Exploring Perth’s Outskirts by Train: Yanchep, Joondalup, and Mandurah
- Margaux
- Dec 25, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Jan 2
With free trains and buses throughout the holidays here in Perth, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to explore the furthest destinations on the city’s rail network. Armed with a loose itinerary and a curiosity about potential places to stay, we set out to Yanchep/Two Rocks, Joondalup (the North), and Mandurah (the South). Here’s our take on the adventure, sprinkled with both practical insights and a little humour, with our very scientific rating system.
The Trains: A Travel Highlight
Perth’s train network deserves a shoutout. The trains are clean, air-conditioned, and—most impressively—punctual. Every 15 minutes, like clockwork, you can hop aboard and enjoy a smooth ride. However, if you're hoping to sightsee from the window, temper your expectations. Much of the journey is spent between highways or zipping through tunnels when crossing busy areas. The functionality is stellar, but what about the views? Not so much.
Yanchep and Two Rocks: A Sand-Swept Odyssey
Our first destination was Yanchep, which we reached by taking the Yanchep line from Perth CBD. The ride itself takes about an hour, but the adventure really begins when you step off the train. From the station in the middle of sandy nowhere, the actual town is either a 45-minute walk or a 15-minute bus ride away.
We decided to explore further and took a bus north to Two Rocks. We knew we had arrived when we could see the giant Neptune statue on the hill, the main claim to fame of this small coastal town. Quirky? Yes. Enough to live there? Not for us. Two Rocks felt like stepping into a sand-covered hamlet. There’s a certain charm to its small-town vibe, with an IGA, a post office, three bars, and a local art gallery. But it reminded us of Lillo, a tiny hamlet we visited while sailing with Scouts—peaceful but too isolated for our liking. Everything was sandy, and while it was pretty and the pieces of land were inexpensive, we couldn't see ourselves living there.
Returning to Yanchep brought its own set of challenges. We disembarked our bus to switch to another, only to find out that the same bus had changed its route number and looped back to town. Cue a moment of exasperation—and a lesson in the quirks of public transit here.
In Yanchep itself, the vibe wasn’t much different. It’s slightly more developed, boasting a Woolworths and a few clothing stores. While practical, it didn’t spark any excitement or sense of “home.” After a quick look around, we hopped back on the train for our next destination.
Rating:
Location
1 hour outside Perth - 7/10 stones
Livability
Someone can live there, just not us - 6/10 stones
Overall Feel
Not great. Too laid back for our liking - 4/10 stones
Lot prices
Not very expensive - 8/10 stones
Nature
Very sandy, but the beach was beautiful; not a lot of animals - 6/10 stones
Shops
Not good - 3/10 stones
Overall Score
We wouldn't want to live here, but it could be good for a totally detached beach holiday as it has a good laid-back energy.
Joondalup: A Taste of Urban Comfort
On our way back from the sandy landscapes of Yanchep, we decided to break up the journey and stop in Joondalup—a place we had a hunch that might suit our more refined tastes. Known for being on the pricier side, Joondalup is just 30 minutes from Perth by train. The difference in vibe compared to Yanchep was noticeable the moment we arrived.
Unlike Yanchep, where the train station feels miles away from the action, Joondalup’s station is perfectly placed in the heart of town. This convenient setup makes it easy to step off the train and dive right into exploring.
As the afternoon heat climbed to a toasty 36 degrees, we sought refuge in the Joondalup Shopping Forum—a retail paradise that dwarfs anything we’ve seen back home in Belgium. Even Wijnegem, one of Belgium’s largest shopping centres, can’t quite compare to the size and variety on offer here.
Store after store, the options seemed endless. From big-name brands to boutique gems, there was something for everyone. The atmosphere was equally appealing, with locals exuding a laid-back charm. They had the sunny, carefree disposition of Western Europeans on vacation—except for them, it’s just everyday life. It’s easy to imagine why: with weather like this and beaches nearby, who wouldn’t be happy?
Venturing outside the shopping centre, we found Joondalup’s streets quieter but no less inviting. The sun was blazing, so most people seemed to have taken refuge indoors, but the town still had an attractive, well-kept feel. The architecture was modern, and the streets were clean and orderly, adding to its appeal.
One standout feature of Joondalup is the free CAT (Central Area Transit) buses. These handy buses loop around the city, making it easy to get from one part of town to another without spending a cent. For us, this was a major plus—few things feel more welcoming than a city that offers free, efficient transport.
Joondalup feels like a town built for comfort and convenience. Its vibrant shopping scene, friendly locals, and thoughtful amenities like the free buses make it a strong contender for anyone considering a move to the Perth area. While the heat may have kept us from exploring as much as we’d like, it left a lasting impression as a place where modernity and community blend seamlessly.
Rating:
Location
30 minutes outside Perth - 9/10 stars
Livability
Seems great as upcoming city, having a major university, etc - 8/10 stars
Overall Feel
Feels like home, except sunny- 9/10 stars
Lot prices
Quite expensive - 4/10 stars
Nature
The lakes and parks are all around, but as it is more developed, nature is still limited - 7/10 stars
Shops
All shops are accounted for, but none of the fanciest brands (Channel, Gucci, but you could go to Perth for those if you can afford them) - 9/10 stars
Overall Score
Joondalup is a vibrant and welcoming place that balances modern amenities with a sunny, laid-back atmosphere. - 7.5/10 stars
Mandurah: Coastal Charm and Laid-Back Living
Our final destination for the day was Mandurah, a picturesque coastal town about an hour south of Perth by train. Known for its canals and relaxed vibe, Mandurah promised a change of pace from the urban energy of Joondalup and the sandy expanses of Yanchep. We were excited to see what this waterside escape had to offer—and it didn’t disappoint.
The train journey to Mandurah felt seamless, with the air-conditioned comfort providing a much-needed break from the day’s heat. As we stepped off the train, the difference in atmosphere was immediate. Mandurah felt quieter and more laid-back, as though time itself moved a little slower here.
The train station, unlike Joondalup's central hub, is located slightly outside the main town, but buses and taxis are readily available to take you where you need to go. We opted for a short bus ride to the waterfront, where Mandurah’s charm truly shines.
Mandurah’s biggest draw is its stunning waterfront and canal system. As we strolled along the boardwalk, the salty breeze and shimmering water instantly lifted our spirits. Boats glided lazily through the canals, and the surrounding cafes and restaurants buzzed with a relaxed energy. The views were mesmerizing—picture postcard-worthy.
The area is dotted with boutique shops, art galleries, and quirky local businesses, giving it a distinct personality. One shopkeeper even joked with us about moving here, saying, “Once you settle in Mandurah, you’ll never want to leave.”
One highlight that we wish we could have caught was the wild dolphins in the canals. Apparently, they are seen quite often and seem perfectly at home in the tranquil waters, much to the delight of both locals and visitors. These graceful creatures are a reminder of the unique blend of natural beauty and urban living that Mandurah offers.
Feeling peckish, we stopped at one of the many waterfront cafes for a light bite. Sitting outdoors, but due to our budget, just shy of a water view, it felt like the perfect place to unwind. While most menus in the area leaned heavily toward seafood, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, we ventured to Betty's Burgers for a not-so-healthy snack.
Mandurah’s charm lies in its ability to make you slow down and savour the moment. Unlike the hustle and bustle of Joondalup or the quiet isolation of Yanchep, Mandurah strikes a balance. It’s a place where you can enjoy modern conveniences while staying connected to nature.
If you’re looking for a peaceful coastal escape with a welcoming community and scenic beauty (as we are), Mandurah might just be the perfect fit. It’s not as urbanized as Joondalup, but that’s part of its appeal. Whether you’re strolling along the canals, dining by the water, or simply soaking in the relaxed vibe, Mandurah feels like a town designed for living well.
Rating:
Location
1 hour outside Perth - 7/10 Dolphins
Livability
The charm would give it a 10, but as they're still building a lot - 7/10 Dolphins
Overall Feel
A bit slower than home, but charming to boot- 8/10 Dolphins
Lot prices
Not too expensive - 6/10 Dolphins
Nature
Nature is all around in this town, from the aquatic world to the nice lush bushlands- 8/10 Dolphins
Shops
Most shops are accounted for, but it does miss a few. - 8/10 Dolphins
Overall Score
Mandurah balances its serene nature, developing charm and affordability into an appealing package for those seeking a coastal lifestyle. - 7/10 Dolphins
Conclusion
Each location we visited had its own unique vibe, catering to different preferences and lifestyles. Yanchep, with its sandy, isolated charm, might appeal to those looking for an affordable, quieter lifestyle—but it lacked the conveniences and vibrancy we were seeking. Joondalup, on the other hand, felt like a bustling hub with plenty to offer, from endless shopping to its convenient central train station. Its modern amenities and lively atmosphere made it stand out as a top contender for city living. Lastly, Mandurah offered a serene, coastal escape, blending natural beauty with a relaxed community vibe. While it wasn’t as urbanized as Joondalup, its peaceful canals and welcoming atmosphere made it a strong option for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Ultimately, it comes down to what you’re looking for in a place to stay: affordability and quietude in Yanchep, modernity and convenience in Joondalup, or tranquillity and scenic beauty in Mandurah. Each has its own charm, leaving us with much to consider as we plan our next steps.
Of course, there are also more places to explore, this is only North and South in range of the trains/busses. Australia is so big we probably won't ever see it all.
What would you favourite be?
Yanchep/Two Rocks
Joondalup
Mandurah
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