5 Fremantle Beaches to Make a Splash

Beyond bustling shopping strips and exciting bars and eateries, Fremantle is also a place to connect with nature.

Pack your swimmers as we reveal the best beaches in Fremantle and beyond to make a splash.

1. South Beach

There's no other place that embodies the eclectic port city's free-spirited vibes than South Beach. Located along Marine Terrace, the calm beach is ideal for a peaceful swim, chilling on the pontoon, testing your strength stand-up paddle boarding or simply people-watching (Trust us, there is a lot to watch!).

South Beach has two sections separated by a breakwater. One suits all swimmers, while the other is a dog beach. Both sections are boarded by a South Beach Recreational Reserve, which features grassed areas with towering Norfolk pines, basketball courts, playgrounds, free barbeques, toilet facilities, and a café. Is the water too cold? Get warm at the tiny cabin-sized The Neighbourhood Sauna looking out towards the waves. Once feeling the heat, head to the coast to enjoy an icy dip! Now that's how to feel zen!

Explore more of what's around with a trip to nearby South Terrace. The southern end of Fremantle's most exciting strip is home to small bars and eateries, a brewery/distillery Running with Thieves and traditional pubs, all within an easy stroll.

Perfect for: Families, couples, gatherings, dog-friendly

2. Bathers Beach

The small and secreted Bathers Beach is unlike any other beach along Perth's coastline. It features remnants of an old wooden jetty and, perhaps more enticing, is home to Bathers Beach House, the state's only licenced beach bar on sandy shores. After enjoying a dip in calm water, relax on a sun lounge and order bites and a beverage to make the most of this gorgeous scene.

Linger around the beach with Fremantle's major attractions, Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour, High Street, the Western Australian Shipwrecks Museum, and the heritage-listed Fremantle Round House within a leisurely stroll.

Perfect for: Families, couples

3. Port Beach

Escape the crowds with a swim at Port Beach. With Fremantle Harbour's North Quay colourful cranes in the distance, this sliver of the coast is an excellent spot for a low-key splash minus fanfare. After swimming in crystal clear waters, head to the casual eatery Coast Port Beach overlooking the water to recharge with a meal or drink. The beachside pub has a playground for young ones to enjoy and exert energy while you unwind. A win-win for all!

As one of Fremantle’s best beaches, it is also popular with surfers and wind and kite surfers. 

Perfect for: Couples, surfers, families

4. Leighton Beach

If Cottesloe Beach is too busy, visit 'little sister' Leighton Beach. Located off West Coast Highway opposite North Fremantle train station, Leighton Beach is known for its long stretch of sandy coastline (1.5 kilometres) and inviting blue waters. This part of the coast is popular with wind and kite surfers when conditions are ideal. 

After your dip, get social mingling with locals at shipping-container café The Orange Box. It fringes a tear-drop-shaped grass reserve featuring shaded areas, barbeques, and toilet facilities. If wanting something more than just café goods or low-key vibes, head next door to Bib & Tucker. The all-day restaurant above Fremantle Surf Lifesaving Club specialises in modern Australian cuisine with stunning coastal views.  Venture further away from the coast to visit MRKT Space – a gourmet café, bar, and market under one roof.

Is your furry friend with you? Head north of Leighton Beach is dog-friendly. With small crowds, casual and upmarket eats, and plenty of sand for your pooch to play on, Leighton Beach impresses all walks of life.

Perfect for: Couples, surfers, families, dog-friendly

5. Coogee Beach

While technically not in Fremantle, Coogee Beach is a must-visit for underwater adventurers. The coastal playground, 7 kilometres south of Fremantle, features a T-shaped wooden jetty to appease those who love to somersault into water or avid anglers. 

Besides fishing and swimming, the beach is renowned for being one of Perth's top snorkelling spots, so make sure to pack your underwater camera! The beach features the 200-metre-long Coogee Maritime Trail. Located 25 metres from shore, the underwater trail centres around the infamous Omeo shipwreck. Running aground in 1905, the iron steamship forms part of a thriving artificial reef. The shipwreck is surrounded by underwater artwork and educational plaques outlining the region's maritime history and abundant marine life. 

The trail is suited to snorkellers and divers and has a maximum depth of 7 metres. 

Perfect for: Couples, families, snorkellers, divers

Stay around Fremantle longer. Check out 11 of Fremantle’s best small bars for an exciting tipple