Scarborough is a beach day with plenty to do off the sand. You can swim laps in the heated outdoor pool, take children to the Whale Playground, watch the skate park or settle on Sunset Hill with something to eat. The ocean is the backdrop throughout, but you do not need to swim to make an afternoon of it.
The distinction matters here: Scarborough is an open surf beach, while the pool is a separate, paid swimming venue. Pick the option that suits your group and the conditions.
| Plan your visit | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | The Esplanade, at the coastal end of Scarborough Beach Road |
| Good for | Beachfront food, playground time, skating, ocean views and pool swimming |
| Public foreshore | Free to visit; pool entry and purchases cost extra |
| Facilities | Public toilets, showers, drinking fountains and accessible parking |
| Public transport | Free Surf CAT between Stirling Station and Scarborough Beach; check operating times |
| Access equipment | Bookable beach wheelchairs; Changing Places facilities have separate access arrangements |
Choose between the surf and the pool
Scarborough's surf is part of its appeal, but breaking waves and rip currents need respect. Surf Life Saving WA describes the beach's hazards and patrol arrangements. Swim between the red and yellow flags when they are in place, and ask the patrol if you are unsure where to enter.
The City of Stirling operates a year-round beach safety service, supplemented by seasonal services. That does not mean every stretch of sand is supervised continuously. Look for the active swimming area on the day, and check SharkSmart notices before a swim.
For a pool session, Stirling Leisure's Scarborough Beach venue has heated outdoor lap and leisure pools at 171 The Esplanade. Check admission, lane availability and opening hours directly. Having the pool nearby gives you another option, but do not assume it is included in a beach visit or open whenever the foreshore is accessible.
Playground, skating and the foreshore
The City's Scarborough guide identifies the Whale Playground, Sunset Hill and public art as key parts of the precinct. The beach facilities listing also includes the skate park, bouldering wall and amphitheatre.
For a family outing, choose a meeting point before everyone spreads out. A playground visit and picnic can fill the trip on their own; adding a pool session, surf swim and meal may be more than smaller children want in one afternoon.
Markets and other events can change the feel of the beachfront. Check the current programme before planning around a particular night. Our Perth night markets guide is a starting point, with the organiser's latest dates the final check.
Toilets and accessible facilities
Public toilets, showers and drinking fountains are listed on the foreshore. There are also two beach wheelchairs available through the City's booking system, including a floating model. Book ahead and check which equipment suits the user, the collection arrangements and the assistance required.
The City lists a Changing Places facility beside the surf club and another inside the pool for pool patrons. Access uses an MLAK key; borrowing arrangements are available through pool reception during its opening hours. The facilities have different entry conditions, so confirm which one you intend to use.
The booking process may include directions to designated accessible parking. Follow those instructions rather than assuming all vehicles can use the same foreshore access route.
Getting to Scarborough Beachfront
The Surf CAT runs free between Stirling Station and Scarborough Beach, with services every ten minutes during operating hours. Check the day's timetable, particularly for an evening return. The free CAT ride does not make a connecting train journey free.
If driving, use The Esplanade or the signed beachfront parking areas and check the bay's time limit and charges. Avoid planning around old online parking prices or an assumed space directly beside the beach.
A manageable afternoon
Start with a walk through the foreshore so everyone can see the choices. Then give most of your time to one activity: the pool, the beach or the playground and skate precinct. Leave food and a look at the ocean for afterwards.
For a smaller coastal stop, compare Watermans Bay. For another surf-focused beach with a reserve nearby, see Trigg Beach. Neither is a substitute for checking that day's swimming conditions.
Visitor information checked 25 September 2026. Pool schedules, events and beach access can change.
