Things to do in Scarborough this summer

Perth’s liveliest beach

If Cottesloe is Perth’s classic beach, Scarborough is its liveliest. Since the foreshore was redeveloped, it’s become one of my favourite places in Perth to spend a summer afternoon and evening.

Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Scarborough this summer.

“Watching the sunset here at the sunset markets on a Thursday night is a must if you’re visiting Perth!”

Heidi, Tripadvisor review

Hit the beach

Scarborough Beach is one of Perth’s most popular spots for swimming and surfing, with a long stretch of white sand and reliable waves. The Scarborough Surf Life Saving Club patrols the beach over summer, so always swim between the red and yellow flags.

The waves here are usually bigger than at sheltered beaches like Cottesloe’s southern corner, so keep a close eye on younger swimmers.

Swim at the Scarborough Beach Pool

Right on the foreshore, the Scarborough Beach Pool is a salt water, geothermally heated pool with ocean views. The lap pool sits around 27 degrees year-round, and the leisure pool is kept at around 31 to 32 degrees, with a gently sloping entry and fountains for little ones.

Entry is paid, so check the City of Stirling website for current prices and summer hours.

“The pool is also a lovely addition but does cost to visit.”

Jen H, Tripadvisor review

Play on the foreshore

The foreshore is packed with free things to do. There’s a large dinosaur-themed playground at the centre of the beach, a skate park and bowl, a free rock climbing wall and outdoor exercise equipment.

You’ll also find public BBQs, picnic tables, shade, toilets and showers, which makes it easy to spend the whole day.

“we saw a lot of families as well”

Matt M, Tripadvisor review

Scarborough Sunset Markets

Over summer, the Scarborough Sunset Markets take over Scarborough Square and the Clocktower on Thursday nights. With food trucks, market stalls, local drinks and live music, it’s the perfect way to watch the sun go down over the ocean.

For more markets, see our guide to Perth’s best twilight markets.

Eat and drink with a view

Scarborough’s dining scene has grown a lot in recent years, with cafes, bars and restaurants lining the beachfront. A sunset drink overlooking the Indian Ocean is hard to beat.

Getting there

Scarborough is around 15km north-west of the Perth CBD. There’s paid parking along the foreshore, and it fills quickly on hot weekends. Transperth buses also run to Scarborough, so check the Transperth Journey Planner for the best route.

Make a day of it

From a morning surf to sunset at the markets, Scarborough has everything for a full summer’s day by the beach. Heading further north? Check out our guide to Hillarys Boat Harbour with kids.

Featured image: Zen5iuZ, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons