Great for picnics, paddling and water recreation.

Matilda Bay has been a popular swimming spot since the early days of the Swan River Colony.

Today it remains one of the best spots Perth for families to splash, play, relax and engage with nature on the city’s doorstep.

Matilda Bay is easily accessible and provides lots of shaded spots on the banks of the river.

The river itself is suitable for a range of water activities, including canoeing, swimming, cycling and fishing. 

Insider Info

Kids will love jumping off the pontoon. 

Keep your eyes peeled for the bottlenose dolphins that inhabit the Swan River!

You may also see a range of water birds, including black swans, pelicans, ducks, terns, herons and cormorants. 

The “Eliza” statue (located on Mounts Bay Road) commemorates the site of the old Crawley baths, a public swimming facility.

From 1914 until 1964 children came here to learn how to swim, amongst the jellyfish. 

Universally accessible pedestrian and cycle paths make it easy to stroll, scoot, or ride along the foreshore, taking in the stunning riverside views. 

Access

Access is via two-wheel drive or public transport. 

The water’s edge is close to the roadside/car parks, and the area is suitable for launching canoes/kayaks etc. 

In the Area...

Bayside Kitchen (near the pontoon) offers options for coffee, meals, snacks and drinks. 

There are also stand-up paddle boards and kayaks for hire (7 days a week during summer). Click here to learn more.

The Jo Wheatley All Abilities Play Space is a 5 minute drive down the road. Check out our playground review here. 

King’s Park (another Perth highlight) is a walk, bus or a drive away from Matilda Bay. 

Opposite Matilda Bay, you’ll find the University of Western Australia’s verdant campus - a lovely green space suitable for a stroll (see if you can spot the peacocks near the Arts Faculty buildings).

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The Low Down

WATER RECREATION

✓Swim
✓Paddle in shallows
✓Sand play
✓Stand up paddle board
✓Canoe/Kayak
✓Fish
✓Boat

AMENITIES

✓BBQs
✓Bike/walk paths
✓Pram/wheelchair paths
✓Coffee shop
✓Toilets
✓Seating
✓Shade 

SUITABLE FOR

✓All ages
✓Pets allowed (on lead)/pets not allowed