South Perth Foreshore: Best 15 Things To Do & Restaurants
Looking for things to do on the South Perth Foreshore or want to try a new restaurant? As Perth locals, we spend a lot of time in this part of Perth, so let’s show you what there is to do and where to eat.
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South Perth Foreshore Summary
Top 15 Things To Do along the South Perth Foreshore
1. Take a walk along the river 🚶♂️
A walk along the South Perth Foreshore is a great way to experience stunning views of the city across the Swan River, as well as explore some of the area’s best attractions. The foreshore is home to the Sir James Mitchell Park, a great spot for families with children’s playgrounds and barbecue areas.
2. Visit the Perth Zoo 🐘
Perth Zoo has over 1,400 animals from various species, including native Australian wildlife and exotic creatures from around the world. Visitors can learn about wildlife conservation efforts, watch the playful antics of the orangutans, see the majestic grace of the giraffes, and listen to educational talks providing insights into the lives of these fascinating creatures and the importance of preserving their natural environments.
3. Have a picnic in Sir James Mitchell Park 🧺
Sir James Mitchell Park is a great spot for a picnic on the South Perth Foreshore. The park has kids’ playgrounds, picnic tables, barbecues, toilets, cafes, and outdoor exercise equipment, all with beautiful views of the Perth city skyline and the Swan River.
4. Enjoy a walk along the South Perth Esplanade 🚶♂️
Walking or running along the South Perth Foreshore offers stunning views of Perth city across the Swan River, and has a designated running and cycling track along the river.
5. Take a ride on the ferry ⛴️
Taking a ferry ride to or from the South Perth Foreshore is a cheap way to see Perth city from a different perspective – the views of the Swan River and the city skyline are stunning.
6. Enjoy a meal or coffee in a restaurant ☕️
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot, a café with outdoor seating, or a restaurant with a scenic view, there are plenty of options to choose from.
For a casual dining experience, try the Windsor Hotel, Mister Walker, or Gusto Food. If you’re looking for something more upscale, you can try The Boatshed.
If you enjoy dumplings, book a table at Miss Chow’s on Mends Street.
7. Visit the Old Mill
The historic Old Mill was built in 1835 and is one of the oldest remaining buildings in Perth, serving as a testament to the area’s early industrial heritage. The mill, with its distinct Dutch-influenced architecture, once played a vital role in the milling of flour, serving the burgeoning colony’s growing population.
Today, the Old Mill stands gracefully restored and preserved, offering visitors an opportunity to step back in time. As you explore its interior, you’ll find captivating displays and exhibits detailing the mill’s history and the pioneering days of the region.
Guided tours available for A$2.
School Holidays
Tuesday to Friday: 10 am to 4 pm, Saturday and Sunday: 1pm to 4 pm
School Terms
Thursday and Friday: 10 am to 4 pm, Saturday and Sunday: 1pm to 4 pm
8. Hire a Catamaran from Funcats ⛵️
Reopens in September 2023!
Hiring a catamaran from Fun Cats promises a fun and memorable aquatic adventure. Funcats is a reputable and established catamaran rental company, offering a fleet of modern and well-maintained catamarans to explore the picturesque waters of the Swan River.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time adventurer, their friendly and knowledgeable staff will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
It’s one of our favourite family activities along the Swan River.
9. Enjoy the sunsets 🌇
Visitors can enjoy the beautiful sunsets at South Perth Foreshore by taking a stroll along the foreshore, having a picnic, or dining at one of the restaurants that line the esplanade.
10. South Perth Streats 🌮
From about mid November to mid April, some of Perth’s best Food Trucks gather at Sir James Mitchell Park.
Check the South Perth Streats Facebook Page to find out the dates for the 23/24 season.
11. Fishing 🐟
During summer, try catching bream by the bridges at the Causeway and the Narrows.
12. Breakfast in Mends Street 🥞
Mends Street has a village feel with cafes and bakeries lining the road. It’s popular with locals relaxing over coffee or breakfast.
13. Visit the Angelo Street Shops 🛍️
Explore the shops and boutiques on Angelo Street, then stop for a drink at one of the trendy cafes or bars.
14. Cycle the Bridges 🚵♀️
The 10 km Perth bridges loop is a great family cycle as the path is flat and there’s plenty of stops to make on the ride. Stop at playgrounds, head onto Heirisson Island, grab an ice cream in Elizabeth Quay, and find the hidden waterfall in John Oldham Park.
15. Explore Mindeerup 🎨
The name “Mindeerup” translates to “place of the shore” in the Noongar Aboriginal language, reflecting its deep connection to the land’s indigenous heritage. This vibrant precinct serves as a hub for cultural events, art exhibitions, and community gatherings. It features beautifully landscaped gardens, public artworks, and recreational spaces, creating a welcoming environment for residents and visitors.
With its stunning riverside location and emphasis on inclusivity, Mindeerup stands as a testament to the importance of preserving and celebrating indigenous culture in contemporary Australian society.
Where is the South Perth Foreshore?
South Perth is situated directly across the Swan River from the Perth CBD, the state’s capital city.
The South Perth Foreshore is an extensive public open space that occupies 62 hectares of Swan River foreshore land, stretching from the Narrows Bridge to Ellam Street in the east.
How to Get to South Perth Foreshore
To get to the South Perth Foreshore, you can use various transportation depending on your starting point:
- Car: There are parking areas available near the foreshore, but during peak times, parking might be limited. Fees are payable at most car parks.
- Public Transport: From Elizabeth Quay in the city, you can take the ferry to Mends Street Jetty, South Perth Foreshore. There are also several bus routes that run to South Perth.
- Bike/Walking: If you’re in the CBD or nearby areas, you can walk or cycle to the South Perth Foreshore. There are dedicated paths and pedestrian bridges connecting the CBD and South Perth, making it a pleasant and scenic journey.
- Uber/Taxi: Using a rideshare service or traditional taxi is another option for getting to the foreshore, especially if you prefer not to use public transport.
Best times of year to visit the South Perth Foreshore
The best time to visit South Perth is during the Australian spring and autumn seasons, which fall between September to November and March to May, respectively. During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The comfortable weather allows for enjoyable outdoor activities, such as walking or cycling along the South Perth Foreshore, picnicking in the parks, or exploring the Mends Street precinct.
Summer (December to February) can be hot with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). If you can handle the heat, summer can still be a good time to visit if you plan to spend time in the shade or on the river.
Who is South Perth for?
South Perth appeals to families, with family-friendly amenities like parks and recreational spaces. Nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers enjoy exploring the South Perth Foreshore and the various green spaces it offers.
Pros & Cons of Visiting South Perth
✅ Pros
- Scenic Views: South Perth has stunning views of the Perth city skyline and the Swan River, creating picturesque backdrops for leisurely walks and relaxation.
- Outdoor Activities: The suburb has numerous parks and recreational spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as picnics, jogging, and cycling.
- South Perth Foreshore: The South Perth Foreshore is a popular spot for enjoying the riverfront, with opportunities for fishing, bird-watching, and water sports.
- Mends Street Precinct: The Mends Street precinct features trendy cafes, restaurants, and shopping options, making it an excellent place for socialising and dining.
- Cultural Significance: South Perth’s Mindeerup precinct celebrates indigenous heritage, providing a chance to learn about the region’s rich cultural history.
- Proximity to Perth CBD: South Perth is just minutes away from the Perth city center, making it convenient for accessing city amenities and attractions.
⛔️ Cons
- Summer Heat: The summer months can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), which may not be ideal for everyone.
- Limited Nightlife: South Perth is generally a quieter suburb, and those seeking vibrant nightlife may need to venture to the Perth CBD.
- Parking: Parking can be limited, especially during busy times, so it’s advisable to plan ahead or consider using public transportation.
What To Bring
When visiting South Perth, be prepared for a range of activities and weather conditions. Here’s a list of items you should consider bringing:
- Sunscreen and Hat: South Perth can experience hot and sunny weather, especially during the summer months. Protect yourself from the sun’s rays with sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially if you plan on spending time outdoors or walking along the foreshore.
- Comfortable Shoes: Bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the various parks and attractions in the area.
- Camera: South Perth offers stunning views, so don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the picturesque landscapes.
- Picnic Supplies: If you plan on having a picnic in one of the parks or at the foreshore, bring a picnic blanket, food, and drinks.
- Insect Repellent: Depending on the season, there may be insects around the parks and river, so it’s wise to have insect repellent handy.
- Umbrella or Rain Jacket: Be prepared for the possibility of rain, especially during the winter months or sudden showers.
- Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers to accommodate potential temperature changes throughout the day.
- Reusable Shopping Bag: If you plan to visit the Mends Street precinct or local markets, bringing a reusable shopping bag is environmentally friendly.
- Public Transport Card or Change: If you plan on using public transportation, have a loaded public transport card (e.g., SmartRider) or spare change for bus or ferry fares.
- Mobile Phone and Map: Keep your mobile phone charged and have a map or GPS app to navigate around the area.
History of South Perth
- Pre-1829: The area around South Perth was inhabited by the Noongar Aboriginal people for thousands of years, who had a deep cultural connection to the land along the Swan River.
- 1833: William Shenton was granted land in the area and built the mill in 1835.
- 1840s: The construction of the first bridge, known as the Causeway, provided a direct link between South Perth and Perth city.
- 1890s: The iconic Mends Street Jetty was built, enhancing trade and transport across the Swan River.
- Early 20th century: South Perth experienced rapid growth and development, transitioning from a rural outpost to a residential suburb.
- 1950s: The construction of the Narrows Bridge improved transportation and accessibility between South Perth and the city of Perth.
- Late 20th century: South Perth continued to develop and diversify, with an increasing number of amenities and recreational spaces.
Nearby Attractions
South Perth’s proximity to the Perth city centre and its picturesque location along the Swan River means there are plenty of nearby attractions to explore. Here are some popular nearby attractions to South Perth.
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Just across the river from South Perth, Kings Park is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, extensive botanic gardens, walking trails, playgrounds, and cultural landmarks like the State War Memorial.
Elizabeth Quay
A short ferry ride or drive across the river will take you to Elizabeth Quay, a vibrant waterfront precinct in the heart of Perth. Here, you can enjoy dining options, public art installations, family-friendly activities, and beautiful views of the Swan River.
Perth City
South Perth is conveniently close to the central business district, where you can find a variety of shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
Crown Perth
Located on the Burswood Peninsula, Crown Perth is a resort and casino complex offering a range of dining options, entertainment, and gaming facilities.
Heirisson Island
This island, situated between South Perth and East Perth, is a wildlife reserve with kangaroos and an excellent place for a peaceful walk or picnic.
We hope you found this guide on South Perth Foreshore helpful. If you want to ask questions, please join our Facebook group.