Swan River, Perth - Image 1
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Swan River Perth

4.6
·254 reviews·, Australia

Perth's iconic Swan River offers stunning cityscapes, vibrant sunsets, and a playground for water sports and relaxation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning photos

CrowdMedium
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Swan River, Perth - Image 1

Swan River Perth

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Perth's iconic Swan River offers stunning cityscapes, vibrant sunsets, and a playground for water sports and relaxation.

4.6
(254 reviews)

"The Swan River is a beautiful, peaceful place to relax, fish, run, or simply enjoy nature and birds."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Sunset Magic

Catch the sunset from a rooftop bar for 360° views of the city and river. Unforgettable!

🦢 Swan Pedal Boats

Rent a giant swan pedal boat for a unique and fun way to explore the river. Great for families!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Various vantage points along the river

Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the city skyline and the tranquil waters. A truly magical experience.

Instagram+2
Waterfront Dining

Waterfront Dining

Restaurants and bars along the riverbanks

Enjoy delicious meals and drinks with stunning river views. Perfect for a relaxed brunch or a romantic dinner.

Instagram+1
Recreational Activities

Recreational Activities

Various access points and reserves

From kayaking and paddleboarding to jet skiing and fishing, there's an adventure for everyone on the Swan River.

TikTokInstagram+1
Wildlife Encounters

Wildlife Encounters

Riverbanks and parks

Spot black swans, various bird species, and even fish in the river's clear waters. A peaceful nature escape.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Swan River

The Swan River is a vast waterway. Be aware of boat traffic, especially jet skis and ferries. If you're planning to kayak or paddleboard, check local regulations and consider the river's size and potential for strong currents, especially if you're not an experienced paddler. Reddit

Shark Safety Awareness

While the Swan River offers many recreational opportunities, bull sharks are present. Recent sightings have led to warnings, so it's crucial to stay informed about any advisories and exercise caution, especially when swimming or fishing. TikTokInstagram+2

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for stunning photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere for activities
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful strolls and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#fisho #fyp #fish #swanriver #perth
@moinycinqfish0
476.9K likes • 2.2M views

🌅 Sunset Magic

Catch the sunset from a rooftop bar for 360° views of the city and river. Unforgettable! Instagram

🦢 Swan Pedal Boats

Rent a giant swan pedal boat for a unique and fun way to explore the river. Great for families! Instagram

This is the young Perth fisherman who reeled in the huge 3m bull shark in Perth’s Swan River. Less than 2km from where a 16 year old girl was fatally mauled last week. #shark #perth #swanriver
@zarishabradley
144.8K likes • 1.4M views
Nautica Charters Hens party on the Swan River, Perth.#nauticacharterswa #bucksparty #partytime #sunsetcruise #henspartys #hensperth #hens #BoatPartyperth #birthday #perthnow #corporateparties
nauticacharterswa
2 likes • 154 views

🎣 Fishing Hotspots

Try your luck fishing for mulloway, bream, or even sharks. Local lures can be very effective. TikTok+1

🍽️ Riverside Dining

Enjoy brunch with a view at kid-friendly cafes featuring playgrounds. Instagram

Perth has scored a beautiful new venue overlooking the Swan River, just in time for summer! @west.kitchen.bar is bringing relaxed, refined dining to the western suburbs, located within the new Wonil Hotel in Crawley. With a locally sourced, Western Australian menu, it’s a carefully curated selection of mouth-watering meals that will move with the seasons. Expect delightful dishes like creamy La...
perthisok.local
1.5K likes • 121.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Magic

Catch the sunset from a rooftop bar for 360° views of the city and river. Unforgettable! Instagram

🦢 Swan Pedal Boats

Rent a giant swan pedal boat for a unique and fun way to explore the river. Great for families! Instagram

🎣 Fishing Hotspots

Try your luck fishing for mulloway, bream, or even sharks. Local lures can be very effective. TikTok+1

🍽️ Riverside Dining

Enjoy brunch with a view at kid-friendly cafes featuring playgrounds. Instagram

⚠️ Shark Awareness

Be aware of bull sharks. Heed any warnings and exercise caution when in the water. TikTokInstagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Walks

Stroll along the riverbanks for a calm and serene experience, enjoying nature and birdlife. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(254 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Swan River for its stunning natural beauty, especially the captivating sunsets and peaceful atmosphere. It's a versatile location for relaxation, recreation, and dining, offering something for everyone. However, some visitors express concerns about the presence of bull sharks, urging caution when engaging in water activities.

"River river such a beautifull river
with water and rock with sunlight just a sliver
Diving in, it gave me such shiver
but the water so cold
it made me feel old
no longer the youth
i could only feel one tooth
rising up from sea
there was only one thing i could see
the swan river swan river in all majesty"

Austin

"Such a peaceful park in Perth.
It feels like everything is slow and calm. I can spend a whole day here.
Love to meet family with kids, dogs, and especially black swan family 🦢🖤"

sungeun kim

"Awesome place to visit to relax , fishing , running and you can do exercise at the river side or a walk with a cup of coffee . Awesome place for tourists to saw nature , birds and trees ."

CSS Immigration

What People Like

Beautiful sunset views
Peaceful and relaxing atmosphere
Variety of recreational activities

What People Dislike

Bull shark presence

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Swan River is easily accessible from Perth CBD. You can take public transport like buses or ferries to various points along the river, such as Elizabeth Quay. Driving is also an option with parking available at many locations, though it can be busy on weekends. Reddit

Yes, Transperth operates bus routes that run along the riverbanks, and ferries connect different points, offering scenic travel. Check the Transperth website for specific routes and schedules. Reddit

For a comprehensive exploration, consider a combination of walking, cycling along the paths, using public transport, or even booking a river cruise for a different perspective. Instagram

Absolutely! There are dedicated cycle paths along many sections of the Swan River, making it a popular route for cyclists. Instagram

The Swan River is quite extensive. The closest points to Perth Airport are generally around the Belmont area, which is about a 10-15 minute drive. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general access to the Swan River and its surrounding parks and foreshores is free. Some specific activities or attractions along the river may have associated costs. Reddit

Most parks and reserves along the Swan River are free to enter. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific event or facility fees if you plan to use particular amenities. Reddit

The Swan River and its public access areas are generally open 24/7. However, specific facilities like cafes, restaurants, or parks with amenities might have their own operating hours. Instagram+1

Yes, numerous companies offer various tours and cruises on the Swan River, ranging from sunset cruises to private charter parties. Instagram

Yes, a recreational fishing license is generally required for fishing in Western Australian waters, including the Swan River. You can obtain this from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a variety of activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, cycling, picnicking, dining at waterfront restaurants, or simply relaxing and taking in the beautiful views. TikTokInstagram+2

Swimming is permitted in designated areas, but it's crucial to be aware of potential hazards, including bull sharks. Always check for any current safety warnings or advisories before entering the water. TikTokInstagram+2

You can often spot black swans, various water birds, and fish. Keep an eye out for dolphins too, though they are less common. Reddit

Yes, there are numerous parks and reserves with picnic facilities along the Swan River, offering beautiful settings for a meal outdoors. Reddit

The river offers stunning views of the Perth skyline, especially at sunset. Many parks and jetties provide excellent vantage points for photography. Instagram+2

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are many cafes, restaurants, and bars located along the Swan River, offering diverse culinary experiences from casual brunch spots to fine dining. Instagram+2

Yes, several cafes and restaurants are specifically noted as kid-friendly, often featuring playgrounds and ample space for families. Instagram

Absolutely! Numerous rooftop bars and waterfront venues offer spectacular views of the Swan River, perfect for enjoying a drink. Instagram

You'll find a wide range of cuisines, including modern Australian, Indonesian, and international options, often with a focus on local produce. Instagram+1

Many restaurants and bars offer prime sunset viewing opportunities. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular spots during peak times. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography, illuminating the city skyline and water. Instagram+2

Elizabeth Quay, the Narrows Bridge, and various foreshore parks offer iconic views of the city skyline. The river itself, with its boats and wildlife, also provides great subjects. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in Australia. Always check with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and local council bylaws before flying a drone near the Swan River. TikTok

Yes, the Perth Bell Tower, Elizabeth Quay bridge, and the various bridges crossing the river are popular landmarks for photos. TikTok

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for cityscapes and general views. A wide-angle lens can capture expansive river scenes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Swan River is a fantastic destination for families. The Boatshed Cafe in South Perth is a top pick, offering a fully fenced playground right next to the cafe, allowing parents to relax while kids play safely. Instagram Swans on the Swan at Point Walter Reserve provides a fun and easy way for families to get on the water with swan pedal boats, kayaks, and paddleboards. Instagram

Many parks along the river have playgrounds and open spaces perfect for picnics and letting kids run around. The generally calm waters in many areas make it suitable for gentle water activities. Always supervise children closely, especially near the water, and be aware of any shark advisories. TikTok

🎣 Anglers and Fishermen

The Swan River is a popular fishing ground for locals and visitors alike. You can expect to catch species like black bream, mulloway, and tailor. For the thrill-seekers, bull sharks are also present, offering a challenging catch. TikTok+3

Fishing can be done from the riverbanks, jetties, or by boat. Using lures that mimic local prey is often effective. Remember to obtain a recreational fishing license before you cast your line. TikTok+1

🌅 Couples and Romantic Getaways

For a romantic experience, a sunset cruise on the Swan River is highly recommended, offering breathtaking views and a memorable evening. Instagram Many waterfront restaurants and rooftop bars provide the perfect ambiance for a special dinner, with stunning city lights reflecting on the water. Instagram+1

Consider a leisurely kayak or paddleboard trip during the golden hour, or simply find a scenic spot along the foreshore to enjoy a quiet moment together as the sun sets. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Fishing the Swan River

The Swan River is a popular spot for anglers, offering a diverse range of fish species. Black bream are abundant, especially in the shallower areas and around structures. Mulloway are also a prized catch, particularly during dawn and dusk. For the adventurous, bull sharks are a known inhabitant, with some impressive catches documented. TikTok+3

When fishing the Swan River, using local lures that mimic native prey can be highly effective. Popular techniques include soft plastics, hard-body lures, and live bait. Remember to check local fishing regulations and ensure you have the necessary recreational fishing license. TikTok+1

Many locals enjoy fishing from the riverbanks, jetties, or by boat. The river's accessibility makes it a convenient spot for both experienced fishermen and beginners looking to cast a line. TikTokReddit

Recreational Activities on the Water

The Swan River is a playground for water sports enthusiasts. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular ways to explore the calmer sections of the river, offering a peaceful way to connect with nature. Many people enjoy paddling from Elizabeth Quay towards Fremantle or even further upstream. InstagramReddit

For those seeking more adrenaline, jet skiing is a common sight, especially on weekends, with riders enjoying the open water. Waterskiing and wakeboarding are also popular activities, with dedicated areas and boat operators catering to these sports. TikTok+1

Unique experiences like pedal boating in giant swan-shaped boats are available, providing a fun and family-friendly way to enjoy the river. Instagram Regardless of your preferred activity, always be mindful of other river users, boat traffic, and adhere to safety guidelines. Reddit

Dining with a View

The Swan River boasts a vibrant dining scene, with numerous establishments offering spectacular views. From casual cafes to upscale restaurants, there's an option for every palate and occasion. West Kitchen & Bar in Crawley offers refined dining with locally sourced Western Australian cuisine, perfect for a relaxed meal. Instagram

For a more elevated experience, consider rooftop bars like 18 Knots at the DoubleTree Hilton, which provides 360-degree views of the city and river, especially stunning at sunset. Instagram Kayumanis Modern Indonesian offers an elevated dining experience with a view of the Swan River, showcasing authentic Indonesian flavors. Instagram

Family-friendly options are also plentiful, such as The Boatshed Cafe in South Perth, which features a fully fenced playground and great river views, making it ideal for brunch with children. Instagram