The Swan and Canning rivers are truly the heart of Perth, ensuring it is one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
The wealth of activities waiting to be discovered in the Swan Canning Riverpark include:
- taking in the views of the river from Kings Park while enjoying a picnic
- enjoying a walk along the Swan River foreshore
- cycling along one of the many cycle routes
- hiring a surf cat or kayak
- enjoying a river cruise
- trying your hand at twilight sailing
- jet skiiing
- trying your luck fishing for mulloway, tailor or black bream
Below you will find information and useful links to help you enjoy the Swan Canning Riverpark.
Boating
See our boating page which includes:
- a map guide to boating on the rivers (produced by Department of Transport and Swan River Trust)
- useful tips to remind boat users how they can keep the river healthy
- the Boating Management Strategy which guides the management of boating in the Swan Canning Riverpark and includes recommendations to ensure the sustainable future of this popular pastime
Fishing
See our fishing page for advice on how to fish while keeping the rivers healthy.
Canoeing and kayaking
Taking to the river by canoe or kayak is a great way to discover the natural beauty of the Swan Canning Riverpark. View our boating page.
More information and contact details for local clubs are available at www.wa.canoe.org.au
You can also explore the Canning River Canoe Trail, which stretches from the Mt Henry Bridge to Hester Park. More information is available at http://www.canning.wa.gov.au/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=66&Itemid=35
Canoes and kayaks can be hired from Point Fraser and Mosman Park.
Sailing
There are several sailing and yacht clubs based in the Swan River. Visit www.wa.yachting.org.au/ to find one near you.
Nature appreciation
Whether you are a botanist, keen birdwatcher or just love the outdoors, the Swan Canning Riverpark boasts some great spots to get nearer to nature.
Marine parks
The Swan Estuary Marine Park protects three biologically important areas of Perth's beautiful Swan River. It encompasses Alfred Cove, 190 hectares adjacent to the suburbs of Attadale and Applecross; Pelican Point, a 40 hectare area in Crawley; and Milyu, 95 hectares adjacent to the Como foreshore and Kwinana Freeway.
The park is also an ideal place to spot some of the many species of birds that visit and live around the rivers.
Find out more at www.dec.wa.gov.au/hotproperty/index.html
Forests, regional and national parks
Canning River Regional Park, Walyunga National Park, Avon Valley National Park, Regional Parks of the Darling Ranges and Hills Forest all offer opportunities to get up close to the natural river environment.
Visit the Department of Environment and Conservation’s park finder at www.dec.wa.gov.au/hotproperty/index.html
Walking
Grab some friends, enjoy the fresh air and take in the views. Walking guides are available at www.dpi.wa.gov.au/walking
Cycling
Get fit and explore the Swan and Canning rivers by bike. Cycling guides are available at www.dpi.wa.gov.au/cycling/1925.asp
Kings Park
From Kings Park you can enjoy some of the best views of the beautiful Swan and Canning rivers. Find out more at www.bgpa.wa.gov.au/
Local areas along the rivers
Use our map to find your local council's website and discover facilities such as parks and playgrounds in your area.
Perth and Western Australia Tourism