Top ways to explore Lake Burley Griffin

Updated 10 Apr 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. Time your guided boat trip with sunset to be surrounded by colourful skies and the dramatic silhouette of the Brindabellas. 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 ($15 for 1 hour, $25 for 2 hours), or choose between Neuron’s orange scooters and Beam’s purple scooters bookable via mobile apps.

Get smitten on a love boat

Set sail on an unforgettable lake ride adventure with Love Boats Canberra. Charter your own ride or celebrate a special event in style on this 103-year-old luxury boat. Love Boat promises a stunning ride, tailored to your vision, and an aquatic ride you’re sure to never forget.

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 classes.

Captain your own boat

Hire an electric GoBoat 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.

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.