Sunset Coast Self Drive Trail
Explore the Perth Beaches from Cottesloe to Mindarie.
Starting at Cottesloe Beach, grab a coffee at seaside café before heading north along Marine Parade past early morning joggers and swimmers.
Travel along West Coast Highway to City Beach. Stop at Reabold Hill where you will get sweeping views of Perth city and the surrounding areas from the highest natural point along the coast. Continue north past famous Scarborough Beach - a great place to stop for morning tea by the beach.
Just past Scarborough, make sure you turn off West Coast Highway on to the West Coast Scenic Drive. This will take you past the protected bays and beaches of the Sunset Coast to Hillarys Boat Harbour. Along the way you'll find some stunning photo opportunities, particularly at Mettams Pool and Sorrento Beach.
Stop at Hillarys to visit AQWA to learn more about our underwater environment. Explore the network of boardwalks filled with shops and restaurants - this is a good spot to stop for lunch overlooking the harbour. In Summer, Hillarys Boat Harbour has safe swimming for families and the Great Escape offers fun activities for kids including waterslides, rides and mini golf.
Jump back in the car, and keep heading north following the tourist drive signs Mullaloo Beach towards Mindarie. The Marina, Mindarie is Australia's largest man made marina and is a great place to end your journey. Stroll the Mediterranean-style boardwalks that lead you to cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a local brew at the microbrewery.
End your day with a picnic, or early dinner at the marina by the beach watching the sky transform with colour as the sun sinks slowly into the Indian Ocean. Return to the Perth City via Marmion Avenue and the Mitchell Freeway.
Itineraries
There's nothing like taking a drive to explore a city and it's surrounds - you'll find so much to see along the way, and even somewhere to spend the night.