Cottesloe is one of the most popular beaches in Perth, WA, and it’s easy to see why. With its white sand, clear blue water and laid-back atmosphere, Cottesloe is the perfect place to relax and soak up the WA sun.
There’s plenty to do at Cottesloe Beach, whether you’re into swimming, surfing, sunbathing or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore. And when you get hungry, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby to grab a bite.
If you’re visiting Perth, make sure to add Cottesloe Beach to your list of must-see attractions!
History
Cottesloe Beach has been one of the most popular beaches in Western Australia since shortly after the suburb of Cottesloe was founded in the 1880s. In 1898, various dining establishments and bathing pavilions were established on the beach. A pier was built six years later, but it was destroyed by storms in the early 1900s. Four years later, a lengthier structure with a capacity to handle larger ships was erected and became known as the Cottesloe Pier.
Since 1909, Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club has patrolled and maintained the beach as part of Surf Life Saving Australia. This was the first lifesaving club in Australia.
The Indiana Tea House, built in 1910, was demolished and replaced with the Centenary Pavilion in 1929. In 1983, when the building became dangerous, it was razed and replaced with a little beach pavilion. The structure was too tiny, prompting Cottesloe Town Council to seek proposals for a multi-purpose construction in 1994. Lawrence Scanlan’s neotraditional design won over the competition from the original Centenary Pavilion.
The 1996 structure was erected over the remains of the old pavilion and finished in ’96. Lawrence has been seeking permission for a new Cottesloe Pier building that would include an underwater observatory, swimming enclosure, and pavilions since 2016. In 2020, Andrew Forrest acquired the Teahouse and suggested razing it in order to create a contemporary architectural style.
Activities
Looking to spend a fun-filled day on the beach? Head to Cottesloe Beach and indulge in one of the following activities with your friends or family:
- Swimming – Take a dip in the crystal-clear water and cool off on a hot day.
- Surfing – Ride the waves and enjoy some time surfing.
- Sunbathing – Soak up the WA sun and work on your tan.
- Strolling – Go for a leisurely stroll along the shoreline and take in the stunning views.
- Cafes and restaurants – When you get hungry, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby to grab a bite.
If you’re visiting Perth, make sure to add Cottesloe Beach to your list of must-see attractions!
The Pylon Lookout
One of the best things about Cottesloe Beach is the Pylon Lookout. Located at the beach’s southern end, the Pylon Lookout offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. It’s a great spot to watch the waves crash against the rocks or to snap a few photos.
The Pylon Lookout is also a popular spot for diving and fishing, so if you’re feeling lucky, why not try your hand at catching dinner?
Getting There
Cottesloe Beach is located at the western end of the Marine Parade in Cottesloe. It is accessible by public transport, with the closest train station being Cottesloe Station. Parking is also available nearby.
The Perth Mint
The Master Plasterers