Yanchep Lagoon: Everything You Need To Know

Yanchep Lagoon
Everything you need to know about this hidden coastal treasure.

Yanchep Lagoon: Everything You Need To Know

Everything you need to know about this hidden coastal treasure.
Yanchep Lagoon
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Yanchep Lagoon – everything you need to know about this hidden coastal treasure.

Located just 45-minutes north of Perth CBD, this natural wonder is impossible to miss owing to the gigantic 400m reef separating the shallow turquoise beach from the deep blue Indian Ocean.

Overflowing with uncharted coral, shallow rock pools, and spectacular aquatic life, it would be a sin not to explore every inch of this unique marine landscape on your next day off or weekend escape.

To help plan your next trip, here’s everything you need to know about the famous Yanchep Lagoon, including what to do, what to avoid, best places to eat and drink, where to park, and more.

By @brad_wooler

What To Do

Bring your snorkel kit and fishing rod, and dive into the crystal-clear waters of Yanchep Lagoon, teeming with uncharted coral reefs, diverse aquatic life and plenty of rock pools for kids and adults to explore.

The naturally-formed rock barrier shelters the beach from large waves and big underwater predators, making it an incredibly safe swimming zone for children.

Hungry for some seafood? Catch your own dinner, from cuttlefish fish to abalones, during licence season with the rest of the locals and visitors at the southern end of Yanchep Lagoon and Fisherman’s Hollow.

While you’re at it, get up and close with a range of fascinating marine plants and animals, including crayfish, octopus and the enchanting manta-rays. They shouldn’t be too hard to spot thanks to the water’s high visibility and inviting warm temperature.

We highly recommend sneaking down when the tide is low and before the sea breeze hits to avoid getting caught up in any rip currents.

Luckily for travellers seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling city life, the lagoon is almost deserted during the week with the exception of school holidays and weekends.

Yanchep Lagoo at sunset
By @jadejemma

What Not to Do

While Yanchep Lagoon is extremely well-protected, here are a few vital tips and regulations issued by the City of Wanneroo to ensure safety of visitors and marine life.

Unfortunately for Perth’s proud pup owners, dogs are not allowed on the premise. However Yanchep’s fabulous Dog Beach is just a two-minute drive south of Yanchep Lagoon, past the Forrest Foreshore.

Fishing between the red and yellow flags, and spearfishing alltogether, is strictly prohibited. Although it’s perfectly fine to walk across the reef, make sure to wear a pair of Aqua shoes in the process since the surface is quite sharp and slippery.

Camping on the shores of Yanchep Lagoon is also a big no-no. But do not despair, as you can set up your tents and grills against the backdrop of luscious green lawns and native wildlife at Henry White Oval Campground.

Finally, while waves are usually low during summer, visitors must swim between the flags and be cautious of the strong current which flows out of the lagoon into deeper water.

By @plantbasedlion

Places to Eat and Drink

Orion Cafe

By @minty5878

Enjoy the West Coast Sunset and salty summer vibes at Orion Cafe (also known as Yanchep Lagoon Beach Cafe) located on Brazier Rd, just opposite to the beach access path.

Loaded with pleasant indoor and outdoor seating, artisan paintings and cute indoor plants, this dreamy kiosk is perfect for post-dip caffeine fix and an escape from Perth’s sweltering summer heat.

Apart from their excellent coffee and fresh juices, Orion is bound to win you over with their seafood-based menu, from the drool-worthy Mezze sharing platter to the Gourmet Fish and Chips and heavenly Grilled Barramundi.

Location: 10 Brazier Rd, Yanchep WA 6035

Lil Sista’s

If you venture a little further up north, you’re bound to come across Lil Sista’s – a small delightful cafe serving up the best traditional Aussie breakfast and lunch. Whether you’re craving a smashed avo, a chicken shnitty on warm Turkish bread, or a healthy fruity granola – this small but elegant cafe has your breakfast and lunch sorted.

Feeling a little cheeky? Sip on a cup of fresh-roasted coffee and boost those sugar-levels by taking a swing at Lil Sista’s delicious Belgian waffles infused with grilled banana and marshmallow gelato.

Location: 99 Lindsay Beach Blvd, Yanchep WA 6035


Parking and Facilities

Mid-week parking at Yanchep Lagoon is rarely a hassle considering there are heaps of free designated bays on both sides of Brazier Road and at the Yanchep Surf Life Saving Club to the north of the Lagoon. It’s the weekend crowd you need to prepare for.

There are also plenty great amenities nearby including public toilets, outdoor showers, and change facilities at Yanchep Surf Life Saving Club and Yanchep Beach Park.

Our Club - Yanchep Surf Life Saving Club
By @Yanchep Surf Life Saving Club: Parking Bays

What Next?

After a rejuvenating snorkel and a relaxing sun-bathing sess, there’s no better way to end the trip than settling under a shaded picnic spot or gazebo at Yanchep Lagoon and watching the sun descend behind the vast turquoise horizon.

But if you still have heaps of energy to burn, why not embark on a series of family-friendly adventures at the famous Yanchep National Park, located within a 10-minute driving distance from Yanchep Lagoon.

Here, you can get up and close with some of Australia’s favourite native wildlife, from Koalas to Western Gray Kangaroos, test your fear of heights at Tree-top Adventures, and explore the wonders of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage trails and underground cave system, especially the iconic Crystal Cave.

Yanchep Lagoon – get directions

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