Wildflower Walks in Mandurah

Mandurah is home to a diverse range of wildflower species, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Join us as we take you on a virtual journey through the wildflower walks in Mandurah, where vibrant colors and delicate petals await.

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Exploring Nature’s Beauty: Wildflower Walks in Mandurah

Mandurah, located in the heart of Western Australia, is a place of natural beauty and tranquility. While its pristine beaches are famous worldwide, there’s another natural wonder waiting to be discovered – the stunning wildflowers that bloom across the region.

Mandurah is home to a diverse range of wildflower species, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Join us as we take you on a virtual journey through the wildflower walks in Mandurah, where vibrant colors and delicate petals await.

Why Mandurah?

Before we delve into the specific wildflower walks, let’s take a moment to understand why Mandurah is such a hotspot for wildflower enthusiasts.

  1. Biodiversity: Mandurah’s unique geographical location offers a wide range of ecosystems, from coastal dunes to wetlands, which support an incredibly diverse range of wildflowers.
  2. Climate: The Mediterranean climate in Mandurah with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers provides the perfect conditions for wildflowers to flourish.
  3. Timing: Spring, especially September to November, is the best time to witness the wildflower bloom in Mandurah, as temperatures start to rise and the landscape transforms into a colorful tapestry.
Spider Orchids - Wildflower Walks Mandurah
Spider Orchid

Best wildflower walks in Mandurah

The Estuary Walk

Discover the natural beauty of Mandurah on the scenic Estuary Walk at Len Howard Conservation Park. Covering a distance of 6km, this 2-hour walk offers a tranquil escape from the city. To get there, follow Old Coast Road to Erskine, then turn into Wattleglen Avenue and Silverton Crescent until you reach Len Howard Conservation Park.

Along the way, keep an eye out for native wisteria, cowslip orchids, blue lace flowers, white myrtle, and more, nestled among towering wattles, tuarts, and paperbarks. As you stroll along the shores, you’ll also encounter banksias, flaxes, and rushes, making this a diverse and picturesque nature adventure.

Halls Head Coastal Walk

For those who prefer a leisurely stroll with stunning ocean views and wildflower sightings, the Halls Head Coastal Walk is perfect. You’ll find coastal wildflowers like sea lavender and beach daisies adorning the path.

Beach Daisies - Wildflower Walks Mandurah
Beach Daisies

Samphire Cove Nature Reserve

Samphire Cove is a coastal gem teeming with wildflower diversity. The trail meanders through dense coastal vegetation, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and an opportunity to spot native orchids and coastal daisies.

Island Point Walk

Embark on a delightful journey through nature at Island Point Walk, located in the picturesque Island Point Nature Reserve near Herron.

This 4km trail offers a two-hour escape into the heart of Western Australia’s beauty. To reach this natural haven, simply follow Southern Estuary Road and exit onto Island Point Road.

The tracks at Island Point Nature Reserve are thoughtfully designed for walkers of all levels, promising an enjoyable adventure.

Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant tapestry of wildflowers along the way, including spider orchids, enamel orchids, cowslip orchids, banksias, native buttercups, and wisteria. The best time for wildflower viewing is late September through October, ensuring a colorful and memorable experience.

Banskia - Wildflower Walks Mandurah
Banksia

Yalgorup National Park

Yalgorup National Park is a must-visit for any wildflower enthusiast. Explore the Thrombolites Trail or the Lake Preston Loop to discover a dazzling array of wildflowers against the park’s stunning coastal backdrop.

Lake Pollard Nature Reserve

Another fantastic spot to witness the wildflower spectacle is Lake Pollard. The area is known for its carpets of everlastings and orchids. Hike along the designated trails, and you’ll be immersed in a sea of colors. This 2-hour walk starts at the entrance to the Martins Tank campground on Preston Beach Road.

Lake Pollard is renowned for its high numbers of black swans between October and March and you can see Parrotbush, cockies tongues, Christmas tree (which blooms from December) and the rough-barked Fremantle mallee.

Heathlands Walk Trail

Embark on the captivating Heathlands Walk Trail in Yalgorup National Park. This 2-hour journey unveils diverse vegetation, from majestic tuarts to delicate limestone ridge flowers, and the unique swamp banksia, limestone mallee, and Fremantle mallee.

Lakeside Loop Walk Trail

Explore the Lakeside Loop Walk Trail, a 2-hour journey around Lake Clifton. It’s home to the southern hemisphere’s largest thrombolite community and a haven for waterbirds. You’ll observe varying vegetation, from lakeside Paperbark trees to peppermint, tuart trees, and the delightful honey myrtle.

Donkey-Orchids-Mandurah-Wildflowers-Near-Perth
Donkey Orchids

Tips for a Memorable Wildflower Walk:

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes and carry plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the wildflowers.
  • Respect the natural environment by staying on designated trails and not picking wildflowers.
  • Check the bloom season in advance to ensure you visit during peak wildflower time.
cowslips-wildflowers-near-perth
Cowslips Wildflowers

Mandurah’s wildflower walks offer an opportunity to connect with nature in a truly unique way.

As you explore these picturesque trails, you’ll not only witness a riot of colors but also gain a deeper appreciation for the remarkable biodiversity of Western Australia.

So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and embark on a wildflower adventure in Mandurah – where nature’s beauty knows no bounds.

Kangaroo Paws - Wildflower Walks Mandurah
Kangaroo Paws

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Mandurah’s Dark Corners 2023

Explore Mandurah’s forgotten histories and folklore on this spooky historic walking tour along Mandurah’s Eastern foreshore, running selected weekends in July.

Mandurah’s Dark Corners

This tour has now closed.

A very different historic walking tour

Experience Mandurah’s beautiful Eastern Foreshore from a new perspective, in this spooky heritage walking tour. This event was a booked-out success at the Mandurah Arts Festival in 2022 and Visit Mandurah is delighted to be reviving it for the Winter holiday season.

Mandurah’s Dark Corners illuminates the past, using new technologies of projection-mapping and augmented reality to enhance the oldest of art forms; the ghost story. Featuring local stories, collected from local archives and the Mandurah community, Dark Corners is a beautiful and immersive experience uncovering the historic tales that haunt us still.

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Top things to do in Winter in Mandurah

There’s so much to love about Winter in Mandurah! Mandurah is here to showcase the best activities this Winter for each and everyone.

Top things to do in Mandurah this Winter

Beat the Winter Blues in Mandurah

Whether it’s outside or inside, you’ll discover there are plenty of things for everyone to enjoy during winter in Mandurah and surrounds. Here are our top things to do in Mandurah this winter.

Just because Winter has arrived doesn’t mean you have to hibernate at home waiting for the warmer weather to come back. Grab your family or special someone, jump in the car (or on the train) and visit Mandurah. These glassy winter days here are just magical.

Create lasting family memories this winter. From free events, interactive entertainment and educational experiences – there are many exciting things to do in Mandurah this winter. Just make sure you bring along your camera, there’s going to be plenty of snap-worthy moments!

Giants of Mandurah

Come and see this iconic series of Thomas Dambo’s larger-than-life wooden sculptures make a home for themselves amongst picturesque, secret locations throughout Mandurah. The Giants of Mandurah is a free to view, outdoor exhibition that is a celebration of the unique diversity, extraordinary beauty and timely reminder of just how important it is to protect our natural environments such as Mandurah’s globally significant Ramsar-listed wetlands, unique waterways, bushland and wildlife! 

Giants of Mandurah Kaleidoscope Tours

Tourist Fun Train

Toot Toot! All aboard the Tourist Fun Train! Be sure to save you and your family a seat, this is the only road licensed, trackless train in the whole of Australia. With the capacity to hold 60 people, jump on board and enjoy the ride to Mandurah’s most popular attractions. 

Amaze Miniature Village 

Feel like a Giant this winter and visit a fascinating world where everything is miniature! Lose yourself within the 70 miniature buildings, interactive model trains and 4 acres of beautifully manicured gardens. Mandurah’s Amaze Miniature Village will satisfy your curiosity and spark your imagination. Plus, enjoy complimentary mini golf, maze and Lego exhibition on your visit!

Amaze Miniature Park Mandurah

Dolphin Tours

One of the (many) luxuries of visiting Mandurah is seeing dolphins on a daily basis! Grab a ticket for a Dolphin & Scenic Marine cruise to spot the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins playing around in their natural habitat and explore the impressive waterways that border the town. 

Pirate Ship

Attention all! Pirates have landed on the Mandurah foreshore! And they’re welcoming little rascals on their ship to play dress ups, sing chanteys, steer the wheel, ring the bell and stay on lookout for any oncoming ships. Join Pete Blackbeard and his crew and awaken your inner pirate. 

Pirate Ship Mandurah 2

Zookeeper 4 A Day

Give your child an unforgettable experience as Zookeeper for a day at Ranger Red’s Zoo, spending time with a variety of Australia’s favourite animals including Tasmanian Devils, koalas, kangaroos, snakes, ferrets, lizards and a variety of bird species.  Discover a newfound appreciation for the impressive wildlife found in Mandurah and WA.

Skating in Mandurah

Get your skates on! Mandurah’s Ice Skating Rink is a great winter activity for the indoors from 30th June – 16th July 2023. Whether you are new to skating or a pro, there is something for everyone. And to top it all off, there will even be an ice slide! This magical winter wonderland is a must-visit destination, perfect for the whole family. Find out more here.

Skating in Mandurah 2022

More Fun

Find more inspiration on how to keep the kids entertained these school holidays by clicking here.

Mandurah is woven by waterways and the glassy conditions you get in winter are just magical. With the labyrinth of canals and winding rivers, the long stretches of coastline and awe-inspiring lakes there’s plenty to see and do with the water alone. Making a splash in one (or all) of the activities is simply a must!

Murray River Lunch Cruise

Sit back, relax and soak up the stunning scenery as you cruise through the Murray River on this enjoyable half-day boat tour. Mandurah Cruises will take you on a delightful journey through one of the last remaining major rivers that hasn’t been dammed. Enjoy a delicious lunch and take it easy on this popular cruise.

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Boat Hire & Private Charters

Mandurah is often called Australia’s Venice for its hidden canals and impressive waterways. If you’re visiting the city, then exploring by boat is essential. Choose to either be guided on a cruise or choose your own journey with our self-drive boat hire. For those looking for a private charter, check out Mandurah Boat Charters or Luxury Boutique Boat Charters.

For the adventurers looking to take things in their own hands Mandurah Boat Hire and Eco BBQ Boats will sort you out. 

Mandurah Boat Hire 1700 x 635 px 02
Mandurah Boat Hire

House Boats

Live out your dream by spending your stay on one of Mandurah’s House Boats! Fully equipped with everything you need (some even with an outdoor spa!) to explore the beauty of the Peel Inlet, Harvey Estuary and the Murray River. Choose to drop anchor and hide away in one of the many nature pockets along the river or, stop by the waterfront pubs, cafes and brewery around Mandurah.

Mandurah Houseboats 1700x872 1
Mandurah Houseboats

Foodies, rejoice! Indulge your taste buds and delight your senses with the delicious culinary experiences on offer in Mandurah. Make sure you have a big appetite because Winter is proving to be a flavour-packed season. 

Boundary Island Brewery

Enjoy a pint of one (or two… maybe three) of Boundary Island Brewery‘s delicious craft beers, brewed on site, taking in beautiful estuary views. Born from two Mandurah families who love great beer, beautiful food and a great atmosphere summer or winter, Boundary Island Brewery is a ‘must’ for all lovers of good food, beer and wine. You can get to the brewery by boat, car, bus, foot or bike enjoying Mandurah’s unique lifestyle.

Craft Beer and Wine Trail featured image

Thorny Devil Brewery

Thorny Devil makes devilishly good craft beer from rainwater for an exceptionally smooth and easy drinking experience.

Located on the shores of Lake Clifton, the brewery is the ideal place to end a memorable day of exploring the Lake Clifton Thrombolites or hunting for Giants. Let the kids run and play on the grass whilst you enjoy a beer and meal from the BBQ restaurant and take in the beautiful scenery.

Craft Beer and Wine Trail

These cooler days make for even better exploring. Why not follow our epic Mandurah and Peel Region Craft Beer and Wine Trail and enjoy some locally made drinks with your mates?

The craft beers and wine from our region are somewhat unassuming but they certainly won’t disappoint any lover of locally made beer and wine. This trail pins together seven of the region’s best beer and wine offerings, providing an authentically local experience – enjoyed at your own pace.

Wine Tours 104332 56

Winery Tour 

Organised by Kaleidoscope Tours, indulge in decadence with a tour to three wineries spread across Mandurah and the Peel region. Guided by one of the informative Kaleidoscope tour guides, it’s a wonderful way to learn about the land and understand the local area. Exquisite glasses of wine coupled with breathtaking landscapes, it’s a scenic and delicious day out!

craft-beer-and-wine-trail

Peel Produce Market

There’s just something about local produce that is unmatchable. Join the local area at the Peel Produce Market every Saturday as nearby farms and growers share their seasonal fruits and veggies. Remember to bring along your reusable bags to fill up with fresh produce.  

Peel Produce Market Mandurah

For the big and little adventurers, check out the thrilling family friendly activities on offer! Try your luck on a SUP board or take a ride on a mountain bike – the options for adventure are endless. 

Hire an e-Bike or e-Scooter

Hands down the best way to travel in Mandurah – hire an eBike or eScooter from the Bike Kiosk to take you from one activity to another! Enjoy the fresh air, don’t waste time at traffic lights and have fun! Psst… and make sure to keep an eye out for the incredible street artwork that is sprinkled throughout the town on buildings, walls and bus stops. 

E scooter and e bike hire Mandurah 960x640 1

Mountain Biking and Cycling

Mandurah and surrounds are spoiled with exciting mountain bike trails and cycling paths catered to all skill levels. From the iconic Bridges Loop ride in Mandurah to the more difficult Turner Hill Trail in Dwellingup – there’s plenty to choose from for your biking route. 

Halls Head Cycle Path 960x640 1

Immerse yourself in nature

Mandurah is a global biodiversity hotspot with open waterways, bushland reserves and the internationally recognised wetlands – there’s so much to see and do both on land and on water. Check out our natural attractions and be relaxed by nature.

Creery Wetlands Mandurah 960x640 1

 SUP & Kayak Hire

Soak up the Winter sun whilst paddling on a stand up paddleboard (SUP) or lounging in your Kayak supplied by Mandurah Boat Hire. Glide through the glassy water and be relaxed by nature.

Mandurah is also renowned for its rich history and incredible art and culture. Explore the many art spaces, galleries in town and learn about Mandurah’s past. 

Mandurah’s Dark Corners – Historic Walking Tour

Explore Mandurah’s forgotten histories and folklore on this spooky historic walking tour along Mandurah’s Eastern Foreshore, running on selected weekends in July.

The 45-minutes ‘Dark Corners’ historic walking tour is an outdoor performance where digital footage will be projected onto several key locations and landmarks while you are listing to captivating stories from Mandurah’s past.

As the dusk fades, the Night-watchman leads you on a journey through history, enchanting you with tales of former residents. From his lantern, shimmering figures emerge, painting pictures on the walls with light, before dissolving into the night.  Dark Corners illuminates the past and brings the long-dead to life.

Dates: Sat 1st July, Sun 2nd July, Fri 7 July, Sat 8 July, Fri 14 July, Sat 15 July.

Secure your tickets now.

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Dark Corners Mandurah

Art Galleries

It’s amazing to think that most of the art galleries in Mandurah are all free! Home to impressive talent, Mandurah art galleries showcase some of the best artworks in WA. Visit the Alcoa Mandurah Art Gallery for seasonal exhibitions, Black Stump gallery for an exhibition on Mandurah’s own Emma Blyth and Contemporary Art Spaces (CASM) for recent graduates and emerging artists.

Welcome to Country Artwork

Inside the Mandurah Visitor Center itself is a breathtaking piece of artwork from Bindjareb Boodja artists Peta and Corey Ugle. Telling the story of Mandurah, its beautiful waterways and abundant wildlife – this piece of artwork is simply not to be missed. 

Welcome to Country Mural Mandurah Visitor Centre featured image

Mandurah Instagram Trail

If you love getting the perfect Insta-worthy shot, then follow the Mandurah Instagram Trail and look out for quirky art pieces along the Mandurah Foreshore and into Dolphin Quay. .

Mandurah Instagram Trail 3D Pelican
3D pelican at Mandurah Ocean Marina, Mandurah Instagram Trail

With so many exciting and wonderful events happening in Mandurah, you’ll be tempted to plan a weekend getaway! Plan your itinerary and book in your activities. We look forward to seeing you down here this Winter

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Giants of Mandurah Tours

Enjoy an active, fun-filled day on our guided tours of Thomas Dambo’s amazing Giants.

Giants of Mandurah Tours

Discover the Giants of Mandurah on a guided tour

Enjoy an active, fun-filled day on our guided tours of Thomas Dambo’s amazing Giants.

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Mandurah Crowned Top Tourism Town 2022

Mandurah was named the winner of the 2022 GWN7 Top Tourism Town Award at the 2022 Perth Airport WA Tourism Conference Dinner on 22nd June. Mandurah claimed the Gold Medal in the Top Tourism Town category, with Geraldton claiming Silver and Esperance taking out Bronze.

Mandurah is WA’s Top Tourism Town

Mandurah Crowned Top Tourism Town 2022

Mandurah was named the winner of the 2022 GWN7 Top Tourism Town Award at the 2022 Perth Airport WA Tourism Conference Dinner on 22nd June. Mandurah claimed the Gold Medal in the Top Tourism Town category, with Geraldton claiming Silver and Esperance taking out Bronze.

Mandurah has been crowned Western Australia’s Top Tourism Town at today’s 2022 GWN7 Top Tourism Town Awards.

Mayor Rhys Williams said Mandurah has always been a significant place in WA and is delighted to see it get the recognition it deserves.

“We are so proud to see Mandurah awarded Top Tourism Town for 2022,” said Mr Williams.

“Woven by waterways, Mandurah is a city with a village heart. Blessed with endless stretches of pristine coastline, tree lined walkways, plenty of attractions and safe swimming beaches; Mandurah is the perfect family holiday destination and it’s truly wonderful to see it recognised as such.”

The GWN7 Top Tourism Town Awards recognise and reward towns in Western Australia that demonstrate a strong commitment to encouraging tourism and increasing visitation to the destination. Mandurah competed against Collie, Esperance, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Karratha and Kununurra for the top spot.

Mandurah Top Tourism Town 2022
Image: City of Mandurah

Visit Mandurah General Manager, Anita Kane, said the recognition came at the perfect time.

“Over the last few years, Western Australians have explored their State and Mandurah has fast become a much-loved tourism destination,” said Ms Kane.

“Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, long-running tourism operators have launched new products and news attractions have opened their doors. As such, Mandurah has become a major competitor in the tourism industry and this award acknowledges this,” said Ms Kane.

With an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour, Mandurah is one of Australia’s most spectacular playgrounds for boating, fishing and wildlife watching. The Mandurah Estuary and Peel Inlet provide endless water-based activities including riding waterbikes, floating on BBQ boats, SUP Yoga, houseboating and many more.

This is the second time Mandurah has been awarded Top Tourism Town. In 2017, Mandurah competed against Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Albany.

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Best ways to enjoy Mandurah’s waterways

Here’s the best ways to enjoy Mandurah’s magical waterways, only an hour south of Perth,

Best ways to enjoy Mandurah’s waterways

Here’s how to enjoy Mandurah’s magical waterways

With an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour, and a collection of winding rivers, pretty lakes and long stretches of coastline, why wouldn’t you immerse yourself in Mandurah’s water life?

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Nature Bucket List

Take your pick from our list of top nature experiences in Mandurah and surrounds,

Top Nature Experiences

Your Nature Bucket List for Mandurah

The vast open blue skies, pristine forests and stunning waterways of the region make it the perfect destination to immerse yourself in nature. Wonder at world-class natural beauty and easily spot native wildlife as you explore by water or land.

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Mandurah’s Top Notch Experiences

Check out Mandurah’s top-notch experiences and must dos.

Our Top Notch Experiences

Here comes your Must See and Do List for Mandurah

It’s time to get excited about being out in Mandurah again. Because there is plenty to amuse and entertain you and we’re itching to show you how we’ve grown into a destination of water wonderment.

You’ll find there is a new level of adventure, a refreshed meaning to ‘day trip’ with recent revamps and a tribe of new players to check out. Whether you want to see the sights from the Mandurah Estuary, discover a favourite with fresh eyes or explore the natural beauty of the region, here’s a few suggestions to get you thinking and planning.

Release the water-lover in you

Spending time on the waterways is the most popular pastime in Mandurah, and joining a boat cruise is the best way to do this.

Mandurah Cruises have a number of different tours available, all with commentary. One of the most popular boat cruise is the Dolphin & Scenic Marine Cruise where you will discover the unique marine world that Mandurah is so famous for, on an interactive 1 hour cruise through the city’s calm, inland waterways.

Spot playful wild dolphins as they feed, rest and play in their natural environment. Mandurah is home to Western Australia’s largest population of residential Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins – around 120 dolphins reside here! Mandurah’s waterways are teeming with marine life including blue manna crabs and crayfish. Watch the tour guide  how to catch these iconic creatures and see them up close in the onboard live tank.

You can opt to explore the estuary, the canals and beyond at your own pace by organising a boat charter. Soulmate Charters and Mandurah Boat Charters offer a unique experiences with personalised charters of up to 12 or up to 20 people.

If you prefer to explore the waterways at your own pace, hire dinghy or pontoon boats for up to 12 people from Mandurah Boat Hire. A skipper’s ticket is not required.

Another leisurely way to explore is on a self-drive, circular boat from Eco BBQ Boats, where you can cook a barbecue or enjoy a picnic with friends on board as you float around the marina and canals.

Salt & Bush Eco Tours can take you a little further inland on a guided kayak tour with easy foot peddled kayak. You can even try your hand at a sailing kayak, experiencing the wind blowing through your hair as you glide silently along the water with not a care in the world.

New to town is Mandurah Waterbikes, the coolest way to get around on the water is by riding it. These catamaran cycles can be hired for a minimum of 30 minutes so you can cycle your way around Mandjar Bay, check out the amazing waterfront properties nearby and spend time with the playful dolphins.

Land-based Experiences

Those who’d like to keep their feet dry can discover Mandurah on the Visitor Centre’s 1.5 hour free guided walking tour around Mandjar Bay and the Eastern Foreshore.

Follow the Mandurah Instagram Trail and look out for the larger-than-life, colourful 3D art pieces along the foreshore and into Mandurah’s Dolphin Quay precinct.

Or hire an e-bike or e-scooter from The Bike Kiosk to explore Mandurah’s beautiful coastal cycle paths.

Explore the great outdoors and learn about Mandurah’s waterways and wildlife.

For boutique and personalised tours, Salt and Bush Eco Tours take you on intimate nature walks and kayak tours, even star gazing tours. Naturalist guides Jamie and Base will share the wonder and awe of the natural world through geology, wildflower, kayaking and sailing tours.

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How the Locals like it – Myrianthe Riddy

I arrived in WA in 2016 with my young family in search of a sea change. I was instantly drawn to Mandurah because of its laid back vibes and beautiful waterways.

How the locals like it

Myrianthe Riddy,
Owner Mandurah Cruises

Less than an hour’s drive from Perth you’ll find Western Australia’s largest regional city. But it’s not the size that attracts visitors to this coastal town. Just ask Myrianthe Riddy, owner of Mandurah Cruises. She’s travelled and worked all over the world, but the place she chose to call home is Mandurah.

Myrianthe

I arrived in WA in 2016 with my young family from Qatar in search of a sea change. I was instantly drawn to Mandurah because of its laid back vibes, warmth and the natural beauty of its waterways.

My husband and I were looking for somewhere we could raise our children. After working many years in the oil and gas industry overseas, we wanted to shake up our lifestyle and have more flexibility to spend time with our kids.

We knew we wanted to run our own business. My husband had boating in his blood, and we love being on the water. An opportunity to purchase Mandurah Cruises was too good to pass up and we’ve been here ever since.

What I love about Mandurah is the sense of community and connectedness – regardless if you’re a resident or just visiting. Everyone here is so friendly and makes you feel welcomed, it’s just so easy and relaxing.

Mandurah’s waterways are twice the size of Sydney Harbour! It’s hard to explain the feeling when you’re out there, the waters are calm, it’s very peaceful and deserted (except for the dolphins). You get the sense you’ve been transported to another place.

I always feel safe taking my kids out on the water here. Living within walking distance of the beach is great too, and Mandurah has some great surfing spots that don’t get too crowded. It’s the best place to learn how to surf – the surf program here is first class.

Mandurah is home to around 100 bottlenose dolphins. They’re such a playful and friendly bunch that you’ll often spot them getting up to mischief while on one of our dolphin cruises. They especially love to surf alongside the vessel! I have a soft spot for Nicky. She’s the matriarch of the dolphins and the most recognisable due to her cut-off fin.

Although I love being on the water and the amazing beaches that stretch for miles, I do enjoy taking time out going bush, exploring the national parks and discovering the many walking trails. My favourite trail is at Island Point Reserve. It’s at the far end of the estuary and it’s a great area to explore – even after dark on a guided nocturnal walk.

If you had to pick a time to visit, come during the festive season. The city embraces Christmas like you wouldn’t believe. The Mandurah canals, or modern day Venice as the locals call it, come alive with Christmas lights. It’s an experience unlike any other, and I would go as far to say we’re one of the only places in the world where residents put on such a massive display on the water. We have thousands of visitors who come especially to see the spectacle every year on our Christmas Lights Cruise.

Mandurah has come a long way from being known as WA’s crabbing destination. The city is thriving with arts and culture, plenty of things to see and do and incredible natural encounters that are waiting to be explored.

MYRIANTHE’S TIPS ON WHERE TO HEAD OUT

The foodie scene here is constantly evolving and it’s hard to keep up! My go-to place for a coffee is Mataya. Without fail, I always order the gnocchi at Flic’s Kitchen and if I’m heading out with friends, you’re sure to find me at Bar Therapy. I also love the new distillery Little Stiller.

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How the Locals like it – Ian MacPherson

There’s nothing more relaxing than getting out on the ocean and in Mandurah being relaxed by nature is what it’s all about.

How the locals like it

Ian ‘Wooly’ MacPherson,
Owner Star Surf + Skate

There’s nothing more relaxing than getting out on the ocean and in Mandurah being relaxed by nature is what it’s all about.

Ian Wooly MacPherson
Photo: Dylan O'Brien

Local surfer Ian ‘Wooly’ Macpherson wouldn’t have it any other way. He’s been surfing in Mandurah since he was a little tacker.

If he’s not chasing the best break, he’s teaching others how to surf, coaching aspiring pro surfers and sharing tips on land at his surf shop – Star Surf + Skate.

Sure, the South West is known for its surf, but Mandurah has loads of popular surfing spots to rival, making it a perfect day trip for Perth surfers.

And the best time to hit the surf is now!

Wooly says ideal surf conditions occur between autumn and spring, with winter the best time due to large storms bringing swells to the WA coast.

We checked in with the local surfing legend to discover more about the Mandurah surfing scene and why we should all pick up a board and learn to surf.

I started surfing when I was around 9 or 10 years old at Avalon Bay. My parents’ property was a small stroll from Avalon and my mum was a swimmer, so we spent a lot of time at the beach during the 70s and 80s.

I started off on a ‘foamie’ – a small coolite surfboard made of polystyrene beaded-foam. I remember painting it with house paint so I wouldn’t get a rash. I soon progressed to a second-hand fibreglass ‘single fin’ board and found myself learning at the little rolling lefts of Falcon Bay.

Ian MacPherson

When I was 12 years old, I joined the Mandurah Board Riders Club and I’ve been a member pretty much ever since.

Surfing has made up a massive part of my life and has moulded me into the person I am today.

All the places I have travelled evolve around the surf and most of my work has been in and around the surf industry since I was a teen. The feeling of being submerged in the ocean, riding waves is unmatched anywhere in any other sport.

Mandurah has been good to me growing up and having the beach on my doorstep. The local community has been very supportive of my surf school and surf shop since we started.

Surfing is all about fun. Surfing increases your fitness, strength, balance and flexibility (we stretch before every class). Spending time in and around the ocean positively impacts your health and the more you do it, the more your confidence in the ocean increases.

Ready to hit the surf? Give it a go in Mandurah!

WOOLY’S FAVOURITE SURFING SPOT IN MANDURAH

My favourite spot is Geary’s – named after a City Beach surfer, Ray Geary. He built a shack there and at 80 years of age he still lives there today!

Geary’s a wave that doesn’t break very often and needs a big swell to start to work properly. It gets very crowded with keen surfers these days, but I have very fond memories of days out there as a teenager surfing with just a few mates.

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