Elizabeth Quay is Perth’s vibrant waterfront heart and one of the city’s must-visit destinations for travellers. Set right on the edge of the Swan River in the CBD, it brings together beautiful promenades, striking public art, riverside dining, ferry terminals, and open event spaces in one easy, walkable precinct. With sweeping views across the water to the Perth skyline, it’s the perfect place to relax, explore, take photos, enjoy a meal, catch a river cruise, or experience a local event.
Whether you’re visiting Perth for the first time or returning to see more, Elizabeth Quay offers a lively, scenic introduction to the city and is an ideal starting point for any Perth adventure.
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Getting to Elizabeth Quay
Elizabeth Quay is one of the easiest places in Perth to reach.
- By train: Elizabeth Quay Station is directly underneath the precinct.
- By bus: Multiple CBD bus routes stop within a short walk. You can use the Green CAT (linking to Leederville) or the Purple CAT (going to UWA/QEII), to get to Elizabeth Quay.
- By ferry: There are regular ferry services operate to South Perth and Fremantle.
- By foot or bike: Easily accessible from Perth CBD, Kings Park, and riverside paths.
- By car: Paid parking available in nearby city car parks. The main Elizabeth Quay Car Park, is located directly beneath the precinct too.
Where to Eat & Drink at Elizabeth Quay
Elizabeth Quay is one of the best places in Perth to dine with a view. The precinct is home to a growing collection of waterfront cafés, bars, and restaurants. Here are the best ones.
An Aussie Pub, The Lucky Shag – A popular waterfront pub with great views across the Swan River, relaxed vibes, and classic pub meals — ideal for lunch, an afternoon drink, or dinner after exploring Elizabeth Quay.
- Where: Barrack Square, Perth WA 6000, Australia
To cover the family options and more or a Casual Restaurant, The Island at Elizabeth Quay is a lively brewpub and restaurant right on the water, known for casual dining, craft beers, pizzas, and relaxed waterfront atmosphere perfect for visitors.
- Where: 1 Valdura Pl, Perth WA 6000, Australia
The best Takeaway restaurant is the Milky Lane Elizabeth Quay. A fun, laid-back spot serving creative burgers, desserts, and cocktails with outdoor seating overlooking the river — great for a quick, tasty meal while sightseeing.
- Where: 1 Barrack Square, Perth WA 6000, Australia
When your after some Fine Dining, look to the Balthazar, which is refined restaurant with an excellent reputation for quality dishes and a thoughtful wine list, perfect for a memorable lunch or dinner close to Elizabeth Quay.
Everyone loves a good Coffee Shop or Cafe, the Reveleys Cafe, comes highly rated café right in the precinct serving great coffee, breakfast, and brunch — ideal for kick-starting your day of exploring Elizabeth Quay or relaxing by the river.
- Where: 28 The Esplanade, Perth WA 6000, Australia
Tours & Experiences at Elizabeth Quay
Throughout the year, Elizabeth Quay hosts a wide range of cultural festivals, live music and pop-up performances, seasonal markets, outdoor cinema nights, and family-friendly events, with many of Perth’s major riverfront celebrations centred here—making it an especially lively place to visit on weekends and during the summer months.
Find out more about Elizabeth Quay’s Go Cultural Aboriginal Tours & Experiences (here)
Elizabeth Quay Bridge – A striking pedestrian bridge looping over the inlet, offering some of the best photo spots and skyline views in Perth.
The Spanda Sculpture – A large, suspended public artwork floating over the water, symbolising connection and movement.
Bessie the Water Dragon – A popular interactive sculpture near the inlet that sprays water and is especially loved by families and kids.
The Swan River Promenade – Waterfront walkways lined with palm trees, seating areas, and uninterrupted river and city views.
Best Places to Stay Near Elizabeth Quay
The Ritz-Carlton
If you’re looking for luxury and unforgettable views, the The Ritz-Carlton is one of Perth’s most prestigious stays. With elegant rooms, world-class service, and a rooftop bar overlooking Elizabeth Quay and the Swan River, it’s perfect for special occasions, couples, and visitors who want to make their trip extra memorable.
DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront
DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront is a fantastic choice right on the waterfront and just steps from Elizabeth Quay’s ferries, restaurants, and promenades. Guests enjoy comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool and bar, and the convenience of exploring Perth by foot, ferry, or public transport. It’s a great option for both short stays and longer holidays.
Quay Hotel Perth
Quay Hotel Perth is a very stylish and slightly more budget-friendly boutique hotel with a fantastic location overlooking the Esplanade and you couldn’t get closer to all the action at Elizabeth Quay. With a relaxed vibe, rooftop bar, and easy access to Perth’s CBD and riverfront attractions, it’s ideal for travellers who want convenience and atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit Elizabeth Quay
- Late afternoon to sunset – Is the most popular time, with the sun setting, beautiful light, cooler temperatures, and spectacular skyline reflections.
- Evenings – A great option for dinner, drinks, and night photography when the precinct lights up.
- Mornings – For a time that is quieter, perfect for walks, coffee, and river views.
- Summer months (November to March) – Peak season for events, festivals, and outdoor dining.
- Weekends – Socially, this is the more livelier atmosphere with performances, markets, and families enjoying the space.
Plan Your Visit to Elizabeth Quay
My No 1 Top Tip – Make sure you do, as Elizabeth Quay, regularly hosts festivals, markets, cultural events, and pop-up experiences and you want to otherwise travel too attend or avoid, if not wanting to experience long delays and large crowds.
My No 2 Top Tip – When travelling, build a full Perth experience around one location. Elizabeth Quay connects easily to Perth CBD shopping, Kings Park overlooks, riverside walking trails, and major attractions. With a simple plan, you can turn a short visit into a half-day or full-day experience instead of missing what’s nearby and see so much more.
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