Lake Burley Griffin (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Lake Burley Griffin?
What makes it 92% Couple-Friendly: Pairs can book a dawn balloon flight, share an electric picnic boat or take a sunset cruise, and lakeside lawns give private picnic space, so the setting feels distinctly romantic and varied.
Positives:
- Scenic variety: Combine water, skyline and hill views in one outing.
- Easy access: Paths and jetties at Regatta Point have parking and toilets nearby.
- Flexible rentals: Electric boats require no licence and come with life jackets.
Challenges:
- Weather dependence: Wind or rain may cancel boat hires and hot air balloon flights.
- Advance booking: Popular tours sell out; book boats and balloons at least two weeks ahead.
- Midday heat: Limited shade on the water; plan picnics in early morning or late afternoon.
What is Lake Burley Griffin?
- A 6.6-square-kilometre artificial lake at Canberra’s geographic centre, created by damming the Molonglo River
- A central feature of Walter Burley Griffin’s 1913 master plan, divided into East, Central and West basins by three major bridges
- Shoreline bordered by landmark national institutions, including the National Library of Australia, the National Museum of Australia and the High Court of Australia
What is so special about Lake Burley Griffin for couple trip?
- Hire an electric boat and steer around the lake at your own pace
- Float above dawn mist on a hot air balloon for a private champagne toast
- Join a guided sunset cruise to learn lake history and capture skyline photos
- Picnic under eucalyptus at Black Mountain Peninsula with BBQ and café access
- Walk the flat Bridge-to-Bridge loop for lakeside views and photo stops
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can combine a boat hire, picnic and lakeside walk without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Lake Burley Griffin
Electric picnic boat hire:
Rent a self-steering electric boat from Regatta Point and drift near Parliament House.
Tip: Book online at GoBoat or Love Boats days ahead; pack snacks and drinks in a cooler.
Hot air balloon ride at dawn:
Soar above the lake at sunrise with Balloon Aloft and end with a champagne toast.
Tip: Dress in layers for early-morning chill; reserve spots at least one month before.
Sunset cruise on MV Southern Cross:
Join a guided electric-boat tour at dusk and hear Canberra stories from a local skipper.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early; sit on the right side for best city skyline views.
Lakeside picnic at Black Mountain Peninsula:
Lay a blanket under mature eucalyptus trees by the water’s edge.
Tip: Use the free BBQ grills; pick a spot near the café for quick coffee refills.
Bridge-to-Bridge sunset walk:
Follow the flat 5 km loop between Commonwealth and Kings Avenue bridges.
Tip: Start 30 minutes before sunset; benches along the way frame perfect lake photos.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Lake Burley Griffin
- Book a combo: Reserve an electric boat then picnic onshore to avoid double trips.
- Choose seating: On sunset cruises, pick starboard for best sunset views over the Brindabellas.
- Map your loop: Download the free Bridge-to-Bridge trail map for a stress-free walk.
Reviews of Lake Burley Griffin
Nat V
Such a gorgeous lake, with a variety of sightseeing options depending on mobility. Highly recommend cycling around it if able, and visiting the many nearby markets.
Shankar Niraula
Beautiful place for walking, running, cycling and amazing views and surroundings.
Jo Lauren
Spring at lake burley is amazing ❤️ best time to visit and enjoy your coffee while watching the flowers and the lake ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Stella Rusli
Went to the Yarralumla beach on a Sunday morning. It was lovely and serene. There was a coffee cart setting up (The Pink Raddish), saw someone doing SUP. Well barriered area for little kids swimming and platform for swimmers who might have to fight off some wildlife to get onto the platform.
Linda Johnson
A great place to walk. Very wide path, it's very popular with walkers and bikers. Great views. Can choose to do long walks or shorter. Plenty of things to look at on the water and off.
When is the best time to visit Lake Burley Griffin (Canberra, Australia)?
In summer, bring sunscreen, hats and water. In autumn, enjoy cooler evenings on a sunset cruise. Winter mornings suit sunrise balloon flights. Spring brings wildflowers near the peninsula.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Electric boat hire (1 hour) | AUD 80 |
| Picnic supplies | AUD 30 |
| Sunset cruise for two | AUD 100 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 210 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Lake Burley Griffin
Address: Lake Burley Griffin, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Lake Burley Griffin (Canberra)?
About Lake Burley Griffin
10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇦🇺 Australia, couple trip
🇺🇸 United States, couple trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, couple trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities