Preston Beach Road

The road

Preston Beach is the most accessible beach 4WD experience within day-trip range of Perth. The 11-kilometre beach track runs along the Indian Ocean coast south of Mandurah through a section of active dune system that changes shape with every season. The driving challenge here is pure sand - without proper tyre deflation to 20psi this track will defeat most 4WDs regardless of their capability. With deflated tyres and reasonable technique the beach is manageable for any capable vehicle. The Indian Ocean surf at Preston Beach carries clean southwest swells that are consistent enough to attract a local surfing population. Yalgorup National Park sits 10 minutes north of Preston Beach and contains the Lake Clifton thrombolites - living rock formations that are among the oldest forms of life on the planet. The tuart woodland within Yalgorup is one of the last significant stands of this species, which grows only on the coastal limestone between Perth and Busselton. Mandurah itself is 30 minutes north with good seafood, dolphin cruises and the broad estuary system of the Peel-Harvey inlet.

The region

Preston Beach is a coastal township 90km south of Perth in the Shire of Waroona. The beach here is part of a continuous sand coastline stretching for kilometres in each direction. The dune system behind the beach is active - the wind patterns along this coast constantly reshape the dune faces. The Indian Ocean surf at Preston Beach is generally clean swells from the southwest - favoured by locals for its consistency.

Before you go

Access from the Preston Beach Road sealed approach, then onto the beach. Deflate tyres to 20psi before entering sand. Check tides. Accessible day trip from Perth. The beach is popular with local families in summer - drive with care around pedestrians and swimmers near the township.

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