Five things to do lakeside this summer
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If the warm weather has you dreaming of spending more time by the water, you’re not alone.
But if you don’t have any coast trips planned in the near future, we’ve found five reasons to rediscover Canberra’s own waterfront: Lake Burley Griffin. And we’re not talking about the bridge-to-bridge.
Whether you want to turn the lake into your own water playground or have a more relaxed, leisurely experience, these five suggestions will remind you how amazing Lake Burley Griffin really is.
Dine in a dome at Water’s Edge
With waterfront views and Modern Australian food, Water’s Edge has long been known as the fine dining destination to book for a special occasion. But why wait? With a series of unique dining domes scattered on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, booking a decadent dinner out feels like the perfect way to celebrate spring. Private and warm (for when the wind is coming off the water), watch as the lights sparkle on the lake’s edge as you eat award-winning food.
For daytime adventures, Water’s Edge offers one of Canberra’s most refined high tea experiences. Their classic high tea includes a delightful array of sweet and savoury pastries, dainty ribbon sandwiches, and freshly baked scones served with jam and cream. All served with a generous side of lake views.
40 Parkes Place East, Parkes | watersedgecanberra.com.au
Hire a pedal boat
The best way to see Lake Burley Griffin? From the water itself, of course. Hire one of Love Boat’s eco-friendly pedal boats and cruise along Lake Burley Griffin to take in some stunning panoramic views of Canberra’s landmarks. Ideal for families or groups (accommodating four passengers), no previous boating experience is necessary, and there’s no need to book!
Found at three locations – Regatta Point, Commonwealth Place and Kingston Foreshore – and available to hire seven days a week, the pedal boats are weather-dependent, so make sure to check their socials on the day or contact Captain Charles via phone on 0424 143 554.
Trevillian Quay, Jetty 5, Kingston | loveboats.com.au
Captain your own model boat
Ideal for all ages, hiring a model boat offers all the fun of being on the water without getting wet. Newly opened in Kingston, pay a visit to Model Boat Hire and enjoy sitting back as you captain your own mini boat on the lake. Available to be hired for anywhere from 10 to 60 minutes, if that’s not enough to make you smile, all profits go towards the Lions Club of Canberra City. Find them on the footbridge near Molto Italian on most Saturdays.
Kingston Foreshore, Eastlake Parade, Kingston | modelboathirecanberra.com.au
Have a drink at The Jetty
There’s nothing like a cold drink by the water, and with the reopening of The Jetty, your next night out is sorted. Open from 11 am, you can take in the stunning view of Lake Burley Griffin while enjoying live tunes, a bite from Fricken or Hem & Co and icy BentSpoke beer or Aperol spritz. And don’t forget every Sunday, you can grab a spritz for just $10!
Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thejettycbr.com
Explore The Little Burley Market
Held on the first Saturday of every month, here you’ll find a diverse array of multicultural foods, much-loved beverages and brunchables, beautiful blooms, locally made art, fashion, photography and homewares, artisan bread, delectable pastries, seafood, smoked charcuterie, truffles, meats, puppy treats and much more.
Supporting the local community and offering a unique way to spend the day lakeside, enjoy browsing the stalls, listening to live music and eating some delicious food.
Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.com.au
