The Best Beaches in WA
There is no denying it: Western Australian beaches are home to some of the world’s most stunning coastlines. From the low-key crystal-clear waters of Greens Pool to the vibrant surf culture at Cottesloe Beach and the contrasting red sands of the Dampier Peninsula, there are so many incredible beaches that make WA a beach lover’s paradise.
If you want to explore some of these for yourself, this blog is your ultimate guide to the best beaches in WA, giving you all the insider tips for why these locations should be at the top of your travel itinerary. But first…
Why the beaches in Western Australia should be on your bucket list
Western Australia, with its white sandy beaches and dramatic coastline, is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. With over 12,000 kilometres of coastline, there are plenty of gorgeous beaches to check out!
But what truly sets WA apart from other destinations is the untouched beauty of its beaches. Many of these locations are less crowded than their eastern counterparts, giving you a more intimate experience with nature. Oh, and did we mention the endless opportunities to explore the unique marine life? From swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef to spotting dolphins in Monkey Mia, WA is just begging you to discover your new favourite beach.
What's the best way to explore the beaches in WA?
When it comes to exploring Western Australia beaches, nothing compares to the freedom and flexibility a campervan offers. Imagine waking up and going for a morning stroll on the nearby sand dunes with the ability to step right out onto the beach from your mobile home. Unbeatable.
The beauty of a campervan hire is that you can easily move from one beach to another, ensuring you get the most out of your Australia road trip. Whether you want to catch the sunrise at Hamelin Bay or wind down at Lucky Bay, a campervan gives you the flexibility to chase the best views, discover hidden gems, and avoid the tourist crowds.
Additionally, a campervan offers the convenience of having all your essentials in one place – no need to constantly unpack and repack as you move between destinations. And while Cheapa Campa's cannot drive directly on the beach, you are never far from your mobile home and a post-swim shower!
Image: Tourism Western Australia
The 8 best beaches in WA
Get ready to discover where to swim, surf, and camp, as well as where to park your campervan for the best access to WA's stunning coastline. If you’re planning a Western Australia road trip, these beaches should be on your radar. Let's dive in.
1. Cottesloe Beach
Just a 20-minute drive from the heart of Perth, this Western Australian beach is renowned for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant city atmosphere. Cottesloe Beach has it all, whether you’re into swimming, snorkelling, or surfing. And as the sun sets, there’s no better place to enjoy a glass of wine or a cold beer while enjoying the breathtaking ocean views.
Where to stay near Cottesloe Beach
A great nearby option for campervan accommodation is the Discovery Parks – Coogee Beach, just a short drive from Cottesloe. This holiday park offers direct beach access and the facilities include powered sites, modern amenities, and even a camp kitchen, perfect for cooking up a feast after those long beach days.
2. Cable Beach
Cable Beach in Broome is legendary, and it’s easy to see why. With 22 kilometers of squeaky white sand edged by the stunning turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, this beach attracts visitors from around Australia and the world.
Cable Beach is the perfect spot for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and taking iconic camel rides along the shore. Oh, and the sunsets over the Indian Ocean are nothing short of spectacular. Also, the nearby ochre-red beaches of Cape Leveque are easily accessible for day trips, so you have plenty of other beaches to explore in the area.
Where to stay near Cable Beach
The Cable Beach Caravan Park is the perfect place to set up camp nearby. This well-equipped holiday park is just a short walk from Cable Beach. It offers spacious sites, a large swimming pool, and modern amenities, making it an excellent base for your stay in Broome.
Image: Tourism Western Australia
3. Coral Bay
If you’re looking for an untouched piece of paradise, Coral Bay is the place to be. Located about 1,100 kilometres north of Perth, this stunning beach is a bit of a drive, but the reward is well worth the journey. Named for the beautiful coral gardens that lie mere meters from the pristine white sandy beach, this tiny, laid-back seaside location is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Whether you’re into snorkeling, diving, or just relaxing by the water, Coral Bay has it all. The vibrant marine life here is incredible, with opportunities to spot reef sharks and swim alongside manta rays, turtles, and whale sharks.
Where to stay near Coral Bay
For those traveling in a campervan through Western Australia, the Ningaloo Coral Bay Holiday Park is the perfect place to stay to explore this beautiful beach. Situated just a short stroll from the beach, this park offers powered sites, clean amenities, and a range of facilities including a swimming pool and a general store, making it an excellent base for exploring the Coral Coast.
4. Esperance Beaches
When it comes to the best beaches in Western Australia, Esperance is a name that consistently comes up. This little town is a coastal gem, boasting endless stretches of beaches and some of the clearest, bluest waters you will ever see.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the soft sands of Lucky Bay or explore the rugged beauty of Twilight Cove, Esperance has something for everyone. It’s the perfect destination for beach lovers, photographers, and those looking to get away from it all and enjoy a day of beach cricket with the family. Here are a few of the most iconic beaches in Esperance to check out:
Twilight Beach
Voted as one of Western Australia’s best beaches, this picturesque spot near Esperance features sweeping white sands and smooth granite rocks.
Hellfire Bay
Another gem in Cape Le Grand National Park, Hellfire Bay, offers a stunning blend of white sand, turquoise waters, and surrounding bushland.
Wharton Beach
Known for its brilliant blue waters and long stretch of white sand, Wharton Beach near Esperance is a popular spot for surfers and beachgoers alike. The nearby Duke of Orleans Bay Caravan Park is a great place to stay while visiting Wharton Beach.
Where to stay near Esperance Beaches
The Esperance Seafront Caravan Park is ideally located right by the beach and features spacious sites, clean facilities, and a friendly atmosphere. It is a great base for exploring the beauty of Esperance beaches.
Image: Tourism Western Australia
5. Hamelin Bay
Located on the serene southwest coast of Western Australia, Hamelin Bay is a stunning open sandy bay famous for its unique wildlife experience and calm waters.
This beach is particularly known for the abundance of friendly stingrays that frequent the shallow waters, offering visitors the chance for personal interaction with these remarkable creatures.
Measuring up to two meters wide, these stingrays are often seen gliding gracefully through the clear waters. It’s an unforgettable experience that sets Hamelin Bay apart from other Western Australia beaches. Just a three-hour drive from Perth, Hamelin Bay is a perfect addition to any Margaret River itinerary.
Where to stay near Hamelin Bay
If you’re travelling in a campervan, the Hamelin Bay Holiday Park is an excellent base for your stay. This holiday park is nestled among the trees, offering powered sites just steps from the beach. The park provides clean amenities, a camp kitchen, and BBQ facilities, making it perfect for a relaxing and convenient stay.
6. Scarborough Beach
For those who prefer waves with their beaches, Scarborough Beach is a go-to destination. Known for its regular swell and impressive surf breaks, this beach is a favorite among surfers, bodyboarders, and kite surfers. The long stretch of white sand also makes it a popular spot for sunbathers and swimmers.
Where to stay near Scarborough Beach
If you’re planning to visit Scarborough Beach with a campervan, the Discovery Parks – Perth Airport is a convenient option for your stay. Although it’s located slightly inland, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle while still being close enough to the beach for daily visits.
7. Turquoise Bay
Turquoise Bay is often hailed as one of the best beaches in Western Australia, and it’s easy to see why. Located within the Ningaloo Marine Park, this beach is a snorkeler’s paradise. The pristine, white sandy shores and crystal clear, turquoise water this beach is nown for are home to a vibrant array of marine animals.
Whether you’re swimming or snorkeling, you’ll be captivated by the colorful coral gardens and the diverse species of tropical fish that call this bay home.
Where to stay near Turquoise Bay
If you’re exploring the area in a campervan, the Yardie Homestead Caravan Park offers a fantastic base for your stay. Located just a short drive from Turquoise Bay, this park provides powered sites, clean amenities, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring one of the best beaches in WA.
8. Lucky Bay
Lucky Bay is a must-see destination on any Western Australia road trip with its powdery white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Often praised as having the whitest sand in Australia, Lucky Bay is most well known for the kangaroos hopping and lounging on the shore.
Whether you’re swimming, hiking the nearby trails, or simply relaxing on the sand, Lucky Bay’s beauty is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Where to stay near Lucky Bay
The Lucky Bay Campground offers an excellent place to stay for those travelling in a campervan. This well-maintained campground provides basic facilities such as toilets, BBQs, and picnic tables, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
A few other iconic beaches in Western Australia to add to your campervan itinerary
Western Australia is brimming with incredible beaches, so we couldn't help throw in a few extras in for good measure! Here’s a quick look at some other must-visit spots that are perfect for your campervan journey through WA.
Waterfall Beach
Tucked away in the Albany region, this secluded gem features a small cascade that flows directly onto the beach.
Misery Beach
Don’t let the name fool you—this beach near Albany offers a peaceful escape with dramatic granite cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
Elephant Rocks (William Bay National Park)
Located in Denmark, Elephant Rocks is a unique beach notable for the gigantic boulders that line the shores. These giant boulders resemble a herd of elephants wading in the turquoise waters, creating a striking coastal scene. This is also just a short way from Greens Pool, so you have two beautiful beaches to choose from!
Little Beach (Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve)
Located near Albany, Little Beach is a hidden gem with powdery white sand, azure blue water, and striking granite outcrops.
Meelup Beach
Nestled in the Margaret River region, Meelup Beach is famous for its calm, protected waters—ideal for families and paddleboarders.
Yallingup Beach
A popular spot in the Margaret River region, Yallingup Beach is renowned for its excellent surf breaks, natural lagoon for swimming, stunning sunsets, and opportunities to spot humpback whales in the nearby village of Dunsborough.
City Beach
One of Perth’s best-loved urban beaches, City Beach offers golden sands, safe swimming conditions, and plenty of nearby cafes and restaurants.
Leighton Beach
A quieter alternative near Fremantle, Leighton Beach is known for its wide sandy shores and excellent conditions for kite surfing.
Little Salmon Bay
Located on Rottnest Island, this sheltered bay is a snorkelling hotspot with its clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Parakeet Bay
Also on Rottnest Island, Parakeet Bay’s shallow waters and pristine sands make it a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation.
Eighty Mile Beach
Stretching as far as the eye can see, this remote beach between Broome and Port Hedland is perfect for serene coastal walks.
Shark Bay
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shark Bay is known for its stunningly diverse marine life, including dolphins, dugongs, and pristine white beaches.
Shell Beach
Composed entirely of billions of tiny shells, this beach in Shark Bay of Western Australia is a unique sight and one of only a few of its kind worldwide.
Book your Cheapa Campa campervan hire today
After exploring the best beaches in WA, it's clear that there's no better way to experience these stunning coastal destinations than by travelling in a campervan. The convenience of having your accommodation with you and the ability to explore remote and beautiful spots make a campervan hire the perfect choice for any Australia road trip.
Ready to hit the road to explore Western Australia? You can easily book your camper online and start planning your Australia beach trip today. With convenient Cheapa branch locations throughout Australia, you can plan an itinerary that suits your beach-hopping style. Whether you’re chasing sunsets on Scarborough Beach or snorkelling in the clear waters of Turquoise Bay, your Western Australia adventure is just a few clicks away.