If you’re looking for a waterside holiday destination that won’t break the bank this summer, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better candidate than Mandurah. Having spent the last several years in transformation to a bustling coastal hub, it's managed to hold onto that distinct small-town vibe, making it the perfect place to relax and recharge.
Best enjoyed over a cruisy long weekend, we've teamed up with Visit Mandurah to make sure you tick off the absolute must-dos.
Just an easy hour's drive from Perth/Boorloo, this coastal gem has an extensive collection of unique accommodation options on offer, like Mandurah Houseboats, Bali@Avalon, Private Properties and Seashells Mandurah. So take your pick and get planning.
Rubberneck the Resident Dolphins
Home to one of Australia’s largest dolphin populations, you don’t need to be particularly lucky to catch a dolphin frolicking in Mandurah. These curious creatures have been making the most of its pristine waters long before it became Perth’s go-to holiday spot. Keen to get your dolphin watch on? Head along on a foodie cruise, like the Wild Seafood Experience or Murray River Lunch Cruise, where you can eat, drink, and play spotto for dolphins and other marine life.
Go Hunting For The Giants of Mandurah
Mandurah’s most famous residents, these five BFGs hidden throughout the Mandurah region must be seen to be believed. The handiwork of world-renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo and made entirely from recycled materials, you can easily spend a day following the interactive outdoor discovery trail to find these larger-than-life wooden sculptures.
Snack And Sip On The Waterfront
When it comes to foreshore feasting, the waterfront dining precinct in Mandurah is amongst the best in the biz. There are countless cafes, bars, and restaurants along the waterfront, with something for all palates and parties.
Check out Wood and Stone Café for a sweet start to the day (Biscoff waffles anyone?), The Pen for a leisurely lunch of fresh seafood and stacked grazing boards, Flics Kitchen for a decadent dinner of truffle gnocchi or twice-cooked pork belly, or make tracks to Brewvino for a nightcap. The seaside setting also means there’s plenty of seafood on offer. For top-tier fish and chips head to Sharky’s, or for something a little more elegant, Mandurah’s latest addition to the dining scene Bellini Italian will not disappoint.
Have One Off The Wood At A Local Brewery
If you’re anything like us, you’re going to be craving something cold, light, and refreshing at the end of the drive down from Perth. Luckily, you’re never far from an award-winning beer in Mandurah. Overlooking the water, not only was newcomer Boundary Island Brewery awarded 2023 Best New Exhibitor trophy along with six medals at the Australian International Beer Awards, but it was also the first WA brewery to win Champion Independent Small Brewery at the Australian Independent Beer Awards (Indies) in 2024. Kick back with an ice-cold pint of their mid-strength lager—best enjoyed in the sun with a wood-fired pizza.
Over on the shores of Lake Clifton, Thorny Devil Brewery is a multi-award winner, where you can park up at one of their picnic tables with a hop-heavy brew and some epic share plates. And just down the road, Falcon’s Wedgetail Brewery Co was a finalist at the 2024 Australian Hotels Association WA’s Hospitality Awards for Excellence, so don't sleep on their gold-standard Hazy IPA or American-style pale ale.
Take In The Christmas Lights
The unofficial Christmas Light Capital of WA, Mandurah’s famous festive season display promises to dazzle and delight once again in the summer of ‘24/25. From late November until early January, over 200 twinkling homes will illuminate the waterways, casting a kaleidoscope of colours across the channels. Saunter around the light-filled streets on foot or see them from the water on the Christmas Lights Cruise.
Cruise Around The Water Or The Streets In Style
Considering the City of Mandurah was built on the ocean, it makes a lot of sense to get around on water. Hire one of Down Under Discoveries’ Chilliboat Waterbikes for a day of pedalling through the tranquil waterways, or give your upper body a workout by hiring a kayak from Mandurah Boat Charters, Mandurah Boat Hire, or Down Under Discoveries. Prefer to keep your feet on dry land? Rent an E-Bike or E-Scooter from The Bike Kiosk and explore the city via the 600+ kilometres of cycleways.
Be Captain For A Day On The Water
There’s only one place in WA where you can captain your own private, eco-friendly mini cruise—and enjoy a barbie on the water. Mandurah BBQ Boats have a unique doughnut-shaped design with a central barbeque and circular picnic table designed for socialising and snacking with ease. For those looking to explore the estuary and canals at their own pace or go fishing, Mandurah Boat Hire offers dinghies and pontoon boats for hire, providing a perfect way to enjoy the stunning waterways.
For more ways to make the most of this hotspot when it comes to a summer getaway, head here.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Visit Mandurah and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.
Images: Visit Mandurah, Wood and Stone Café and Mandurah Cruises.