Looking for fun ways to beat the heat this summer? We’ve assembled a list of the best water based activities to enjoy in and around the Perth CBD.
Water Labyrinth
Heading to the city for shopping or some fun? Dodge the fountains at Perth’s Water Labyrinth. Make sure you pack a spare change of clothes!
The Water Labyrinth is just a stone’s throw from Perth underground and in the summer months is filled with children (old and young) enjoying the interactive installation’s walls of water.
Designed by international artist Jeppe Hein, the Water Labyrinth operates daily from 10am – 6pm, excluding event days.
Check visitperthcity.com for details before you visit.
Where: Forrest Place
Cost: Free
Kayak Hire
Grab your friends, and hire a kayak, and take a gentle paddle along the Swan River.
If you head out early in the morning or late afternoon keep an eye out for dolphins.
Swan River dolphins are frequently seen in the East Perth area chasing schools of fish, especially around Claisebrook cove.
Why not hire a double kayak and take a picnic with you somewhere down the river.
Where: About Bike Hire, Point Fraser Reserve, East Perth
Cost: From $16 (one adult per hour)
The Boat Collective
Celebrate on the Swan River in style with The Boat Collective – Perth’s first floating bar, offering sessions throughout summer.
Departing Barrack Street Jetty the boat cruises along the Swan River and is fully licensed, with a good selection of drinks on board.
The Boat Collective makes for a perfect afternoon with friends boasting incredible views of Perth city.
Where: From Barrack Street Jetty
Cost: $20 per person (cruise only; food and drink extra).
Swan River Cruise
If you’d rather enjoy a leisurely cruise along the swan river, Captain Cook Cruises is for you.
Based at Barrack Street Jetty, they offer a wide gaiety variety of cruises from the Swan River scenic cruise to a full day cruising up to the Swan Valley for wine tasting or down to Fremantle.
Where: Captain Cook Cruises, Barrack Street Jetty
Cost: From $38 (one adult, Swan River scenic cruise or Perth explorer cruise)
SUP! Stand-Up Paddle boarding
Try paddle boarding and then test your balance at SUP Yoga!
Paddle boarding has really taken off; it’s super relaxing, easy to get the hang of and a great full body work out.
Make the most of your morning and paddle along the swan river before the wind picks up; if you’re lucky you might be followed by a dolphin or three.
Then, once you’ve got your balance under control, why not try your hand at SUP Yoga in Freshwater Bay.
Where: Anywhere around the River. East Perth is an ideal place to get started.
Buy a board from Indian Ocean Paddle Surf – a Perth based company. You can hire boards from Funcats on South Perth foreshore.
Cost: Rentals start at $30 per hour.
Fishing in the Swan
Cast a line; from East Perth around to Matilda Bay Reserve there are plenty of opportunities to sit back, relax and enjoy the view.
Potential catches include flathead, giant herring, snapper and black bream.
Where: Most places along the river allow fishing.
Cost: Bring your own equipment and bait.
Catamaran Race
Directly opposite the Perth skyline is Funcats. Their base is impossible to miss with the 20 or so catamarans lined up outside.
The friendly staff will get you sailing within a few short minutes, even with no previous experience.
Take a group of friends or family and see who can cross the river fastest, or take it slow and enjoy the scenery!
Don’t forget to take a picture and tag #perthcity on Instagram (@perthcityaus) or Twitter (@Perth_City).
Where: Funcats at South Perth foreshore
Cost: From $40 per hour
However you choose to enjoy the water this summer, remember to stay hydrated and Sun smart!
See you in the city!
