Summer’s in full swing in Western Australia! While the days can be scorching, the famous ‘Freo Doctor’ brings in cooler, balmy evenings — perfect for exploring and enjoying the outdoors till bedtime! From adventures on the water to delicious foodie experiences and the wonders of nature, we’ve got seven amazing ways to experience Mandurah as the sun goes down.

1. Cruise along the water and toast the sunset

Western Australia is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean – widely regarded as some of the most stunning in the world! Our Sunset Cruise offers the perfect opportunity to witness the sky come alive with vibrant reds, fiery oranges, and soft pinks as the sun sets over the water after a hot summer’s day. Running on Saturday evenings from January to April, this two-level sightseeing cruiser meanders through the peaceful canals before heading out to the open ocean to capture the sunset at its most magical. Enjoy a refreshing drink from the licensed bar, indulge in delicious fish and chips from the iconic Cicerello’s, and unwind with live tunes from a local musician, setting the perfect backdrop for your evening.

2. Friday floating bar cruise – the locals’ favourite

A beloved favourite among the Mandurah locals, the $10 Floating Bar Cruise is a must do on Friday evenings! With a fully licensed bar on board, you can enjoy refreshing cocktails, wine, and beer while taking in the stunning views. You may even be lucky enough to spot our world famous bottlenose dolphins! This 45-minute loop cruises through Mandurah’s iconic waterways, and if you’re enjoying the scenery (or the conversation) too much to leave, feel free to stay on for another loop! The cruise departs hourly from 5pm to 8pm, and while bookings aren’t necessary, it’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. You’re also encouraged to bring along your own share platters for a perfect evening on the water. Note: Strictly no BYO drinks.

3. Make the most of the abundance of blue swimmer crabs 

Mandurah is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with fishing and crabbing being some of the most popular activities. Whether you’re hoping to catch your next meal or just want an enjoyable outdoor adventure with the kids, crabbing is a fun option! The waters around Mandurah are home to the  blue swimmer crabs, which are typically at their full size by January. Early mornings and evenings offer the best opportunities for a successful catch. There are plenty of great spots to try your hand at crabbing, including Coodanup Foreshore, Dawesville Foreshore, and Novara Foreshore. The local commercial and recreational fishers are leading the way in sustainable fishing practices, so be sure to check the rules and regulations before you get started.

4. Walk along the water’s edge 

If you prefer to stay on solid ground, you can still soak in the beauty of the water and those stunning West Aussie sunsets. Mandurah has a range of serene and pristine beaches, ideal for a peaceful evening stroll. Avalon and Town Beach are local favourites for a relaxing walk along the shore. And if you’re travelling with your dog, Halls Head Beach and Silver Sands Beach are fantastic dog-friendly spots to enjoy the sunset together.

5. A meal with a stunning waterside view

If you’re in the mood for a delicious evening meal, Cicerello’s is a local institution that’s been serving up mouth-watering meals for decades. Located along Mandurah’s newly renovated Eastern Foreshore, you can enjoy your meal with a beautiful view of the water. After you’ve satisfied your savoury cravings, indulge your sweet tooth with a treat from Simmo’s Ice Cream. Originally from Dunsborough, Simmo’s has brought its famous ice cream closer to Perth, offering a wide range of flavours to suit every set of taste buds. For more dining options with stunning water views, Boundary Island Brewery, Brewvino, and The Pen are also great spots to relax, enjoy a meal, and sip on a drink while taking in the scenery.

6. Spot the Southern Cross under the clear night sky

We’re fortunate in Western Australia to have crystal-clear night skies, free from pollution, making it the perfect place to gaze at the stars. From Mandurah, you can catch a glimpse of several stunning constellations, including the iconic Southern Cross. For the best stargazing experience with minimal light interference, head to spots like Island Point Reserve, home to beautiful water birds and bandicoots. Another fantastic location is the Lake Clifton Thrombolites, which also offers incredible opportunities for astrophotography. On a clear night, you might even be lucky enough to witness the awe-inspiring Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis. And when the moon isn’t too full, you could be treated to an unobstructed, pristine view of the Milky Way stretching across the sky.

7. ‘Food Truck Frenzie’ night

On the second and last Tuesday night of each month, make your way to Hall Park on the western foreshore for a fun-filled ‘Food Truck Frenzie‘! This vibrant event is perfect for families, with live local music, an interactive kids’ playground, a skatepark for some wheels-spinning action, and even an estuary swimming pool to cool off on warmer evenings. The food truck lineup offers a fantastic variety of dinner options to enjoy under the trees on the grass, including Thai, American BBQ, Chinese, Korean, Mexican, doughnuts, and so much more! It’s a great way to unwind, enjoy delicious food, and take in the lively atmosphere.

As the sun sets on another hot summer’s day in Mandurah, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the balmy evenings. Whether you’re cruising the waterways during the sunset or floating around on a bar cruise, indulging in fresh seafood, or enjoying a peaceful walk along the beach – there’s no shortage of activities!