Party Hero

Water Sports Perth

Paddling, Surfing and Jet Skis for Groups

Weigh up your options for water sports, then enquire – free.

Category: Water SportsLocation: PerthListings: 6

Compare Perth Water Sports Operators

Highly rated water sports in Perth

Top picks are the highest-rated activities of each type that publish a starting price.

Next in line: more highly rated activities

The next highest-rated activities that publish a starting price, with group size and cost side by side.

Scarborough Beach Surf School
5.0(532)
Type:Water SportsArea:ScarboroughGroup size:Up to 8Price:From $60pp
Ultimate Watersports South Perth
4.9(338)
Type:Water SportsArea:South PerthPrice:From $50pp
Mandurah Boat Hire
4.7(574)
Type:Water SportsArea:MandurahPrice:From $148.50
Funcats Watersports
4.7(210)
Type:Water SportsArea:South PerthPrice:From $27.50pp

Easier on the budget

Lowest per-person prices

Choosing a Day Out on the Water

Water sports around Perth split three ways: the sheltered Swan River at South Perth, the open surf at Scarborough, and the bays and waterways of the Southern Coast around Rockingham, Baldivis and Mandurah. Which one suits a group depends less on the activity than on how confident everyone is in the water.

Roughly how the choices line up:

  • South Perth riverfront: catamaran sailing, paddle boarding and kayaking from $27.50 per person, plus jet ski hire, tubing and wakeboarding from $50 per person.
  • Scarborough: small-group surf lessons with boards and wetsuits supplied, from $60 per person, for groups of up to eight.
  • Rockingham: guided jet ski tours across Cockburn Sound, a step up for groups who want speed and open water.
  • Baldivis: a lifeguard-patrolled inflatable obstacle park that handles big groups as well as kids' parties.
  • Mandurah: pontoon and boat hire on the canals and estuary, from $148.50 per group rather than per head.

The sea breeze is the thing to plan around. On most summer days it builds through the afternoon, so morning slots on the river and the ocean tend to run more smoothly. For a skippered outing rather than an active one, look at boat charters.

Perth Water Sports
Read more

Choosing the right water

  • Nervous swimmers and mixed groups are usually happier on the river or at the aqua park, where conditions are calmer and staff are close by.
  • Groups after a challenge can try a jet ski tour on Cockburn Sound or a surf lesson, where swell and waves are part of the fun.
  • A pontoon on the Mandurah waterways suits a relaxed birthday or work outing where people would rather cruise than get wet.
  • If kids or non-swimmers are coming, check age and swimming requirements before you pay a deposit.

Season and wind

  • Summer and the school holidays are the busiest time on the water, so book weekend slots early.
  • The cooler, wetter months from about May to September are quieter; ask whether wetsuits are supplied and which sessions still run.
  • Ask each operator how they decide to cancel or move a session when the wind picks up, and whether you get a credit or a refund.

Sorting out the details

  • Confirm whether a quote covers each person, a whole boat or a set group size.
  • Ask what is included: life jackets, boards, wetsuits, a guide or an instructor.
  • Bring shade, water and sunscreen for anyone waiting on the shore in the heat.
  • Line up lunch at a riverside or beach venue so the group has somewhere to dry off and regroup.

Common Questions Before You Paddle Out

Where are the calmest places for water sports near Perth?

The Swan River and the Mandurah waterways are sheltered compared with the open ocean, which makes them easier for beginners. Wind still matters on both, so check the forecast and ask the operator about their weather call.

How much is jet ski hire or paddling in South Perth?

Sailing, paddle boarding and kayaking start at $27.50 per person, and jet ski hire, tubing and wakeboarding start at $50 per person. Guided tours and longer hire cost more.

Can a group of friends learn to surf at Scarborough?

Yes. Surf lessons run in small classes or as a private group session, with boards and wetsuits supplied, from $60 per person. Groups are kept to eight or fewer.

Is there a water activity south of Perth that works for a kids' party?

The inflatable aqua park in Baldivis offers kids' party packages and lifeguard-patrolled sessions, and it can also take a large group on private hire.

What time of day suits a Perth water sports booking in summer?

Mornings are the safer choice. The afternoon sea breeze usually strengthens through summer and can make the river choppy and the ocean harder going.

What happens to a water booking if the weather is poor?

Each operator sets its own policy, so ask before you pay. Most will move or cancel a session in strong wind, and it is worth knowing whether you get a refund or a new date.

Occasions perfect for water sports

More Activity categories