It’s well documented that Western Australia has some of the finest beaches in the world. With a mainland coastline stretching a staggering 12,895 kilometers, there’s no shortage of beautiful seaside spots to spend a summer’s day. Whether it’s down in the great south, around the center of Perth, or up to the tip of the state, here are the best beaches in WA to explore this summer.
Turquoise Bay, Exmouth
Regularly cited as one of the best beaches in the world, Turquoise Bay is known for its white sandy beaches and pristine waters beside the World Heritage Site of Ningaloo Reef. It’s the perfect spot to go swimming, snorkeling, or just relax on the soft sand.
Hamelin Bay
Hiding in the world-famous Margaret River wine region, Hamelin Bay not only provides beautifully clear waters but also the rare chance to get up close with local stingrays. About three and a half hours south of Perth, the sheltered spot is ideal for swimming and fishing and divers and snorkelers can enjoy the nearby shipwreck.
Cable Beach, Broome
The 22 kilometer stretch of stunning beach lives in one of WA’s most popular tourist destinations: Broome. While Cable Beach has a truly tropical atmosphere with white sand dunes, red cliffs, and lovely waters, the tourist hotspot is likely most well known for its famous camel rides.
Eighty Mile Beach, Port Hedland
Stretching 220 kilometers from Port Hedland to Broom up WA’s coastline, Eighty Mile Beach is famous for fishing and shell collecting. The peaceful stretch of sand is a serene spot to watch the glowing sunset and as such a spacious beach, you’re quite likely to have a patch to yourself.
Coogee Beach, Coogee
Just south of Fremantle lies the beautiful area of Coogee Beach. Aside from the lovely stretch of sand, Coogee also has a large grass picnic area, a decent sized jetty and a shore-based shipwreck that provides some quality snorkeling.
The Basin, Rottnest Island
Likely Rottnest Island’s most popular beach, The Basin is a lovely sheltered spot next to Pinky Beach. The shallow, clear waters are a dream spot for both swimming and snorkeling. According to Tourism Western Australia, the beach has also previously been awarded “Australia’s Top Beach”.
Lucky Bay, Esperance
One of the state’s most idyllic beaches is a 45-minute drive east of Esperance. Lucky Bay offers calm waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, surfing and launching small boats. The five kilometers of relaxed coastline is ideal for sunbathing and if you’re lucky you might even have the beach to yourself.
Meelup Beach, Dunsborough
This picturesque beach, only about a five-minute drive from Dunsborough town center, is the perfect place for a family day out. The calm waters are complemented by plenty of shaded spots, BBQs, and public change rooms, toilets, and showers.
Scarborough Beach
The beach at the north of the river suburb is a popular surfing spot as well as a home for all manner of water sports including kite surfing and windsurfing. The brand new foreshore redevelopment has transformed the lively location into a modern precinct filled with restaurants, cafes, public BBQs, a skatepark, an amphitheater, a large playground area, an outdoor swimming pool, and more.
Gracetown Beach, Margaret River
The intimate beach and town are hailed around the country as one of the finest surfing spots thanks to the North Point and South Point – two landmark surf breaks. The dog-friendly beach is surrounded by the raw beauty of exposed rocks and hills and the coastal character of natural wildlife and a welcoming community.
This article originally appeared on Fancy and do not necessarily represent the views of australiaexploring.com
