Swan River
Swan River
4.5
About
Perth's favourite playground, the Swan River is a stunning waterway which winds its way from the Darling Scarp to Fremantle. This natural attraction is popular location for Perth locals and visitors to enjoy a day out boating, fishing, skiing, paddling, swimming, picnicking or simply enjoying its vista.Rich in environmental and cultural values, the Swan River was named Derbal Yerrigan by the local Aboriginals who believe that the river was created by the rainbow serpent ‘Waugal’, a dreamtime spirit taking the form of a giant snake. It is believed that the Waugal created creeks, waterholes, lakes and valleys on its journey to the ocean.
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The area
Neighborhood: Kings Park
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254 within 3 miles
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124 within 6 miles
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,107 reviews
Excellent
2,004
Very good
957
Average
107
Poor
21
Terrible
18
Catlyne H
Perth132 contributions
Dec 2019 • Couples
We had the chance to use some bikes to while away a few hours and were amazed at how much the cycling infrastructure into Perth has improved. It now makes for a great ride around the foreshore, with good crossings and all of it off-road. It was easy to navigate and we could choose to go into the city (on a marked lane) or continue around the foreshore. The weather was great and awe thoroughly enjoyed it.
Written December 31, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jacqstar_11
Perth, Australia346 contributions
Nov 2019 • Couples
We enjoyed a 6km walk around part of the river catching the ferry from South Perth back to the city.
There were many black swans of all ages on the river and many activities happening on the adjoining parklands which were nice to stop and look at.
An iconic and changing part of Perth. A must visit.
There were many black swans of all ages on the river and many activities happening on the adjoining parklands which were nice to stop and look at.
An iconic and changing part of Perth. A must visit.
Written January 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nigel S
Lightwater, UK5,133 contributions
Mar 2020
We were staying in a high level apartment overlooking the Swan River and just couldn't stop looking at the ever changing views throughout the day and night. The rowers, the ferries, wlkers, cyclists and runers brought the place alive. We used the track which runs along the front to run each day which was perfect.
Written April 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rosalind H
London, UK59 contributions
Feb 2020 • Solo
On a hot summers day what better than a river cruise. There is a selection of operators and prices vary but check them out online first. I went in a large boat and although mostly covered in, I managed to get a seat at the back outside. A nice quiet way to travel to Fremantle and back. There is a guide pointing out all the sights on the way. You can also have A buffet lunch onboard however I didn’t choose this option.
Written February 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michele G
Sydney, Australia73 contributions
Jan 2020
It had been many years since I had been back to the Swan River and it is as beautiful as I remembered it. There are lots of places to sit by the river on the city and South Perth side to watch the ferry go by. Perth is not as big as many other cities so it is very peaceful and relaxing to see such a quiet city's river system
Written January 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Riri Mariska
Jakarta, Indonesia13 contributions
Sep 2019
My hubby and I strolled in along Swan River. A view along the river was very beautiful. The river creates a stunning contrast against the skyline of city high rises. The blue sky made our picture was more interesting. We walked slowly while enjoying the view around the river. We stopped at the jetties at Barack Square. The jetties at Barrack Square are the departure point for river cruises to Fremantle, Swan Valley Wine Region and Rottnest Island, as well as ferries to South Perth and Perth Zoo. We went to Fremantle from the jetties at Barack Square. We used Captain Cook Cruise. Captain Cook Cruises provides an exclusive transport service between Perth and Fremantle. We were satisfied.
Written January 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Craig
Woollamia, Australia10 contributions
Oct 2020
We have been living in Perth for many years and this is one of our favourite places. And the fact that we can walk around the park unhindered whilst the rest of the world is wrestling with this pandemic is a true blessing, we are very lucky. We hope it is all over soon.
Written October 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Patrice2253
Perth, Australia46 contributions
Dec 2019
The Swan River is picturesque from all angles. Mounts Bay Road has a beautiful view across to the city and south Perth. Dolphins are often seen in the water. The boat shed is a place where thousands of people have wedding photos taken. You can take a Ferry from ELIZABETH QUAY to South Perth across the Swan River. It's very relaxing and then you can walk around South Perth foreshore.
Written January 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chizzel
Perth, Australia2,492 contributions
Jan 2021 • Couples
We normally visit the Swan River area near Optus Stadium for a leisurely walk with our dog.
We usually park on the Swan River foreshore near the East Perth train station then walk to Claisebrook and cross over the Matagarup Bridge to Optus Stadium in Burswood. After walking around then follow the foreshore towards Graham Farmer freeway bridge and walk the pedestrian pass underneath.
This is a great walk and your sure to see a lot of wildlife along the way. It provides a great walk around a section of the Swan River.
We usually park on the Swan River foreshore near the East Perth train station then walk to Claisebrook and cross over the Matagarup Bridge to Optus Stadium in Burswood. After walking around then follow the foreshore towards Graham Farmer freeway bridge and walk the pedestrian pass underneath.
This is a great walk and your sure to see a lot of wildlife along the way. It provides a great walk around a section of the Swan River.
Written February 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Grifology70
Melbourne, Australia390 contributions
Apr 2021 • Family
The parks surrounding the river are all excellent and are beautiful. There are plenty to checkout and as a visitor from a city also framed around a river, it is a pleasure to see how well it is used and constructed. Make sure you go for a walk along it’s north and south banks.
Written April 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Can we book for 16 adults and 1 child?
Written October 18, 2019
there are a couple of cruise boats operating from Perth and no doubt they can take your booking or else just go to the river and enjoy.
Written February 23, 2020
May I ask for the nearest parking space and how much ?
Do I need to purchase the boat tripadvance please
Written September 11, 2018
Parking in Perth is difficult & expensive but parking in South Perth is easier but not free either. You can catch the train to the Esplanade/Elizabeth Quay station. The ferry is a Transperth boat and normal fares are charged, you can use your train ticket as long as it is within a 2 hour period. It is only free for pensioners or HCC holders out of peak hour. The ferry only crosses the river from South Perth to Perth & back. There are several cruises of the river itself, these can be purchased on the Perth side
Written November 7, 2018
Hidhir B
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Hi There,
May I know is there any restriction for fishing along the swan river ? Any good spots for fishing along the swan river ?
Written August 4, 2016
Hi fisherman- sorry I didn't reply quickly. Yes, plenty of fishing spots all along the river. I'm not sure about restrictions but I think the new developments wouldn't encourage fishing- but that would be in the city's heartland. You wouldn't find it peaceful fishing there. Plenty of lovely spots and easy acces close by. You can also jump on a train with your fishing gear and get to Fremanle harbour- great fishing off the warf
Written August 20, 2016
Infants travel free, there are lovely eating places at both sides of the river. The one in South Perth is superb. The ferry goes from Barrack Street. The Esplanade train station is the nearest station
Written May 25, 2015
Hi, Does each room have a hairdryer as this wasn't mentioned in the amenities. Regards, Rosemary
Written May 24, 2015
Rydges Hotel in Perth certainly did.
Written May 24, 2015
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