Swanbourne Beach feels like a slice of naturist tradition, right on Perth’s doorstep. It’s beautiful, clean, and the sunsets over the Indian Ocean are absolutely spectacular. As someone who’s visited plenty of Aussie nude beaches, we felt comfortable here. The atmosphere is mostly friendly, especially among couples and groups, and there’s a sense of freedom that’s hard to beat.
That said, the beach does come with some awkward quirks. The afternoon winds can really pick up, making it tricky to enjoy a full day. And while the majority of visitors are respectful, there are always a few solo men who make things a bit creepy. It’s not threatening, but it’s definitely something to be mindful of—sticking closer to other groups or couples helped us feel at ease.
What makes Swanbourne stand out is its accessibility and long-standing naturist culture. For first-timers, it’s a great place to dip your toes into a nude beach, especially if you avoid the dunes and stick to the main stretch of beach. On a warm, sunny day, it’s a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the freedom of going au naturel.
Contributor Review – Cristy Lekker
Local Expert. Visited 2024
Swanbourne Beach is one of the most well-known Western Australia nude beaches, and for good reason. The access to the beach is great—it’s just a short 30-minute drive from the center of Perth, even on a busy traffic day. The layout is straightforward, with the nudist section a quick walk from the car park and well away from the dunes, which we’d heard could attract some lurkers. We came on a hot and busy Saturday, set up near other couples, and were pleasantly surprised by how polite and welcoming everyone was. There was no weirdness at all. We did notice a few dudes in the dunes, but they kept to themselves and didn’t bother us. Still, this isn’t a beach we’d recommend for solo first-timers, especially women, as the dunes’ reputation can’t be ignored. That said, the atmosphere on the sand felt entirely safe, and it was clear most people there were just enjoying the day. Several couples we chatted with mentioned they only visit on weekends, which might contribute to the friendlier vibe when the beach is busier. The beach itself is stunning. The soft, white sand felt amazing underfoot, and the water was a sparkling, vibrant blue. It’s perfect for a swim, although we’ve read that the waves can get rough at certain times of the year. On the day we visited, the conditions were ideal, but as soon as the wind started picking up in the afternoon, we decided to pack up. We’d definitely recommend heading out before the infamous “Fremantle Doctor” afternoon sea breeze kicks in. In terms of facilities, there’s not much to speak of—just a toilet near the restaurant back by the car park. You’ll want to bring everything you need, including plenty of water and sun protection. Despite the lack of amenities, we loved how laid-back and natural the experience was. It reminded us of some of the better Aussie nude beaches we’ve visited, though Swanbourne is much less touristy than nude spots in Sydney or Melbourne. Here, it feels more like a local secret.. almost. We were impressed by how comfortable we felt as a couple. My boyfriend said it was one of the most relaxed he’s ever been on a nude beach. There was no unwanted attention, and the friendly atmosphere made it easy to unwind. If you’re a solo visitor, you might feel differently, but it’s reassuring to know there are plenty of people on the beach who are quick to call out any strange behavior. We’d encourage everyone to do the same—it’s essential to protect spaces like this for everyone to enjoy. Overall, Swanbourne Beach is a fantastic spot for anyone wanting to explore Western Australian nude beaches. While it might not have the fame of some Aussie nude beaches, it has a charm all its own, and we’ll definitely be back—probably on another weekend when the vibe is at its best. Questions? Comments? Add your thoughts or photos below!
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Swanbourne Beach is located just a short drive from Perth's city centre, around 20mins in good traffic. While it’s a popular nude beach, the stretch of sand is shared harmoniously with textiles, especially closer to the surf club and parking areas. The nude section is approximately 300 meters north of the main access point, ensuring some separation and a more private atmosphere.
By Car:
Driving to Swanbourne Beach is straightforward. From Perth, take Stirling Highway and follow the signs toward Claremont and Swanbourne. The beach is clearly signposted, with parking available near the Swanbourne-Nedlands Surf Life Saving Club. Once parked, head north along the beach for about 300 metres in the sand to reach the nude section. Arrive early during peak times, as parking can fill up quickly on sunny weekends.
By Public Transport:
Swanbourne is accessible via the Transperth train and bus network. Take a train to Claremont Station, then transfer to a bus heading toward Swanbourne Beach. Alternatively, you can take a train to Swanbourne Station and walk approximately 20 minutes to the beach. Keep in mind that the walk from public transport stops involves navigating sandy trails and beach paths, so pack light if you can.
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