It’s only natural to want to throw yourself in the nearest body of water when the weather starts to heat up in Perth.
With its tranquil waterways to kayak through, still waters perfect for SUPing, and wind-protected coves ideal for snorkelling, Perth really does have some of the best watersports in the world on balmy days.
These are some of the best water activities to enjoy this summer in Perth.
Adventure World
Adventure World was ‘made just for fun’. So, why not grab your friends and family and spend the day cooling off at this wonderful water park? There are multiple water slides to test out, including the exhilarating Kracken, where you’re sent into a giant funnel and slide back and forth until you’re spat out into the pool. If you’re looking for a family-friendly spot to cool off, explore the Hawaiian-themed Kahuna Falls. It has 100 water-play features, including a giant bucket that tips periodically, soaking everyone.
The surrounding lush green gardens invite you to sit and spend the day relaxing on a picnic blanket. Bring your packed lunch, or treat the family to a purchased Hawaiian pizza and chips. Keen on more nature? Head over to the wildlife experience and immerse yourself.
The site is also home to Perth’s only theme park, with 25 attractions for you to enjoy. Try out the adrenaline-pumping Abyss roller coaster that will have you feeling G-forces of between 1.5 – 4.5.
Perth Stand Up Paddle Board School
Hop on a board, grab a paddle, and ride the waves with Perth Stand Up Paddle Board School.
The expert paddleboarders will help you learn the correct techniques, so all you have to worry about while SUPing is taking in all the views.
As you paddle, keep your eyes peeled for fur seals as they catch their fishy lunch or find dolphins that glide past you trying to get you to join in their ocean games.
Not only is this a great way to get out and enjoy the water, but it’s also a great way to get in a bit of exercise during the warmer months.
Getting wet is part of the program, so be prepared to fall off and take risks here and there.
Scarborough Surf School
Soak in the rays at one of Perth’s most popular beaches as you get up and get out into the waves. Catering for all levels, Scarborough Surf School gives everyone a chance to experience the thrill of surfing.
Using soft boards and the sandbank that runs the length of Scarborough Beach, these are the perfect conditions to learn how to surf. Grab a board and test your skills against the waves, then grab a generously-sized pub meal.
Head across the road to Oceans 6019 for a parmi and a pint, or be transported to Mexico at El Grottowith a tinga de pollo taco in one hand and a classic spicy margarita in the other.
Perth’s Outback Splash
Since its opening in 1981, Perth’s Outback Splash has been providing Perth Families with plenty of water-based fun, with waterslides that make you scream in joy and mazes to be explored. Mini golf is great for inciting a little bit of family rivalry; otherwise, just sit back and relax while you have the BBQ going.
Being that little bit more affordable than Adventure World, Perth’s Outback Splash is destined to be a full day of fun that won’t break the bank.
Perth Aqua Park
One hundred interconnected obstacles line this huge floating, inflatable water fun park at Perth Aqua Park. Joining fitness with fun, the park makes a terrific spot for a birthday party or just a good old-fashioned day of fun with the family.
Race family and friends on the inflatable course, where you will find yourself sliding down slides and climbing walls to get the fastest time. There is even a kid-safe park that allows 2-6-year-olds to have a go through the obstacle course safely.
Each session lasts 50 minutes and is heavily patrolled by lifeguards to ensure maximum safety.
Jet ski hire
Head down to Rockingham to discover dolphins, seals, and the infamous little penguin on a thrilling jet ski adventure.
As you leave Rockingham Beach, you will discover areas like Shoalwater Marine Park, filled with cavernous reefs that Australian seals frequent. Get the Jetskis over to Point Peron, hop into the water with your snorkel, and find the homes of little sea urchins close to the shoreline. Or, stay out in the blue and see schools of whiting, glistening as the sun beams off their scales.
Find a snorkelling spot
When you’re living in a sunny state with glass-like waters, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with life on land, but take a dive into an underwater world and enjoy the relaxing seas our coast is home to.
Grab a snorkel and find some fantastic snorkelling spots hidden around the Perth area.
Mettems pool is a great starting spot for beginner snorkellers, with calm waters and plenty of restaurants to grab a celebratory feed after spotting the local red-lip morwong. A day in Rottnest will give you some of the most transparent blue waters, with octopus and pink-snapper-filled reefs.
Heading south to the Omeo Shipwreck brings an eerie feel to the underwater world. See fish darting through the 100-year-old iron steamboat, wrecked in the sand just steps off Coogee Beach.
Kayaking with Fun Cats Watersports
A relaxing one or two-hour kayak down the calming swan river will give you a completely different view of the city from its centrepiece. This water adventure is really one for anyone to do, as it is a low-impact sport; there’s no way you won’t want to give it a go.
Grab your best friend or partner and take them out as you breathe in the fresh air and discover Perth in an alternative way. Explore at your own pace as you spot dancing dolphins and elegant black swans cruising down the river.
Even if kayaking isn’t your thing, you can head out to the river for a 2-hour sailing adventure where you learn the ropes on the boat.
Get more summer inspiration with So Perth
Lead image: Perth Stand Up Paddle Board School
