Great Western Australia Beaches

Some of the most beautiful beaches that I have ever come across lie in the middle of nowhere, Western Australia. If it isn't the fine, pristine, white, and yes, squeaky sand down south of Perth. Perhaps if its not the incredible, isolated, desolate, untouched gems like what the north has to offer, such as Hang Over Bay (yes Hang Over) just outside of Cervantes. Maybe its just the unscathed natural beauty of the local beaches located in the city. Perth, and regional Western Australia has it all for the beach lover in search of that little piece of personal paradise that one can call their own.

Starting in the actual city of Perth one would love the quick, and immediate access to several beaches already at their hearts disposal. You can opt out for the notorious Cottesloe beach, with is almost synonymous with Perth. Here you will find everything you need. Cottesloe is perfect for the family outing, if that is what you are looking for. Its also good for the 18 to 20 something as well.

A nice rock jetty protrudes out giving Cottesloe a very sheltered swimming bay. You might be better off calling it a big, white, sandy swimming pool sitting out in the Indian Ocean, because, well, that what it is! Of course being very popular you might find it a bit crowded during the sweltering hot summer months (by Australian standards). This is no problem! Even on the hottest, and busiest of days at Cottesloe. You can take a brisk 5 minute walk north up the beach, and still find your own little share of paradise right there. Poof, just like magic the crowds are gone. You might get the occasional walker or two trickle by, but this is a far cry from the over populated beaches of Southern California.

Feeling hungry? Why not take head up to the strip and grab some fish and chips, maybe even a beer or two (or 3 or 8)? If you are lucky enough to be there on a Sunday for a 'Sunday Session' at the Cottesloe Beach Hotel have a few drinks, dance a little, chat, and watch the dazzling sunset over the sparkling turquoise of the Indian Ocean.

If thats a bit much for you, then try City Beach? While a bit more quiet, and reserved, you will find a huge beach, that is not only long but very wide. Very soft white sand and not many people. Well, not as many as Cottesloe. This beach is fabulous for some nice little waves, and some really fun body surfing. Do be careful though, because the waves can get pretty big at times, and even throw around bigger, or taller beach goers without any hesitation, I speak from experience. It is still very safe, and there are life guards on duty. If you swim between the flags, you really don't have anything to worry about. City beach is a astonishing beach in its own right, and is one of my favorites. City Beach is another good family beach for taking the kids, and letting them swim to their hearts content. City beach lacks all the restaurants, and pubs compared to Cottesloe, so if you are going to stick around for awhile, it might be a good idea to bring a snack or two. However there is a kiosk where you can find a bunch of goodies like ice cream, chips, and a well deserved cold drink.

If you are feeling more adventurous, and have access to a vehicle. Then why not take a about a 4 hour drive south from Perth to Margaret River where you will find some more untouched Western Australian beauty. If you have ever been to Santa Cruz, California then you already have an idea of what Margaret River feels like, only Margaret River is on a much smaller scale in terms of people, and population. That doesn't matter though, because when you head to the beaches your mouth will hit the floor, and your eyes will pop out of your head, well, maybe not, but you are in for some of the most unreal scenery that your eyes will ever lay themselves upon. Beaches with sand so white, it looks like somebody sprinkled the coastline with powdered sugar, literally. The sand is so fine that when you walk on it, it actually squeaks! Yes, thats right, it squeaks! I know! I didn't believe it either until I tried it. It is very strange, and very amusing. I just had to laugh. Be warned it is so fine that you may begin to sink in it at times. No, it won't swallow you whole, but it can be tough to walk in. The sun glistens, and dances across the gleaming crystal clear water, you will swear to yourself that you are no longer on planet earth. After your trek to the natural, and magnificent beaches of the south, why not head back to Margaret River and take advantage of the fine wine, chocolate, and cheese! Yum.

Now, if you are feeling really brave, and super venturesome, then head way, way up north to Coral Bay. I really only advise this trip to those who are really into their snorkeling, and diving, and of course their lazing around on the beach! Its really for those who really, want to get away from it all. As you will soon see when you make it up there. Now, be forewarned. The drive is long. It can be accomplished in one straight shot in about 12 to 13 hours, give or take 1 hour either way. Remember though, you get what you pay for, and you will be greatly rewarded.

Coral Bay is home of the worlds largest fringing reef. A fringing reef is a coral reef that is located very, very close to the coast. In coral bay you can actually snorkel right out to the reef from the beach, in only a matter of a couple minutes. Its just right there. Thats how close it is. As opposed to the other natural wonder of Australia, and the world the mighty Great Barrier Reef. You must take a boat out to have the honor, and privilege to dive, and snorkel there. Back to the west coast though, and back to Coral Bay. You will find some of the most raw, untouched, warm water, sea life inhabited beaches in Western Australia. Are you ready yet?

Coral Bay is small, but its beauty is huge. There is a one hotel, one small shopping plaza, a superb bakery available to your disposal. There is also a camp site for the budget minded/venturesome.
You can hang out in the very sheltered part of Coral Bay, which is just like a lagoon, and relax all day. Or perhaps if diving tickles your fancy, then hire yourself some gear, or better yet grab your own, book yourself on a boat, and dive the reef! If diving is your thing, then just grab your snorkeling gear, and just swim right off the beach. I did a lot of snorkeling at Coral Bay, and a little diving. I actually found the snorkeling to be a little better. This was partly due to the fact that I wasn't restricted as much as I was with the SCUBA gear, and could go out, and do more, and for longer. Its up to you really. Now, if you really want to get crazy, and are up for a very long walk (plan the day for it, and bring food). You can walk north along the beach up to Mauds Point. Again, be warned its a long walk, and remember you are walking in the sand, so take your time. However, on this walk you will pass some very cool sand dunes that just seem to come alive and walk right up to the water. There is also a shark sanctuary that is about half way to Mauds Point. It is very, very cool. When we were there we counted over 50 sharks inside this small, rainbow like bay. The sharks are not great whites, or anything like that. In fact they are for the most part pretty harmless reef sharks, though they can still attack. There are a handful of signs around stating not to go in the water there (like you need a sign to tell you that). When you finally get to Mauds point just take the time to soak in the beauty, because it is absolutely stunning. You are guaranteed to feel very small, just a little ant on this planet earth.

Well, as you can see, if your into beaches, and some adventure then Western Australia has got it all for you. You really cant go wrong from the dazzling city beaches, to the remote beaches to the north, and the ravishing squeaky beaches down south. Kick off those tennis shoes, slap on your thongs, and lets hit the beach.