Discover Matilda Bay Reserve in Perth
Stretching over 1.5 kilometers along the Swan River, Matilda Bay Reserve offers a relaxing green space for people of all ages to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature. This scenic strip, just minutes from central Perth, extends from Mount Bay Road to Pelican Point—an important sanctuary for migratory birds—where visitors can admire the native pelicans, swans, and various other waterbirds.
The calm waters and gentle shorelines make this area ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, particularly during Perth’s warm summer months. With its close proximity to the University of Western Australia (UWA), the reserve is also a popular destination for students, locals, and tourists who enjoy wandering the reserve’s tree-lined paths and picnicing on the expansive grass areas.
The Cultural Significance of Matilda Bay Reserve
Matilda Bay Reserve holds cultural importance as part of the land of the Whadjuk people, who are the traditional custodians of the area. Known as Derbarl Yerrigan by the Whadjuk people, the Swan River has deep cultural and spiritual ties. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate and respect the land’s Indigenous heritage while enjoying the natural beauty of the reserve.
The History of Matilda Bay Reserve
Early Colonial History
Matilda Bay, known initially as Currie's Bay and later as Sutherland's Bay, has a rich history intertwined with the growth of Perth. Captain James Currie, the area’s first colonial landowner, owned a 13-hectare estate surrounding the bay. The estate changed hands in 1832 when it was sold to Henry Charles Sutherland, who renamed the property Crawley Park after his mother’s maiden name.
Eventually, this area came to be called Crawley Bay, before finally adopting the name Matilda Bay, in tribute to Matilda Roe, the wife of prominent surveyor John Septimus Roe. In 1910, the Government acquired the land surrounding Matilda Bay to establish a public recreation area, which UWA purchased in 1914.
Wartime Role and Recreation
During World War II, Matilda Bay played a strategic role as a naval base, with the United States Navy stationing a fleet of Catalina flying boats here. Qantas also operated flights out of Matilda Bay, famously running the “Double Sunrise” service to Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), a vital wartime communication route. Flights on this route lasted up to 30 hours, offering travelers a second sunrise.
In the post-war years, Matilda Bay Reserve was returned to its recreational purpose, with significant enhancements made to the area, including walking paths, picnic spots, and additions like the Royal Perth Yacht Club and UWA Rowing Club. Over the decades, various amenities, including restaurants, cafes, and change rooms, have been introduced, enhancing its recreational appeal.
Things to do at Matilda Bay Reserve
Matilda Bay Reserve provides ample space for outdoor enjoyment and relaxation. Scenic riverside paths are popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists, offering views of the Swan River and Perth’s city skyline. These skyline views also make the reserve a popular spot for photography. It is especially beautiful at sunset when the sky’s golden tones are reflected in the river
Dining Options
Matilda Bay Reserve has several dining spots for every mood:
- Bayside Kitchen: This casual riverside café is perfect for brunch or a quick snack, offering kid-friendly menu options and riverside views.
- Matilda Bay Restaurant: Known for its fine dining, Matilda Bay Restaurant offers a more sophisticated experience with stunning views, perfect for special occasions.
Water-Based Activities
The calm, sheltered waters of the Swan River are ideal for a variety of water activities:
- Swimming and Wading: The gentle shoreline is safe for kids to paddle, making it a popular spot for family fun.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking are popular here, with equipment rentals available nearby. For those who want a splash of adventure, there’s also a jetty for jumping into the river (depth should be checked first).
One of Matilda Bay’s most recognizable landmarks is the bronze statue of “Eliza,” located just offshore near the former site of the Crawley Baths. This quirky statue depicts a woman preparing to dive, symbolizing the area’s connection to water recreation.
Nature and Wildlife
Matilda Bay Reserve is home to a diverse ecosystem:
- Birdwatching at Pelican Point: This area is a habitat for migratory birds and a variety of native water birds like pelicans, swans, and herons.
- Dolphin Spotting: Visitors may spot dolphins frolicking in the river, a unique and memorable experience that showcases the thriving aquatic life of the Swan River.
For more dolphin watching sites in Australia, click here: Cape Solander - Sydney, Australia | CityDays.
Picnics and Play Areas
For family outings, Matilda Bay Reserve provides various spaces to unwind:
- Picnic and BBQ Areas: For those looking to relax, shaded grassy areas and picnic tables are ideal for a peaceful day outdoors. The reserve also features electric BBQs, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a picnic with friends and family.
- Nearby Playground: Just a short drive away, the Jo Wheatley Playground offers an extensive play area that caters to children of all abilities, providing a fun addition for families visiting the reserve.
Conservation Guidelines
To maintain the beauty and ecological health of Matilda Bay Reserve, visitors are encouraged to follow conservation practices:
- Avoid feeding the animals, as this can disrupt their natural diet.
- Dispose of trash properly and refrain from disturbing local flora and fauna.
- Follow posted signs and guidelines to preserve the park’s ecosystem for future visitors and the local wildlife.
Visiting Matilda Bay Reserve
Facilities and Safety Tips
Entry to the Matilda Bay Reserve is free, but be aware that parking along Hackett Drive is paid and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Public restrooms, picnic areas, and BBQs are available throughout the reserve. For accessible parking, there are designated bays along Hackett Drive and near popular spots within the reserve. Visitors will find pathways suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, though not all grassed picnic areas are directly linked by paved paths.
With regards to safety, swimmers should be cautious of uneven riverbeds and potential underwater hazards like rocks and branches. Always check water depth before jumping, as water clarity can sometimes be deceptive. For more detailed safety guidelines, visit the Explore Parks WA website.
Events and Functions
With stunning river views and a beautiful natural backdrop, Matilda Bay Reserve is a popular choice for hosting social gatherings, weddings, and corporate events. The Parks and Wildlife Service offers booking options for various types of functions, with fees based on the number of attendees and additional structures required. A damage bond is required for larger events, ensuring the site remains in good condition for all visitors.
Explore Beyond Matilda Bay Reserve with CityDays
If you’re looking to extend your adventure beyond Matilda Bay Reserve CityDays offers scavenger hunts and treasure hunt tours across the city designed for team-building and fun exploration.
These tours provide an exciting way to uncover hidden gems, historic sites, and cultural landmarks, combining trivia and interactive challenges to create an unforgettable adventure.
CityDays can turn any city into a playground for discovery and team-building fun. Why not join us?
Not visiting Perth this time? Don’t worry, you’ll find us all over the world.
