Mandurah, WA
Mandurah, located just an hour south of Perth, is one of Western Australia’s most inviting coastal cities. With its picturesque waterways, thriving cultural scene, and proximity to both natural and urban attractions, Mandurah has become a favored destination for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Known For
- Stunning waterways and dolphin spotting
- Mandurah Crab Fest and culinary experiences
- Outdoor sculpture exhibitions like the Giants of Mandurah
Mandurah’s history is deeply tied to its waterways and its indigenous roots. The Noongar people, the traditional custodians of the land, named the area “Mandjar,” meaning a meeting place or trading hub. In the early 1800s, European settlers were drawn to its fertile land and abundant resources, transforming it into a thriving fishing and farming community. Today, Mandurah seamlessly blends its heritage with modern-day charm, showcasing its past through museums, cultural tours, and local festivals.
The city’s waterways are among its most striking features. The Peel Inlet and Harvey Estuary create a network of canals that are perfect for exploring by boat, kayak, or paddleboard. Wildlife enthusiasts often spot bottlenose dolphins frolicking in the waters or birds nesting along the serene wetlands. For beach lovers, Mandurah’s coastline boasts pristine sandy shores, offering great opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Yalgorup National Park, just a short drive from Mandurah, is a haven for nature lovers. Known for its ancient thrombolites—rare microbial formations—it also provides scenic walking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
Where to Stay
From luxury resorts to cozy bed-and-breakfasts, Mandurah provides accommodations for all preferences and budgets.
High-end options include the Seashells Mandurah, which features oceanfront apartments, while the Mandurah Ocean Marina Chalets cater to families and groups. For a more rustic experience, several caravan parks and camping sites are located near the city’s key attractions.
Things to Do
Mandurah’s vibrant atmosphere comes alive through its wide range of activities. Cruises along the canals provide a unique perspective of the city, often featuring stops for seafood dining or wine tasting. Fishing and crabbing are popular pastimes, with the city hosting the annual Mandurah Crab Fest, which celebrates the local blue swimmer crabs.
The Peel-Harvey Estuary is the beating heart of Mandurah’s outdoor life. Aside from the popular canal cruises, visitors can charter private boats for a customized experience or join a guided eco-tour to learn about the region’s rich marine biodiversity. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also great ways to traverse the calm waters, offering a closer look at the estuary’s mangroves and wildlife.
Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of prime spots along the estuary and beaches. Cast a line for bream, whiting, and tailor, or get involved in the local tradition of scooping for blue swimmer crabs during the crabbing season.
Mandurah WA caters exceptionally well to families. Amaze Miniature Park provides hours of entertainment with its detailed scale models, landscaped gardens, and miniature trains. The King Carnival offers a nostalgic day out with rides, mini-golf, and arcade games.
The Mandurah Foreshore is another family hotspot, with its expansive playgrounds, picnic areas, and safe swimming spots. Here, you can also hire pedal boats or enjoy ice cream from one of the many nearby vendors.
For those seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences, Mandurah has plenty to offer. Take a jet ski tour along the coastline or try your hand at wakeboarding at a local cable park. Skydiving experiences are available for thrill-seekers wanting to take in the breathtaking views from above.
For something a little different, consider a hovercraft tour. These unique vehicles glide effortlessly across the waterways, offering a fun and novel way to explore the area.
Arts and Culture Scene
Mandurah has a thriving arts community that is reflected in its public art installations, galleries, and creative events. Visit the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre to catch a live show or exhibition, showcasing both local and international talent. The city also regularly hosts cultural festivals and open-air concerts, offering visitors a chance to connect with the vibrant local scene.
A standout attraction is the “Giants of Mandurah” exhibition, a series of large-scale wooden sculptures by renowned artist Thomas Dambo. Spread across scenic locations, these sculptures invite visitors on an artistic treasure hunt through the city and its surroundings.
Seasonal Events
Mandurah comes alive during its many seasonal events. The annual Mandurah Crab Fest draws tens of thousands of visitors, featuring live entertainment, cooking demonstrations, and, of course, incredible seafood.
In December, the city transforms into a magical wonderland with the Mandurah Christmas Lights Trail. Canal homes are adorned with dazzling festive displays, best appreciated on an evening boat cruise. Other seasonal highlights include the Mandurah Boat Show and regular farmers’ markets showcasing local produce.
Eat & Drink
Food is a highlight of any visit to Mandurah. Seafood restaurants, such as Redmanna Waterfront Restaurant and Sharky’s, offer fresh, locally sourced dishes with waterfront views. Cafés and bistros around Dolphin Quay are perfect for a relaxed meal, while local breweries, like Three Rivers Brewing Company, serve craft beers paired with hearty bites. Visitors should also explore the vibrant coffee scene, with venues like DPM Café providing the perfect setting to unwind.
Getting to Mandurah
Reaching Mandurah is straightforward and convenient. By car, it’s an easy drive south from Perth via the Kwinana Freeway, while the Mandurah railway line offers a fast and efficient train option for those relying on public transport. Once there, local buses and bike rentals make it easy to navigate the city and its surroundings.
Nearby Towns
While Mandurah WA is a destination in its own right, its location makes it a perfect base for exploring the charming towns and natural wonders in the surrounding Peel and South West regions. Each nearby town offers its own unique attractions and experiences, providing visitors with even more reasons to extend their stay.
Pinjarra
One of Western Australia’s oldest towns, Pinjarra is located just 20 minutes east of Mandurah. This historic town is rich in heritage and is the gateway to the scenic Murray River. Visitors can explore the Edenvale Heritage Precinct, which includes the heritage-listed Edenvale Homestead and several galleries and museums that showcase the town’s colonial past.
The Murray River offers a serene setting for kayaking, fishing, or enjoying a leisurely riverside picnic. Adventure seekers can visit the Peel Zoo, a boutique wildlife park where you can hand-feed kangaroos and interact with other native Australian animals.
Dawesville
South of Mandurah lies Dawesville, a coastal town known for its proximity to the Peel-Harvey Estuary and stunning ocean views. Dawesville is a favorite spot for crabbing and fishing, with the estuary teeming with marine life year-round.
The Dawesville Cut, a man-made channel connecting the estuary to the Indian Ocean, is a scenic location for boating and photography. The area also features the Cut Golf Course, a championship 18-hole course with panoramic ocean views, perfect for a day on the greens.
Waroona
A 30-minute drive from Mandurah takes you to Waroona, a quaint rural town nestled at the foot of the Darling Scarp. Waroona is an excellent destination for those seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and artisanal experiences.
Lake Navarino, also known as Waroona Dam, is a hotspot for water sports, including water skiing, kayaking, and fishing. Surrounding picnic areas and hiking trails make it a popular spot for family outings. Visitors can also explore the local art galleries and craft shops, featuring handmade goods and works by local artists.
Rockingham
Located about 30 minutes north of Mandurah, Rockingham offers an abundance of coastal adventures. Known for its protected bays and islands, Rockingham is a hub for water-based activities like snorkeling, diving, and paddleboarding.
Penguin Island, just off the coast, is a must-visit attraction where visitors can see the smallest penguin species, the Little Penguins, in their natural habitat. Nearby Seal Island is also home to a playful colony of Australian sea lions. For those interested in marine life, Rockingham Wild Encounters provides eco-tours that include swimming with wild dolphins.
Harvey
To the south of Mandurah, Harvey is a rural gem that combines natural beauty with agricultural charm. This town is renowned for its citrus orchards and dairy farms, and visitors can enjoy fresh local produce and dairy products.
The Harvey Heritage Trail provides insights into the town’s history, with stops at notable landmarks like Stirling Cottage and the Harvey Dam. For nature lovers, the surrounding hills and forests are ideal for bushwalking and birdwatching.
Serpentine
North-east of Mandurah, Serpentine is a peaceful town offering a retreat into nature. The highlight of the area is Serpentine National Park, home to the stunning Serpentine Falls. The falls are a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, surrounded by native bushland where kangaroos are frequently seen.
The park also features several walking trails, suitable for all fitness levels, that meander through the picturesque scenery. Serpentine is also home to the heritage-listed Old Post Office Tearooms, where visitors can enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in a historic setting.
About Mandurah
- Locality: Suburb
- Mandurah Postcode: 6210
- State: Western Australia
- Region: Perth & Surrounds
- Latitude: -32.53301
- Longitude: 115.73254
- Elevation: 13m
- Population: 7837
- Median Income: $25688
- Area (Sq/km): 7.157
- Timezone: Australia/Perth
Accommodation In Mandurah
Discover some of the accommodation in and around Mandurah
- Apollo Quay Luxury Townhouse on the Canals
- Atrium Resort Hotel
- Dawesville Caravan Park Holiday Village
- Madora Holiday Home
- Mandurah Caravan and Tourist Park
- Mandurah Gates Resort
- Mandurah Holiday Village
- Mandurah Ocean Marina Chalets
- Peelview Court Holiday Accommodation
- Quest Mandurah
- Seashells Resort Mandurah
- Silver Sands Resort
- Singleton Beach Bed & Breakfast
- Wedge, The
- Yalgorup Eco Park on the Beach
Tours In Mandurah
Discover some of the tours options around Mandurah