Cottesloe Beach, affectionately known as "Cott," is Perth's postcard-perfect stretch of white sand fringed by Norfolk pines and terraced lawns. More than a kilometre of crystal-clear water meets a rocky reef system just offshore, creating excellent snorkelling terrain alongside consistent surf breaks. The underwater landscape features rocky outcrops and reef patches, especially around the northern reef, the groyne, and inside the seasonal shark net. A lively oceanfront boulevard of cafes, bars and restaurants backs the beach, making it as much a social hub as a snorkelling destination.
Cottesloe Beach
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 1.1 mSwell Period 11 sWind Speed 0.6 knPrecipitation 12 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
© CalistemonThe spot
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Shark activity
Cottesloe is one of Perth's regular sighting zones for sharks. A seasonal shark net operates in summer but cannot guarantee full protection. Always swim between the flags.
Low risk: Swell and surf break
Cottesloe picks up consistent swell, creating shorebreak and surf that can be challenging for inexperienced snorkellers, especially near the northern reef.
Low risk: Rocks and reef
Snorkellers must navigate exposed and submerged rocks around the reef patches, particularly at the north reef and south of the groyne. Barnacles and sharp limestone can cause cuts.
Low risk: Marine stingers (summer)
Bluebottle jellyfish and other stingers can appear from November to April when onshore winds blow them in. Check beach signs before entering.
Low risk: Outgoing tide current
Tidal movement, particularly on an outgoing tide, can create stronger currents around the reef and groyne areas that may drift swimmers southward.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
15-minute drive from Perth city centre. Also accessible by Transperth buses or the Fremantle train line — alight at Cottesloe Station and walk 600 m west to the beach.
Parking & facilities
Free parking available along Marine Parade and surrounding streets, with approximately 150 bays. A strict 3-hour time limit applies to allow equitable turnover. Paid parking options exist in nearby lots.
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Free entry. Parking is free (3-hour limit). No snorkel tour fee — self-guided shore entry.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports