There’s something magnetic about the water. Whether it’s the rhythmic crash of waves or the soft glint of sunlight across an estuary, life by the coast holds a special kind of magic—especially here in Western Australia. From serene solo paddles at sunrise to loud, sandy barbecues with friends by the shore, WA’s coastal lifestyle is more than just picturesque—it’s a way of living.
Whether it’s a spontaneous Saturday sail or an early morning paddle along the coast, WA’s love for the water runs deep. For many, the dream of weekend cruising starts with a little prep—some take lessons, others invest in gear, and a few finally commit to earning that skippers ticket Perth locals often talk about. It’s all part of embracing the rhythm of the sea.
Weekends on the Water: From Fishing to Floating
In WA, weekends often come with salty hair and sand underfoot. The coast calls in different ways—some answer with rods and bait boxes, others with paddleboards and inflatable flamingos. It doesn’t matter if you’re deep-sea fishing or just cruising along the Swan River with a packed esky and no plans—being on the water is the plan.
The abundance of choices is part of the charm. Crabbing in Mandurah, jet-skiing near Hillarys, or taking a lazy float near Cottesloe—it’s all fair game. And for many, that first moment of pushing off from shore is where the stress of the week slips away.
The Gear & The Crew: What Makes a Great Coastal Day Out
You don’t need to own a yacht to enjoy the water (though if you do, lucky you!). Most great days start with good people and the right essentials. Think cooler boxes filled with snacks, Bluetooth speakers, extra towels, sunscreen that someone always forgets, and maybe even a sneaky deck of cards.
It’s often the crew that makes the experience. That one mate who always brings the perfect playlist. The amateur angler who claims they’ve “definitely caught a bigger one before.” The friend who insists on doing flips off the back of the boat until they bellyflop. These shared moments are what coastal living is really all about—joy in simplicity.
Secret Spots & Hidden Bays
One of the best parts about living or visiting WA is discovering those lesser-known spots that locals guard like buried treasure. Places where the water is crystal clear, the seagrass is thick with marine life, and the only sounds are waves and seabirds.
Maybe it’s a tucked-away cove down south near Dunsborough, or a river bend you found after turning down a dirt road one Sunday afternoon. These places feel personal—like they exist just for you, even if only for a few hours.
Exploring the coast becomes a kind of gentle adventure. No schedule. No expectations. Just you, a map, and the promise of something quiet and beautiful.
Food, Drinks & Salty Breezes
Of course, no day by the water is complete without good eats. In WA, coastal life and food go hand in hand—from freshly grilled snapper on the beach to icy lemon sodas shared after a dip. Many locals have their go-to fish and chip spots or beach cafés with views that make everything taste better.
Picnics are a staple. Pack sandwiches, olives, fruit, and maybe a bottle of chilled white, and you’ve got a waterfront feast. There’s something about eating outdoors that makes even simple snacks feel gourmet—especially with a salty breeze in your hair and the sound of waves as your soundtrack.
Mindfulness by the Sea: Why Water Heals
It’s not just about the activities. The ocean has a way of slowing time. Even the act of staring at the horizon, letting the waves roll in and out, can bring clarity. It’s no wonder coastal walks and ocean swims are go-to rituals for so many people looking to reset.
Studies have shown that being near water lowers stress and boosts mental well-being. In WA, we’re lucky to have that calm so close, whether it’s a quick dip after work or a full weekend escape. Saltwater therapy isn’t just real—it’s freely available.
For families, couples, and solo wanderers alike, the coast offers something different to everyone. And sometimes, it gives you exactly what you didn’t know you needed.
Conclusions
The coastal lifestyle isn’t just about boats and beaches—it’s about embracing a slower pace, savoring the little things, and building memories that smell like sunscreen and sea spray. It’s sunrise swims, fish and chips in the car, laughter echoing over water, and stories that somehow always involve someone falling in.
Whether you live on the coast or just visit when you can, those moments stay with you long after the sand is gone from your shoes. In WA, life by the water isn’t a holiday—it’s home.
