Perched between the Indian Ocean and an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour, Mandurah is the ultimate day trip destination. Conveniently located less than an hour from Perth, it’s an outdoor playground with plenty to see and do. Here, life is laid-back and leisure centres around the water, so it’s little wonder that the traditional name, Mandjoogoordap, translates to “meeting place of the heart”.
Once a tiny fishing town, the effervescent coastal community of Mandurah has grown to become Western Australia’s largest regional city, and was named Australia’s Top Tourism Town in 2023. Whether you’re exploring with the kids or keen to visit the Giants of Mandurah, here’s how to spend a day in Mandurah.
Mandurah Day Trip Itinerary
From big friendly giants and trendy breweries to pirate-themed cruises, this day trip itinerary takes you through the best things to see and do in Mandurah, and where to eat and drink along the way.
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8:00 am: Breakfast at Wood and Stone Café
The early bird gets the worm, so begin the day early with breakfast at the family-run Wood and Stone Café. Set in the city’s heart, the foreshore location isn’t the only drawcard. Think inner-city vibe coupled with boutique breakfast options like Caprese baked eggs, signature waffles, brekky burgers, and premium coffee. If you still need persuading, the café also won “Best Breakfast” at the 2022 and 2023 WA Gold Plate Awards.
10:00 am: Pirate Cruise aboard Mandurah’s Pirate Ship
Aye, aye captain, this is your chance to get up close and personal with a real-life pirate! Come dressed as Blackbeard or Jack Sparrow and buckle up for a 45-minute Pirate Ship cruise. You’ll explore Mandurah’s picturesque inland waterways — which are internationally recognised and protected — and canals. The little ones can steer the wheel, ring the bell or simply sit back and enjoy the scenery. Just beware of the water cannons!
11:30 am: Mandurah Visitor Centre
Swing by the Mandurah Visitor Centre which was crowned WA’s best in 2022 and 2023. It’s the go-to place to find out all the great things the beachside city has to offer. The Visitor Centre is also the gateway to the Giants of Mandurah adventure. Pick up your map and guide, collect the clues to each location, and enjoy the natural beauty along the way. The booklet has QR codes and Google Maps coordinates to help you find the parking locations for each of the Mandurah Giants. While you’re at the Visitor Centre, discover the “Welcome to Country” mural and experience the 3D augmented reality masterpiece telling Mandurah’s Aboriginal creation story.
12:00 pm: Santi Ikto Giant by Thomas Dambo (Halls Head)
Mandurah is home to Thomas Dambo’s “Giants of Mandurah” — an Australian-first cultural tourism project. Dambo’s five whimsical, larger-than-life sculptures celebrate the importance of protecting the natural world. Not only are the sculptures free to view, but they also come with an invitation to play.
Head to the first Giant, Santi Ikto, whose name — like the others — was inspired by someone Dambo knows. The 1.3 kilometre (return), Grade 3 bitumen walking trail starts at Calypso Road near Halls Head, and weaves its way along the coast from the car park to the coastal dunes towards the Giant. It will take approximately 20 minutes to walk there.
1:15 pm: Lunch at TODS Café, Halls Head (near Doddi’s Beach)
With two Mandurah locations, — Mandurah Terrace and Halls Head Parade — TODS Café has become a well-known and loved establishment. Visit the Halls Head haunt to enjoy the all-day breakfast or lunch menu overlooking the Indian Ocean. Expect the likes of salt and pepper squid, peri peri chicken burgers, and fish tacos. Delish!
3:00 pm: E-scooter or Bike Hire at The Bike Kiosk
One of the best ways to explore Mandurah is by e-scooter or e-bike. Situated next to the Visitor Centre, The Bike Kiosk offers a range of e-rideables to suit all preferences and experience levels. It’s a fantastic way to explore the Eastern Foreshore, Dolphin Quay and Marina, or the Western Foreshore with the Koolaanga Waabiny Playground.
E-scooters are suitable for children aged between six and 12, while e-bikes and trailers can be hired for younger or older kids.
5:30 pm: Dinner at Boundary Island Brewery
Overlooking the sparkling water at Mandurah Quay Resort, it’s unsurprising the vibe is laid back, when all business plans are made on a napkin. Boundary Island Brewery is a relaxed dinner joint where you’ll find everything from crispy pork belly to crab linguine. There are eight different beers at any one time, from the German pilsner and sweet and spicy ginger beer to the tropical IPA. If you need further reason to convince you, they won the 2023 Best New Exhibitor trophy along with six medals at the Australian International Beer Awards.
8:00 pm: Stay the night
Turn your day trip into an overnighter, with a stay at Dolphin Quay’s apartment-style luxury accommodation at Mandurah’s Ocean Marina. It overlooks the internationally award-winning marina, which is home to lavish boats, protected swimming beaches, and a kids’ playground. Choose from one and two-bedroom options, and revel in the marina, ocean, or streetscape views from the balcony.
