A 20-minute drive north of Perth, Scarborough is much like Cottesloe in that the suburb is practically one with the beach.
Scarborough Beach regularly tops the best beach lists for Perth and Australia. It’s popular for all beach activities, including kite surfing and windsurfing, but traditional water-based surfing is historically popular, with the surf school here one of the world’s oldest. Scarborough Beach is home to a unique beachside pool if you’re not one for unpredictable waters and waves. The Whale Playground for kids is perfect to park at while you stroll on the foreshore, passing the ocean-facing Amphitheatre, commonly used for sports or concerts.
The Scarborough Sunset Markets have become famous city-wide. They run every Thursday evening from November to April at Scarborough Square, just off the beach. Food and drink is the largest category here, with a dedicated Sunset Bar in front of the Amphitheatre, but retail is another draw. Local handmade goods and vendors populate the stalls, making the beach a one-stop shop for an evening out, sunset, food, and shopping all in one place.
Oceanfront bars and restaurants aren’t scarce in Scarborough. In fact, the nightlife is thriving. The Lookout and Scarborough Beach Hotel are top spots for a casual night, with live music, ocean views and a large variety of drinks, from craft brews to specialty cocktails. If you’re looking to grab dinner, the dining options are endless. The most classic option would be grabbing fish and chips at the Sandbar or simply taking them away and eating them on the beach to watch the sunset.