Lake Burley Griffin is Canberra’s glistening centerpiece – a water playground surrounded by museums, galleries, iconic landmarks, cafes, and parks. Walk, cycle, or e-scooter the paths around the lake or take to the water for a cruise, floating picnic, or stand-up paddleboard adventure.
Cruise the lake
Many distinctly Canberran landmarks are best seen from the water. Time your guided boat trip with sunset to be surrounded by colorful skies and the dramatic silhouette of the Brindabella Ranges. MV Southern Cross and Lake Burley Griffin Cruises run regularly with one and two-hour options in the warmer months.
Scoot or walk the classic loop
Do as the locals do and complete the 5km ‘bridge to bridge’ loop around the central basin of the lake, stopping to admire iconic sights along the way. Walk or hire an e-scooter. The Visitors Centre has e-scooters or choose between Neuron’s orange scooters and Beam’s purple scooters bookable via mobile apps.
Captain your own boat
Hire an electric GoBoat or Love Boat to explore the glittering jewel in Canberra’s crown, Lake Burley Griffin. Don a captain’s hat and pack a picnic to feast on as you see the sights from the water. Easy to steer, you don’t need a boating licence but bookings are essential.
See the sights on a lap of the lake
Challenge yourself to cycle around the whole of the lake, as the lap around this beauty will take you to many beloved city icons. Galleries, museums, a zoo and aquarium, an arboretum, scenic wetlands, cafes, and breweries call the 40km shoreline home, so prepare for a full day of sightseeing. The ride is mostly flat and predominantly uses bike paths with limited road crossings.
Explore by paddleboard
Experience the tranquillity of Stand-up Paddleboarding with SUPCBR while learning a new skill and taking in the beautiful sights. Paddling as the sun rises or sets over Canberra’s famous lake is the perfect addition to a relaxing getaway. You can join a lesson, a guided adventure, or even a fitness class.
Refuel along the way
After exploring the Lake, you’ll surely have worked up an appetite. Call into the Canberra Yacht Club in Yarralumla and enjoy some fish and chips with a view from Snapper & Co., or head over to Margot, a lakeside bar that offers gourmet toasties and pastries throughout the day. In the afternoon, you can indulge in a selection of fine wine and a curated cheese board.
