Leighton Beach, Perth: Swimming, surfing, facilities & location

Leighton Beach in Perth has generally low waves, so is best suited to swimmers and beginner surfers. This Perth beach is popular with families.

Leighton Beach in Perth, Western Australia, is a real family favourite. Unlike some other Perth beaches, such as Trigg Beach and Scarborough Beach, Leighton Beach generally attracts small, gentle waves.

This is obviously not much use to the surfers, but they don’t choose to come here anyway. Windsurfers and kitesurfers have a great time, however.

DON’T MISS OUT! 9 fabulous Perth experiences to book today ✅

✅ See the Rottnest Island quokkas the smart way – with a ferry and bike package.
✅ Be amazed by the abundant wildlife – on a dolphin, penguin and sealion cruise.
✅ See clear night skies in a moon-like desert – on a Pinnacles stargazing experience.
✅ Indulge in chocolate, cheese & premium wines – on a Swan Valley food and wine tour.
✅ See the city sunset from the water – on a Swan River dinner cruise.
✅ Watch gold being melted and poured – on a Perth Mint gold tour.
✅ Combine nature with imperious city views – on Kings Park Segway tour.
✅ Face your fears and get the thrill of your life on a – on a 15,000ft skydive.
✅ Find all the best hidden hangouts – on a small bar and street art tour.

Why is Leighton Beach good for swimming?

The reason Leighton Beach doesn’t attract much surf is that Rottnest Island takes the brunt of the Indian Ocean swells. The island protects Leighton Beach, and by the time the swells reach the mainland they have usually been tamed.

This Perth beach, therefore, is very much a swimmer’s beach. The low waves make it relatively safe for young children to have a paddle and a splash. But adults come here for a morning workout, or a post-work swim along the coastline.

Surfing lessons at Leighton Beach, Perth

The surfers that Leighton Beach does work for, however, are the beginners. Small waves means that novices get to grips with the basics without being hammered.

Go Surf Perth offers beginner surfing lessons at Leighton Beach.

5 great day trips from Perth – make your visit special

Rottnest Island ferry transfer – with bike hire and snorkelling gear. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Pinnacles desert – with koalas 🐨 and sandboarding.
Wave Rock day tour – with wildflowers & Aboriginal culture.
Margaret River wineries experience 🍷 – with tastings, caves & Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.
Full day Swan Valley wine tour 🍷– with lunch.

Where is Leighton Beach?

Leighton Beach is technically in the City of Fremantle. But it’s in North Fremantle, on the northern side of the Swan River. It lies between Mosman Beach and Port Beach. As with pretty much every beach in Perth, it offers soft, near-white sand and marvellous sunsets.

Leighton Beach facilities

Leighton Beach has changing rooms, toilets and a car park. There are also a few options for food and drink, including Jessie’s, the Orange Box and Bib & Tucker.

Self-caterers can take advantage of the picnic tables and barbecue facilities. Dogs are allowed at the northern end of Leighton Beach.