10 Must-See Beaches in Western Australia

It’s been a good few years since our family’s amazing two month visit to Australia, but in my mind one of the most special areas remains Western Australia. It has nearly 13,000 miles of coastline, and so much of it feels undisturbed and pristine.

So I jumped at the chance when Jessie of Daytrips offered to share her favorites from her home state. They all have different reasons you’ll want to visit them, but this list of the best beaches in Western Australia (with families in mind) will definitely give you itchy feet. Some of these places almost look too beautiful to be real, but I’ve been and can assure you that they are.

On a practical note, if you are’t familiar with WA just know that it’s massive. We split our time there between Margaret River and Perth (including this great day trip), which was a great balance.

Western Australia has some of the best beaches in the world – and one of the biggest advantages, especially for families, is space. Even the most famous spots rarely feel crowded in the same way beaches do on the East Coast or in Europe.

The coastline here is also incredibly diverse. You’ll find calm, sheltered bays that are perfect for younger kids, world-class snorkelling straight off the shore, and long, open beaches where older kids can run, explore, and burn off energy.

If you’re planning a trip and want a mix of iconic locations and genuinely practical, family-friendly options, these ten beaches are a great place to start.

1. Hamelin Bay (Margaret River Region)

Hamelin Bay is best known for its resident stingrays, which are often seen cruising through the shallows close to shore. It’s a unique experience, especially for kids, but it’s important to keep a respectful distance and avoid touching them.

The beach itself is wide and usually calm, making it suitable for swimming on the right day. There’s a car park right by the sand, along with toilets and a small kiosk.

Why it works for families: Easy access, facilities, and the chance to see wildlife up close.
Things to consider: Conditions can change – check for swell and wind before swimming.

Note from Melissa: Our family loved Hamelin Bay, so I was really excited to see that Jessie gave it the top spot on her list! I took the stingray picture above when it swam right up to me.

2. Lucky Bay (Cape Le Grand National Park)

Lucky Bay is one of WA’s most famous beaches, known for its bright white sand, clear water, and kangaroos that often rest along the shoreline.

The water is typically calm, and you can drive onto the beach in some areas (4WD recommended), which makes setup easier with kids.

Why it works for families: Calm swimming conditions and a memorable wildlife experience.
Things to consider: It’s remote – bring food, water, and fuel. Facilities are limited.

3. Turquoise Bay (Ningaloo Reef)

Turquoise Bay offers some of the most accessible snorkelling in Australia. You can walk straight into the water and drift over coral and fish just metres from shore.

There are two main areas: one for drift snorkelling and one for more relaxed swimming.

Why it works for families: Easy introduction to snorkelling in clear, shallow water.
Things to consider: Currents can be strong in the drift snorkel section – follow signage and supervise children closely.

4. Cable Beach (Broome)

Cable Beach is known for its size – over 20 kilometres long – and its sunsets. It’s a great option for families who want space to spread out, walk, and play.

Swimming is possible, but conditions vary throughout the year, and there can be seasonal marine stingers.

Why it works for families: Plenty of space and easy access from Broome.
Things to consider: Always check local safety advice before swimming.

5. Greens Pool (Denmark)

Greens Pool is one of the safest swimming spots in WA. Large granite rocks protect the bay from waves, creating calm, shallow water.

There are toilets, a car park, and easy walking access, making it a low-stress option for families.

Why it works for families: Sheltered, predictable conditions and good facilities.
Things to consider: It can get busy during school holidays.

6. Cottesloe Beach (Perth)

Cottesloe is one of Perth’s most accessible beaches, with lifeguards, cafes, grassy picnic areas, and good public transport links.

It’s a reliable option if you want a beach day without needing to plan too much.

Why it works for families: Facilities, patrolled swimming areas, and nearby food options. Things to consider: Can be crowded on weekends and hot days.

7. Meelup Beach (Dunsborough)

Meelup Beach is known for its calm, sheltered water and family-friendly setup. The bay protects it from strong winds, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

There are shaded picnic areas and toilets nearby.

Why it works for families: Calm conditions and space to spend a full day.
Things to consider: Parking fills quickly in peak summer periods.

8. Little Beach (Two People’s Bay)

Little Beach is smaller and more sheltered than many beaches in the Esperance region, with calm, clear water and soft sand.

It’s a good option if you want something quieter than the main Esperance beaches while still being suitable for swimming.

Why it works for families: Manageable size and generally calm water.
Things to consider: Limited facilities – bring what you need.

9. Shell Beach (Shark Bay)

Shell Beach stands out because it’s made entirely of tiny white shells instead of sand. The water is shallow and very salty, which makes floating easy.

It’s more of a sightseeing stop than a traditional swimming beach, but still worth including.

Why it works for families: Unique landscape and easy, shallow water.
Things to consider: Shells can be sharp – footwear is a good idea.

10. Twilight Beach (Esperance)

Twilight Beach combines scenic views with practical features. There’s a car park, toilets, and easy beach access, along with relatively gentle waves for swimming.

The small island just offshore also adds a bit of interest for kids exploring the shoreline.

Why it works for families: Good balance of beauty, safety, and accessibility.
Things to consider: Popular but usually still manageable.

Wrapping up

If you’re travelling through Western Australia with family, it helps to mix and match. Pair more remote, bucket-list beaches like Lucky Bay or Turquoise Bay with easier, well-serviced options like Cottesloe or Meelup.

Distances in WA can be significant, so planning around regions rather than trying to see everything in one trip will make the experience far more enjoyable.

With the right balance, you’ll get a trip that feels both easy and memorable – without spending half your time in the car.

Jessie is an Australian who calls Morocco home for most of the year while working as a digital nomad and seeking the perfect wave. If you’re chasing even more of an adventurous coastal holiday destination, check out her guides to the beaches of Tamraght and Mirleft in Morocco.

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