Tomato Lake, Kewdale: Complete guide to this scenic park
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot for a morning walk, family outing or gentle weekend wander, Tomato Lake in Kewdale is a little gem that ticks all the boxes. Just 20 minutes from the CBD, this leafy urban Perth park blends nature, history and community vibes, with an easy walking trail, playgrounds, wetlands and a handy lakeside café.
Wrapped around a tranquil central lake, Tomato Lake Reserve is one of those places that feels like a true escape, even though it sits right in the middle of the suburbs.
Walking Trails Around Tomato Lake
One of the main attractions here is the 1.6km paved loop trail that circles the lake. It’s flat, wide and family-friendly, making it ideal for walking, jogging, prams, bikes and scooters. Dogs are welcome too, as long as they’re kept on-lead. Here is a map of the route, produced by the City of Belmont.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy shaded sections, lake views, grassy parklands and a timber boardwalk that stretches across the water to a central gazebo – a lovely spot to pause, enjoy the scenery or simply watch the birdlife.
If you’d like to extend your walk, there are unpaved side trails that can stretch your route to around 2.5km. One highlight is the Jida Bidi Interpretive Trail (Noongar for “small bird path”), which winds through remnant bushland and provides insight into the native plants of the area.
Family-Friendly Facilities at Tomato Lake
Tomato Lake is especially popular with families thanks to its excellent facilities. There’s a modern all-abilities playground with soft fall surfaces, basket swings and play equipment suited to both toddlers and older children. Nearby, you’ll also find outdoor fitness equipment and a half basketball court for older kids and teens. And of course the Lake itself is fun for littlies, just watching the ducks and birdlife.
Picnic tables, BBQ facilities, shaded seating and grassy open spaces make it easy to turn a simple walk into a relaxed picnic outing. Public toilets are also located near the main playground area.
Coffee with a View
One of the park’s biggest bonuses is the Tomato Lake Kiosk, located right by the playground and lake edge. Open most days (closed Tuesdays), it’s perfect for grabbing a post-walk coffee, breakfast, ice cream or a cold drink. It’s a lovely spot to sit and soak in the lakeside views while the kids play nearby. You’ll also find a water station not far from the cafe, where you can fill up your water bottle for free.
A Park Steeped in Local History
Long before European settlement, this swampy wetland was an important meeting place for Aboriginal people. In the early 1900s, the land became known as Smith’s Swamp and later Craig’s Swamp, after poultry farmer Stephen Craig began growing maize and then tomatoes here.
His tomato crops thrived, and the name Tomato Lake eventually stuck. Over time, as residential development expanded, the swamp changed and farming became unsustainable. In the decades that followed, the lake played many roles – from a childhood fishing and canoeing spot in the 1940s to a nature study area for local school groups.
Following environmental challenges in the 1970s, including a major duckweed infestation, local community groups and council worked together to restore and protect the lake. Major redevelopment in the 1980s and beyond transformed Tomato Lake into the well-loved recreational space it is today, complete with walking trails, boardwalks, playgrounds and picnic facilities.
Birdlife and Nature at Tomato Lake
Today, Tomato Lake is home to more than 80 species of birdlife, making it a peaceful spot for casual birdwatching and nature appreciation. The mix of wetlands, paperbarks and open water creates a calm environment that feels far removed from the surrounding urban landscape.
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Location: Between Oats Street and President Street, Kewdale
Parking: Multiple car parks, including Scenic Drive off Oats Street
Walking Loop: 1.6km paved circuit, with optional side trails
Facilities: Toilets, playgrounds, BBQs, picnic tables, fitness equipment
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on-lead
Café: Tomato Lake Kiosk (closed Tuesdays)
Why Visit Tomato Lake?
Tomato Lake is one of those easy, feel-good Perth spots that works for just about everyone. Whether you’re chasing a peaceful solo walk, a family-friendly outing, a scenic jogging track or a post-walk coffee by the water, it delivers without fuss.
It’s proof you don’t need to travel far for fresh air, gentle exercise and a moment of calm – just a short drive is all it takes to find this tranquil slice of suburban serenity.
If you’re planning to grab a coffee or a bite to eat, the Tomato Lake Kiosk sits right by the lake and playground, serving coffee, breakfast, snacks and ice creams most days (it’s closed on Tuesdays). It’s the perfect way to finish a walk or reward little legs after some playtime.
If you’re keen to explore more of Perth on foot, our guide to the Best Urban Walk Trails around the city has great ideas for other walking routes with café stops. Or a little further afield, our 10 Best Bush Trails will have you spotting waterfalls and river gorges as you hike!
