Venture to the coast for surfing, swimming, wind-surfing or some simple but high-quality perving on the local speedo eye candy' With over 12,000km of pristine coastline, there’s a great beach to suit everyone.

Beaches close to the city:  Two of Perth’s favourite beaches are City and Cottesloe - about eight and 12 kilometres away. City Beach is recognised for its pristine waters, and Cottesloe’s streets are lined with Norfolk Pines, some 70 years old.

Swanbourne gay beach:  Less well-known is the relatively isolated stretch of beach that links North Cottesloe and City Beach – a nudist and gay playground. Starting at the northern end of North Cottesloe is Swanbourne Beach, which has its own surf club and café. Only a few hundred metres from the facilities an unofficial nude beach starts. It lies behind the Swanbourne military reserve and, as is the way with such places, has become a gay cruising ground at its further reaches. Dawdle along the beach beyond the volleyball players and hardcore nude sunbakers and into the dunes for some action.

Sunset coast:  Known as the Sunset Coast, Perth’s beaches are ideal to enjoy the gold, pink, and yellow visions that grace the west coast year-round. Make yourself comfortable and enjoy a picnic as you wait.

Suntan Heaven:  Perth enjoys more hours of sunshine than any other capital city in Australia. Its warm sunny climate, clear blue skies, beautiful white-sand beaches, and relaxed outdoor lifestyle make it a popular destination.

One of Perth's best kept secrets, Cottesloe Beach is only a 15 minute drive from the centre of Perth. Free parking is available but it can get quite busy. Regular Transperth bus services run to Cottesloe or it's only about a 600 metre walk from the Cottesloe Train Station on the Perth to Fremantle line.

Cottesloe is one of Perth's most popular beaches and attracts thousands of people looking to cool off from the hot summer heat. Its crystal clear waters, regular swell and fun atmosphere make it popular with swimmers, bodyboarders and surfers alike. Nearby rocks and reefs provide good areas for snorkelling.

Cottesloe's famous pine trees which can be seen all the way from Rottnest Island provide welcome shade from the sun and grassy areas to relax in. Public toilets, changing facilities and showers are available.

The Cottesloe area is vibrant and full of fun and excitement. There are many cafes and restaurants along the beachfront. Fish and chips at Cottesloe beach is a local favourite. Local hotels (pubs) overlooking the beach, provide some of the best 'Sunday Sessions' in Western Australia attracting capacity crowds who come to finish off a day at the beach with a few tasty beverages, music and mates. An afternoon not to be missed!

Cottesloe is famous for its sunsets. Being on the west coast of Australia, the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. There are many a la carte restaurants in Cottesloe that provide the perfect venue to take in the breathtaking, panoramic views.

The Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club regularly monitors the beach's conditions.

Surf Life Saving Australia's Surf Tips.
• Always swim or surf at places patrolled by surf lifesavers or lifeguards.
• Swim between the red and yellow flags. They mark the safest area to swim.
• Always swim under supervision or with a friend.
• If you are unsure of surf conditions, ask a lifesaver or lifeguard.