Top ways to explore Lake Burley Griffin

Updated 4 Nov 2024

Choose between walks, rides, and adventures on the water.

Lake Burley Griffin is Canberra's glistening centrepiece - 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, paddle boat or stand up paddleboard adventure.

Cruise the lake

Many distinctly Canberran landmarks are best seen from the water with Lake Burley Griffin Cruises. Time your guided boat trip with sunset to be surrounded by colourful skies and the dramatic silhouette of the Brindabellas.

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 ($15 for 1 hour, $25 for 2 hours) or you can use Neuron’s orange scooters (bookable via mobile apps).

Captain your own boat

Hire an electric boat from GoBoat or Love Boats Canberra 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. You don’t need a boating licence, but bookings are essential.

Pedal your way across the lake

Love Boat's fleet of eco-friendly pedal boats lets you soak in the stunning scenery while enjoying a leisurely day on the water.

Cruise along the pristine waters and take in breathtaking views of Canberra's landmarks. Some pedal boats accommodate up to four passengers, making them perfect for families and groups of all ages.

Best of all, you don’t need any boating experience to enjoy the ride. The Pedal Boat Classic and Pedal Boat Deluxe are designed for ease of use, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable adventure.

Learn to stand up paddle board

Learn a new skill and see the sights with Stand Up Paddle, or SUP as the locals call it. The serenity of a paddle as the sun rises or falls over Australia's famous lake is the perfect addition to any relaxing getaway to Canberra. Join a lesson, a guided adventure, or even a fitness class.

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 all call the 40km shoreline home. The ride is mostly flat and predominantly uses bike paths.