Revealed: 8 WA beaches you've never heard of

Beaches as wild and wondrous as they are unspoiled.

Western Australia’s rugged coastline has always been a major drawcard – from the impossibly blue waters of Denmark to Broome’s mosaics of red and turquoise. But if you thought you knew the best spots for a dip – think again.

While WA is clearly home to countless stunning beaches, there are still a handful of hidden gems that your average Joe doesn’t know. Remote, untouched and truly breathtaking, these secret stretches of sand promise a side of WA few have laid eyes on.

Meelup Beach

As you’re winding your way through the thick coastal heath towards Meelup Beach in Dunsborough, you may be wondering where the water is. But that’s what makes this place so great – it’s completely hidden by bushland. The stark-white sand and turquoise sea is backdropped by the dusty green of jarrahs, and while a few colourful beach umbrellas may dot the shore, there’s not a tourist in sight. The best part? When WA’s wildflowers bloom come spring, turning this coastal paradise into a kaleidoscope of colour.

Bremer Bay

Bremer Bay’s position between Albany and Esperance plays to its favour – everyone drives right past it. This is the place to be if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. Not only is it perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing, but it’s also a hotspot for wildlife sightings. The coastal hamlet is one of Australia’s top whale-watching locations, with rising temperatures between December and April bringing orcas into the bay to feed. It’s also nestled on the fringes of Fitzgerald River National Park , so be sure to pack your hiking boots, too.

Hamelin Bay

The Margaret River region may be known for its incredible wineries, but it also boasts one of the state’s most stunning and secluded swimming spots. Hamelin Bay is just a 15-minute drive from the town of Augusta, where you’ll find Australia’s only underwater winery. A mecca for marine life, it’s the perfect snorkelling spot, known for the abundance of stingrays that call it home. Head a little further offshore to Hamelin Island to spot ancient shipwrecks, as well as sea plants and a colourful variety of fish species.

Shell Beach

Don’t let its location in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area scare you off; Shell Beach is a 100-kilometre stretch of pure bliss. It gets its name from the billions of tiny cockle shells that make up its shoreline, which give it a unique pearly sheen that contrasts with the surrounding red landscape. While Shell Beach is considerably secluded, it’s not hard to get to, located just 45 kilometres from Denham. Tack on a couple of days and make the trip to nearby Dirk Hartog Island – known as the island on the edge of eternity.

Little Parakeet Bay & Little Salmon Bay

Little Salmon Bay on Rottnest Island, WA — Little Salmon Bay is one of two hidden beaches on Rottnest Island.

Rottnest Island is famed for its scenery, but these secluded spots take it to another level. Nestled on the northern tip, Little Parakeet Bay is a tranquil haven, accessible via a short walk from Thomson Bay. Its calm waters make it ideal for a morning paddle minus the crowds. On the other side of Rottnest, Little Salmon Bay features a designated trail teeming with marine life – keen snorkellers will leave happier than a quokka munching a eucalyptus leaf.

Mettams Pool

Located along one of Perth’s best beaches, Mettams Pool on North Beach offers a serene alternative for city dwellers looking to cool off. Protected by a natural limestone reef, the calm waters are perfect for a peaceful coastal experience. We have World War I veteran Frank Mettam to thank, who embarked on a 35-year project to transform the once sharp and rocky reef into a safe swimming area for all, just 30 minutes from the CBD.

Little Beach

Tucked within Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve in Nanarup, around 45 minutes from Albany, Little Beach offers more than just a seaside escape. Surrounded by granite outcrops and vibrant greenery, it’s a hidden haven for hikers, wildlife watchers and anyone seeking a quiet connection with nature. The calm and secluded cove invites slow walks, reflective moments and a break from everyday life.

Blend the addictive energy of dance, creative cinematic movies, captivating theatre, and energising music during Perth Festival.

Perth Festival has extraordinary roots. Born as a summer community experiment back in 1953, the brainchild of Professor Fred Alexander, it’s now Australia’s longest-running international art-based festival. From its first event at University of Western Australia, it now spans across Noongar Boodjar country (Perth City) bringing worldclass performances into the hearts of ardent festivalgoers. Hundreds of curtain calls, including numerous free events, are set to linger and leave a lasting impression on those who seek thrills that fill life’s in-between spaces. Featuring unmissable highlights from 6^th February to 1^st March, we’ve done the legwork for you – here’s what’s on, and where:

1. East Perth Power Station

East Perth Power Station during Perth Festival — See East Perth Power Station come alive. (Image: Jessica Wyld Photography)

Abandoned, run-down and shutdown in 1981, East Perth Power Station , located on the banks of the stunning Swan River, was reinvented in 2025 as an entertainment venue for the Perth Festival. Pack a picnic, bring the family and kick back under paperbark trees at Casa Musica – a free event featuring a melting pot of world-class musicians from Australian shores and around the globe. The diversity will have you bopping until the final encore.

A decade after David Bowie’s passing, his powerful music lives on in the electrifying show, Rebel Rebel . Powerhouse vocalists join Perth Symphony Orchestra for one incredible night showcasing the singer-songwriter’s iconic hits. Illuminate your world through the eyes of First Nation Noongar artist, Lance Chadd Tjyllyungoo in a free event. His distinctive paintings and Dreamtime stories decorate the Power Station’s walls depicting spiritual beliefs. Or settle in to watch British indie pop singer-songwriter, Nilüfer Yanya .

2. St Mary’s Cathedral

Take in Award-winning vocal group, Roomful of Teeth. (Image: Anja Schutz)

Step into the lofty ceilings of Perth’s grandest cathedral, St Mary’s, and soak up choral harmonies. Dating back to 1865, the stained-glass reproductions of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper are a talking point, add talented maestros, and the stage is set to enthral.

The international line-up is impressive. Master Irish fiddler, Martin Hayes takes to the stage with exquisite lyrical compositions from his native land. Åkervinda , an award winning Swedish quartet, weave stories of love, loss, and resilience into harmonious Nordic folk songs. The USA Grammy Award-winning vocal group, Roomful of Teeth , break all the rules. Hear their voices echo through the arched vaulted ceilings.

3. Lotterywest Films

guests at Lotterywest Films as part of Perth Festival — Discover the Lotterywest Films program. (Credit: Jessia Wyld Photograpghy)

One of the festivals longest-running favourites, Lotterywest Films run a rich tapestry of cinematic features showing until 29th of March. Pack a picnic, cushions, popcorn and pop a cork under a Somerville Pine Tree as the sun sets and screenings begin. Cinema lovers, choose your poison from thrillers, deep-dive documentaries, tearjerkers, raunchy rom-coms and side-splitting comedies. The program is fantastically full, the filmmakers the best in the business, and the outdoor setting, unequalled.

4. The Embassy

guests at The EMbassy as part of Perth Festival — Step into the old world glitz of The Embassy. (Image: Franz Bato)

Modelled on Perth’s historic Embassy Ballroom, a devilish dance venue that operated in the 1900s, The Embassy in Perth Town Hall , serves sophistication in its A-list shows. Set your sequins a’sparkle at the, What’s TINA Got to Do With It extravaganza where guest artists play tribute as they belt out the glitzy star’s hits. The returning act, Ali Bodycoat & The Embassy Big Band, will have you jiving as you take to the dance floor reimagining a bygone era. Who doesn’t like chocolate? Black-bearded drag sensation, La Gateau Chocolat puts the raw in cacao. World-renowned for his feisty range of storied songs, he reveals the inner-man come artist through his deliciously sweet and intimate act.

5. Unusual locations

still from The Trial theatre — Watch a star-studded cast in The Trial. (Image: Cole Baxter)

We’ve all heard of the hit show, The Office, but a spinetingling operatic thriller acted out in disused office space? Philip Glass’ nail-biter, The Trial , has a star-studded line-up. Together they deliver a dramatic ordeal showcasing Oscar-winner Christopher Hampton’s libretto; the suspense lingers after the final bow.

Sit back under starry skies and soak up dynamic dance at Ballet at the Quarry: Incandescence . Four exclusive classical and contemporary acts illuminate the amphitheatre’s stage as Perth City twinkles at nightfall. Mystery excites the mind. West Australian Opera returns again with another ‘secret opera’. Be led from an undisclosed meeting point and let the music lead to the secret.

6. A View From A Bridge

A View From A Bridge special event at Perth Festival — Share your innermost thoughts at A View From A Bridge.

Free, connecting strangers, and inclusive to everyone, artist, Joe Bloom’s collaborative project, A View From A Bridge has one prop – an old red telephone. Talk into the receiver , share thoughts, innermost feelings, memories, hopes and dreams as Bloom captures you from afar. The freedom to speak through the telephone movement has a worldwide following. A range of clips will be shown online.

What else to do in Perth

Shadow Wine Bar in perth — Taste the best of Perth at eateries like Shadow Wine Bar.

Endless blue skies crown Perth during February, making it the perfect time to explore Australia’s most western capital city. The city might be compact, but it packs a punch when it comes to what’s on. Perth Cultural Centre houses the city’s art-scene venues: Western Australian Art Gallery, WA Museum Boola Bardip and Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA).

After exploring the city’s alleyways, hidden corners, and main hub, savour worldclass food in Perth’s vibrant eateries. Award-winning restaurants, rooftop bars, and cafes can be found throughout; the leisurely eat-and-drink scene is literally mouthwatering, so book extra nights.

Start planing your 2026 trip to Perth Festival at perthfestival.com.au .

Revealed: 8 WA beaches you’ve never heard of