Perth is a fantastic place for canoe and kayak experiences thanks to its diverse waterways, abundant wildlife, and stunning coastal scenery. Whether paddling on calm rivers, exploring marine parks filled with sea lions and penguins, or enjoying wine and dine excursions on the Swan River, there’s something for every type of paddler. We particularly love the Penguin and Seal Islands Sea Kayaking Experience for its wildlife encounters and the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park tours for their breathtaking island scenery. These trips not only get you close to native animals but also offer a chance to escape the city and learn about nature. With options suitable for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike, Perth’s kayaking scene is both accessible and memorable.
Quick Overview
This list features a mix of full-day adventures, scenic river trips, wildlife encounters, and even wine-tasting paddles. For marine wildlife lovers, the Penguin and Seal Islands Sea Kayaking Experience and the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park tours stand out. For those wanting a more relaxed or social outing, options like the Mandoon Winery and Kayak Tour or the Swan River wine and dine experiences combine paddling with local food and drink. And if you’re new to paddling, the Stand Up Paddle Boarding lessons and hire options provide friendly introductions. Read on for full details.
1. Penguin and Seal Islands Sea Kayaking Experience
At number 1, this trip is a standout for wildlife lovers. Starting right from the mainland, you’ll paddle over to Penguin Island and Seal Island, avoiding the ferry and getting a more direct, active experience. The tour lasts about 6 hours, includes a guided walk, and a picnic lunch, with snorkeling available in summer over sheltered coral reefs.
What makes this tour special? The close-up wildlife encounters with Australian sea lions and little penguins, combined with the chance to paddle through secluded bays, are memorable. The guide’s expertise makes it suitable for beginners to experts, and reviews highlight Jimmy’s enthusiasm and safety-first approach. The tours are highly rated, with a perfect 5-star score based on 122 reviews.
Bottom line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager for a hands-on experience with nature, and best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity.
2. Seal Island and Penguin Island or Point Peron Sea Kayak Tour
Number 2 on our list offers a full-day guided kayak adventure, exploring Shoalwater Bay, Seal Island, and Penguin Island. You’ll paddle a double kayak across scenic waters, spotting dolphins, Australian sea lions, penguins, and sea birds. The trip includes a picnic lunch and time for swimming, snorkeling, or hiking before heading back.
What makes this tour stand out? The length and comprehensive wildlife sightings provide excellent value. Small groups ensure personalized attention, and a biologist on staff adds depth to your wildlife observations. Guests praise the smooth organization and the opportunity to see multiple species in one day.
Bottom line: Ideal for families or anyone wanting a well-rounded, wildlife-focused day out, with plenty of time to relax and explore.
3. Mandoon Winery and Kayak Tour with wine tasting
At number 3, this 3-hour tour combines paddling on the Swan River with a visit to Mandoon Estate Winery. Launching from Mandoon’s private jetty, you drift leisurely along the river, taking in the flora and fauna. After paddling, you’ll arrive at Woodbridge Park for a wine tasting and enjoy local produce.
What makes this tour unique? It’s a relaxing blend of nature and wine, with informative commentary from your guide. The easy pace and serene scenery make it suitable for all skill levels, especially those looking for a leisurely experience. Reviewers love the informal vibe and lovely views.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a gentle paddle combined with wine, perfect for a laid-back afternoon that combines activity and indulgence.
4. Stand Up Paddle Boarding – 2 Person Lesson
Number 4 offers a one-hour lesson on stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the Swan River. Limited to two participants, the lesson includes all equipment and a quick briefing. Gordon, the instructor, ensures safety while helping you develop your SUP skills.
What makes this experience stand out? The personalized instruction and the chance to explore the river while learning a new skill. It’s perfect for beginners or those wanting a quick, fun activity. Reviewers note Gordon’s great guidance and express excitement for future trips.
Bottom line: Excellent for first-timers or couples looking for a fun, low-pressure experience on calm waters.
5. From Perth: Rockingham Seal & Penguin Islands Sea Kayak Tour
Number 5 is a 6-hour tour by Rivergods, operating since 1993—a name that means experience. This trip paddles around Shoalwater Bay’s islands, home to sea lions, dolphins, and penguins. The tour includes snorkeling gear and a picnic lunch.
What makes this experience compelling? The biologist on staff ensures you gain rich insights about the wildlife while paddling in comfortable tandem kayaks. It’s suited for those wanting a full day immersed in nature without prior paddling experience needed.
Bottom line: Perfect for wildlife fans or those interested in a longer, more immersive day in nature, with expert guidance.
6. Canning River Half-Day Kayak Wildlife Tour
This 3-hour tour offers a gentle paddle along the Canning River, ideal for beginners. You’ll quietly glide through calm waters, surrounded by waterbirds and natural vegetation. Your guides are friendly and experienced, making this a stress-free way to enjoy wildlife.
Why choose this tour? Its focus on birdwatching and tranquil scenery makes it perfect for those seeking peace and close encounters with nature. The small group format adds a personal touch. Reviews highlight how peaceful and enjoyable the experience is.
Bottom line: Best suited for beginners or families wanting a short, natural escape close to Perth.
7. Perth: Shoalwater Islands Marine Park Sea Kayaking Tour
Rated 5/5 from 4 reviews, this 4-hour guided tour takes you through crystal-clear waters on tandem kayaks to Seal and Bird Islands. The trip includes a picnic lunch, and you’ll be looking out for dolphins, sea lions, pelicans, and more.
What makes this tour exceptional? Its local marine knowledge and the chance to spot a variety of wildlife in a short, well-organized trip. The healthy, delicious lunch adds to the experience, making it great for those wanting a half-day adventure.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a quick wildlife fix with a scenic paddle and excellent guides.
8. 4 Hours Swan Valley Kayak, Wine & Dine Experience
Number 8 offers a half-day trip combining kayaking with wine tasting at Mandoon Estate. You’ll paddle on the Swan River, then enjoy tastings of local wines and delicious woodfired pizzas.
What makes this tour special? It’s a combination of activity and culinary delight. The guide provides insightful commentary, and the scenery of vineyards and farmland makes for a relaxing visual backdrop.
Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a more leisurely experience with a focus on food and drink, especially wine lovers.
9. Stand Up Paddle Board Hire
For those wanting to explore independently, this SUP board hire allows you to take control of your own adventure. Included is guided instruction and equipment, with options for non-swimmers thanks to life jackets.
What’s great? The flexibility to paddle at your own pace on the Swan River, and the friendly instruction makes it accessible for all levels. Reviewers mention the calm waters and beautiful scenery making it a perfect casual activity.
Bottom line: Best for confident paddlers or those who want a self-guided experience with support nearby.
10. Perth: Guided Kayak Tour around Canning River Wetlands
This 3-hour tour offers a peaceful paddle through the untouched Canning River wetlands. It’s a chance to see diverse birdlife and learn about the local environment from your guide.
What makes this tour stand out? Its location within Perth itself and the combination of nature and local culture. It’s suited for those wanting relaxing, informative paddling with minimal experience required.
Bottom line: Ideal for urban explorers looking for a nature escape close to the city.
$65 per person
11. Perth: Sunset City Kayak Experience
Rated with no reviews listed, this 4-hour guided paddle along the South Perth shoreline gives you spectacular sunset views over the Swan River and city skyline. It’s a relaxing way to end a day.
Why choose this? The magnetic scenery of Perth at dusk combined with the guided tour makes it a memorable, romantic outing or a peaceful solo paddle.
Bottom line: Perfect for sunset chasers or anyone wanting a scenic, serene paddle at twilight.
$65 per person
12. Perth: Swan River Kayak Tour with Wine & Cheese
This 2-hour tour pairs kayaking with wine and cheese, offering a relaxed way to enjoy Perth’s river scenery. Paddle along the river, then unwind with snacks and drinks while soaking in views of the city skyline.
What makes this special? The combination of gentle paddling and wine tasting creates a perfect social outing, especially for couples or friends.
Bottom line: Suitable for those seeking a short, enjoyable experience with a culinary twist.
$52 per person
13. Perth: Swan River Kayak, Wine & Dine Experience
Offering a 4-hour adventure, this tour includes paddling on the Swan River, a private wine tasting at Mandoon Estate, and woodfired pizzas. It’s a well-rounded experience combining nature, wine, and food.
Why pick this? It’s perfect for foodies who want to combine activity with indulgence. The guide provides paddling tips and the scenery of the lush gardens makes for a memorable setting.
Bottom line: Great for those who want an indulgent, scenic day with a focus on local wines and cuisine.
$109 per person
14. Perth: Swan River Kayaking Tour with Dining and Wine Tasting
Number 14 offers a comprehensive 4-hour experience paddling along the Swan River, followed by private wine tasting and wood-fired pizzas. This tour emphasizes learning paddling techniques while enjoying gourmet food.
What makes this stand out? The combination of guided paddling, the quality of the wine, and the relaxed atmosphere make it a top choice for food and wine lovers who also want to stay active.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers wanting to blend scenic paddling with culinary pleasures in a well-organized tour.
$109 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Paddle
When selecting a canoe or kayak experience in Perth, think about your fitness level, interests, and time available. If wildlife is your priority, the Penguin and Seal Islands experience offers close encounters, while the Shoalwater Islands tours give a comprehensive marine wildlife tour.
For a relaxing day combining food and drink, the Swan River wine and dine or wine and cheese tours are excellent options. If you’re new to paddling or want a more flexible experience, try the SUP hire or beginner lessons.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and tour.
Final Thoughts
Perth offers a rich variety of canoe and kayak adventures designed to suit every paddling interest, from wildlife encounters to scenic river trips with wine tastings. For wildlife lovers, the Penguin and Seal Islands Sea Kayaking Experience and the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park tours are standout options. If you prefer a relaxed experience with great local food and drink, the Swan River wine and dine offers a perfect balance of activity and indulgence.
No matter your skill level or interests, Perth’s waterways promise unforgettable moments on the water—so don’t wait too long to book your favorite experience. The best tours tend to fill up quickly, especially during the warmer months. Pack your sense of adventure and enjoy paddling through one of Australia’s most beautiful coastlines.