Swan Estuary Marine Park

The Swan Estuary Marine Park covers Alfred Cove, 200 hectares adjacent to the suburbs of Attadale and Applecross; Pelican Point, a 45-hectare area in Crawley; and Milyu, 95 hectares adjacent to the Como foreshore.

With lots of feathered friends in all three areas, the birdwatching opportunities are excellent. Check out the observation platform from Pelican Point. There are superb views of the mudflats and birdlife.

Internationally protected waders visit these three areas every summer, coming from as far afield as Asia, Mongolia and Siberia. The birds move between the intertidal flats of the three areas of the marine park according to where feeding and roosting sites are available. Most migratory birds are seen from August to the following March. Pelicans, ibis, egrets and other birds also reside in the estuary. 

Walking and cycling along the scenic riverside are great ways to see the area. Set off on the dual use paths along the river foreshore. If you’re feeling adventurous, launch your windsurf from Pelican Point. You’ll find lots of grassy rigging areas, and showers and toilets too. That’s convenient!

You can fish with a line anywhere in the marine park as long as you comply with rules and regulations such as size and bag limits. Prawning from the shore using drag nets is the most popular form of fishing in the marine park. If you go prawning please respect the environment, especially the important remnant vegetation along the shore (there is very little of it left in the metropolitan area!). Care for the birds and animals here by taking all your rubbish with you. They can die after ingesting or becoming entangled in plastics or fishing line.