Coogee Beach, just south of Fremantle, is a lovely spot for an easy coastal outing. The sheltered bay, flat paths and excellent new facilities make it an inviting place to wander, sit and enjoy the sea breeze – with the added interest of a fascinating historic shipwreck and maritime trail to explore at your own pace.
The Coogee Maritime Trail features both underwater and land-based points of interest, all centred around the Omeo, Western Australia’s only shore‑based shipwreck. Whether you prefer to stay dry and enjoy the views, or pop on a mask and have a gentle snorkel over the reef, there is plenty to see.
The story of the Omeo
The Omeo was an iron steamship built in 1858 in Newcastle, England, later converted to a sailing ship. Over its working life it played an important role in communication, helping lay the Bass Strait Telegraph cable and the Overland Telegraph that linked Australia to Britain via Singapore.
For many years, it operated in international trade and inter‑colonial passenger services, travelling between Adelaide, Melbourne and New Zealand. In 1881 it famously collided with, and wrecked, the Swan Spit pile lighthouse in Port Phillip before being converted to a coal hulk. In 1905 the Omeo was finally driven ashore and wrecked at what is now Coogee Beach.
Today, the remains of the ship lie only about 25 metres from the sand at Coogee Beach Reserve. Parts of the wreck are visible above the waterline from the shore, and a unique underwater art gallery and artificial reef have been created around it – the first development of its kind in WA.
Underwater trail – for those who enjoy a snorkel
The Coogee Maritime Trail can be accessed from the northern end of Coogee Beach, via the beach access path from Perlinte View / Socrates Parade. The underwater section begins in shallow water and extends out along the southern breakwater, reaching a maximum depth of around 7 metres. Much of the trail sits between roughly 2.5 and 5 metres deep, so confident swimmers and novice snorkellers can enjoy it comfortably on a calm day.
You do not need to be a diver to appreciate the trail – a simple mask (or even good swimming goggles) and fins are enough for most people. As you make your way out you pass several sculptural pieces and reef modules, including:
- A friendly seal statue close to shore
- A Dutch‑style replica cannon
- An old railway wheel and anchor
- The Stella Maris giant sea star sculpture that you can swim through
These structures, together with the wreck, are now home to a wide variety of marine life. Expect to see schools of fish, starfish, cuttlefish, nudibranchs, sea squirts and colourful corals in and around the reef modules. Underwater plaques along the way provide information about the Omeo, local maritime history and some of the species that live in the area.
If you are visiting with grandchildren, older children often enjoy “collecting” the different artworks as they go, while those who prefer to stay closer to shore can still see plenty of fish around the shallower modules.
Land‑based trail – enjoy the views without getting wet
If getting in the water does not appeal, you can still appreciate the history and scenery from dry land. A paved pathway along the breakwater esplanade forms the land‑based section of the Coogee Maritime Trail.
Here you will find:
- Restored anchors from the Omeo (from the WA Museum collection)
- Interpretive signs with stories about the ship, local maritime history and marine life
- A viewing area overlooking the wreck and the turquoise bay
The paths are generally flat, making them suitable for a gentle stroll, pram, or mobility aid. Grassy areas and seating spots above the beach offer pleasant places to pause, watch the activity in the water and enjoy the coastal outlook.
New toilets, changerooms and picnic facilities
A major recent upgrade at Omeo Park has made spending a few hours here much more comfortable, particularly for those who value good amenities.
Right by the gateway to the Coogee Maritime Trail you will now find a contemporary, architect‑designed amenities building that includes:
- Five toilets, including a Universal Accessible Toilet
- Separate male and female changerooms
- Two outdoor showers for rinsing off sand and salt
- A shaded seating area – handy for resting between swims or simply enjoying the sea view out of the direct sun
The building has been designed with accessibility and safety in mind, with clear sightlines and easy access from the adjacent paths and parking.
Getting there, parking and practical tips
The Omeo Shipwreck and Coogee Maritime Trail are located near Socrates Parade at the northern end of Coogee Beach. Parking is available at Omeo Park and along nearby streets. It can be busy on warm weekends and holidays, so it is worth arriving earlier in the day if you prefer a quieter visit.
A few practical points:
- Check the weather and ocean conditions before planning a snorkel – calm, clear days are best.
- If you are watching grandchildren in the water, pool noodles or other flotation aids can help them rest without needing to stand on the reef or artworks.
- For those staying on land, there are plenty of vantage points to comfortably watch the swimmers without needing to go onto the sand.
- To help protect the wreck and marine life, avoid touching or standing on the wreck or sculptures, and take any rubbish away with you or use the bins provided.
Whether you choose to wander the land‑based trail, sit and enjoy a picnic overlooking the ocean, or have a gentle snorkel over the wreck, Coogee Maritime Trail offers an easy coastal escape within reach of Perth – with modern facilities that make it especially convenient for a relaxed, unhurried day out.
Omeo Shipwreck and Coogee Maritime Trail
Coogee Beach, WA
