Get active and enjoy the sparkling waters of Perth's Swan River where you can go sailing and fishing, or just laze beside its wide expanses.

The Swan River is Perth's natural heartbeat - the city's location right on the river banks makes the capital one of the most beautiful in the world. The view of the river and city from Kings Park is among Western Australia's most scenic - city sky scrapers shining against a brilliant blue Perth sky, green parklands and the shimmering blue river combine to create a stunning vista.

There are many opportunities to experience the river. Hire a surf cat, enjoy a river cruise, try your hand at twilight sailing, or go jet skiing. Throw in a fishing line and you're likely to be rewarded with bream, mulloway, tailor and a variety of other fish.

The long sweep of beach at Matilda Bay is popular for family picnics, swimming, sunbaking and boating. Follow the river on its way to Fremantle and you'll pass by some of Perth's most opulent homes. In its upper reaches, the Swan River nurtures the wine growing region of the Swan Valley and the historic town of Guildford.