Carparks at Hillarys Boat Harbour and Sorrento Surf Life Saving Club were already full while a flurry of cyclists, runners and walkers flooded the pedestrian footpath on West Coast Drive.

The government has so far stopped short of closing popular swimming spots to combat COVID-19 but police on Friday warned beachgoers they risked being charged or forcing authorities to close beaches if distancing guidelines weren't adhered to.

Assistant Commissioner Paul Steel told 6PR's Mornings with Gareth Parker beaches would be closed if people did not comply with the measures ahead of two days forecast to reach the high 30s.

"If people do the right thing then there'll be no need to do that ... that might be a step we've got to go to if people do break the rules," he said.

"If you don't stop movement, we can't slow the spread... so before you decide to head down to the beach or undertake activity, our advice to people is to stay at home, and stay safe if you can."

Police will monitor activity along the coast and other gathering hot spots over the Easter long weekend and crack down on those flouting the rules.

"We have a number of police targeting those areas over the weekend; beaches, carparks, parks and other locations where people traditionally gather over Easter," he said.

Loading

"Police monitoring won't be punitive, it will be measured... but people who blatantly disregard the law, who blatantly disregard the good work the community is doing, could be charged.

"By all means go for a swim, go for a surf, go for a run, but you don't need to be down there all day."

The warning comes after several councils along Perth’s coastline urged beachgoers to “keep their distance”, with some even closing access to popular beaches.

The City of Mandurah last Tuesday announced they would restrict vehicle access to White Hills and Tims Thicket, two popular fishing spots, to “stop the spread of COVID-19”.

Fremantle mayor Brad Pettitt also encouraged locals to go for a swim or a walk so long as they stayed at least 1.5 metres from others.

“When you’re done with your swim, run or walk, don’t linger – go home,” he said.