Revealed: 8 WA beaches you've never heard of

Beaches as wild and wondrous as they are unspoiled.

Western Australia’s rugged coastline has always been a major drawcard – from the impossibly blue waters of Denmark to Broome’s mosaics of red and turquoise. But if you thought you knew the best spots for a dip – think again.

While WA is clearly home to countless stunning beaches, there are still a handful of hidden gems that your average Joe doesn’t know. Remote, untouched and truly breathtaking, these secret stretches of sand promise a side of WA few have laid eyes on.

Meelup Beach

Meelup Beach is backdropped by bushland.

As you’re winding your way through the thick coastal heath towards Meelup Beach in Dunsborough, you may be wondering where the water is. But that’s what makes this place so great – it’s completely hidden by bushland. The stark-white sand and turquoise sea is backdropped by the dusty green of jarrahs, and while a few colourful beach umbrellas may dot the shore, there’s not a tourist in sight. The best part? When WA’s wildflowers bloom come spring, turning this coastal paradise into a kaleidoscope of colour.

Bremer Bay

Bremer Bay is a prime whale-watching location.

Bremer Bay’s position between Albany and Esperance plays to its favour – everyone drives right past it. This is the place to be if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. Not only is it perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing, but it’s also a hotspot for wildlife sightings. The coastal hamlet is one of Australia’s top whale-watching locations, with rising temperatures between December and April bringing orcas into the bay to feed. It’s also nestled on the fringes of Fitzgerald River National Park, so be sure to pack your hiking boots, too.

Hamelin Bay

Spot schools of stingrays off the shores of Hamelin Bay.

The Margaret River region may be known for its incredible wineries, but it also boasts one of the state’s most stunning and secluded swimming spots. Hamelin Bay is just a 15-minute drive from the town of Augusta, where you’ll find Australia’s only underwater winery. A mecca for marine life, it’s the perfect snorkelling spot, known for the abundance of stingrays that call it home. Head a little further offshore to Hamelin Island to spot ancient shipwrecks, as well as sea plants and a colourful variety of fish species.

Shell Beach

Shell Beach is named after the tiny cockles that make up its shoreline.

Don’t let its location in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area scare you off; Shell Beach is a 100-kilometre stretch of pure bliss. It gets its name from the billions of tiny cockle shells that make up its shoreline, which give it a unique pearly sheen that contrasts with the surrounding red landscape. While Shell Beach is considerably secluded, it’s not hard to get to, located just 45 kilometres from Denham. Tack on a couple of days and make the trip to nearby Dirk Hartog Island – known as the island on the edge of eternity.

Little Parakeet Bay & Little Salmon Bay

Little Salmon Bay on Rottnest Island, WA

Little Salmon Bay is one of two hidden beaches on Rottnest Island.

Rottnest Island is famed for its scenery, but these secluded spots take it to another level. Nestled on the northern tip, Little Parakeet Bay is a tranquil haven, accessible via a short walk from Thomson Bay. Its calm waters make it ideal for a morning paddle minus the crowds. On the other side of Rottnest, Little Salmon Bay features a designated trail teeming with marine life – keen snorkellers will leave happier than a quokka munching a eucalyptus leaf.

Mettams Pool

A natural limestone reef protects Mettams Pool.

Located along one of Perth’s best beaches, Mettams Pool on North Beach offers a serene alternative for city dwellers looking to cool off. Protected by a natural limestone reef, the calm waters are perfect for a peaceful coastal experience. We have World War I veteran Frank Mettam to thank, who embarked on a 35-year project to transform the once sharp and rocky reef into a safe swimming area for all, just 30 minutes from the CBD.

Little Beach

Find solace in nature at Little Beach in Nanarup.

Tucked within Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve in Nanarup, around 45 minutes from Albany, Little Beach offers more than just a seaside escape. Surrounded by granite outcrops and vibrant greenery, it’s a hidden haven for hikers, wildlife watchers and anyone seeking a quiet connection with nature. The calm and secluded cove invites slow walks, reflective moments and a break from everyday life.

Perched on the banks of Perth’s Swan River, the Wonil Hotel Perth pairs contemporary rooms and sweeping waterfront views with a sense of purpose that sets it apart.

In a rare model for the hospitality world, Wonil Hotel Perth operates as a not-for-profit hotel, directing 100% of its net revenue toward medical and scientific research across Western Australia’s five major universities. So while guests enjoy the calm of riverside living, their stay also quietly contributes to the future of science, innovation and health in Australia. And it’s a refreshing stand-out in Perth’s hotel scene.

Location

The peaceful riverside hotel is set on the banks of the Swan River.

Wonil Hotel Perth is located in the inner-city suburb of Crawley, a peaceful riverside locale about 10 minutes from Perth’s CBD. It’s positioned steps from Matilda Bay Reserve, where walking trails hug the shoreline and black swans glide along the water. From here, it’s a short drive or bike ride to Kings Park, Elizabeth Quay and the city’s arts and culture precincts. Though close to the action, the setting feels removed – quiet, leafy and surrounded by nature.

Style and character

The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a picturesque view of Matilda Bay.

Named after the Noongar word for peppermint tree, of which there are many shading the riverbanks outside, Wonil Hotel Perth is the first Australian property in Accor’s Handwritten Collection. The overall style is minimal without being sterile – warm wood finishes, tactile furnishings and clever lighting create a relaxed, understated space that melts into its natural surroundings.

The lobby is stunning, spacious and filled with inviting leather couches, well-stocked bookshelves and Indigenous art and sculpture work. The floor-to-ceiling glass doors open out onto a sheltered outdoor deck filled with tables and chairs overlooking the river. During the day this serves as the world’s most picturesque coworking space, but come 5pm, it’s where you’ll find most guests milling around, cocktails in hand.

Facilities

Spend time reading books in the cosy library nook.

Wonil Hotel Perth leans toward a pared-back offering, focusing on what guests actually need. While there’s no on-site fitness centre, hotel staff can provide access to the nearby University of WA gym and pool. But why would you, when the hotel is in prime location for an outdoor workout. Walk along the trails that meander through Matilda Bay Reserve, run along the riverfront to the iconic Kings Park, or even tackle the nearby Kokoda Trail – a steep 150-step ascent designed to simulate the exhaustion and effort of the original Kokoda Track soldiers in WWII.

The hotel includes West Kitchen & Bar, a small but well-curated restaurant, plus free Wi-Fi, meeting rooms and secure paid parking. Limited parking is available on-site with an advanced booking.

Rooms

the premier king room with river view at Wonil Hotel Perth

Each room is sleek and spacious with views over the Swan River.

The hotel’s 66 rooms range from Standard to Executive and Premium, many with balconies and uninterrupted views over the Swan River, and some with interconnecting options for families or groups. My room was a Deluxe King with a balcony and river view.

Bathrooms are luxe and spacious.

The space somehow manages to be both modernly sleek and warmly inviting – textured grey walls illuminated by warm sconce lights, an exposed concrete ceiling offset by rich timber accents, and a black wrought iron balcony met with earthy-hued, upholstered leather furnishings. The spacious king bed, roomy shower with luxe Mr Smith toiletries, and complimentary coffee add a special touch.

Food and drink

the outdoor terrace at Wonil Hotel Perth

Gather for sunset drinks on the outdoor terrace.

West Kitchen & Bar offers a truly local experience. When it comes to the drinks, you won’t find anything – wine, beer, spirits – from outside WA. Even the soda water hails from the west. The wine list sees big WA makers like Leeuwin Estate, Vasse Felix and Voyager dance alongside smaller producers like Ironcloud, Singlefile and LS Merchants; with beers from local legends Gage Roads, Little Creatures, Beerfarm and Eagle Bay Brewing.

The dinner menu features seafood, steak and small plates designed for sharing, showcasing local producers. Standouts are the Rottnest kingfish with ruby grapefruit, the barramundi with Tuscan cabbage and the Harvey beef tri tip with smoked bone marrow butter and red wine jus. For dessert, a unique take on a classic – spiced red wine pannacotta, served with poached pear and fresh honeycomb.

Come morning, the hotel offers a curated selection of buffet breakfast options including seasonal fruits, homemade granola, pastries and sourdough. Plus, guests also get a choice of one item from the à la carte breakfast menu – the tomato bruschetta with balsamic, basil, feta and poached eggs on rye was exceptional.

Does Wonil Hotel Perth have access for guests with disabilities?

There are accessible rooms to accommodate guests with accessibility needs.

Is Wonil Hotel Perth it family-friendly?

Yes – the interconnecting rooms make family stays appealing, and the vast grassland and river foreshore of Matilda Bay Reserve are a beautiful spot for kids to run, splash and play in nature.

Best for: Couples, families, business travellers

Address: 21 Hackett Drive, Crawley

Revealed: 8 WA beaches you’ve never heard of