When you think of Perth’s most iconic coastal suburbs, Cottesloe is always at the top of the list. Famous for its large sandy beach, turquoise waters and sunset views that stop you in your tracks, this seaside haven is so much more than a holiday spot, it’s a lifestyle. From lazy ocean swims to buzzing cafes and lively bars, Cottesloe offers a perfect blend of relaxation and vibrancy that locals adore and visitors envy.
Restaurants that Delight
Cottesloe has no shortage of incredible dining experiences, but Il Lido remains a perennial favourite. Just steps from the beach, Il Lido’s Italian-inspired menu pairs perfectly with the salty breeze. Think long lunches with friends over handmade pasta, crisp wines and the kind of effortless atmosphere that makes you want to stay well into the evening.
For something a little more relaxed, Vans Café on Napoleon Street and Daisies are go-to’s for a leisurely brunch or light lunch, serving fresh, modern dishes in a laid-back yet stylish setting. And for an elevated dinner experience, Gibney offers a refined menu and coastal glamour that makes it the perfect spot to round out an ideal day in Cottesloe.
Best Way To Relax
Ask any local, and they’ll tell you that the simple pleasure of a morning swim at the beach is the heart of life in Cottesloe. There’s something magical about diving into the clear water as the sun rises, followed by a coffee in hand as you stroll along the sand. It’s not just exercise, it’s a ritual.
The Charm of the Area
What makes Cottesloe so special? It’s the details: the picturesque, tree-lined streets that invite leisurely strolls and the abundance of vibrant local businesses that give the area its distinctive character. Beyond the aesthetics, it’s the warm, welcoming community of wonderful people that truly brings the suburb to life. And of course, there’s the beauty of gathering with friends and family to watch the breathtaking sunset over the ocean, painting the sky with an array of colours as it dips below the horizon. These elements combine to create an unforgettable experience that defines Cottesloe.
After Work Drinks?
As the sun sets, Cottesloe comes alive with a buzzing bar scene. Pep’s Wine Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of something special in a warm and intimate setting, while the Ocean Beach Hotel (OBH) is a quintessential Cott experience, offering sweeping ocean views and an electric atmosphere. For those who love a lively coastal crowd, Cottesloe Beach Hotel is an institution in its own right.
The Ideal Cottesloe Day
We asked some of the ART staff what their ideal day in Cott looks like and this was the most common response:
You wake early for a walk or run along the beach, the salt air energising you. After a refreshing surf or windsurf at The Coves, you cool off with a few leisurely laps in the ocean before claiming your spot on the sand to bask in the sun. Late morning calls for a hearty breakfast at Il Lido, followed by a little shopping on Napoleon Street. Lunch at Vans is the perfect pit stop before an afternoon beverage at the OBH, where the ocean puts on its famous sunset show. Dinner at Gibney rounds out the evening, before finishing the night with wine at Pep’s, chatting over wine and feeling like the day couldn’t have been more perfect.
In Cottesloe, every day feels curated, a blend of simple pleasures, coastal beauty and vibrant dining that together create a lifestyle unlike anywhere else. It’s not just a place to live, it’s a place to love.