Scarborough Beach (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Scarborough Beach?
What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: Scarborough offers patrolled surf, rental boards, yoga and cafés that suit an independent visitor, while clear sightlines and lifeguards aid safety, but rips can close some swim zones.
Positives:
- Safety: Lifeguards patrol daily from 8 am to 6 pm in summer.
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi covers the foreshore and public facilities.
- Accessibility: Wide, flat promenade suits walkers, cyclists, and wheelchairs.
Challenges:
- Limited parking: Esplanade spaces fill before 10 am and often require paid tickets.
- Strong afternoon breeze: Sand can blow sharply and currents pick up after midday.
- Chilly water in winter: Sea temperatures drop below 18 °C; consider a wetsuit.
What is Scarborough Beach?
- A white-sand beach and coastal suburb on the Sunset Coast of Perth
- A surf destination marked by consistent swells and lifeguard-patrolled waters
- An urban foreshore precinct with an open-air public pool, amphitheatre and dining strip
What is so special about Scarborough Beach for solo trip?
- Lifeguard-patrolled beach with clear swimming zones.
- Paved coastal path for walking or cycling solo.
- Multiple surf hire shops and lessons for beginners.
- Cafés and markets ideal for lone travellers.
- Cultural Noongar story walk along the Tjunta Trail.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to surf, walk the foreshore, and grab a coffee without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Scarborough Beach
Swim or sunbathe at Scarborough Beach:
Use the lifeguard-patrolled 2.5 km white-sand stretch.
Tip: Come before noon for calmer water and a quieter beach.
Walk or bike the Sunset Coast path:
Follow the paved coastal route north to Trigg or south to Fremantle.
Tip: Rent a bike nearby and carry water; check tide charts for best views.
Solo surf or bodyboard:
Hire a board and wetsuit from The Esplanade surf shops.
Tip: Book gear in advance online for a discount and smoother morning seas.
Coffee at Little Wave Café:
Relax indoors with specialty coffee and ocean views.
Tip: Ask for a shaded patio seat during peak sun hours.
Explore the Tjunta Trail Noongar story walk:
Follow painted panels from Whale Playground to the amphitheatre.
Tip: Plan 30 minutes, bring a camera, and download an offline trail map.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Scarborough Beach
- Use public transport: Take the train to Glendalough then bus 423 for fewer parking hassles.
- Book gear ahead: Reserve surfboard hire online to secure best rates and sizes.
- Arrive early: Early visits avoid crowds and find the best sunshade spots.
Reviews of Scarborough Beach
Pauline
Scarborough Beach is nice but feels very quiet in winter—few people during the day, and many shops are closed on weekdays. The public toilets are okay but could be cleaner. Parking wasn’t an issue on weekdays, which was a plus. Good for a peaceful walk, but don’t expect much activity in the colder months.
Hemanta Sapkota
Scarborough Beach is one of Perth’s best spots for all ages. The white sand is stunning, and the vibe is lively year-round with night markets in both winter and summer. Kids love the Whale Playground, skaters hit the Snake Pit, and the beachside amphitheatre often has live music and events. Great cafes and ocean sunsets make it easy to spend the whole day here.
Frans Wahyu
One of my personal favorite beach in Perth. The facility they offer are amaze me. Easy to access and many slots for public toilet is a plus thing as well
Ramesh Subramaniam
Very well maintained, beautiful white sand beach, superb facilities and plenty of parking available! Must visit place if you are in Perth
Krisnhaliani Wetarini
Scarborough Beach is hands down my favorite place to enjoy the sunset. There’s a lovely grassy area that’s perfect for sitting down, relaxing, and just soaking in the view as the sky changes color. The beach itself is clean with soft white sand, really inviting. I wanted to go for a swim, but the waves were a bit strong, so it’s something to keep in mind if you're not a confident swimmer. If you...
When is the best time to visit Scarborough Beach (Perth, Australia)?
Visit Thursday evenings Nov–Apr for the Sunset Markets. In summer, come late afternoon for steady sea breezes. Winter mornings offer empty sands and sheltered pool swims.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Return train+bus to Scarborough | AUD 4 |
| Surfboard and wetsuit hire | AUD 35 |
| Coffee at Little Wave Café | AUD 5 |
| Meal at Sunset Markets | AUD 15 |
| Water bottle and snacks | AUD 3 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 62 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Scarborough Beach
Address: Scarborough Beach, Western Australia, Australia
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