With a coastline that stretches over 10,000 kilometres, Western Australia is home to a number of almost unfairly pretty beach towns.

These towns, which range from historical settlements to modern tourist destinations, combine the best of all worlds. They're beautiful, peaceful and flush with amazing surf spots.

If you're considering exploring West Oz after learning to surf in Perth, chuck these beach towns on your list – we guarantee you won't be disappointed.

Esperance

With hundreds of reefs, sandbars and islands, Esperance is a paradise for surfers and beach lovers alike.

Located about eight hours southeast of Perth, this remote town boasts some of the clearest waters and whitest beaches in Australia.

You can spend your days surfing at Lucky Bay or Blue Haven Beach, swimming with friendly sea lions at Seal Cove or simply relaxing on the pristine shores of Twilight Bay.

If you’re looking to catch some waves while in Esperance, there’s no better guide than Todd Nosworthy, the friendly face behind Tide Riders Surf. A local surf coach with years of experience, Todd knows the ins and outs of Esperance’s surf spots. His expertise extends beyond just teaching techniques; Todd has an uncanny knowledge of the region’s tides, conditions, and lesser-known surf spots, allowing him to tailor each lesson to the perfect location based on the day’s weather and surf forecast.

Todd offers both beginner and advanced lessons, making Tide Riders Surf ideal for anyone eager to improve their surfing skills or try surfing for the first time. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or making a longer trip out of it, booking a session with Todd is a fantastic way to experience Esperance’s unique coastline. His passion for the area is contagious, and he’s known to go the extra mile, ensuring every session is safe, fun, and memorable.

Connect with Todd via Instagram at @tideriderssurf or give him a call at 0421 064 588 to arrange a session tailored to your skill level. Don’t miss out on the chance to surf with a true local expert!

Margaret River

Located about a three-hour drive from Perth, this picturesque town is known for its world-renowned surf breaks and award-winning wineries.

With stunning beaches, lush forests and delicious local produce, it's no surprise that Margaret River has become a popular holiday destination.

The laidback atmosphere and charming community make it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Some must-visit spots in Margaret River include Surfers Point for surfing or watching the pros catch some waves, Mammoth Cave for an underground adventure and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse for breathtaking views of where the Indian Ocean meets the Southern Ocean.

Broome

Broome may be a small town, but it packs a punch when it comes to natural beauty.

Located in the Kimberley region, Broome is famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters.

One of the most unique experiences in Broome is witnessing the Staircase to the Moon, a natural phenomenon where the full moon reflects off the exposed mudflats at low tide creating an optical illusion of a staircase leading up to the moon.

If you want to see Broome from a different vantage point, try camel riding along Cable Beach at sunset. And for a taste of the local culture, be sure to visit the pearl farms and learn about the town's pearling history.

Kalbarri

Kalbarri is a coastal town situated on the mouth of the Murchison River.

It's one of the more remote locations on a list already full of remote locations, but the stunning natural landscapes and peaceful atmosphere make it worth the drive.

One of the must-see attractions is Kalbarri National Park, which is home to iconic landmarks such as Nature's Window and The Loop. You can also try your hand at fishing or kayaking on the river or take a scenic coastal walk to see some incredible rock formations.

Kalbarri Point itself is also a popular spot for surfing, with amazing waves suitable for more advanced surfers.

That said, learner surfers can still watch the action from the safety of the car park, which offers incredible views of the point and coastline looking north.

Dunsborough

Seeking a beach town with a more relaxed and family-friendly vibe?

Look no further than Dunsborough.

Located in the the Margaret River region (approximately a three-hour drive from Perth), Dunsborough boasts calm and clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling and stand-up paddleboarding. It's also known for its abundance of local cafes, restaurants and wineries, so foodies... take note!

Couples can escape here for a romantic getaway, families can enjoy beachside picnics and kids can have fun building sandcastles or exploring the rock pools. And if you're lucky, you might even spot some dolphins playing in the bay.

For the surfers amongst you, Margaret River's many famous surf breaks are just a short drive away.

Yallingup

Yallingup is home to a number of pro surfers, making it a must-visit for any wave enthusiast.

Located in the heart of the Margaret River region, this beautiful beach town has something for everyone.

Paddle out at Injidup Beach for a wave, drink in the stunning coastal views or hike to Canal Rocks and marvel at the impressive rock formations carved by years of ocean waves. You can also check out Smiths Beach for some epic surfing or visit Ngilgi Cave for an underground adventure.

But it's not just about surfing and sightseeing in Yallingup - there are also plenty of opportunities for fun.

Breweries, wineries and art galleries can be found throughout the area. This means that when the swell drops or the weather isn't cooperating, there's still plenty to do and see in Yallingup.

Exmouth

If swimming with whale sharks and surfing are high on your list of West Oz adventures, you can't miss a trip to Exmouth.

Located on the Ningaloo Coast, this remote town is known for its world-class diving and snorkelling opportunities.

The crystal clear waters of the Ningaloo Reef are teeming with marine life, including tropical fish, manta rays and of course, whale sharks.

You can also take a break from the water activities and explore Cape Range National Park for some stunning hikes and scenic drives.

And for those looking to catch some waves, Dunes Beach and Wobiri Beach offer some great surf breaks, with the added bonus of being surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes.

These beaches are beautiful, user-friendly and not too crowded, making them the perfect spots for both experienced and beginner surfers.

Esperance also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and camping. And if you're lucky enough to be there during wildflower season (September-December), you'll be treated to a stunning display of colourful native flowers throughout the region.

Rottnest Island

Ok... we get it.

Rottnest Island isn't technically a "town", but it's still one of the best places to experience West Oz's laid-back lifestyle and amazing surf culture.

Located just 19 km off the coast of Perth, Rottnest Island boasts amazing surf breaks and epic beaches. These are most likely overshadowed though by the island's resident quokkas - the adorable and friendly marsupials that are Instagram famous.

When you're not busy taking selfies with quokkas, you can explore the island's many bays and beaches (Strickland Bay!), go snorkelling or diving in the crystal clear waters or simply relax at one of the island's cafes or bars.

We recommend hiring a bike and taking a leisurely ride around the island to take in all its beauty. It's the best way to truly appreciate the laid-back lifestyle and natural wonders of Rottnest Island.

Final thoughts

There’s no shortage of things to do, see, drink, eat and surf in Western Australia. And after stopping off in Perth for surf lessons, you'll be well-prepared to hit the waves in some of the most beautiful and remote locations in the world. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation or both, Western Australia has something for every type of traveller.