Serving up some of Perth’s best surf breaks, Scarborough Beach has always been the cool kid among Perth’s urban beaches. A massive redevelopment of the Scarborough foreshore has seen this already iconic beach gain cult status among backpackers, locals and families.
If you are a surfer, grab your board and head out to catch the rollercoaster waves. If you are just here for sunbathing and relaxing, sink down on the soft, white sand and watch the spectacle.
Don’t even try to resist the clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean. It’s refreshing in summer and not often too cold for a quick dip in winter. The Scarboro Surf Life Saving Club, which has been running since 1928, has a great team of volunteer lifesavers to keep everyone safe. Just make sure you swim between the flags. If the waves are too wild for you, pop in to the open-air public pool complex right next to the beach instead.
Head to the park for a picnic beneath one of the tall Norfolk Island Pines. The competition-grade skatepark and climbing wall will get the blood flowing after lunch. The kids’ playground designed around the shape of a whale skeleton interprets indigenous Noongar Dreaming stories.
Catch one of the sporting events, concerts or festivals that are regularly held at the open-air Scarborough Amphitheatre. Even when nothing is going on, it is a great place to kick back and look out over the Indian Ocean. To add even more calm to your state of bliss, head to Sunset Hill at the end of the afternoon to see the sun disappear on the horizon.
Don’t leave at dusk, however, because Scarborough Beach has some great nightlife centred on the original clock tower in the heart of Scarborough Square on the seaside. Cool little bars, amazing restaurants and trendy cafés buzz with the irresistible atmosphere of balmy summer nights by the sea.
Scarborough Beach is always open to the public and has modern toilet, shower and change room facilities. Parking lots are available along the beach but fill up fast during weekends and holidays. The beach is easily reached by public transport from the city centre.
