Cottesloe Beach, WA

Perth's most beloved beach — sunset over the Indian Ocean from the grassy terraces is a Western Australian rite of passage.

Live AI Coastal Briefing

Sunday 12 July is shaping up to be a beautiful day here on our stunning coastline, with clear skies and a gentle morning breeze. The temperature is currently sitting at 8C, with a humidity level of 92%, making it a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air. As the sun rises, the day is expected to warm up, with a maximum temperature of 31C predicted.



Out in the ocean, the wave height is currently at 1.66m, making it a great day for experienced surfers to catch some powerful waves. The water temperature is a comfortable 18.5C, perfect for a spring suit, and the tide times are 07:30 am for high tide and 05:06 pm for low tide. With these conditions, it's a great time to get out and enjoy the ocean, whether you're surfing, swimming, or just taking a leisurely paddle.



For all you sports and fitness enthusiasts out there, today is a great day to get out and enjoy your favourite activities. Surfers will love the overhead waves, while runners and cyclists will enjoy the cool morning air and scenic coastal routes. Anglers can try their luck in the ocean, and paddleboarders can take advantage of the calm morning conditions to explore the coastline. With the sunny weather and gentle breeze, it's a perfect day to get outdoors and be active.



As we head into the afternoon, the Fremantle Doctor is expected to kick in, bringing a refreshing sea breeze to the coastline. With the temperature expected to reach 31C, it's a great time to find a shady spot and enjoy the sunset over the Indian Ocean. The UV index is low, so you don't need to worry about special protection, and the air quality is good, with an AQI of 36. All in all, it's shaping up to be a fantastic day here on the coast, so get out and make the most of it.

About This Coastline

Cottesloe Beach is Perth’s classic urban beach, a graceful arc of pale sand backed by lawns, mature trees and a compact strip of cafés and hotels.

The setting is not simply decorative; the water has shaped transport, work, recreation and the way the surrounding community has developed.

The Vibe

The atmosphere is relaxed but polished.

Morning swimmers, families and sunset visitors share the foreshore, while the beach’s proximity to the city gives it a strong local rather than purely holiday character. There is enough activity to give the place energy, yet the coast still offers quieter moments away from the principal access points.

The Local Anchor

The Indiana building at the water’s edge is Cottesloe’s most recognisable landmark, and the annual outdoor sculpture exhibition has strengthened the beach’s cultural identity.

Norfolk Island pines and terraced lawns frame the public space above the sand. Together, these features connect present-day visitors with the industries, communities and environmental systems that established the area.

The Landscape

Reef and rock formations influence the shoreline and create pockets of shelter, though ocean swell and sea breezes still shape daily conditions.

The west-facing beach is especially known for clear evening light and broad Indian Ocean sunsets. From elevated viewpoints to water level, the landscape reveals different forms as light, tide and weather move across it.

The enduring appeal lies in the balance between open scenery, local tradition and the practical rhythms of coastal life.