How good is starting the weekend with a big walk by the coast! Fresh air in your lungs, ocean on one side and sun on your face. I love how Perth’s coastal paths feel in the morning – joggers getting their workout in, dogs trotting along with their humans, friends catching up over takeaway coffees. Everyone just seems happy. It’s hard not to soak up that energy! I’ve rounded up the best coastal walks Perth has to offer, with tips on what to expect, how to get there, and why each one’s worth adding to your weekend plans.
10 Best Coastal Walks in Perth
Perth’s coastal walks are a way to get your steps in and enjoy some of the city’s best beach scenery without having to plan a whole trip. From short boardwalk strolls to long trails that take you past multiple beaches, there’s something here for every pace and fitness level.
1. Trigg to Hillarys Coastal Walk
When I need to clear my head and just soak up some ocean air, this walk is my go-to. It’s around 7 km one way, so you can keep it cruisy with a quick out-and-back from Trigg or go all in and do the full return if you’re feeling keen. The path hugs the Sunset Coast almost the whole way, with plenty of spots to grab a coffee, watch the surfers, or just lean on the railing and zone out to the sound of the waves – bliss!
Why you’ll love it:
- Ocean views for nearly the whole walk
- Heaps of handy cafes and toilets dotted along the way
- A nice mix of flat bits and gentle inclines – enough to feel like you’ve moved, but not a leg-burner
Top tip: Head out early. The water’s usually calmer, parking is easier, the path’s less busy and you can claim your spot at one of the cafés at either end before the crowds roll in.
Read this next: Trigg Beach Guide: Where to Swim, Surf and Chill in 2025
2. Burns Beach to Mindarie Trail
If you like your coastal walks with a bit of drama (the good kind), this one’s a beauty! The paved trail is about 5 km one way, tracing the edge of limestone cliffs with the Indian Ocean putting on a show beside you. It’s usually quieter than the busier central paths, so it’s a top pick for a peaceful morning out with nothing but sea breeze and birds for company.
Why you’ll love it:
- Elevated lookout spots perfect for dolphin spotting on calm days!
- A wide, well-kept path that’s great whether you’re walking, running or cruising on a bike
Top tip: The sea breeze here can really wake you up… and not in a gentle way! Head out in the morning for calmer conditions and better views.
3. Cottesloe Foreshore to Swanbourne
This one’s a Perth classic – part scenic coastal walk, part people-watching paradise. Starting at Cottesloe’s grassy foreshore, the path winds north towards Swanbourne Beach. It’s only about 3 km one way, so you can squeeze it in before brekkie or after work on a warm summer evening.
Why you’ll love it:
- Iconic Perth beach views with more photo ops than your camera roll can handle
- Super easy to get to by train or car, with parking and public transport close by
- Short enough for a cruisy stroll, but still gets the legs moving
4. Scarborough to Trigg Pathway
Starting at Scarborough’s shiny redeveloped foreshore, you’ll cruise past the skate park, playgrounds and more cafés than you could possibly visit in one day, before the path opens up to big, uninterrupted ocean views on the way to Trigg. It’s about 3 km one way, and if the tide’s playing nice you can turn it into a loop by strolling back along the sand.
Why you’ll love it:
- Lively Scarborough vibes with endless food and coffee options before or after
- Smooth, wide path that’s perfect for prams, bikes and scooters
Read this next: The Best Sunset Spots in Perth (That Locals Actually Love!)
5. Watermans Bay to Marmion
Short and sweet, this coastal walk is less than 1 km one way but punches well above its weight in views. The path sits slightly above the water, so you get those sweeping ocean vistas without any serious uphill work. Benches are sprinkled along the way, making it easy to pause, watch the waves roll in, and maybe spot a dolphin or two if you’re lucky. It’s a favourite for locals walking the dog or catching up over a gentle wander.
Why you’ll love it:
- Elevated views of the Indian Ocean without breaking a sweat
- Plenty of spots to pull up a seat and just enjoy the moment
- Sheltered swimming beaches nearby if you fancy a quick dip afterwards
6. Fremantle South Beach to Port Walk
Starting at South Beach, you’ll wander north past sandy stretches, grassy picnic spots and straight into the working heart of Fremantle’s port. One minute you’re watching kids splash in the shallows, the next you’re gazing up at massive container ships gliding in and out. It’s roughly 4 km one way, with endless options for a coffee or a snack.
Why you’ll love it:
- That rare mix of laid-back beach vibes and gritty port action
- Cafes galore!
- Plenty of shaded rest spots for those warmer days
Read this next: Best Romantic Picnic Spots in Perth: Top Picks for Couples and Cute Dates!
7. Whitfords Nodes & Mullaloo
Kick things off at Whitfords Nodes with a trot (or slow shuffle – no judgement) up the fitness stairs. Your legs might complain, but the views from the top are worth it. From there, follow the path north to Mullaloo Beach. It’s about 5 km one way, with plenty of facilities on the way, so you can easily stretch it into a full morning out.
Why you’ll love it:
- The Whitfords Nodes fitness stairs give you a bonus workout and stunning view
- Family-friendly beaches at both ends for a dip or a play
- A wide, smooth path that’s perfect for walking, cycling or pram-pushing
8. Cape Peron Coastal Trail (Rockingham)
A little further from the city, Cape Peron is the spot if you’re craving something wilder than your usual suburban stroll. This 3 km loop packs in limestone cliffs, quiet little bays and even a few crumbling WWII military sites for the history buffs. It’s part of Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, so keep an eye out for sea lions lazing about and seabirds swooping overhead.
Why you’ll love it:
- Dramatic coastal scenery
- Fascinating history with old military structures you can wander around
- Way less crowded than the inner-city coastal paths
Top tip: On a warm day, chuck your snorkel in the car – the shallow bays here are perfect for a quick swim with great visibility.
9. Rottnest Island Coastal Walk
Sure, Rotto is famous for bikes, but if you’re in the mood to slow it down, the island’s coastal trails are magic on foot. A favourite is the short, scenic stretch between The Basin and Pinky Beach – it’s easy for all fitness levels and packed with postcard views. If you’ve got more time (and energy), link up a few of the northern bays for a longer wander that’s all turquoise water and sandy coves.
Why you’ll love it:
- Some of the clearest water and prettiest beaches in WA
- Sheltered spots everywhere for a swim or a picnic stop
- Bonus quokka encounters as you wander between trails
Read this next: Rottnest Island Day Trip Itinerary: The Best of Rotto in One Day!
10. South Perth Foreshore & Swan River Loop
Okaaaay, it’s not technically the ocean, but this riverside loop still delivers big, open-water vibes. Starting at Mends Street Jetty, you’ll follow the path along the Swan River with the Perth city skyline showing off the whole way. Go the full 10 km loop to the Causeway and back for a solid walk, or trim it down if you’re after something cruisier.
Why you’ll love it:
- Gorgeous city views, especially when the sun’s coming up or going down
- Mends Street is packed with spots for a coffee, ice cream or quick bite
- Wide, flat paths that work for walkers, runners and cyclists
Why Perth is Perfect for Coastal Walks
One of the best things about living in (or visiting) Perth? How ridiculously easy it is to get outdoors. With more than 120 km of coastline, most of it lined with smooth, well-kept paths, you can head out for a hike or walk pretty much any day of the year. Our Mediterranean climate means mild winters and long, sunny summers, so there’s really no excuse not to!
Whether you’re after a cruisy, flat path that’s pram- and wheelchair-friendly, a hilly trail to get the heart pumping, or a quiet stretch to clear your head, Perth’s got you covered. Throw in the chance to spot dolphins, wildflowers in spring, or even whales cruising past in winter, and it’s hard not to grab your sneakers and hit the path.
Last Words on the Best Coastal Walks in Perth
Whether you’re chasing ocean views, a hit of fresh air, or just an excuse for a post-walk coffee, Perth’s coastline delivers.
Not sure where to start? Pick one close to home this weekend and see where it takes you. You might stumble on a new favourite, or simply enjoy the easy joy of being out by the water. Personally, nothing beats a morning at Trigg – familiar faces, salty breeze, and that little lift you only get from walking beside the ocean.
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