Cottesloe Beach: Sun, Sand and Indian Ocean Sunsets
Planning a trip to Perth? No visit is complete without a swim and a sunset at Cottesloe Beach - the locals just call it "Cott"!
What's All the Fuss About?
Cottesloe is one of Perth's most iconic beaches, and it lives up to the hype.
Postcard setting: White sand, crystal clear water and shady Norfolk Island pines.
The Indiana building: The beach's famous landmark, with showers and toilets underneath.
Those sunsets: Watch the sun dip into the Indian Ocean from one of the finest sunset spots in the world.
Photo by Julian (-wuppertaler) · CC BY 4.0
Why You'll Love It
Whatever your idea of a perfect beach day, Cott has you covered from the first morning dip to the last light.
Swimming and snorkelling: The surrounding reef makes it a favourite for snorkellers as well as swimmers.
Surf's up: Swimmers, kite surfers and body boarders love the clear water and consistent swell.
Picnic perfect: Grassed terraces bordered by shady trees are ideal for a lazy afternoon picnic.
Peace of mind: From October to April, the Town of Cottesloe installs an eco shark barrier - 170 metres long, reaching about 140 metres out from shore and made from 100% recycled materials.
Getting There
Cott is easy to reach from the city, with or without a car.
By train: Take the Fremantle Line to Cottesloe station, then cross the tracks and head west to the beach (the shops are to the east). Transperth timetables can change, so check before you go.
By car: It's about a 15-minute drive from the city.
Cott Cat: On summer weekends, the Cott Cat shuttle bus runs regularly between the station and the beach.
Accommodation: Stay in the CBD or on Mounts Bay Road, and the beach is just a train ride or short drive away.
Photo by Julian (-wuppertaler) · CC BY 4.0
Make a Day of It
Don't rush home after your swim - Cott really comes alive later in the day.
Eat by the beach: Local favourites include Il Lido, Indigo Oscar, Ocean Beach Hotel and Gelato Bar Cottesloe - or grab fish and chips and find a spot on the sand.
Sunday sessions: The beachside pubs and bars host some of Perth's best Sunday sessions, with live music and DJs.
Shop the village: Wander the boutiques along Napoleon and Station Streets.
Sculpture by the Sea: The 22nd annual exhibition runs from 5 to 22 March 2027, stretching from the sea wall along the sand towards North Cottesloe.
Cottesloe Beach is Perth's classic beach day - a morning swim, a picnic under the pines, and a golden sunset over the Indian Ocean to finish. Pack your towel, sunscreen and a hat, claim a spot on the grassy terraces and settle in until the sky turns orange - it's a Perth ritual you'll want to repeat again and again!
Want to start planning? Check out the Town of Cottesloe beach guide for facilities and local tips.
Cover photo by Calistemon · CC BY-SA 4.0
