Perth's Best-Kept Secret
Ask most Perth locals like @jason about the Cottesloe to Coogee coastal walk and you'll get a blank stare. Despite being one of the most beautiful urban walks in Australia, it remains surprisingly under-the-radar — which is part of its charm.
The trail stretches approximately 9 kilometres along the coast, passing through dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden beaches, coastal bushland, and some of the most stunning ocean views you'll find anywhere in Perth.
The Route
Cottesloe to North Fremantle (3km)
Start at the southern end of Cottesloe Beach and follow the coastal path south. You'll pass through Grant Marine Park and along the cliffs above the ocean. The path is well-maintained and mostly flat, with occasional stairs down to small rocky beaches.
North Fremantle to South Beach (3km)
The trail passes through Port Beach and Leighton Beach before winding through the old railway corridor that's been transformed into a landscaped walking path. You'll emerge at South Beach, a quiet stretch of sand with views south along the coast.
South Beach to Coogee (3km)
The final section is the most dramatic. The path follows the top of towering limestone cliffs with vertigo-inducing views straight down to the churning ocean. You'll pass through several small coastal reserves before reaching Coogee Beach — a sheltered bay that's the perfect finish line.
Practical Information
Distance: Approximately 9km one way (allow 2.5-3 hours)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Some sections have stairs and uneven surfaces.
Getting back: Catch the bus from Coogee back to Cottesloe, or arrange a pickup
Best time: Early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer people. Avoid midday in summer.
Bring: Water, sunscreen, hat, comfortable walking shoes. There are limited facilities along the route.
Highlights to Watch For
The WWII gun emplacements hidden in the bushland near Leighton
CY O'Connor Beach and the bronze horse and rider statue in the ocean
The whale watching opportunities from the clifftop sections (September-November)
Hidden rock pools accessible at low tide along the base of the cliffs
For more information on coastal walks in the Perth region, visit Trails WA.