What is Cottesloe Beach?
Cottesloe Beach is one of Perth's most popular beaches, about 11 kilometres west of the city. It is famous for sunsets over the Indian Ocean and for Sculpture by the Sea.
The beach is backed by grassy terraces and tall Norfolk Island pines, making it a favourite spot for picnics and watching the sun go down. The Indiana Tea House, a pavilion on the beachfront, is a well-known landmark.
Cottesloe's sheltered waters are good for swimming and snorkelling, especially around the reef near the groyne. Surf lifesavers patrol the beach in summer, and the area has a long history of beach culture.
Sculpture by the Sea
Each autumn, usually in March, Cottesloe hosts Sculpture by the Sea, a free outdoor art exhibition of large sculptures on the sand and grass. The event began in Sydney and has been held in Cottesloe since 2005.
The beach is reached by train or bus from Perth. Cafes, pubs and the Ocean Beach Hotel overlook the water.
Because the sun sets over the ocean on Australia's west coast, Perth's beaches such as Cottesloe offer famous sunset views not seen on the east coast.
Did You Know?
The Rottnest Channel Swim, a 19.7-kilometre race to Rottnest Island, starts from Cottesloe Beach each February.