The Best Beach Hotels to Book in Perth, Western Australia

In a city that prides itself on its less developed coastline, Rendezvous Scarborough is the only beachside high-rise in Perth. Michael Jackson stayed here in 1996, and you can still see the grand piano that he played during his stay. Towering over this bustling beach, it’s a great choice for anyone who loves a lagoon-style pool with ocean views, tennis courts, a games room and the buzz of Scarborough’s bars and restaurants. Kids will enjoy the local skate park, climbing wall, basketball court and whale-shaped playground.

Perth beach houses don’t come any closer to the water than Seashells, which shows off sunsets over the ocean every evening. On site are two pools with sun loungers, an entertaining area and gas barbecues. Five apartment styles across three properties cater for singles, couples, families and corporate travellers, featuring fully equipped kitchens, laundry, a separate living room and balconies with stunning views. Almost next door is an Olympic-size swimming pool, seaside dining joints and outdoor recreation facilities for all ages.

One of the best rooftops in Western Australia crowns the National in the heart of Fremantle. Panoramic views extend over the port city to the harbour and out to Rottnest and Garden islands. More than a century old, the beautifully refurbished hotel has 12 luxury en-suite rooms with locally made furniture. The four-storey staircase leading to the accommodation has been converted into an art gallery featuring local artists. Downstairs is a restaurant with a wraparound verandah and a traditional Aussie pub as well as live music every day.

Near the East Street Jetty, Tradewinds Hotel is walking distance from East Fremantle’s waterfront bars, cafes, restaurants and markets, with Leighton and Port beaches a short drive away. These stylish rooms range from studios with king beds to two-bedroom suites with water views, freestanding baths in modern bathrooms and even your own drinks trolley. Sharpen your appetite for the fresh regional cuisine and cocktails in the courtyard, or hit the gym and pool. Events and conference rooms also attract wedding guests.

As the name suggests, this is a Fremantle favourite loved by the locals, who come here for the food, cocktails, whiskey and craft beers on tap in three indoor/outdoor bars. It’s in the trendy nook of South Freo, a short stroll to South Beach and its grassy area where people gather for sunset picnics; check out the buzzy cafes, family-run restaurants and locally owned shops. Built in 1897, this boutique hotel is loved for its artist-designed rooms with shared bathrooms. Some have French balconies, four-poster beds and fireplaces.

At the end of a sandy strip along the North Fremantle foreshore is the pet-friendly Pier 21. A path leads to a great riverside trail, which is especially handy for guests travelling with dogs. Active people will also appreciate the paddleboard hire, tennis court, table tennis, fitness centre, two pools and jacuzzi. The 47 suites and apartments have large balconies and lovely views over the Swan River or gardens. With kids? Don’t miss a game of giant Jenga, giant Connect Four or giant dominos.

Specialising in short, medium and long stays, Nautica has properties in Scarborough, Fremantle and Hillarys. Cheaper than comparable hotel rooms, these well-maintained apartments are furnished and fully equipped like comfortable homes. Hillarys, on the boat harbour, is known for its various bedroom options as well as a ground-floor apartment. Fremantle’s options include a wheelchair-friendly studio or deluxe two bedrooms. Scarborough’s three-bedroom, third-floor residence has a huge balcony with ocean views, two bathrooms and parking for two cars.

If you can’t rake together the funds for a beach house, Perth has decent basic accommodation such as this one-bedroom unit with a balcony. There’s a living room and dining area, laundry, free parking and wifi, a TV, DVD player and kitchen with a full-size fridge, oven, hob and microwave. The original bathroom includes a shower and complimentary toiletries. Scarborough Beach is a nine-minute walk, and the much quieter Trigg Beach, City Beach, Floreat Beach and Mettam’s Pool are less than six minutes’ drive away. Settle in and switch off.