10 AWESOME THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN PERTH
Plus, where to eat and stay!
With about 265 sunny days a year and lined with some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches, Perth is a winning ticket in the parenting lottery. Between the squeaky-clean parks, aquatic adventures and stunning beaches that’ll make kids forget about their iPads (momentarily, let's be real), Perth is perfect for outdoor-loving families.
You can take a dip in some of the bluest water you’ve ever seen, get a selfie with a cute quokka on Rottnest Island or let the little ones run wild at Kings Park - one of world’s biggest inner-city parks. Plus, this outdoor city is bursting with fantastic dining and entertainment options that the whole tribe will love.
With this guide, we’ll help you navigate the city's hotspots and hidden treasures for an unforgettable family holiday filled with laid-back west coast charm.
Whether it’s watching an amazing sunset over the ocean, swimming at one of the 19 white sand beaches, escaping to an island paradise or simply heading to one of the many adventure playgrounds, you really don’t need to look far to find ways to entertain the whole family in Perth. Here are just 10 of the many kid-friendly experiences in and around the city.
1. Meet quokkas on Rottnest Island
Affectionately known as Rotto by locals, this is an absolute must-do when visiting Perth with the tribe in tow. Home to the world’s cutest marsupial, the quokka, this island getaway is just a short ferry ride and is home to more than 60 beaches and 20 secluded bays. You can hire a bike (or take your own) and pedal around the island or jump aboard the Discovery Bus Tour which loops around the island. A highlight for the kids will most likely be coming face-to-face with the cute quokkas. Don’t forget to take a selfie stick! If you have the time and budget, we’d recommend staying the night here so you can have more time to explore and experience it without the crowds of day trippers.
Where: Rottnest is just 19km off the coast of Perth, A 25-minute ferry ride from Freemantle, a 45-minute ride from Hillarys Boat Harbour or 90 minutes via ferry from the Barrack Street Jetty.
Cost: Adult ferry and island admission packages range from $55 to $70. You can book your trip with Rottnest Fast Ferries, Rottnest Express or SeaLink Rottnest Island. Look for telethon saver fares on Rottnest Express for more affordable deals. Kids can join the Rottnest Express Quokka Club and travel free on the ferry and enter the island for $7.
More info: Rottnest Island
2. Snorkel around Omeo Wreck
There aren’t many places where you can snorkel around a shipwreck just 25 metres from the shore. This ship came adrift from the Freemantle port in the early 1900s before getting bogged at Coogee. It’s now part of the Coogee Maritime Trail - a haven for snorkelers and divers with more than 55 structures to explore including a replica cannon, a sea lion sculpture and even a selfie porthole. We spotted dolphins enjoying the aquatic trail as well!
Where: Socrates Parade, Nth Coogee.
Cost: Free.
More info: Omeo | divingwawrecks
3. Day at the Perth Zoo
Would you love to be an elephant keeper for a day, walk the dingoes or go face-to-face with a giraffe? Then Perth Zoo won’t disappoint. Home to about 1,300 animals from all corners of the globe, visitors can go behind-the-scenes for up close encounters with the animals. The zoo also prides itself on animal conservation and every visit helps support the zoo’s vital work. This zoo is also one of Australia’s most affordable major zoos!
Where: 20 Labouchere Road, South Perth.
When: The zoo is open every day of the year from 9am to 5pm.
Cost: Entry fee is $33 for adults, $16 for kids aged 4-15. Family pass for two adults and two kids is $86.60.
More info: Perth Zoo | Perth Zoo
4. Play at Scarborough Beach
It’s hard to believe this beautiful stretch of dune-backed white sand was once a not so desirable area. Recently given a multimillion dollar makeover, it’s now a family paradise with an amazing whale-themed playground, rock-climbing wall and top-drawer skate park for the kids. There are several cafes for the adults and an open-air swimming pool for all. We stayed here for a month in 2020 and loved it. Scarborough also hosts the Sunsets Markets where you can experience eats from all over the globe. Check their Facebook page (linked below) for dates and times as it changes depending on the season. Or you could just keep it simple and enjoy a picnic from Scarborough’s Sunset Hill.
Where: The Esplanade, Scarborough.
Cost: Free.
More info: Scarborough Sunset Markets | Facebook
5. Head into the city
If your little ones love carousel rides, mini golf, ice cream, water parks and adventure playgrounds, then Elizabeth Quay is sure to be a hit. Located along the Perth city foreshore, this waterfront precinct is also home to a number of restaurants and is one of the city’s most unique attractions, The Bell Tower. This tower is the only place in the world where you can see the ancient art of bell ringing in action or give it a go yourself while taking in the spectacular views of the Swan River.
Where: 5 The Esplanade, Perth.
Cost: A carousel ride is $6 per person or you can get three tickets for $15. Bell Tower entry is $10 for adults and $8 for kids aged 5-14. Family of four pass is $25.
More info: Elizabeth Quay | Visit Perth
6. Picnic and play at Kings Park
Pack the checkered rug and basket and take the whole tribe to Kings Park for a picnic with arguably the most stunning views of Perth and the Swan River. After your picnic, take a stroll around the leafy park which is bigger than Central Park in New York and is home to some of the city’s best play areas. One of the most popular areas is May Drive Parklands. The kids will love the water fountains and island fort!
Where: Fraser Avenue, Perth.
Cost: Free.
7. Burn energy at an adventure playground
Prepare to be impressed! The Bibra Lake Adventure Playground is like a mini theme park but better because it’s free! Think 7000sqm (or 35 tennis courts) of action and adventure with double flying foxes, a treehouse sky-walk, large corkscrew slide, splash pads, swing sets, speaking rocks and much more! Relax under a shady tree on the banks of the lake and let the kids run wild.
Where: Progress Drive, Bibra
Cost: Free.
8. Cuddle cute farm animals at Swan Valley
A trip to Swan Valley isn't just about wineries. It's also home to the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm. This cute little Aussie farm is home to many friendly animals. You can enter most of the farm pens and paddocks offering up close and personal encounters with the animals, including miniature horses, alpacas, bulls, kangaroos, emus and peacocks. You can also bottle feed the goats, ride the tractor and merry-go-round or jump on the bouncy castle. We took our girls here on Eva’s fourth birthday and they both loved it.
Where: 128 John Street, Henley Brook.
When: Open daily from 9.30am to 4pm.
Cost: Entry price for adults is $20 per person and $15 for children (2-15yrs) and concession tickets.
More info: Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm
Picture -Tourism WA
9. Visit the little penguins
About 50 kilometers south of Perth, you’ll find Penguin Island - home to about 1000 the world’s smallest penguins. You can catch a ferry over to visit the island but be aware it is closed from June to mid-September during the penguins breeding season. But wait, It's not just about the penguins. Australian sea lions and pods of dolphins also call the gorgeous waters of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park home. You can book an experience to swim with the playful creatures with Perth Wildlife Encounters. And while in Rockingham, you can also head to the rugged limestone cliffs at Point Peron. There you can do an easy 3km walk and see the historic World War II gun lookout.
Where: Penguin Island is located in Shoalwater Marine Park, access to the island is via Mersey Point. Point Peron is located on Point Peron Road.
When: Penguin Island is open daily from September 15 to early June.
More info: Penguin Island
Picture - Tourism WA
10. Wander around the Freemantle Markets
There’s much to love about these historic markets which first started about 100 years ago. A colourful variety of stalls selling everything from local produce, toys, jewellery, homewares, teas, coffee, clothing and much more. When you get hungry after pottering around, there are many lunch or dinner options including Italian, Japanese, Vietnamese, Brazillian and Greek. There are also plenty of tasty treats for desert too!
Where: Corner South Terrace & Henderson Street, Fremantle. About a 30-minute drive from Perth city.
When: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday public holidays from 9am till 6pm. The food yard opens a bit earlier at 8am.
Cost: Entry is free.
More info: Fremantle Markets
Raise your hands if you've had the joy of experiencing a five-star meltdown in a fancy restaurant courtesy of your little ones! Ah, yes we've been there too. Now, let's talk about why we love Perth. A city that's made eating out with kids not just a survival drill but an honest-to-goodness delight.
From venues boasting rainbow-hued play areas to menus designed to please the young palate, Perth’s dining scene is a testament to its commitment to families. Whether it’s pizza or pasta, nuggets or noodles, these eateries offer something for even the fussiest of tiny food critics. So parents, breathe easy! In Perth, you're signing up for giggles, not grimaces, over the dinner table. Here’s some of the most kid-friendly restaurants and cafes in Perth. Bon Appétit!
Lady Latte, Scarborough
Offering rainbow-coloured pancakes with Oreos and the most impressive babychinos you’ll ever lay eyes on, this café sure knows what the tiny ones love. The big kids are in for a treat too as great tasting coffee made with only the finest beans is standard here as well.
Where: 41 Edgehill Street, Scarborough.
More info: Lady Latte Cafe
Zamia Café, Kings Park
Nestled in one of the world’s largest inner-city parks, Zamia Café overlooks one of Perth’s best playgrounds. Try the delicious Harvest Bowl for breakfast or the salt and pepper squid for lunch before treating yourself to one of their tasty cakes, slices or muffins which are all baked in-house. The kids will love the big dinosaurs and climbing structures at the nature playground. Plus, all kids’ meals are just $12 or less!
Where: 50 May Drive, Kings Park.
More info: Zamia Cafe
Northshore Tavern, Hillarys
This place is a parent’s dream. Imagine a restaurant where your kids eat free every Monday night, plus there’s movies on the big screen and face painters to keep them busy. And don’t worry if you can’t make it on a Monday because kids’ meals are just $10 every other day of the week with a juice and activity pack included!
Where: Corner of Whitfords and Marmion Avenue, Hillarys.
More info: thenorthshoretavern.com.au
Little Creatures, Fremantle
Known for its craft beer, tasty food and buzzing atmosphere, this pub has become a Perth icon and for good reason. The pizzas are on point, the pints are fresh and the service is top notch. The brewery attracts both Freo locals and tourists but the little ones haven’t been forgotten – they’ll be kept entertained in their own play area in the backyard while you soak up the sunshine and those port-side views.
Where: 40 Mews Road, Fremantle.
More info: LC GH Menu
The Surfing Lizard, Coogee
If you’re after a super relaxed seaside vibe, this family-friendly gem near Coogee Beach serves breakfast and lunch daily and boasts an outdoor play area filled with toys for the kiddos. A great public playground is also just steps away.
Where: 20 Poore Grove, Coogee.
More info: Surfing Lizard Cafe | Facebook
Roar Bar and Grill, Bibra Lake
Recently renovated, this hidden gem in the Roar Fitness 247 building was refurbished specifically with families in mind. With a jumping pillow and one of the most epic adventure playgrounds, this restaurant and bar has indoor and outdoor seating and serves a huge variety of brekkie, lunch and dinner dishes.
Where: 23 Port Kembla Drive, Bibra Lake.
When it comes to family-friendly accommodation, Perth gets it. Hotels get that families need more than just a bed and a bathroom. They've got their bases covered with rooms spacious enough for the kids to have an impromptu pillow fight, menus that consider little appetites and even babysitting services for when the adults need a minute. And when it comes to caravanning and camping, the choices are endless. So, whether you’re looking for five-star resorts or campsites with five-star views, there are plenty of inviting accommodation options for families of all sizes in Perth.
Find the best deals on Booking.com
FOR CARAVANS:
Coogee Beach Discovery Park
If your tribe loves swimming, fishing and being close to the beach, then you’ll love this park. Whilst the park itself doesn’t offer much for kids, the waters of Cockburn Sound and a number of public playgrounds are just a short stroll away. It’s also close to the vibrant and historical suburb of Fremantle and just 30 minutes from Perth. This is the very first caravan park we stayed at after buying our first caravan!
Where: 3 Powell Road, Coogee.
More info: www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au
Karrinyup Waters Resort
With four separate playgrounds, heated pools, a spa and a restaurant, Karrinyup Waters Resort is loved by kids and adults. Located about 20 minutes from Perth city, it caters to travellers with caravans and those in need of a cabin.
Where: 467 N Beach Rd, Gwelup.
More info: Karrinyup Waters Resort
Woodman Point Discovery Park, Coogee
If you ask a local which caravan park is best for kids near Perth, they’ll most likely tell you about Woodman Point. With a jumping pillow, playground and swimming pool, this park ticks all the boxes. It’s also close to the beach and just a short scooter or bike ride to more public playgrounds and cafes.
Where: 132 Cockburn Road, Munster
More info: www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au
OTHER OPTIONS:
Fremantle Colonial Cottages
If you want a truly unique stay, then it would be naughty not to head to the heart of Fremantle where you can stay in the former Fremantle Women’s Prison warder’s cottages. Perfect for families, two-bedroom, fully-contained cottages built in the 19th century have been beautifully refurbished and can accommodate up to six people. The cottages are spacious enough to accommodate the kiddos’ endless energy outbursts, with lush outdoor spaces for those boisterous games of tag. You’ll feel at home with a fully-serviced kitchen and free Wi-Fi. This is one prison your tribe won’t be trying to escape from.
Where: 6A The Terrace, Fremantle.
More info: °FREMANTLE PRISON YHA FREMANTLE
Gumleaf Cottage Farmstay
If your tribe loves animals and keeping busy, then this restored 100-year-old typical Australian farm cottage is the place to be. Each morning guests are invited to help feed and care for the friendly rabbits, goats, sheep, chickens, dogs, cats, parrots, miniature ponies and gorgeous golden Haflinger horses! There are plenty of other activities to keep everyone entertained including egg collecting, fruit picking, bug collecting, bush walking, bike riding and more. The 12-acre farm also has a playground, cubby house and huge trampoline. When the sun starts to set, keep an eye out for the local visitors – kangaroos, possums and bandicoots – who come to say hi most evenings.
Where: 1475 Brooking Road, Hovea.
More info: Gumleaf Cottage Farmstay
FOR A BIT OF LUXURY:
Crown Metropol Perth
When it comes to high-end family resorts, Crown Metropol is hard to beat. This place has literally rolled out the red carpet for families. They've thought of everything to keep the kids entertained (and the parents sane). Firstly, their rooms are anything but standard. Spacious, modern and, most importantly, soundproof! These rooms will make the inevitable “I don’t want to go to bed” tantrums less distressing. We know, it’s the little things. Now, for the pièce de résistance - the pool area. Picture a lagoon-style pool, complete with waterslides that'll guarantee wide-eyed excitement from your little ones and tire them out for a peaceful evening (a win-win situation, right?). There is also an indoor heated pool, playroom and kids’ club. And for the adults? There’s a casino, theatre and you’ll find big name chefs cooking mouth-watering dishes at the resort’s first-class restaurants.
Where: Great Eastern Highway, Burswood.
More info: Crown Metropol Perth Hotel & Accommodation