Embark on Mandurah’s amazing art walking trail

From stunning sculptures to interactive street art installations, Mandurah is home to some truly outstanding art. Uncover gems from local talents all across the city, inspired by the unique landscapes of the estuary, the amazing native fauna and flora, and the history of the region.

Mandurah Art Walk

Embark on a walking trail of Mandurah’s amazing street art

by Emily Graham from Scoop

From stunning sculptures to interactive street art installations, Mandurah is home to some truly outstanding art. Uncover gems from local talents all across the city, inspired by the unique landscapes of the estuary, the amazing native fauna and flora, and the history of the region.

With so many attractions to see, the City of Mandurah has devised two easy walking trails that touch on all artworks. Here are the highlights of the trails that you can’t miss.

Trail 1: Murals and Stained Glass Marvels

Copy of Untitled 25

1. Stained Glass Window

Start your trail at the Mandurah Visitor Centre, where you can see the stained glass glow with life. As filtered sunlight backlights images from Dreamtime creation stories, see dappled pelicans and dolphins play within the Rainbow Serpent, who created the landscapes and animals shown in the artwork. From there, duck your head into the Black Stump Gallery to appreciate vivid works of art from local WA artists, including iconic images of the region by Emma Blyth.

2. 3D Illusion Painting

Leaving the Visitor Centre, you will encounter the second location on this trail. This amazing optical illusion is painted across the pavement using angles to create a 3D image of fauna from the Peel-Harvey Estuary. Be sure to snap a picture interacting with the animals in this one!

3D Art Illusion Painting Mandurah

3. Leviathan

Pop over to the Mandurah Museum to take in an artists dedication to historical ship, The Leviathan, who met her end after only eight voyages when she sank 2 kilometres from Soldier’s Cove.

4. 3D Blue Swimmer Crab

Get a cheeky picture with this icon of Mandurah’s waterways. This clever, 3D piece can be found across the Mandurah Bridge, created by award-winning artist, Jenny McCracken.

3D crab art painting in Mandurah
3D crab art painting on Mandurah Bridge | Image: John Taylor

5.  War Memorial

This stunning sculptural memorial can be seen from across the bay, with two lines of white pillars rising and falling from the waters edge, mimicking the path of the rising and setting sun. With inscriptions inspired by the soldiers that gave their lives in war, this reverent installation is a dedication to the poem ‘At the Going Down of the Sun.’

ANZAC-Day-Mandurah-War-Memorial

6. Spring Swing 

One of Mandurah’s most Instagramable spots, this laneway is covered with images of wildflowers. Sit on the ‘swing’ and become a part of the installation itself.

7. The Heart

Continue on to the Eastern Foreshore, the final destination on our street art highlights trail. Perfectly framing the gorgeous Mandjar Bay in the background, The Heart references the Noongar word for the area, Mandjoogoordap, meaning ‘Meeting Place of The Heart.’ Pose for a picture with someone close to your heart inside the frame for a memento of Mandurah you can keep forever.

Trail 2: Sculptures and the Sea

1. Yaburgurt Memorial 

Yaburgurt Winjan was a prominent member of the Bindjareb Noongar community, and this piece commemorates the centenary of his passing. The sculpture depicts the six seasons of the area.

Copy of Untitled 26

2. The Gull

This large, wooden boat is designed to give the impression of a ship that has run aground and has become a popular playground for children. With a spyglass, steering wheel and mast adding to the illusion of a mighty vessel from days gone by, this is an interactive artwork that nods to the fishing history and cultural ties to the ocean that exist in Mandurah.

3. 3D Pelican

Yet another 3D illusion piece painted on the boatshed by the marina. Hold your hand up by the fish’s tail to look as though you are feeding the hungry pelican.

Copy of Untitled 27

4. Adrift I, Adrift II and James Service Wreck

This series of aluminum sculptures are dedicated to WA’s rich maritime history, including shipwrecks and fishing expeditions.

Adrift I and II artwork trail Mandurah

5. Arts Centre Rainbow Serpent

Another nod to the creation story of the land and animals of the estuary, this brand new, enormous mural by Daniel McHenry can be seen from the opposite bank. Spanning the entire outside of the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, each of the six seasons is represented within the Rainbow Serpent, with interactive puzzles and exercises painted along the bottom. While you admire this expansive mural and activities, pop into the Arts Centre and visit the Alcoa Mandurah Gallery to find a beautifully curated selection of local works.

To follow the full art trail, see here to download your trail map.

Originally published as ‘Embark on a walking trail of Mandurah’s amazing street art’ by Scoop.

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

The ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Start planning your Mandurah adventure today!

Find more inspiration

TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF OUR BEST PICKS

This Winter Visit Mandurah’s Dolphin Highway

If you’re looking for a quick getaway, Mandurah is the ultimate destination for a staycation or a day trip. And don’t just take our word for it; read what Perth Now had to say when they came to visit Mandurah’s dolphin highway.

Winter Day Trip to Mandurah

Perth Now’s winter day trip to Mandurah

If you’re looking for a quick getaway, Mandurah is the ultimate destination for a staycation or a day trip. And don’t just take our word for it; read what Perth Now had to say when they came to visit Mandurah’s dolphin highway.

Day Trip On The Dolphin Highway

Playful surfing dolphins. Seals hiding near shore. Ospreys diving headfirst for prey. You never know what you might encounter on the water in winter. It may be cooler, but it’s ever so clearer for the wildlife, and it all welcomes you, less than an hour’s drive from Perth.

Wintertime is when Mandurah’s rugged beauty takes on magical qualities. If you’re looking to escape the city for a weekender, short break or the school holidays, then check-in to the breathtaking wilderness of the Peel region, with spectacular natural attractions that are best explored this time of the year.

Settle in and be relaxed by nature with these must-do winter break ideas.

Copy of Untitled 20

MURRAY RIVER LUNCH CRUISE

If relaxation and nature stoke your curiosity, you’ll love this leisurely half-day lunch cruise along the historic Murray River. Mandurah’s calm waterways are twice the size of Sydney Harbour, so there’s plenty of ground to cover, enough to make you feel like you’re a million miles away.

This area is a hot spot for fascinating birdlife, some species migrate all the way from Siberia! Be on the lookout for curious dolphins who love to surf alongside the vessel, ospreys hovering high above the skies and pelicans hanging out for a bite. Seals are also known to rest along these shores during wintertime. If you happen to catch them during a feeding frenzy, it’s an absolute sight to behold. And if it’s raining, consider it a bonus. You’ll have the best seat in the house should a rainbow pop up – the uninterrupted views are priceless.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES ON WET AND DRY LAND

If adventure is your thing, then you know it’s not just what you do, but where you do it that counts, and Sebastian and Jamie from Salt & Bush Eco Tours know it all. Experience nature in a completely different way on a foot peddled kayak tour into the wild, where you’ll access hard to reach areas of the Peel-Harvey estuary.

Winter is a great time for clear, crisp nights of stargazing and the backdrop of Lake Clifton’s magnificent thrombolites is where you want to be to view the night sky panorama. Want to know what happens to the bush after the sun goes down? Go on a guided nocturnal wildlife tour and you’ll find out.

CRUISE ALONG THE DOLPHIN HIGHWAY

Mandurah Waterbikes

Did you know Mandurah’s waterways are home to around 100 bottlenose dolphins? And they’re ever so friendly, so there’s every chance you’ll spot them. Being on the water is all about relaxation, and there’s plenty of ways to do it – on a kayak, dolphin cruise, private luxury charter pontoon, waterbike, houseboat, Eco BBQ Boat (no skipper’s ticket required). There’s even a replica pirate ship you can sail on guaranteed to spark any child’s interest.

PLACES TO DELIGHT THE SENSES

103156 56

Mandurah’s foodie scene is thriving, and if you haven’t ventured this way in a while, you’ll be in for a pleasant surprise. To enjoy relaxed, local vibes head to BrewVino for some local brews and bites while taking in the best views of Mandurah upstairs on the boardwalk. Flics Kitchen on the terrace brings creative dining to the foreshore with amazing local flavours for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The bottomless brunch is always a sell-out so make sure to book early for any of their special events during your stay.

Excited much? Whether it’s exploring the intense natural beauty and incredible wildlife or growing arts scene and delectable restaurants and bars, you don’t have to go far to enjoy a winter escape from Perth. Check out more fun things to get up to in Mandurah, including the 2021 Winter Wonderland.

Originally published as ‘A winter cruise along the dolphin highway’ by PerthNow.

Holiday Here This Year

Winter-Things-to-do

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

The ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Start planning your Mandurah adventure today!

Enjoy an active weekend away – Visit Mandurah

Destination WA – Discovering the new Mandurah

Need a break, or getaway and need someone else to organise it for you?

Find more inspiration

TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF OUR BEST PICKS

Your guide to the absolute best things to do near Perth

If you’re searching for a quick getaway that won’t eat up more than a day or weekend, Mandurah is the perfect destination for a staycation or to simply embrace the sunshine, with some of the best things to do close to Perth.
Here are our top 20 experiences loved by locals and wanderers alike.

BEST THINGS TO DO NEAR PERTH

20+ incredible experiences to try close to Perth

If you’re searching for a quick getaway that won’t eat up more than a day or weekend, Mandurah is the perfect destination for a staycation or to simply embrace the sunshine, with some of the best things to do close to Perth.

Here are our top 20 experiences loved by locals and wanderers alike.

Relaxed by nature experiences

Are you infatuated by nature’s beauty and have a keen sense of adventure? Then get ready to seek all things beautiful, with untouched places you can explore away from any crowds.

There’s a lot to do around Mandurah’s vast waterways and surrounding national parks, reserves and forests. Be inspired by these great activities and immerse yourself in nature, where you’ll discover a lot more than you bargained for. 

Meet the popular local inhabitants on a day of dolphin spotting. With over 120 dolphins calling our estuary home, they’re considered one of the healthiest dolphin populations in Australia. And there’s plenty of ways to seek them out on the water. You can hire a boatkayak, or paddleboard or take a cruise. Enjoy lunch on the boardwalk or a picnic on the Eastern Foreshore and you might be lucky enough to see some frolicking in the water.

Mandurah Dolphin

For the ultimate experience, spend an evening stargazing at the Lake Clifton Thrombolites. Rated by RACDestination Perth, and Blogger as one of WA’s top stargazing sites, this is one insta-worthy spot you don’t want to miss snapping. You’ll be in good company with Sebastian from Salt and Eco Bush Tours, who will take you on a star-studded tour of the night sky. His wealth of knowledge has earned him a highly regarded Forum Advocating Cultural and Eco-Tourism (FACET) Golden Guide nomination.

The thrombolites are a must-see attraction during the daytime, and the best way to experience it all is on a cultural walking tour with George from Mandurah Dreaming. Thrombolites are considered one of the first forms of life and George will share how they hold a significant place in their Dreaming stories.

Home to a plethora of native birds and migratory waterbirds, Mandurah’s wetland habitats are internationally protected. At Creery Wetlands, you can observe wildlife in their natural element and connect with nature and experience the remarkable wonder around you.

Waterways for days experiences

With a pristine coastline that stretches beyond what the naked eye can see, winding rivers, beautiful lakes and an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour, Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic playground. 

Love a good BBQ? How about on a circular self-drive Eco BBQ boat, where you can be your own captain and bob along the waterways – mates and BBQ in tow. If you want to linger longer on the water, why not spend the night on a fully equipped houseboat from Mandurah Houseboats, be captain for an afternoon and hire a boat with Mandurah Boat Hire, or hand over the helm to the experienced crew at Mandurah Murray River Cruises with a Murray River or Sunset Cruise.

The surf’s up in Mandurah, and if you’re a seasoned surfer you’ll want to hit Mandurah Wedge with swell sizes that can start from 1m-1.5m and hold up to 4m. If you want to give surfing a go, the accredited surf instructors at Mandurah Surf Lessons offer single day lessons for beginners.  

Food experiences

Be spoilt for choice for dinner 105371 56

Mandurah’s foodie scene keeps growing by the minute, and for an insider’s guide to all the best wineries and breweries around the Peel region, you’ll want to jump on a Kaleidoscope tour. If your prefer to go it alone then we’ve done all the homework for you, with the craft beer and wine trail, featuring seven of the region’s best drinking holes.

For the perfect breakfast spot, take a seat at Wood & Stone to tantalise the tastebuds. And if you’d like to eat and drink your way through Mandurah, choose from our top places to eat.

Arts and culture experiences

Mandurah-Community-Museum

You don’t have to travel far to find amazing arts and culture in Mandurah. The art scene is buzzing here, and in between all your foodies experiences you’ll want to walk if off. What better way than on an art walk, showcasing amazing local art in hidden laneways, on building facades, even the pavement! Downunder Discoveries will take you on an Art Safari Walk

With so many experiences to be had, isn’t time you started planning your next adventure in Mandurah?

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

The ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Start planning your Mandurah adventure today!

Find more inspiration

TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF OUR BEST PICKS

The ultimate girls weekend getaway near Perth

Need to switch off from juggling a million and one things?

Girls Weekend Near Perth

Why Mandurah has girls trip written all over it

Need to switch off from juggling a million and one things? We all love a family holiday or a romantic getaway, but sometimes all you really need is to escape responsibilities and enjoy a short break in the company of your besties.

If a girls weekend getaway is long overdue, gather your gal pals and recharge your batteries in a place where the vibes are always relaxed by nature, Mandurah.

A place to… Relax

girls-weekend-away-ideas-perth

For a splash of luxury without the price tag, set up base for the weekend at Seashells Mandurah. It’s the perfect spot for a laidback escape, with the beach virtually on your doorstep, but still close enough to all the delicious offerings around Dolphin Quay and the marina. Take a dip in the infinity pool, linger up with the girls for a private Pilates class or, for the ultimate in relaxation, enjoy a pamper session at the onsite day spa.

Dolphin Quay Apartments is also perfect for a girls’ retreat, with two bedroom fully self-contained accommodation, boasting spectacular views of the marina.

For a truly unique stay, book a houseboat and cruise Mandurah’s tranquil waterways at your own pace. Mandurah Houseboats can sleep anywhere from 4 to 10 people, complete with all the amenities you need, and you don’t need a Skipper’s ticket to get going.

A place to…Unwind

Girls-Weekend-Perth

Take it from the local residents who know all about relaxing in Mandurah. We’re talking about the friendly playful dolphins who choose to live here in the wild. Did you know, the largest population of bottlenose dolphins in WA can be found here? For the best vantage point, you and your girlfriends will want to jump on a Murray River lunch cruise.

Mandurah is all about kicking back and enjoying the fresh open air, and there’s plenty of ways to do it. Go for a leisurely bike ride along the foreshore, drift along the waters on a stand up paddle board or, hire out your own boat for the day and tell the skipper where you want to go.  

To truly clear the mind and feel like your miles away from it all, get the girlies together for a guided kayak tour along the protected Peel-Harvey estuary. It’s the kind of peace and solitude you won’t appreciate until you’re in the moment. Definitely worth bumping up to the top of your list of things to do.

Create memorable bonding moments with an evening of stargazing, led by expert local geologist and nature lover Sebastian of Salt and Bush Eco Tours. The striking skies of Mandurah are perfect for stargazing, and you’ll be able to get a closer view of the night sky through a telescope.

A place to… Indulge

Girls-Foodie-Breaks

Whenever there’s beer or wine, you’re guaranteed to have a good time. Appoint a skipper for the day and explore the delectable tastes of Mandurah on a craft beer and wine trail.  Featuring seven of the region’s best beer and wine offerings, the trail provides an authentically local experience. Be sure to visit Peel Estate for a picturesque picnic lunch and tipple.

When the day is out, drop anchor on a sunset cruise before heading out for some bar therapy. The cocktails and fare here is nothing short of superb, so make sure you arrive on an empty stomach.  

Our top picks to sip and savour during your girls weekend include a late brekky at Cafe MOKA, and take your choice from tapas at either Flics Kitchen, and Wood & Stone Café – because food is always best shared.

Mandurah is the perfect destination to relax, unwind and indulge with your favourite gals. And, as it’s just a short drive from Perth, there’s no excuse not to make a weekend of it soon!

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

The ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Start planning your Mandurah adventure today!

weekend getaway inspiration

TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF OUR BEST WEEKEND GETAWAY PICKS

Escape to nature this Easter in Mandurah

Sorted out your Easter holiday plans yet? With a four day break from the daily grind, it pays to think about where you’ll spend it.

Easter in Mandurah

Escape to nature this Easter in Mandurah

Sorted out your Easter holiday plans yet? With a four day break from the daily grind, it pays to think about where you’ll spend it. And what better way to unplug and get away from the stresses of everyday, than a zippy road trip to Mandurah, less than an hour from Perth.

Find more inspiration

TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF OUR BEST PICKS