An easy 50 minutes south of Perth you’ll find our state's second largest city—Mandurah. A laid back haven for lovers of the water and abundant with wildlife, Mandurah is the perfect spot for a little day trip over the weekend.
So next time you're heading down this way, make sure you check out all the best things to do in Mandurah.
Mataya Eatery
Step through the coral pink doors into the tropical vibes of Mandurah cafe Mataya Eatery. Passionate about supporting local, the ever-changing menu is bursting with wholesome no-fuss delights. Think brekky bowls, a tasty twist on toasties, mouthwatering bagels (order the Banoffee or the Bob Dill’n, just trust us). For something more substantial you can’t go past their signature ‘trays’ for breakfast or lunch including our faves, Huevous Rancheros, Soba in Tokyo or New Saigon.
Sit a while, browse the shelves stocked full of local produce, fresh flowers, beauty products and homewares. There are also tons of freshly baked treats, local juices, organic loose leaf teas, hot chocolates… oh and the coffee! Serving up Will & Co, you can’t go wrong.
Samadhi Cafe
If you’re into superfoods and wholesome eats, Mandurah cafe Samadhi is a must visit. More like colourful works of art, meals are prepared using biodynamic, organically grown, locally sourced ingredients. Rainbow salads, chakra smoothies, all things gluten free, plus raw and baked desserts to enjoy with a Bio Bean organic coffee. In case you were wondering, Samadhi is a Sanskrit word which translates to ‘a state of bliss’. Enough said.
Three Rivers Brewing Company
One of Mandurah's hidden treasures, the Three Rivers Brewery is a small, family owned and run microbrewery. Head Brewer, Mark Rivers is a former environmental scientist who decided to move on from saving the world to creating great beer—so still sort of saving the world.
Mark's range of award-winning craft beer is made from only the finest regional ingredients all conforming to the strict German beer purity law—the Reinheitsgebot—which means no additives, no preservatives and no colours. Mark chooses not to filter his finished beers which means a slightly cloudy beer with much more flavour.
With their tasty drop currently being poured in venues all over Perth, Freo and even Bunbury we guarantee Three Rivers is soon to be a household name. The ‘shed’ is available for small gatherings and events or stop by their intimate cellar door for a tasting and see their hands-on approach with a brewery tour. What are you waiting for?
Frisky Deer Interiors & Cafe
Frustrated by the lack of homewares available on the West Coast, former accountant and serial renovator Dee Donegan decided to open The Frisky Deer. Part cafe, part amazing homewares and fashion boutique, you can expect an eclectic mix of products sourced locally and from all around the globe—think textiles, baskets, candles, ceramics, organic skin care, crystals and more. As if that’s not tempting enough, the Fiori coffee and freshly baked cakes (by Dee’s pastry chef sister) might seal the deal. Dee encourages you to linger and draw inspiration from your surroundings. We’re hooked, just take all our money.
3 Hearts Ceramics & Cafe
Feeling a little crafty? Pop into 3 Hearts where you can add your very own creative flair to a range of handcrafted ceramics. Simply choose your piece (hint: our favourite piece is the stoneware keep-cup!) and your glaze, order yourself a brew and a delightful raw treat and as owner Vanessa suggests ‘just go with it’. This is definitely one of our favourite things to do in Mandurah
They also offer group bookings and workshops (perfume blending anyone?) Maybe it’s the minimalist Scandi interior or the view of the sparkling marina but painting ceramics while chatting with friends is undeniably therapeutic.
Walking Trails
Need to walk off the indulgences you've eaten from all those beautiful Mandurah cafes? Hit one of the many spectacular nature trails in the Peel Region. The Halls Head Coastal Walk follows the sparkling Indian Ocean and meanders through suburban seascapes. With plenty of spots to sit and take in the view, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, whales and seals.
Not far from the city centre and set on 60 hectares of bushland, wander the Erskine Nature Trail. An easy 6km on boardwalks over the wetlands of the Peel Inlet and abundant with flora and fauna it’s a stunning spot any time of year, but especially pretty in late winter or spring when wildflowers are in bloom.
Markets
Another must do in Mandurah is the beautiful farmer markets, it's the perfect place to soak up a sunny Sunday morning and stock up on local produce.
Grab a coffee or a fresh juice and some breakfast before wandering around the friendly Mandurah Boardwalk Farmers Markets for local produce, fresh baked goods and artisan products. The atmosphere is vibrant with live music and activities for the kids.
Want more? Check out all the best things to do in Rockingham.
Image credit: City of Mandurah