A Great Vacation at Cottesloe Beach, Perth's Best Beach Destination

Experience the ultimate getaway! Explore Cottesloe Beach, Perth's top destination for a fantastic vacation by the sea.
Traveloka Accomodation
04 Sep 2023 - 5 min read

Perth has a wide choice of beaches, but the most famous is Cottesloe Beach. Located in the western part of Perth between the Central Business District and Fremantle Port, it's named after the British politician Thomas Fremantle, the First Baron Cottesloe.

Cottesloe Beach is known for its soft, white sand and clear seawater. The stunning ocean views and spectacular beach panoramas make this beach the ideal place to relax, sunbathe, swim, or even surf.

In addition, Cottesloe Beach is surrounded by large green areas, such as the Cottesloe Civic Center and the Cottesloe Esplanade Reserve, ideal for a family picnic, playing with the kids, or enjoying the stunning sea views.

The history of Cottesloe Beach is an important part of its diverse identity. It's a place of recreation and natural beauty and has ties to the culture, history, and people surrounding it. Cottesloe Beach has a rich history and is one of Perth's most iconic sites.

The name 'Cottesloe' comes from a British ship named 'Cottesloe', which sank near this beach in 1875.

Directions to Cottesloe Beach

Cottesloe Beach is halfway between Perth and Fremantle, approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles), or less than 30 minutes drive from downtown Perth.

The following are directions and modes of transportation available to reach Cottesloe Beach:

1. From Perth CBD

By train: Take the Transperth train from Perth rail station to Cottesloe station. Once you arrive at Cottesloe station, walk about 10-15 minutes to Cottesloe Beach.
By bus: Take the Transperth bus from Perth CBD to Cottesloe Beach. Take bus number 102, 103, or 107 bound for Fremantle and get off at the stop adjacent to Cottesloe Beach.

2. From Fremantle

By train: Take the Transperth train from Fremantle to Cottesloe station. Once you arrive at Cottesloe station, walk about 10-15 minutes to Cottesloe Beach.
Take the Transperth bus number 102, 103, or 107 from Fremantle towards Perth. Get off at the bus stop adjacent to Cottesloe Beach.

History of Cottesloe Beach

Before the arrival of Europeans, this beach was the customary land of the Noongar tribe, an indigenous Australian tribe who inhabited this area for thousands of years. Cottesloe Beach is important in Noongar culture and is a place for meetings, hunting, and other activities.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began arriving in the area, and Cottesloe Beach became a popular destination for people wanting to take a vacation and relax by the sea. In 1906, Perth's first railroad was built to Cottesloe, facilitating access to the beach.

During World War II, Cottesloe Beach was an important observation and defense location. Many beach outposts were built to keep an eye out for potential enemy attacks.

In 2009, the beach underwent a major renovation, including upgrading facilities and restoring historical heritage. Efforts are made to maintain the authenticity of the beach while providing a better experience for visitors.

Things to Do at Cottesloe Beach

Cottesloe Beach offers a variety of attractions that visitors can enjoy. Here are some interesting activities and attractions around this beach:

1. Surfing and Swimming

Cottesloe Beach has ideal waves for surfers. Visitors interested in the sport of surfing can enjoy the seductive waves and try their hand at the surfboard.

Enjoy the beauty of clear seawater and soft white sand at Cottesloe Beach by swimming in its refreshing waters. This beach has several safe areas for swimming, and is accompanied by lifeguards to keep visitors safe.

2. Building Sandcastles and Visiting Sculpture by the Sea

Get inspired to build castles out of pristine white sand by visiting Sculpture by the Sea. This free beachside exhibition, held every March, turns Cottesloe Beach into an outdoor art gallery of giant statues. Wander the paths along the coast checking out the incredible work of both new and old artists.

3. Watching the Sunset

Cottesloe Beach is known for its stunning sunsets. Many visitors gather by the beach to watch the sky change colors as the sun sinks over the horizon, creating a beautiful and romantic scene.

You can also enjoy views of the ocean and sunset while waiting for dinner. Choose from the many stylish eateries around Marine Parade, many of which, such as The Blue Duck or Indiana's famous Art Deco restaurants, offer views of the Indian Ocean.

4. Cycling

Exploring a destination through a leisurely walk or a bicycle ride is not only enjoyable but also beneficial for one's health.

One of the most recommended options is to embark on a long stroll or a cycling adventure along the Cottesloe to Hillary track, which spans approximately 25 kilometers and offers breathtaking views of Perth's picturesque coastline.

However, if covering the entire distance seems overwhelming, there's no need to worry. You can choose any specific section of the track and cycle through it at your own pace.

5. Snorkeling

Cottesloe is divided into three areas. The main Cottesloe Beach area is great for swimming and walking. Peters Pool on North Cottesloe Beach is a great spot for snorkeling and is right in front of the surf club and Blue Duck and Barchetta cafes.

There are no beaches at all in South Cottesloe, only rocks and rock cliffs. This is a place that surfers go to and is perfect for wind watching and kitesurfing.

When the ocean is calm, it's also a great snorkeling spot in Perth. You may even be lucky enough to spot an endangered evergreen dragon.

Accommodation Near Cottesloe Beach

1. Cottesloe Beach Hotel

Location: 104 Marine Parade, Cottesloe, Western Australia, Australia, 6011

Price: Starting from AU$209.89 per room per night.

This hotel is located directly across from Cottesloe Beach, offering easy access to the beach and stunning sea views. The hotel features comfortable rooms and facilities like a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool.

Cottesloe Beach Hotel

104 Marine Parade

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2. Ocean Beach Hotel

Location: Cnr Marine Parade & Eric St Cottesloe, Cottesloe, Western Australia, Australia, 6011

Price: Starting from AU$122.35 per room per night.

Located just steps from Cottesloe Beach, Ocean Beach Hotel offers comfortable accommodations with stunning beach views. The hotel has modern rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and hosts live music events.

Ocean Beach Hotel

Cnr Marine Parade & Eric St Cottesloe

AU$218

AU$189

3. Tradewinds Hotel Fremantle

Location: 1 Sewell Street, East Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia, 6158

Price: Starting from AU$187.20 per room per night.

Tradewinds Hotel Fremantle is a 4-star hotel offering comfortable accommodations and modern facilities in a relaxed and charming environment in Fremantle. This hotel is located on the banks of the Swan River, steps from the beach, and close to popular attractions such as the Fremantle Markets and Cicerello's Fish and Chips.

Tradewinds Hotel Fremantle

1 Sewell Street

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4. Pier 21 Apartment Hotel Fremantle

Location: 7-9 John Street, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia, 6159

Price: Starting from AU$176.05 per room per night.

Pier 21 Apartment Hotel Fremantle offers spacious, modern apartment accommodation with panoramic views of the Swan River. The hotel enjoys a serene atmosphere and is located along a quiet riverside, providing a relaxing and comfortable stay.

Pier 21 Apartment Hotel Fremantle

7-9 John Street

AU$366

AU$349

5. Captain Stirling Hotel

Location: 80 Stirling Hwy, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia, 6009

Price: Starting from AU$84.57 per room per night.

The Captain Stirling Hotel is located in the lively Nedlands neighborhood, close to many surrounding attractions and amenities. This hotel offers comfortable accommodations with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly service.

Captain Stirling Hotel

80 Stirling Hwy

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Pack your belongings now and have the most memorable trip to Australia with Traveloka.

In This Article

• Directions to Cottesloe Beach
• 1. From Perth CBD
• 2. From Fremantle
• History of Cottesloe Beach
• Things to Do at Cottesloe Beach
• 1. Surfing and Swimming
• 2. Building Sandcastles and Visiting Sculpture by the Sea
• 3. Watching the Sunset
• 4. Cycling
• 5. Snorkeling
• Accommodation Near Cottesloe Beach
• 1. Cottesloe Beach Hotel
• 2. Ocean Beach Hotel
• 3. Tradewinds Hotel Fremantle
• 4. Pier 21 Apartment Hotel Fremantle
• 5. Captain Stirling Hotel

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