Discover Hillarys Boat Harbour

Are you even from Perth if you haven’t spent a day at Sunset Coast gem Hillarys Boat Harbour?!

Built in the 1980s, perched upon the Indian Ocean, Hillarys Boat Harbour offers the perfect combination of shopping, dining, aquatic adventures, and plenty of relaxation. It’s a place where something is happening morning, noon and night – so why not spend an entire day there? Grab your sunnies, your crew, and dive into this coastal paradise, found just 24kms north of Perth city.

Shop 'til You Drop: Retail Therapy with a View

Start your day right at Hillarys Boat Harbour with a leisurely stroll along the Hillarys Boardwalk, browsing the many boutiques. With a variety of specialty shops (Frankii, Evoe, Hollow Surf are a few favourites), you'll find everything from fashion and homewares to Hillarys souvenirs. Whether you're on the hunt for beachwear, local artwork, or gifts, you’re sure to find it here.

Treat yourself to a spot of retail therapy, and be sure to check out Willie Creek Pearls, showcasing jewellery hand crafted with sustainably produced pearls from Broome, in far north Western Australia. You might just discover a unique piece to take home.

Dive into Aquatic Adventures

Ready to dive beneath the waves without getting wet? Hillarys Boat Harbour boasts the impressive Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA), a fascinating underwater journey for the whole family. AQWA is home to a 3 million litre aquarium, with a huge array of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and vibrant coral reefs.

Walk alongside these creatures in its underwater tunnels, all while staying dry. It's an educational and immersive experience that will leave you in awe of the wonders of the Indian Ocean.

See the jaw-dropping southern migration of humpback whales, during a scenic 2-hour whale watching cruise, departing with Rottnest Fast Ferries. The whale watching season runs from August through to November.

Take a Dip

Sunny Perth days are made for lazing on the white sand of Hillarys Boat Harbour. These gentle shores offer a safe swimming experience for little ones. The calm, family-friendly swimming coves have plenty of shade and even a playground on the sand. Let the kids build sandcastles, swim to the pontoon, or simply splash around in the crystal-clear waters.

Look for the vibrant mural by local artist Peter Ryan and you’ll find the public change rooms. The shower facilities here make it so easy to freshen up and go from beach to bar.

Fun Thrills by the Beach

Hillarys Boat Harbour is home to many exciting events and a Fun Fair, open from 12pm until late during the summer season. With rides for all ages, from a Ferris wheel to bumper cars, it's the perfect place for a little action near the beach.

During warmer months, there’s a pop-up water park fun for the kiddos. Floating playground, Island Aqua Park, is for kids aged 6-16 years old. The outdoor activity park has plenty of challenging obstacles to conquer, including monkey bars, a tower slide and climbing wall.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

Ice Cream, anyone? No beach day is complete without a sweet treat, and Hillarys Boat Harbour doesn't disappoint. Satisfy your sugar cravings with a scoop (or three) at one of the many delicious ice cream and gelato vendors. Create your dream dessert from the many flavours and toppings. Then, ice cream cone in hand, wander around the harbour, taking in the sights one lick at a time.

Relax with a Picnic or BBQ

For those who prefer a super casual and budget-friendly dining experience, Hillarys Boat Harbour provides handy picnic and barbecue facilities. Pack a picnic basket with sandwiches and snacks, or bring along sausages to sizzle on the free BBQs.

With shady picnic tables and lush terraced lawns scattered all around the harbour, you'll always find the perfect spot to throw down a picnic rug with family and friends.

Dining with Harbour Views

After all that exploring, you'll be starving! Hillarys Boat Harbour has so many waterfront eateries to choose from. Whether you're craving brunch with a coffee at a chill café like the popular Purple Goat, or over 70 different pizza toppings by Little C’s or even a bubble tea, there's something for every palate.

Seafood lovers, in particular, are in for a treat. The restaurants here serve up some of the freshest catches from the Indian Ocean. Savour simple fish and chips, tasty tapas, or indulge in a seafood platter bursting with mouth-watering marine morsels, while soaking up the sunset.

Sunset Sippin'

As day turns to night, the harbour’s waterfront bars and restaurants become the destination for a sunset tipple to end your day in style. Hillarys is the picture-perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner at Mia Cucina or a casual catch-up over drinks with friends at The Breakwater.

Sip on cocktails, local wines, or craft beers while you watch the sun dip below the horizon. It's a lovely way to end a fun filled day of exploration at Hillarys Boat Harbour.

See a Sunset from the Lighthouse

Catch a stunning sunset, as it casts a golden glow across the Indian Ocean. Take a leisurely 1.9km stroll along the Lighthouse Trail, climb the steps to the viewing platform and be rewarded with breathtaking sunset vistas and the chance to spot the Rottnest Ferry arriving at the harbour.

Hillarys Boat Harbour is the ultimate ocean side destination that combines shopping, eating out, swimming, picnicking, and stunning sunset views. With its diverse offerings, coastal vibe and FREE parking, it's a place where lasting memories are made, and unforgettable experiences are had. Whether you're splashing in the ocean, savouring fresh seafood, or simply enjoying a scrumptious ice cream cone, Hillarys Boat Harbour has something for everyone.

Be sure to pack your beach bag and head to this Sunset Coast spot soon.

Find Hillarys Boat Harbour at 86 Southside Dr, Hillarys.