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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos
Swan River Perth
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Perth's iconic Swan River offers stunning cityscapes, vibrant sunsets, and a playground for water sports and relaxation.
"The Swan River is a beautiful, peaceful place to relax, fish, run, or simply enjoy nature and birds."
🌅 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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.

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.
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.

Wildlife Encounters
Riverbanks and parks
Spot black swans, various bird species, and even fish in the river's clear waters. A peaceful nature escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Swan River
Shark Safety Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 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!
🎣 Fishing Hotspots
Try your luck fishing for mulloway, bream, or even sharks. Local lures can be very effective.
🍽️ Riverside Dining
Enjoy brunch with a view at kid-friendly cafes featuring playgrounds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 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!
🎣 Fishing Hotspots
Try your luck fishing for mulloway, bream, or even sharks. Local lures can be very effective.
🍽️ Riverside Dining
Enjoy brunch with a view at kid-friendly cafes featuring playgrounds.
⚠️ Shark Awareness
Be aware of bull sharks. Heed any warnings and exercise caution when in the water.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Walks
Stroll along the riverbanks for a calm and serene experience, enjoying nature and birdlife.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
Absolutely! There are dedicated cycle paths along many sections of the Swan River, making it a popular route for cyclists.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Yes, numerous companies offer various tours and cruises on the Swan River, ranging from sunset cruises to private charter parties.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
You can often spot black swans, various water birds, and fish. Keep an eye out for dolphins too, though they are less common.
Yes, there are numerous parks and reserves with picnic facilities along the Swan River, offering beautiful settings for a meal outdoors.
The river offers stunning views of the Perth skyline, especially at sunset. Many parks and jetties provide excellent vantage points for photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Yes, several cafes and restaurants are specifically noted as kid-friendly, often featuring playgrounds and ample space for families.
Absolutely! Numerous rooftop bars and waterfront venues offer spectacular views of the Swan River, perfect for enjoying a drink.
You'll find a wide range of cuisines, including modern Australian, Indonesian, and international options, often with a focus on local produce.
Many restaurants and bars offer prime sunset viewing opportunities. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular spots during peak times.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography, illuminating the city skyline and water.
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.
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.
Yes, the Perth Bell Tower, Elizabeth Quay bridge, and the various bridges crossing the river are popular landmarks for photos.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
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.
🌅 Couples and Romantic Getaways
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fishing the Swan River
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.
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.
Recreational Activities on the Water
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.
Unique experiences like pedal boating in giant swan-shaped boats are available, providing a fun and family-friendly way to enjoy the river. Regardless of your preferred activity, always be mindful of other river users, boat traffic, and adhere to safety guidelines.
Dining with a View
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. Kayumanis Modern Indonesian offers an elevated dining experience with a view of the Swan River, showcasing authentic Indonesian flavors.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit