Information
Landmark: Hillarys Boat HarbourCity: Perth
Country: Australia
Continent: Australia
Hillarys Boat Harbour, Perth, Australia, Australia
Overview
Hillarys Boat Harbour – Perth’s ultimate spot by the sea.Whether you want to stroll past fishing boats, dive into adventure, or just unwind with the family, it’s a place you won’t want to miss.Just 25 minutes north of Perth, this lively marina buzzes with possibilities-stretch out on soft white sand, linger over a meal by the water, browse quirky boutiques, set off on a marine adventure, or lose yourself in a world-class aquarium.Looking for a lazy stretch of sand, a sunset dinner by the water, or a day of rides and laughter with the kids?You’ll find it all at Hillarys.Getting there’s easy-just a simple 25‑minute drive from Perth along the Mitchell Freeway, with the river flashing past your window now and then.You’ll find lots of free parking, though on weekends it can fill up fast.Take the Joondalup Line train to Greenwood Station, then jump on Bus 423-it’ll carry you straight to the harbour, where you can smell the salt in the air.If you’re catching the ferry to Rottnest Island, Hillarys is one of the main spots to set off-right where the salty breeze hits you before you board.So, what is it that truly sets Hillarys apart?One.Sorrento Beach – a picture-perfect slice of paradise 🏖️.If you’re looking for a quiet, family-friendly spot, you’ll find it right beside the harbour, where the water laps gently against the sand.Unlike Perth’s rough surf spots, this beach offers calm, shallow water where the waves lap softly-ideal for kids or an easy, unhurried swim.Soft, white sand that’s perfect for stretching out in the sun or shaping into smooth, sturdy sandcastles.During peak season, lifeguards keep watch from their towers, scanning the waves for trouble.There are picnic tables and BBQ grills nearby, perfect if you’re bringing lunch and want to eat under the shade of a big oak tree.The water’s crystal clear, so grab your snorkel and dive in.When’s the best time to head out-spring mornings when the air smells fresh, or later in the day?Go in the morning or early evening, when the air feels cooler and the streets are still quiet.Number two.AQWA – A Deep Dive into WA’s Marine Life 🦈 In Hillarys, one of the biggest attractions is AQWA, where you can watch sleek sharks glide past just inches away.This isn’t just any aquarium-it’s where you’ll find shimmering schools of fish and other remarkable marine life from all along WA’s sweeping coastline.Don’t miss the 100-meter underwater tunnel, where you can stroll beneath sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles gliding just overhead.The touch pools-ever tried running your fingers over a starfish’s rough back or the cool, squishy skin of a sea cucumber?This is your moment-grab it while it’s right in front of you.Live coral displays offer a stunning glimpse into Western Australia’s reefs, where bright fish dart through swaying branches of coral.Shark diving-if you’re feeling bold, you can slip into the water and swim beside them, no cage between you and those flickering gray fins.AQWA is a must-see, whether you’re chasing a family day out, a romantic stroll past glowing coral, or the thrill of spotting a giant stingray glide by.Three.Hop on the Rottnest Island Ferry-the quickest way to meet those curious quokkas with their cheeky, camera-ready grins!🚢 Hillarys is one of the best spots to catch a ferry to Rottnest Island , home of the world-famous quokkas .🚢 From Hillarys, you can hop on a ferry to Rottnest Island, where the world‑famous quokkas wander under the bright island sun.A 45‑minute ferry ride treats you to sweeping coastal views, with sunlight flashing off the waves.Great for a quick day trip or a cozy night away.Many tours throw in bike rentals and snorkeling gear, letting you pedal past sandy coves or dive among bright fish along Rotto’s breathtaking coast.Tip: Visiting in summer or over school break?Book your ferry early-by noon, the deck’s often packed.Number four.Dining with a view – from platters of fresh seafood to easy, laid‑back bites.One of the best things about Hillarys is its vibrant food scene, where cafés and restaurants serve meals right by the water, the salty breeze drifting in as you eat.So, where should we grab a bite?The Breakwater is a stylish bar and restaurant where you can sip a crisp craft cocktail while the sun sinks in a wash of gold over the water.The Boat’s a classic Aussie pub where you can tuck into crisp fish and chips, fresh local seafood, and a cold craft beer.Little C’s Pizzeria hits the spot when you’re craving authentic wood‑fired pizza, the kind with a crisp, smoky crust you can smell before you walk in.Hippo Creek is a steakhouse made for meat lovers, dishing up juicy steaks that sizzle and tender ribs that fall off the bone.If you’re in the mood for something laid-back, pick up a coffee or a scoop of ice cream and wander the boardwalk, feeling the wooden planks warm under your feet.Number five.🚤 For those who love a bit of action , Hillarys offers plenty of exciting water sports and boat tours .Adventure and water activities-feel the rush as the waves crash beneath you!🚤 If you’re after a thrill, Hillarys has you covered with heart-pumping water sports and breezy boat tours that skim across the sparkling bay.Some of the best things to do include whale watching from June to December, when you can spot humpback whales arching through the waves as they travel the coastline.You can rent jet skis, paddleboards, and kayaks right at the harbour, where the salt air carries over the water.Book a fishing charter and head out to sea, chasing snapper, dhufish, and tuna as the salt spray cools your face.Step onto a glass-bottom boat and watch schools of silver fish glide beneath your feet-no swimsuit required.If you’re just starting out, you can join a tour or take a lesson-someone’s always ready to guide you, even if you’ve never held a paddle before.Number six.Shopping & Markets – A little retail therapy 🛍️.Hillarys isn’t only about the waves-you can wander through sunny lanes lined with boutique shops.Small boutique shops sell beachwear, surfboards that still smell faintly of wax, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs from the area.Weekend markets buzz with handmade crafts, gleaming silver jewelry, and the warm scent of fresh baked bread.Art galleries display the work of local WA artists, from vibrant coastal landscapes to bold abstract canvases.Whether you’re grabbing a new swimsuit or a quirky little souvenir, you’re bound to spot something that catches your eye.🎠 Hillarys is super family-friendly, with plenty of kid-friendly attractions : A massive adventure playground with slides, climbing frames, and swings.Seven.Family Fun - from climbing the jungle gym to racking up tickets at the arcade, and plenty more!🎠 Hillarys is perfect for families, offering loads of fun for kids-think a huge adventure playground with tall slides, climbing frames, and squeaky swings.Arcades buzz with flashing lights, and trampolines send kids bouncing high, keeping the little ones happily occupied.Calm, shallow spots where the water barely ripples-perfect for little kids to splash and play.It’s the perfect place for a family day out-kids can chase each other across the grass while parents stretch out by the gentle ripple of the water.Eight.Sunset & Nightlife – The perfect way to wrap up the day 🌅 As the sky blazes orange over the water, Hillarys shifts into one of the coast’s most breathtaking evening spots.Pick up a cold drink, settle into a spot by the water, and watch the sky spill into deep orange and soft pink.If you’re not ready to call it a night, head to The Breakwater or The Boat for live music that carries into the small hours.Cozy bars pouring crisp local beers and mixing cocktails that taste as fresh as lime on the rim.Summer brings outdoor movie nights under the stars and a handful of special events worth marking on your calendar.So, when’s the perfect time to go-when the air feels warm, the days stretch long, and the streets hum with life?Summer (December–February) is ideal for swimming, trying water sports, and enjoying dinner outside as the warm air carries the scent of the sea.Spring, from September to November, is prime time for spotting whales and seeing hillsides burst with wildflowers.Weekday mornings are your best bet if you’re after some peace-think coffee in hand and the streets still half-asleep.
