Sunset Coast Self Drive Trail
Explore Perth's Sunset Coast from Cottesloe to Yanchep. Read on for itinerary details and view the map to start your journey.
Cottesloe to Scarborough
Starting at Cottesloe Beach, grab a coffee from Magic Apple Wholefoods, where you can enjoy ocean views while watching early-morning walkers and swimmers along the foreshore. Continue north along Marine Parade, passing joggers, local beachgoers and the iconic Norfolk pines lining the shoreline. Follow West Coast Highway to City Beach, then make a short detour up to Reabold Hill in Bold Park for sweeping views over Perth City, the coast and the surrounding bushland - the highest natural vantage point along this section of coastline.
Continue north to Scarborough Beach, one of Perth's most vibrant coastal destinations. It's the perfect place to pause, walk down the promenade, take a refreshing ocean swim, or join a surfing lesson with Scarborough Beach Surf School or Go Surf Perth. After your swim, wander over to Zoie Café for a bite to eat, and let the kids burn off some energy at the beachfront playground.
Image: Scarborough Beach Playground
Scarborough to Mullaloo
Just north of Scarborough, turn off West Coast Highway onto West Coast Drive and follow the scenic route to Hillarys. This stretch of coastline is lined with sheltered bays and pristine beaches, offering plenty of opportunities for stunning photos, swimming, snorkelling and dining at Trigg Beach, Mettams Pool, North Beach and Watermans Bay - perfect stops to soak up the coastal atmosphere.
As you continue north, explore Marmion Marine Park, a haven for marine life and water activities that stretches 9500 hectares between Trigg Island and Burns Rocks. At the MAAC Club in Marmion, the Dive and Snorkel Trail offers a unique experience: a 400-metre underwater trail featuring 20 informative plinths on the seafloor. This interactive journey takes snorkellers and divers through clear waters often inhabited by colourful fish and marine species. Nearby Sorrento Beach provides calm waters for swimming and family picnics, making it an ideal spot to relax before reaching Hillarys Boat Harbour.
Hillarys Boat Harbour is one of Perth's most popular coastal precincts, offering a relaxed waterfront atmosphere with plenty to see and do for all ages. Set around a sheltered marina, it's a great place to slow down, enjoy the ocean views and soak up the laid-back Sunset Coast lifestyle. Visit AQWA – The Aquarium of Western Australia to discover the incredible marine life found off WA’s coastline, including the iconic underwater tunnel.
Afterwards, take time to explore the Hillarys Boardwalk, lined with boutique shops, cafés and restaurants, making it an ideal spot to browse, relax and enjoy lunch overlooking the harbour. During the warmer months, families can make the most of the safe swimming beach, beachside playground, and inflatable water park, while the marina setting also makes Hillarys a popular place for sunset drinks by the water.
Image: Hillarys Boat Harbour
Mullaloo to Yanchep
Jump back in the car and keep heading north following the tourist drive signs past more coastal gems. Start with Whitfords Nodes Health and Wellbeing Hub, where you can climb the 145-step exercise staircase for sweeping coastal views. Then stop at Pinnaroo Point, a favourite for kite surfing and beach walks, before visiting the Hillarys Beach Club for a relaxed drink or meal overlooking the ocean.
Continue to Mullaloo Beach, a family favourite with calm waters and white sand. Enjoy a coffee or meal at Swell Kitchen or take in the views from the Mullaloo Beach Hotel. Further north, explore Iluka and Burns Beach, both offering scenic walking trails along the coastal path and great spots for photography or a quiet picnic.
Next, arrive at The Marina, Mindarie - Western Australia's largest manmade marina. Stroll the Mediterranean-style boardwalks that lead you to cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a local brew at the Indian Ocean Brewing Co. Grab a bite at The Boat or an ice cream at Six Degrees Dessert Bar.
Continue north to Quinns Beach, loved for its wide sandy shoreline, calm swimming spots and easy water access. Gentle waves make it ideal for swimming and snorkelling near the reef, while the coastal path offers sweeping ocean views for a relaxed stroll. Stop in for an afternoon refreshment at Oceans 27, perched right on the beach. From here, jump in the car and head north along Marmion Avenue, which becomes Yanchep Beach Road, leading you straight on to Yanchep for the next stop on your journey.
Arrive at Yanchep Lagoon, famous for its crystal-clear, sheltered waters. On sunny days, locals float peacefully on inflatable loungers, soaking up the sunshine as the water carries them along. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Yanchep Beach Club - a lively beachfront venue where great food, ocean views and entertainment come together. With regular live music, fresh seafood, modern pub favourites and share-style plates, it’s the perfect spot to round out your day along Perth's Sunset Coast.
Image: The Boat, Marina Mindarie
