Calm water in the southern corner, grassy terraces and a playground across the road. Here's my guide to a family beach day at Cottesloe this summer.
A family favourite for good reason
Every summer, I find myself coming back to Cottesloe, often with my family and my nieces and nephews in tow. It’s Perth’s most famous beach, but it’s also one of the easiest places in the city to spend a day by the water with kids.
With the patrol season underway and the weather warming up this November, here’s my guide to planning a family beach day at Cott, from where to swim to where to find a toilet in a hurry.
“The water is beautiful, making it perfect for a family picnic or a relaxing day out.”
Punnaya L, Google review
Where to swim with little ones
Offshore reefs help make Cottesloe one of Perth’s safer swimming beaches, and the southern corner near the groyne usually has the smallest waves and weakest currents. That’s where you’ll find most families, and it’s where we set up whenever my nieces and nephews come along.
Over the warmer months, a shark barrier is anchored to the groyne at the southern end, creating an enclosed swimming area. Check the Town of Cottesloe for this season’s dates.
“Such a lovely place, for swimming it has an enclosed swim area that’s looked after by life guards”
Eastbournefamily, Tripadvisor review
Keep the kids away from the reef areas, where rips tend to form, and always swim between the red and yellow flags. Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club and North Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club patrol on weekends and public holidays from October to April. Check Beachsafe for current patrol times and conditions before you go.
The old shark net pylon offshore is a famous diving platform, but it’s best left to strong, confident swimmers and older kids.
Shade and space on the grass
The grassed terraces above the sand are one of the best things about Cottesloe for families. They’re perfect for a picnic, a nap in the pram, or a break from the sun.
There are shade shelters at the southern end, but they go early on hot days. I’d recommend bringing your own beach tent or umbrella just in case.
“There is a netted swimming area, tiered grassy area or lay on the beach.”
Belinda M, Tripadvisor review
Playgrounds nearby
The foreshore playground on Marine Parade, opposite Napier Street, is just a short walk from the sand. There’s also outdoor fitness equipment nearby if the adults want to stretch their legs.
If your kids love climbing and exploring, the East Cottesloe Nature Playground on Railway Street, between Perth Street and Albion Street, is worth a stop on the way home. It has nature play, a bike skills track, an enclosed sandpit, a nature trail and shady seating. Note that there are no public toilets there.
Toilets, showers and water
Public toilets are located underneath Indiana at the main beach, and underneath Magic Apple at North Cottesloe. You’ll also find showers, a water fountain, seating and bins along the Cottesloe foreshore.
Parking and getting there
There’s free parking along Marine Parade and in the nearby car parks, with both timed and untimed bays. Check the signs, and don’t park on a continuous yellow line.
On a hot weekend, parking fills quickly, so arriving early makes the whole day easier. Alternatively, catch the train to Cottesloe Station and walk down to the beach.
Beach access for everyone
The level path along Marine Parade is easy going with a pram. If someone in your family needs help getting onto the sand, the Town of Cottesloe offers a beach wheelchair you can book.
For kids who love the surf
If your children are keen to build their surf skills and confidence, North Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club’s Nippers program is a fantastic way for them to learn beach safety while having fun.
Food and treats
I usually pack a picnic for the grass, but a treat after a swim is part of the fun. Indiana, the landmark building overlooking the beach, is a classic Cottesloe stop, and there are cafes and takeaway options along Marine Parade.
What to pack
- Sunscreen, hats and rashies
- A beach tent or umbrella
- Plenty of water and snacks
- Towels and a change of clothes
- A picnic rug for the grass
- Buckets and spades
Make a day of it
Cottesloe has everything a family needs for a great day at the beach: calm water in the southern corner, grassy space to spread out, and a playground close by.
Looking for more family adventures? Check out our guides to Kings Park, Perth Zoo and Perth’s best mini golf courses.
Featured image: Michael Spencer, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions
The southern corner near the groyne usually has the smallest waves and weakest currents. Over the warmer months, a shark barrier creates an enclosed swimming area there.
