Coogee Great Mermaid Migration: Dozens of mermaids descend on popular Perth beach

Up to 100 merfolk dressed in shells, tails, and scales were seen at a Perth beach, in a celebration of the small but very enthusiastic community.

Great Mermaid Migration Coogee Beach

About 100 mermaids and mermen descended onto one of Perth’s most popular beaches, in an annual event celebrating Australia’s hidden “mermaid community”.

Dressing in shells, tails and scales, Perth’s merfolk and local families celebrated the Great Mermaid Migration at Coogee Beach on Saturday.

The event’s creative director Renee Wingfield began the event six or seven years ago, and it’s become a staple of Coogee Live, a summer festival that takes place every year at the coastal suburb.

“Every year, we would have an onslaught of people just wanting to let out their mermaid dreams,” she said.

“Our job is to spread joy and engage professional artists.”

The Great Mermaid Migration takes place every year at Perth’s Coogee Beach.

Ms Wingfield said the event allowed mermaid enthusiasts to come together, with the subculture gathering steam thanks to the 2023 live action remake of the Disney classic The Little Mermaid.

While mermaids are the event’s major drawcard, she’s also seen some “fantastic squid” costumes too.

Up to 100 merfolk were expected to participate at Saturday’s event. Picture: Supplied

The event is popular with kids and families. Picture: Supplied

The event however is strictly kept to the beach, and no swimming is allowed for safety reasons.

“We are so unique. I think we can really have something special here. Who are we but water people?” she said.

Originally published as Coogee Great Mermaid Migration: Dozens of mermaids descend on popular Perth beach