from South Cottesloe Beach, the Cottesloe Beachfront Ocean View apartment offers amazing views of the Indian Ocean and Rottnest Island.
Conclusion
Cottesloe Beach is undeniably one of the best Perth beaches, and it offers a unique experience that sets it apart from others. From the captivating sculptures dotting the coastline during Sculptures by the Sea, the groyne which is great for fishing or viewing the beach to the safety provided by the shark net.
And let’s not forget about the delicious local cuisine that you can indulge in while soaking up the sun. And if you’re a surfer then Scarborough Beach should be added to your Perth travel itinerary.
To make the most of your visit, plan your trip during the ideal time of November to April for the warmer months. You won’t want to skip this beautiful beach this summer.
I'm Matt, a writer and drone photographer with over 6 years in the field. I specialize in all things drones – from buying guides and editing tips to monetization strategies. My goal is to help enthusiasts and professionals alike navigate the exciting world of aerial photography and videography, sharing insights that turn drone passion into expertise and opportunity.
