Hop on the ferry to South Perth for a lazy lunch, or relax on the sweeping beach of Matilda Bay.
Follow the river to Fremantle, and gaze in awe at some of Perth's most opulent riverside residences. Or cruise to the upper reaches to sample the fruits and heritage of Western Australia's oldest wine region - the Swan Valley.
Those in search of water-based thrills - hire a surf cat, try twilight sailing, jump on a jet ski, throw in a fishing line.
In winter, the Swan River is also the setting for the Avon Descent - a gruelling two-day time trial that tests novices and Olympic champions from far and wide. Pitch yourself on the river banks and take in this amazing spectacle.