Winding its way through Perth, the iconic Swan River is a popular tourist and leisure destination with cultural significance in Western Australia.
The Swan River, or Derbarl Yerrigan, as it's known in Nyoongar language, is the main conduit between the Inland Plains and the Indian Ocean. It holds a special significance for many cultures. The Swan River divides Perth City between north and south and is fringed by a dynamic entertainment and leisure precinct, including Elizabeth Quay - a landmark waterfront development that connects the city with the Swan River.
The Swan River's edge is surrounded by dual-use paths and walking trails, perfect for running, cycling and skating. There are also countless grassed areas and open spaces, perfect for a summer’s day or sunset picnic. In the water, you'll find people sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and boating. To help reconnect you to this iconic waterway, we've created the ultimate list of places to eat, stay and play along the banks of the Swan River.
Swan River Staycation
Doubletree by Hilton Perth Waterfront
Relax and rejuvenate during an overnight staycation at the DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront, located in the heart of Elizabeth Quay and Barrack Square, and only a short walk to entertainment and activities of Perth City. Experience a different side of Perth and be greeted by breathtaking panoramic river views and Perth's skyline. Your stay isn't complete without a cocktail and bar bite at 18 Knots Rooftop Bar - a luxurious rooftop bar with expansive river and city views.
Quay Perth
Quay Perth is a boutique hotel on Perth's waterfront esplanade, overlooking vibrant Elizabeth Quay with sweeping views of the Swan River and beyond. The stylish property features cosy, well-designed communal spaces, a dedicated 24/7 co-working office, function and event spaces. Located on the rooftop, HQ Bar & Kitchen is a stylish dining venue with stunning panoramic views and a menu of modern Chinese-inspired share platters and tapas-style bites paired with craft beers, innovative cocktails and premium WA wine and cider selections.
Quay Perth | Perth City
Crowne Plaza Perth
Feel miles away while still in the heart of Perth City at Crowne Plaza Perth. The whole family will love the spacious family-sized rooms, stunning infinity pool and kids' menu fit for every little one. Gusti Restaurant and Bar is a contemporary restaurant with enviable views of the Swan River and a sumptuous modern Australian menu. Local produce champions the seasonal menus which provide a local twist to some international cuisine and a well curated wine list with options to suit every palate. Wine, dine, then retreat to your room to relax.
The Ritz-Carlton, Perth
Perched on the water's edge at Elizabeth Quay is the breath-taking Ritz-Carlton, Perth. Holiday at home and enjoy elegantly appointed rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning vistas of Elizabeth Quay, the Swan River, The Bell Tower or Langley Park. During your stay, dining at Hearth is a must. Hearth offers guests an unforgettable Western Australian local food and wine experience. Hearth celebrates local producers from WA’s Kimberley to the Great Southern region, paired with an exclusive wine list.
Ritz-Carlton, Perth | Perth City
Crown Perth
Create lasting memories at Crown Perth, overlooking the Swan River near Victoria Park. Live the luxurious resort life with an indulgent staycation at Crown Towers or Crown Metropol Perth, offering stylish and spacious rooms. By day, enjoy unprecedented resort facilities including world-class spa and fitness facilities, luxury shopping and lagoon pools. By night, dine at one of the many acclaimed restaurants including Nobu, Epicurean or Silks.
Aloft Perth
If you're looking for a riverside escape outside of the CBD, look no further than Aloft Perth. Offering sleek and colourful guest rooms, vibrant social spaces and stunning pool area, it is perfect for families and couples. Enjoy buffet breakfast and all-day modern Australian dining at Springs Kitchen and snacks and drinks at Re: Fuel by Aloft or W XYZ Bar. Or indulge in authentic woodfire pizza at 450° Pizza.
Aloft Perth | Perth City
Wonil Hotel
Wonil Perth is a boutique hotel thatt provides a space for guests to live, work, and play in harmony through sustainable and locally sourced cuisine, multi functional spaces, and outdoor areas. Thoughtfully designed rooms and suites boast contemporary furnishings, plush bedding, and panoramic views of the cityscape or the picturesque Swan River.
Riverview dining
On The Point
Located right on the banks of the Swan River in East Perth, On The Point is Perth's premier waterfront precinct. Whether you're looking for a culinary adventure, a place to unwind, or an exciting nightlife, On The Point offers an unforgettable experience with stunning river views from it's multiple venues - Long Neck, The Point Bar & Restaurant, Art of Seafood, Cafe du Point, Pearl on the Point and Luxus Lounge.
Long Neck, On The Point | Perth City
The Raffles
Located in Applecross on the banks of the Swan River, The Raffles Hotel is the perfect venue for al fresco dining and has been a riverside icon since 1896. Showcasing the best produce Western Australia has to offer our menu offers mouthwatering pub classics with a modern Italian twist. Whether you're looking to enjoy a pint with mates in the riverside beer garden, a celebratory dinner or host a function upstairs in The Kitson Room, look no further than this art-deco inspired venue.
Tucci
Nestled in the historic Goolugatup Heathcote Reserve, Tucci celebrates the vibrant flavours and warm hospitality of the Mediterranean. A place to enjoy and share a decadent feast with family and friends, reminiscent of a big Italian family dinner where there is something for everyone. Whether you're savouring a simple yet exquisite pasta or indulging in a rich, slow-cooked meat dish, every bite is a testament to our commitment to quality.
Things to do
Matagarup Zip + Climb
Strap yourself in for Perth's ultimate thrill ride: the Matagarup Zip + Climb. This is no ordinary bridge walk. Climb 314 steps then shimmy and squeeze through tight spaces to reach the glass bottom Sky View Platform. Catch your breath, enjoy the unique vantage point of the Swan River, then descend towards the launch platform. From here, clip onto the 400 metre zipline and get ready to soar across the Swan River at 75km per hour. If you're looking for more family fun at Matagarup Bridge, play a round of mini golf at Matagarup Mini Golf.
Matagarup Zip+Climb | Perth City
The Bell Tower
The Bell Tower is one of the largest musical instruments on earth and was custom built to house the heritage bells of Saint Martin-in-the-Fields Church, the parish church of Buckingham Palace in London’s Trafalgar Square. The Bell Tower is the only place in the entire world where you can watch the bell ringing in action or where the little ones can have a go at ringing the bell during an interactive tour.
Captain Cook Cruises
Meander down the Swan River between Perth and the port city of Fremantle on a daily cruise with Captain Cook Cruises. Stay onboard and enjoy the scenic experience or disembark in vibrant Fremantle and explore this special location at your own leisure. Captain Cook Cruises has a cruise option for everyone - including the Swan River Scenic Cruise, Swan Valley Wine Cruise and Perth Swan River Dinner Cruise and plus special event cruises.
Captain Cook Cruises | Swan River
About Bike Hire
Explore the Swan River with About Bike Hire, situated at a purpose-built facility on the Swan River foreshore. Hire high-quality, comfortable bikes, kayaks and quad-cycles for short, medium or long periods. Choose from standard bikes to speciality bikes for touring, off-road mountain biking, triathlon and road racing as well as tandems, kids trailers and more. Need accessories? About Bike Hire has everything you’ll need and more - from helmets to puncture kits.
Segway Tours
Cruise around the picturesque Swan River foreshore, Kings Park, Blue Boat House and Elizabeth Quay on one of the most incredible modern machines in the world. Segway Tours WA offer guided tours complete with fascinating stories about Perth's rich history, dynamic boom times and its plans for the future. Segways are easy to ride and offer the most exhilarating and relaxing way to soak in the beauty of Perth.
Segway Tours | Perth City
Watersports
Funcats Watersports is a Perth icon and a must-do on the Swan River. With no experience needed, hire a catamaran, paddle board or kayak and explore the river at your own pace. Glide peacefully across the water and spot dolphins, black swans and pelicans as you take in the city views.
Ultimate Watersports Perth in South Perth offers high-speed thrills and laid-back fun from November to April. Choose from jet ski hire, guided tours, wakeboarding, tubing or paddleboarding — perfect for all skill levels against the stunning city skyline.
GOGO Active Tours combines biking and kayaking for a fun, active way to explore Perth. Their guided kayak tours, including the Cliffs and Caves and Evening City Lights tours, offer a relaxed way to enjoy the river, complete with local insights and scenic beauty.
Destination Perth is your guide to everything there is to eat, stay and play around the Swan River.
