Exploring Hillarys: Perth’s Coastal Gem

Just a 25-minute drive from Perth’s city centre, the suburb of Hillarys offers a refreshing escape with its blend of natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and a touch of luxury. Known for its scenic harbour, tranquil beach, and vibrant community, this little slice of Western Australia’s coastline is perfect for those seeking both adventure and serenity. For photographers, travellers, or anyone simply looking to unwind, Hillarys has something special to offer.

Our day began at Hillarys Boat Harbour, a bustling waterfront destination packed with shops, restaurants, and attractions. The little shopping mall nestled within the harbour seemed to have it all—and then some. From charming boutique stores to quirky souvenir shops and cafes brewing the perfect morning coffee, it was hard not to get lost in the lively yet relaxed vibe.

Of course, being food lovers, we couldn’t help but notice the sheer variety of options available: Turkish doner kebab, fried chicken, or even build-your-own burgers. Honestly, if we lived too close, we might have a hard time resisting the culinary temptations! The harbour struck a perfect balance between lively energy and an easygoing pace, setting the tone for the rest of the day.

A short stroll from the harbour, we found ourselves at the beach—a hidden gem tucked within the marina. This little oasis felt like a world away, with its calm waters, soft sand, and a picturesque backdrop of moored boats and lush greenery. It was the perfect place to kick off our shoes and sink our toes into the cool sand, letting the peaceful surroundings work their magic.

We loved it there so much we forgot to take pictures: so here's a picture of Yorick on a rock.

We could see why this spot was so popular with families—the calm, sheltered waters made it an ideal swimming spot for kids. However, one downside caught our eye: dogs aren’t allowed here, which might deter some visitors. Still, for those lucky enough to call Hillarys home, the lack of gardens in the smaller housing plots didn’t seem like much of an issue when you have this idyllic beach right on your doorstep.

As we wandered further, we found ourselves walking through residential streets that could have been pulled straight from a magazine. The houses were nothing short of spectacular—sleek, modern designs with expansive balconies overlooking the water and perfectly manicured, albeit small, gardens.

Naturally, we started daydreaming about living in one of these architectural marvels. “Maybe in another life,” we joked, laughing at the sheer extravagance. But even from the street, these homes were a joy to admire, sparking plenty of “What if?” conversations as we walked.

On our way back home, we decided to make one last stop: Ikea. There’s something universally fun about wandering through those maze-like aisles, even on the other side of the world. As some of you know, we’ve been dreaming about building our own home someday, so we couldn’t resist browsing through the furniture and décor, imagining how we’d furnish our future dream house (if we could someday afford it).

It felt fitting to end the day like this—dreaming big while exploring Ikea’s clever designs and innovative ideas. Hillarys had already inspired us with its breathtaking homes and laid-back lifestyle, and this was just the cherry on top.

Hillarys is more than just a coastal suburb—it’s a destination that invites you to slow down and take it all in. Whether you’re drawn to its picturesque harbour, serene beach, or luxurious homes, there’s a sense of charm and ease that makes it hard to leave. For travellers and photographers alike, Hillarys offers countless moments to capture and memories to cherish. We’ll definitely be back—next time, maybe for that build-your-own burger we couldn’t stop thinking about!