Chidley Point Reserve

Chidley Point Reserve is a real hidden gem on the Swan River and one of those spots that feels like a little holiday without leaving Perth. Tucked away at the eastern tip of Mosman Park, this riverside reserve offers calm water, soft sand and beautiful natural bushland, making it a gorgeous place for a relaxed play, paddle and picnic with the kids.

Set along Chidley Way, the reserve is spread over a steep, tree‑covered slope that leads down to a sheltered sandy beach on the river’s edge. The upper area is more open and grassy, with mature trees providing shade and lovely views over the Swan River.

From here you can look straight across to the “black wall” of Point Walter, watch the ferries and private boats cruise past, and soak up that away‑from‑it‑all feeling even though you’re still in the suburbs.

There are two car parks to choose from. The upper car park has space for a good number of vehicles and is closest to the grassy picnic area. The lower car park sits right next to the beach and is very convenient for families lugging gear, but it’s accessed via a steep hill and only has parking for around six cars. If you’re visiting with prams or toddlers, it’s worth knowing that the slope down to the water is quite steep, so allow a little extra time and take care walking back up.

Down at the river, the beach is small but lovely – sandy and dotted with shells that kids will happily collect for ages. The water is usually calm and shallow, perfect for paddling and splashing with little ones, although you will get a bit of a wake when larger boats go by. Families often bring along kayaks or stand‑up paddle boards to launch from the shore, and it’s an easy spot for older kids to practise. Keep an eye out for jellyfish at certain times of the year and, as always, close supervision around water is a must.

Facilities are surprisingly good for such a tucked‑away reserve. There are public toilets (an Exeloo), a drinking fountain, two free gas barbecues, a picnic table shaded by trees and a couple of picnic shelters, so you can comfortably spend a few hours here without needing to rush off. The reserve’s natural setting is part of its charm – much of the vegetation is relatively undisturbed, with native trees and shrubs along the slopes and limestone cliffs framing the foreshore at either end of the beach. It’s also a pleasant little spot for a short wander, listening to the birdlife and exploring the different levels of the park.

Chidley Point Reserve doesn’t have a Playground, café or shops on site, so come prepared with snacks, water, hats and everything you’ll need for your visit. In return, you get a peaceful, mostly locals‑only feel; it’s the kind of place you might be tempted to keep to yourself. Whether you’re planning a lazy riverside picnic, a calm splash with toddlers or an easy kayak with the bigger kids, Chidley Point Reserve is well worth seeking out.

Chidley Point Reserve

Address: Chidley Way, Mosman Park WA 6012
Website: Town of Mosman Park – Chidley Point Reserve

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