Mandurah is one of Western Australia's top beach destinations, where you can spend your days basking on sandy beaches, dolphin watching in the estuary and exploring nearby national parks. You can also dine at waterfront restaurants, sun-drenched cafes and trendy bars.

Things to do

The calm water and sandy foreshore of Mandurah Estuary make it a popular spot to swim and sunbathe. You'll find one of the best beaches just north of Mandurah Bridge, where you can spot dolphins frolicking in the water. If you'd rather swim in the ocean, head to Doddi's Beach, a family favourite known for its soft sand and gentle waves.

Head down to the waterfront and you'll find Ocean Marina, a lively precinct filled with cafes, restaurants and ice-cream parlours. It's a great place to enjoy the sunset with a platter of fish and chips. While you're there, check out the Dolphin Quay indoor market, which is filled with gift stores and boutiques.

Hall's Cottage offers a glimpse at Mandurah's colonial past. It was built by a local fisherman in the 1830s and was one of the state's first residential buildings. The Heritage-listed limestone cottage houses a local history museum, which displays old photographs and other memorabilia.

The Peel region is dotted with beautiful nature reserves, including Yalgorup National Park. Wooden boardwalks wind through towering tuart groves and lush peppermint woodlands. Take a glimpse at the beautiful Lake Clifton Thrombolites, which look like rocks but are actually tiny micro-organisms.

Getting around

Mandurah is easy to get around on foot, while buses and taxis are available. Rental cars let you explore the Peel region at your own pace. The drive to Perth takes around one hour and local trains also make the trip.