A gentle sea breeze, the sound of cricket on a big screen, and the first coffee of the day enjoyed not in a standard cafe, but inside a bustling South Fremantle brewery. This was the unexpected start to a perfect day exploring the vibrant stretch of South Terrace, a locale that proves there's much more to discover in this area beyond its evening dining scene.
From Bagels to Breweries: A Culinary Start
The initial plan was a bagel and coffee at the popular shipping container hub, Staples Bagels. However, with all the shady seats taken, the search for breakfast led to an unexpected find: Running With Thieves. This brewery, distillery, and bar also boasts a cafe counter facing Marine Terrace. Despite arriving just after the official breakfast cutoff, a tasty brekky wrap and quality Darkstar coffee were secured. The space, complete with brew tanks, booths, and arcade games, offers free wi-fi and, importantly, is dog-friendly—a common theme for businesses near the popular dog beach.
Retail Therapy on South Terrace
The real exploration began with a stroll down South Terrace. First stop was Miss Sallies, a relatively new boutique where colourful kimonos and a wall of vintage teapots collected by owner Sally Sutherlin catch the eye. Visitors can enjoy a cuppa, a scone, and even design their own high tea stand.
Next door, Ginger Morris has been a local favourite for 12 years. Founded by Sophie Morris, the store is a beautifully curated mix of clothing, accessories, homewares, vintage glasses, and Japanese bowls. It's the kind of place that's dangerously good for your wallet.
Further down, Zhuzh could be mistaken for a salon. Owner Alison Richards, who lives and works locally, runs this part-gift, part-design store stocked with hats, umbrellas, eskies, and T-shirts from local and international brands. It's an ideal spot for finding a gift for "the person who has everything." Richards recently hosted the launch of journalist Jolly Read's children's book, Quokka And The Snowman.
For those who love jewellery, Izuba Jewellery Shop and Studio is a must-visit. Owner Jen Moray holds regular workshops where customers can create their own necklaces or bracelets from hundreds of charms. The shop's exterior is being brightened by a new mural from Swiss artist Angelina Gadient, who also created the work on the side of the Three Little Pigs across the road.
Heritage, Bakeries and a Beach Finale
South Terrace is lined with heritage pubs, bars, and eateries like Roasting Warehouse, Percy Flint, and Madalena’s Bar. Foodies are also spoiled for choice with breads and pastries from Little Loaf and Wild Bakery. Gardeners can browse Harbour Plants or the boutique Terrace Greenhouse.
After four hours of free parking at South Beach, it was time to move the car, ending up outside Sealanes. Here, the seafood retailer runs a fish and chip cafe open from noon until 8pm. Watching people wander between the terraces in thongs and towels all day made one thing clear: the day needed to end with a swim.
The new change rooms at South Beach are impressively big and clean, outshining many others further north. The sand was soft, the water sparkled under the late afternoon sun, and teenagers enjoyed the summer holidays swimming to the pontoon. The atmosphere felt more like a South West beach than a suburban one.
Located just under 3km from the heart of Fremantle, South Fremantle offers a dense and delightful experience. The discovery was so rich that it tempts a longer stay next time to explore every corner. For more inspiration, visit the official tourism website.
