Enveloped by 134 square kilometres of tranquil inland waterways and the Indian Ocean, Mandurah’s allure centres around the endless summer lifestyle. Its location less than an hour from Perth also means the seaside town is a convenient getaway destination for those looking for a healthy dose of rest and relaxation. And after taking out the title as Australia’s Top Tourism Town in 2023, it’s never been more clear that there really is no better place to unwind by the water.
Whether you’re seeking somewhere nestled by the water with views spectacular enough to bring a tear to your eye, a place with a private boat pen so you’re able to moor up right outside, somewhere with a balcony or terrace to watch one of Australia’s largest and healthiest dolphin populations frolic in the waters, or a houseboat holiday, Mandurah has it all.
Be it a weekend getaway or a full-blown holiday, this little slice of paradise is well worth tucking into for more than just the multi-million dollar views. So, we’ve rounded up the best waterside accommodation options to add to your bucket list.
WHERE TO STAY
Dolphin Quay Apartment Hotel
Dolphin Quay offers apartment-style luxury accommodation at Mandurah’s Ocean Marina. And the best part is that it overlooks the internationally award-winning Mandurah Ocean Marina, which is home to luxury boats, protected swimming beaches, and a kids’ playground. There are both one and two-bedroom options with queen and twin bedding available, while the large balconies boast views over the marina, ocean, or streetscape leading to the estuary.
C Mandurah Resort
Situated on the serene canals near the heart of town, and only a five-minute drive from snow-white beaches, impressive surf breaks, and a bounty of eateries, C Mandurah Resort is fit with serviced apartment-style hotel rooms offering a cruisy and comfortable experience for both short and longer stays. Guests can choose from studio rooms with a kitchenette, as well as one, two, and three-bedroom apartments with open-plan living and lounge areas. Some have a balcony, while most have a patio.
Marina View Chalets (Wannanup)
Set within 1.7 kilometres of Village Beach and two kilometres of Port Bouvard Marina in Wannanup, the Marina View Chalet complex provides guests with a great base for windsurfing, fishing, and hiking. The air-conditioned units feature all the creature comforts of home including a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, microwave and oven, a flat-screen television, a balcony, and a bathroom. Guests can also take advantage of the on-site, family-friendly restaurant.
Bali @ Avalon B & B (Falcon)
Tucked away just south of Mandurah, this Balinese-style, adult-only bed and breakfast is a blissful place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of life. In terms of amenities, there’s a heated pool, sauna, and spa, all framed by verdant, shady tropical gardens. Guests can book a one-bedroom queen suite or two-bedroom queen suite perfect for if you’re visiting with another couple or group of friends. The rooms are equipped with a small kitchenette, coffee machine, fridge, and microwave, as well as a 42-inch television, undercover patio, and outdoor kitchen so you can enjoy a tasty feast without leaving the comfort of home. It’s just a short stroll from Falcon and Avalon Bay, two popular Mandurah beaches renowned for swimming, snorkelling, fishing, and surfing.
Avalon Beach House (Wannanup)
Imagine relaxing to the sound of the waves lapping against the shore, whilst soaking up the spectacular uninterrupted ocean vistas from both upstairs and downstairs of this four-bedroom, two-bathroom house. We’re talking shimmering water, dolphins swimming by, and jaw-dropping sunsets over the Indian Ocean. Simply divine.
Mandurah Luxury Holiday Homes
Have you ever imagined living it up in a private luxury holiday home on the canals in Mandurah? Your dream can become a reality with a stay at Waterlily House and CHILLAX House, two properties in the Mandurah Luxury Holiday Homes portfolio. Imagine catching crabs from your own private jetty, watching large pods of dolphins glide along the shores, or dining at one of the many waterside eateries.
Seashells Mandurah
Located on the shores of Comet Bay, overlooking the Indian Ocean on one side, and Dolphin Quay, and Mandurah Ocean Marina on the other, Seashells Mandurah ticks all the boxes for an easy, and relaxing escape. The affordable, 4.5 star, fully self-contained apartments and villas provide understated style, space, and sophistication. Decked out with all the good stuff including an infinity pool, tennis court, beach access, and barbeque facilities, it’s also a gateway to day spas, restaurants, bars, and great shopping.
Sebel Mandurah
Overlooking Mandurah’s picturesque Mandjar Bay, Sebel Mandurah is a 4.5-star property and one of the city’s top accommodation options, ideal for families, couples, and friends. With 84 one and two-bedroom guestrooms, suites, and self-contained apartments, guests can choose between views of the Mandurah Estuary or canals from a private, furnished balcony. Recreational facilities include a 15-metre lap pool, a fully-equipped fitness studio, and an outdoor barbeque area.
Mandurah Houseboats
Have you ever dreamed of a houseboat holiday? Your dream can become a reality, and you don’t even need a skipper’s ticket! All you need to do is pick a boat from the extensive range at Mandurah Houseboats, bring your crew and then skipper your fully equipped houseboat along the waterways of the Peel Inlet and Murray River. You’ll be on Mandurah time so you can snooze, swim, canoe, chill, stroll, read, drink, or fish to your heart’s content.
For more information, head to the Visit Mandurah website.