Matilda Bay Reserve - Coastal landscape with salt-tolerant plants and calm water
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Matilda Bay Reserve

4.6
·491k reviews·Crawley, Australia

A serene riverside haven perfect for family picnics, swimming, and water sports with stunning views of the Swan River.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Peaceful atmosphere, great light

CrowdLow
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Matilda Bay Reserve - Coastal landscape with salt-tolerant plants and calm water

Matilda Bay Reserve

Best Time

Morning

Peaceful atmosphere, great light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene riverside haven perfect for family picnics, swimming, and water sports with stunning views of the Swan River.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Matilda Bay Reserve is one of the best toddler friendly spots in Perth!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring a Picnic Blanket

While picnic tables are available, a rug offers more flexibility for lounging in shady spots . :blanket:

Check River Water Quality

River water can sometimes have a 'stink' after rain, so a quick shower post-swim is recommended . :shower:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tranquil Riverfront

Tranquil Riverfront

Matilda Bay Reserve

Enjoy serene views of the Swan River, perfect for morning strolls or a peaceful afternoon picnic.

Toddler-Friendly Waters

Toddler-Friendly Waters

Matilda Bay Reserve

Calm, shallow waters make it an ideal spot for young children to play and swim safely.

Water Sports Hub

Water Sports Hub

Matilda Bay Reserve

Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming are popular activities in the sheltered bay.

Picnic Paradise

Picnic Paradise

Matilda Bay Reserve

Shaded areas, BBQ facilities, and picnic tables make it a prime spot for family gatherings.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Calm Waters

Matilda Bay Reserve offers calm, sheltered waters perfect for swimming and water sports, making it a top toddler-friendly spot in Perth. While generally safe, be mindful of potential river stink after heavy rain.Reddit

Plan Your Picnic Perfect

This reserve is ideal for picnics with plenty of shady spots and BBQ facilities. Bring a rug for extra comfort, and consider booking a site if you're planning a larger gathering.Instagram

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Peaceful atmosphere, great light
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Warm waters for swimming
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Family gatherings and picnics
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Favourite morning spot, the viewwww🏝️✨⛴️ #perthisok #perthlife #australia🇦🇺 #westernaustralia #thingstodoinperth #FoodTok
@roisin.mcardle
17.8K likes • 350.2K views

Bring a Picnic Blanket

While picnic tables are available, a rug offers more flexibility for lounging in shady spots.Instagram :blanket:

Check River Water Quality

River water can sometimes have a 'stink' after rain, so a quick shower post-swim is recommended.Reddit :shower:

Have you tried our infamous Matilda Cake with a view of Edinburgh yet? 📍 St James Quarter, Level 3 ⏰ Daily from 10 am - 11 pm 📞 Call us: 0131 573 7606 🌐 Reserve your table: [Book Here](https://hautedolci.co.uk/reservations/edinburgh/) #HauteDolci #HauteDolciEdinburgh #HDScotland #Brunch #BrunchEdinburgh #BrunchFood #dessert #Desserts #EdinburghDessert #EdinburghCafe
@hautedolciedinburgh
2.5K likes • 79.5K views
Matilda Bay is NOT the place for a commercial ferry port. This is a quiet reserve where family go to picnic, kids go to swim and students go to relax. As well as the water activities and private moorings in the bay. #Perth needs to speak up against this invasion #noferry #savematildabay wagovernment @rita_saffioti @transperth_wa @uwastudents @perthisok @perthnow
realnameisjohnny
9 likes • 1.5K views

Ideal for Families

Calm, shallow waters and shady spots make it perfect for toddlers and young children.Instagram :child:

Water Sports Galore

Great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming due to sheltered conditions.Instagram :kayak:

🌊 Matilda Bay Reserve | Swan River Matilda Bay Reserve is one of the best toddler friendly spots in Perth! With calm, flat waters, plenty of sand to play in, shady areas, BBQs and coffee on hand, it’s got everything you need for a beautiful family outing. HIGHLIGHTS: 🌳 Shady spots under trees 🧺 Picnic tables throughout the reserve but bring your rug just in case 🏖️ Perfect spot for building san...
perthlocalite
90 likes • 15.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring a Picnic Blanket

While picnic tables are available, a rug offers more flexibility for lounging in shady spots.Instagram :blanket:

Check River Water Quality

River water can sometimes have a 'stink' after rain, so a quick shower post-swim is recommended.Reddit :shower:

Ideal for Families

Calm, shallow waters and shady spots make it perfect for toddlers and young children.Instagram :child:

Water Sports Galore

Great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming due to sheltered conditions.Instagram :kayak:

Morning Views

Enjoy the beautiful sunrise and serene atmosphere for a peaceful start to your day.TikTok :sunrise:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Matilda Bay Reserve is widely praised as a beautiful, family-friendly spot with calm waters perfect for swimming and water sports. Visitors love the serene river views, ample picnic facilities, and shady trees, making it ideal for relaxed outings. Some occasional feedback mentions a slight river odor after rain, but overall, it's a highly recommended natural escape.

What People Like

Calm, shallow waters
Beautiful river views
Excellent picnic facilities

What People Dislike

Occasional river odor

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Matilda Bay Reserve is easily accessible by car, located just south of Kings Park in Crawley. Public transport options are also available, with bus routes serving the nearby areas. Parking is available within the reserve, but can fill up quickly on busy days.Instagram

Yes, there is parking available within Matilda Bay Reserve. However, it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during school holidays, as spots can be limited.Instagram

Absolutely! Matilda Bay Reserve is part of a scenic cycling route along the Swan River. You can enjoy a leisurely ride and stop to relax by the water.Instagram

Yes, several bus routes service the areas around Matilda Bay Reserve. Check with Transperth for the most up-to-date schedules and routes that get you closest to the reserve.Instagram

Many visitors enjoy a run or walk around Matilda Bay Reserve and the adjacent Perth City, with a popular 15km route available.Instagram It's also a great starting point for exploring the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River).Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Matilda Bay Reserve is a public park and does not have an entry fee. You can enjoy the natural beauty and facilities free of charge.Instagram

Matilda Bay Reserve is generally open from dawn till dusk, offering ample time to enjoy its amenities. Specific site hire facilities may have different operating hours.Instagram

While many picnic spots are first-come, first-served, it's wise to book specific sites if you're planning a large event or gathering, especially during peak seasons.Instagram

As a public reserve, general rules apply to ensure everyone's enjoyment and safety. Be mindful of noise levels and ensure you clean up after yourself. There have been discussions against commercial ferry port developments.Instagram

Yes, there are facilities available for hire at Matilda Bay Reserve, suitable for events and gatherings. It's recommended to check with the relevant authorities for booking and availability.Instagram

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

The waters at Matilda Bay Reserve are generally calm and shallow, making them safe for swimming, especially for families with young children.Instagram However, it's always good practice to be aware of your surroundings and any potential river conditions.Reddit

Matilda Bay Reserve is excellent for a variety of water activities, including swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, thanks to its sheltered bay.Instagram

Yes, Matilda Bay Reserve offers BBQ facilities, making it a popular spot for picnics and outdoor gatherings. Remember to bring your own cooking essentials.Instagram

You can often spot various bird species around the reserve and the Swan River. Keep an eye out for local birdlife as you explore the area.

While specific dog regulations can vary, it's generally a pleasant place for a walk. Always check local signage for leash requirements and designated off-leash areas.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Matilda Bay Restaurant is located within the reserve, offering dining with a view.TikTok There are also cafes nearby, and the reserve itself is perfect for BYO picnics.Instagram

Absolutely! Matilda Bay Reserve is a prime picnic destination with numerous shady spots, picnic tables, and BBQ facilities, making it ideal for a relaxed meal outdoors.Instagram

Besides Matilda Bay Restaurant, the surrounding Crawley and South Perth areas offer a variety of cafes and eateries to explore for different tastes and budgets.TikTok

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, especially for picnics. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery without needing to dine out.Instagram

While not a permanent fixture, food trucks occasionally visit popular public spaces in Perth. It's worth checking local event listings or social media for any temporary food vendors.

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfront offers stunning views of the Swan River and the Perth skyline, especially during sunrise and sunset.TikTok The mature trees provide beautiful natural framing for your shots.Instagram

Yes, the eastern-facing aspect of the reserve makes it an excellent location for capturing beautiful sunrise shots over the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River).TikTok

Landscape photography, family portraits, and capturing water sports action are all popular. The natural beauty provides a versatile backdrop for various photographic styles.Instagram

Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, for commercial photography or drone usage, it's advisable to check with local council regulations.

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shade from trees can help.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Matilda Bay Reserve is a dream destination for families. Its calm, shallow waters are perfect for toddlers and young children to safely paddle and play.Instagram The reserve offers plenty of shady spots under trees, picnic tables, and BBQ facilities, making it easy to spend a whole day here with the little ones. Pack a picnic, bring some beach toys, and enjoy a stress-free outing where the kids can have a blast in a secure environment.Instagram

Beyond the water, the open grassy areas are great for running around. You'll often find families enjoying casual games or simply relaxing. The accessibility and natural beauty make it a go-to spot for a relaxed family day out, far removed from the hustle and bustle of busier beaches.

🏃‍♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts

For those who love to stay active, Matilda Bay Reserve offers a picturesque setting. The flat, scenic paths along the Swan River are ideal for running and cycling. A popular 15km circuit takes you around the reserve and into Perth City, allowing you to combine your workout with stunning views.Instagram

It's also a fantastic spot for open-water swimming training or practicing your stand-up paddleboarding skills in a protected environment.Instagram The consistent conditions make it a reliable place to get your exercise in while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.

📸 Photographers

Matilda Bay Reserve is a photographer's delight, offering a range of scenic opportunities. The waterfront views provide stunning backdrops, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.TikTok Capture the serene Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River) with the Perth skyline in the distance, or focus on the natural beauty of the park's trees and birdlife.Instagram

It's an excellent location for landscape photography, capturing the interplay of light on the water. Family portraits and candid shots of people enjoying the reserve also work beautifully here. The calm waters can offer lovely reflections, adding an extra layer of visual interest to your images.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Matilda Bay Reserve: A Local's Guide

Matilda Bay Reserve, nestled along the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River) just south of Kings Park, is a cherished local gem. It's renowned for its calm, sheltered waters, making it a prime spot for families with young children and anyone looking for a peaceful dip away from the ocean waves.Instagram The reserve boasts ample shady spots under mature trees, numerous picnic tables, and BBQ facilities, creating an inviting atmosphere for leisurely afternoons.Instagram

Beyond picnicking and swimming, the bay is a hub for recreational water activities. Visitors frequently enjoy kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, taking advantage of the protected environment.Instagram For fitness enthusiasts, the scenic paths around the reserve offer a beautiful backdrop for running and cycling, with popular routes extending towards Perth City.Instagram It's a place where nature, recreation, and community converge, offering a serene escape within the city.

Community discussions highlight the reserve's appeal for its tranquility and family-friendly nature. While generally a positive experience, some mention that river water can sometimes carry a distinct smell after rainfall, suggesting a quick shower post-swim is a good idea.Reddit There's also a strong community sentiment to protect the reserve from commercial developments, emphasizing its value as a natural sanctuary.Instagram

Water Activities and Safety at Matilda Bay

The calm and shallow waters of Matilda Bay Reserve make it an exceptionally safe and enjoyable location for a variety of water-based activities. It's particularly lauded as a toddler-friendly spot,Instagram where little ones can splash and play without the concern of strong waves or deep drops. The presence of a pontoon further enhances access to the water for swimmers and paddlers.Instagram

Popular activities include swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.Instagram The sheltered nature of the bay provides a consistent environment for these pursuits, appealing to both beginners and experienced individuals. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to engage in these activities close to the city, offering a convenient escape into nature.

While generally safe, it's always prudent to be aware of local conditions. As noted in community forums, river water can sometimes have an odor, particularly after periods of rain.Reddit It's also advisable to stay hydrated and use sun protection, especially during warmer months. The reserve is a beloved spot for its accessible and enjoyable water experiences.

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