The Swan River & Elizabeth Quay
Perth wraps around the wide blue Swan River — cruise it, kayak it, cycle the foreshore, or soak up the waterfront buzz of Elizabeth Quay and the Bell Tower.
The Swan River & Elizabeth Quay
Perth wraps around the wide, blue Swan River, and the best way to feel the city is from the water’s edge. Elizabeth Quay is the buzzing waterfront hub — dining, public art, an island playground and the ferry jetty — while cruises, kayaks and foreshore paths let you explore up to the Swan Valley or down to Fremantle. Here’s how to make the most of Perth’s riverfront.
What to Do
Elizabeth Quay
Restaurants, bars, public art and the island playground on the river.
River Ferries & Cruises
Cross to South Perth for the zoo, or cruise to Fremantle and the Swan Valley.
Kayak & Cycle
Paddle the river or ride the flat foreshore paths past the city.
Bell Tower & Stadium
The Bell Tower, Barrack Street Jetty and Optus Stadium across the water.
Riverfront Tips
- Take the ferry to South Perth for Perth Zoo and skyline views
- Walk or cycle the foreshore between Elizabeth Quay and Kings Park
- Cruise up to the Swan Valley or down to Fremantle
- Come at dusk for city lights on the water
- Check current ferry and cruise timetables before you go
Swan River — FAQ
What is there to do on the Swan River?
The Swan River is the heart of Perth — you can cruise it, kayak or paddleboard, cycle the foreshore paths, catch a ferry to South Perth or Fremantle, and take in the city from the water. Elizabeth Quay is the vibrant waterfront hub for dining, events and the ferry.
What is Elizabeth Quay?
Elizabeth Quay is Perth’s waterfront precinct on the Swan River, with restaurants and bars, public art, an island playground, event spaces and the Bell Tower nearby — and it’s a departure point for river ferries and cruises.
Can you take a ferry across the river?
Yes — ferries run between Elizabeth Quay and Mends Street in South Perth (handy for Perth Zoo), and river cruises head down to Fremantle and up to the Swan Valley. Check current timetables.
Is it good for a walk or bike ride?
Very — the river foreshore has excellent, mostly flat walking and cycling paths, linking Elizabeth Quay, Kings Park and beyond. It’s one of the nicest ways to see the city.
What can you see near Elizabeth Quay?
The Bell Tower, Barrack Street Jetty, Optus Stadium across the water (via the Matagarup Bridge), and Kings Park rising behind the city — all within an easy stroll or short ferry.
Perth & the West Coast, Planned Around You
Kings Park and the beaches, quokkas on Rottnest, the Swan Valley and the Pinnacles — with the planning and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
Call 0409 661 342 Plan My Trip — Free Enquiry