A Day in Mandurah
Highlights
- Cruise through Mandurah's waterways to encounter playful dolphins, enhancing your connection with nature and local wildlife.
- Cycle along the stunning coastal paths to visit the Giants of Mandurah, immersing yourself in unique art and breathtaking views.
- Savour award-winning breakfast at Wood and Stone Café, kickstarting your day with a taste of local culinary excellence.
- Wander the festive canals in December to witness over 200 homes adorned with Christmas lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
Mandurah, originally known as Mandjoogoordap, meaning “meeting place of the heart”, is a stunning coastal gem less than an hour south of Perth by car or train.
Perched between the Indian Ocean and the Peel-Harvey Estuary (twice the size of Sydney Harbour), Mandurah is the ultimate water playground.
Home to around 100 resident dolphins that can be seen year-round, Mandurah is often called the Dolphin Capital of Western Australia. In December, the city transforms into a festive wonderland on water – cruise along Mandurah’s famous canals and be amazed by over 200 houses covered in Christmas lights and decorations. Mandurah’s biggest recent attraction is the Giants of Mandurah, an Australian-first wooden sculpture trail by internationally acclaimed Danish artist Thomas Dambo.
Recognised as one of Australia’s leading regional destinations, Mandurah is the perfect day trip from Perth, with plenty of things to do for all interests. Spend your day cruising among dolphins, cycling to meet the towering Giants, exploring pristine beaches or wandering internationally significant wetlands.
Savour award-winning waterfront dining, try crabbing in season and spot thriving birdlife along the estuary. With eco-friendly adventures like e-bike tours and kayaking, Mandurah promises a memorable day trip full of discovery, relaxation and iconic photo moments – a truly special part of Western Australia just an hour from the city.
Images and Video
Itineraries
Morning: Breakfast & the Heart of Mandurah
Kick off your day at Wood and Stone Café, winner of the 2025 Gold Plate Award for Best Breakfast, or head to Turquoise Café Mandurah at the Mandurah Ocean Marina for their iconic breakfast tower.
After breakfast, wander the Marina and snap a photo at the heart sculpture, celebrating Mandurah’s Aboriginal name, Mandjoogoordap, and its cultural heritage.
Lunch: Dolphin Cruise & Waterfront Dining
Jump aboard a dolphin cruise for a one-hour boat tour of Mandurah’s waterways. Experienced guides share stories of local history, the estuary and the resident dolphins.
Enjoy fish and chips on board or hire your own boat to cruise to one of the many waterside restaurants at Mandurah Ocean Marina. Families can also choose a pirate-themed cruise for a fun, kid-friendly experience.
Afternoon: Giants, Nature & Sunset
Head to the Mandurah Visitor Centre for local advice, maps and bookings. Pick up an e-bike or e-scooter and cycle along the coastal path to visit Santi Ikto at Halls Head, overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Stop at Boundary Island Brewery for a refreshment, then continue to Yaburgurt Cirkelstone Giant by the Peel-Harvey Estuary, home to abundant birdlife and neighbouring the Creery Wetlands.
Wildlife enthusiasts can finish at Melros Reserve in Dawesville to see kangaroos grazing. End with a picnic at Blue Bay Beach and watch the sun set over the ocean.
Make your 45-minute journey back to Perth.
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