20 family-friendly activities to do in Perth

If you’re travelling to Perth with your little ones in tow, you’re in luck.

What Perth lacks in size it more than makes up for with family-friendliness. From camping, snorkelling and seeing quokkas, to museums, aquariums and zoos, Perth has got you covered. Here are 20 great family-friendly things to do in Perth your kids will love.

1. Visit Perth’s markets

the entrance to Fremantle Markets — Go shopping with the kids at Fremantle Markets. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

A great family-friendly activity is to visit one of Perth’s many markets. This is where you’ll find locals doing their weekly shop, farmers showcasing their produce, makers selling their wares, and neighbourhood food trucks pulled up to feed hungry visitors – as well as typically having loads of activities to keep the kids entertained. Freo Farmers Market, Scarborough Sunset Market, Vic Park Market and Subi Farmers Market are especially great for kids.

2. Play at Kings Park

a family standing atop Kings Park Perth while admiring nature views — Kings Park boasts stunning natural scenery. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Perth’s iconic Kings Park is a great place for families and kids. One of the largest inner-city parks in the world, it offers stunning views of the Swan River and Perth skyline, has safe footpaths for little ones on scooters, trikes or rollerblades, and has several nature playgrounds for kids. The Rio Tinto Naturescape Playground and Ivey Watson Playground are especially great.

3. Take a trip to Rottnest

The Basin, Rottnest Island — Set foot on the white sand or snorkel in the clear waters at The Basin. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

If your kids want to get up close and personal with WA’s cutest furry creatures, hop on the ferry to Rottnest and see some quokkas. The Rottnest Ferry conveniently leaves from the heart of Perth at the Barrack Street Jetty in Elizabeth Quay. It’s a 90-minute ferry ride (but if your little ones are prone to seasickness, consider leaving from Fremantle which is only a 30-minute trip.) Take the kids swimming at one of Rottnest’s many beaches and bays, cycle safely around the car-free island and when you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Hotel Rottnest for lunch which has a dedicated kids menu.

4. Explore Elizabeth Quay

cyclists at Elizabeth Quay, Perth — Pop over to Perth City’s glistening waterfront precinct. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Elizabeth Quay is Perth City’s glistening waterfront precinct and is an extremely family-friendly spot with most of it being car-free. Take the kids for a stroll around the pedestrian-friendly zone, grab them an ice cream at Gusto Gelato, cross the Elizabeth Quay footbridge for a great view back over the city and admire the various sculptures and public art scattered across the quay – the giant bird in a boat sculpture, designed by local Aboriginal artist Laurel Nannup, is awe-inspiring.

5. Visit WA Museum Boola Bardip

visitors exploring inside WA Museum Boola Bardip, Perth — Be in awe of interactive displays inside the state-of-the-art WA Museum Boola Bardip. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Spending the day at Perth’s recently rebuilt WA Museum Boola Bardip is maybe the city’s ultimate family-friendly activity. The $400-million state-of-the-art museum has a mix of permanent exhibitions, special exhibits, interactive displays and educational programs that are a complete hit with young ones. Kids love the hooting and whooping of the interactive Frog Zone, looking for hidden creatures in the Augmented Reality display I-Spy Spinifex, wandering around the underwater wonderland exhibition and seeing a 24-metre blue whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling.

6. Go strawberry picking

a hand picking a ripe strawberry — Strawberry season typically begins in September. (Image: Getty/Michelle Sha)

If you’re looking for a wholesome family activity, take the kids strawberry picking. Thanks to Perth’s warm, dry climate with mild winters, the city is home to some of the country’s best strawberry-picking spots. Strawberry picking season in Perth typically runs from September to December – however, it’s a highly seasonal business, with most farms not having set opening times, and instead leaving it dependent on weather, conditions and growth. So with most farms, check their Facebook pages to see when they are definitely open for picking.

7. Unplug with a camping trip

a couple sitting outside their tent, Perth — Go off the grid with your family. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Thanks to Perth being the most isolated capital city in the world, it’s filled with some of the country’s most bountiful landscapes – many of which are accessible a short drive from the city centre. There are plenty of free and low-cost camping spots near Perth to unwind, unplug and get amongst the great outdoors with your family.

8. Swim and snorkel at the beaches

an aerial view of the City Beach, Perth — Experience the vibrant beach culture of Perth. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

It’s not hard to find a beautiful beach in Perth – what is hard however is deciding which one to visit. Unfurling from either side of Perth city is an 80-kilometre-long stretch of pristine coastline, with blinding white sand, turquoise ocean as far as the eye can see, and seemingly endless beach options. Some of the best beaches in Perth for little ones include Mettam’s Pool for its shallow protected waters and great snorkelling opportunities, Port Beach, Leighton Beach and South Beach in Fremantle for calm and flat conditions, and City Beach and Floreat Beach for their great playgrounds and grassy foreshores.

9. Get sunset fish and chips

fish and chips at Cottesloe Beach — Enjoy takeaway fish and chips on the foreshore. (Image: Getty/Sol Stock)

You simply cannot visit Perth and not enjoy the spectacle of the sun setting over the Indian Ocean. Anywhere along the coast will give you a great view, but a particularly family-friendly way of doing it is to get fish and chips down at Cottesloe Beach and park up on the grassy foreshore – it’s terraced, so nobody can obstruct your view, and the ample grassy area and wide stretch of sand is perfect for energetic kids to run around post-dinner.

10. Catch an outdoor movie

people reclining in deck chairs while watching at the Northbridge Rooftop Movies — Enjoy a film under the stars.

When you’re in one of the sunniest spots in the country, it makes sense to watch films outside. Perth is home to several great outdoor cinemas, but the most kid and family-friendly one is the Telethon Community Cinemas in Burswood, Murdoch, Joondalup and Bassendean – flicks often include the likes of Trolls, Finding Nemo and Home Alone.

11. See the animals at Perth Zoo

a Perth zoo staff petting a turtle — Let your kids explore the wonders of wildlife at Perth Zoo.

Perth Zoo is home to over 1,300 animals from around the world. There’s a mix of native Australian animals in the Australian Bushwalk and Wetlands exhibits – but The African Savannah and Asian Rainforest exhibits are particularly popular with kids, showcasing animals in naturalistic habitats.

The zoo also offers daily keeper talks and animal feeding sessions, providing educational and interactive experiences for young ones.

12. Explore Scitech

Scitech is Perth’s interactive science museum that features hands-on exhibits, a planetarium and live science shows. Kids can explore various scientific concepts through play, from physics and chemistry to space and technology, and the planetarium offers immersive shows that take visitors on a journey through the universe.

13. Visit Mandoon in the Swan Valley

lush greenery at Mandoon Estate, Perth — Be surrounded by lush vineyards at Mandoon Estate. (Image: Tourism Australia)

If you thought kids and wineries didn’t mix, think again. Mandoon Estate in Perth’s Swan Valley – which has the enviable title of being WA’s most awarded boutique winery – is a huge venue encompassing not just a working winery and cellar door, but a sprawling grassed area aptly named ‘The Llawn’. Throw down a picnic blanket, order good wine and some woodfired pizzas from the food trucks, and listen to live music while the kid amuck on the grass. There’s also a creek nearby that older kids love exploring and ‘boat racing’ leaves from the lush trees overhead.

14. Dive into AQWA

AQWA – the Aquarium of WA – in the northern coastal suburb of Hillarys takes you on an underwater journey along Western Australia’s coastline. Kids can explore the underwater tunnel, touch pools and marine exhibits that include the chance to see sharks, rays and turtles up close. The aquarium also offers special experiences like glass-bottom boat rides and behind-the-scenes tours.

15. Spend the day in Fremantle

a biker cycling around High St Fremantle — Admire the heritage buildings in Fremantle. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

The vibrant city of Fremantle is a truly unique destination and great for families. Take the kids to see the rainbow shipping containers, stroll down the cappuccino strip, have a splash at Bathers Beach, get lunch at Fishing Boat Harbour and then pay a visit to Paper Bird, Perth’s most magical children’s bookshop. It’s Perth’s only specialist children’s bookshop and is a whimsical, imaginative space for little ones to explore. Hot tip: if you head to Freo on a Sunday, end the day with a trip to Freo Arts Centre where they have free live music and BYO picnics in the afternoons. It’s a very popular activity with local families.

16. Visit Caversham Wildlife Park

a little girl touching a koala at Caversham Wildlife Park — Meet adorable koalas. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Perth’s Caversham Wildlife Park gives kids the chance to feed kangaroos, meet koalas and enjoy farm shows. The park also features a variety of native animals, including wombats, possums, and Tasmanian devils. It’s a fantastic place for children to learn about and interact with wildlife in a safe environment. (Plus it’s only 15 minutes from the historic town of Guildford, so once you’re done head there for lunch – Alfred’s burger bar is a very popular local institution.)

17. SUP or swim at Matilda Bay

Matilda Bay Boathouse in Perth at sunrise — Matilda Bay Boathouse is an idyllic spot to watch the sunrise. (Image: Getty/Sara Winter)

The picturesque spot along the Swan River is known for its serene waters and stunning views of the city skyline. If your kids are a bit older, the SUP Central hires boards and offers lessons for older; and if they’re younger, the bay is an incredibly safe spot for them to have a splash around with no risk of waves. There’s also a long stretch of grass to run around on, or have a post-water-play picnic.

18. Ride the bridges

a luxury boat passing by the Swan River under h the Narrows Bridge — Tackle the Narrows Bridge on a scenic bike ride. (Image: Zambezi Shark)

If your kids are happy to be popped in a children’s seat on the back of your bike, take them for a picturesque bike ride. ‘The bridges’ route in Perth is a 10km pedestrian and cycle-friendly loop that runs between the Narrows Bridge and the Causeway bridge, offering beautiful views of the Swan River, the city and lush South Perth. If you’re in the CBD, jump on the ferry and cross the river to South Perth, hire a bike from South Perth Cycles , and get peddling.

19. Get dinner in Chinatown

a canopy of red plastic lanterns in Chinatown, Perth — Savour the flavours of Asia in the heart of Perth’s Chinatown. (Image: City of Perth)

In the heart of Northbridge is Perth’s small but vibrant Chinatown, an iconic precinct for locals looking for a good feed at a great price – which is particularly helpful if you have a few small mouths to feed. Look for the red and green pagoda archway on Roe Street with the lion statues on either side. Kids are mesmerised by the red plastic lanterns that dangle from above, and nobody minds if the plastic tables and chairs get a bit grubby from small hands. Particularly good family-friendly spots are Billy Lees and Uncle Billy’s.

20. Catch a game at Optus Stadium

an aerial view of the Optus Stadium — The state-of-the-art stadium has more than 1,000 TV screens throughout the venue. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@a_rich_visual)

If you have a family of sports fanatics, take them for a game at Optus Stadium . It’s been recognised as Australia’s best stadium multiple times, and was 2022’s International Venue of the Year. The state-of-the-art stadium was built with a ‘fans first’ approach – as such, every seat has an exceptional view and there are more than 1,000 TV screens throughout the venue ensuring you never miss any of the action – including two of the largest super screens in Australia, each measuring 340 square metres.

The East Kimberley should be on every bucket list, and here’s why.

Livistona palms soar out of chasms the colour of Valencia oranges. Shady waterholes beckon travellers daring to venture off the bitumen. From the air, fruit farms give way to vast plains that meet rolling hills and fascinating geological formations centuries in the making. The East Kimberley is one of Australia’s most treasured wilderness areas, but don’t be fooled by its rust-coloured roads. This north-eastern corner of Western Australia is home to some of Australia’s most iconic stays by Discovery Resorts that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

A group of people enjoy an intimate dining experience at El Questro Homestead. — Dine in the heart of nature.

Your guide to Lake Argyle

The backstory

With rolling hills that glow amber at sunrise and glassy water that reflects the Kimberley’s bright blue sky, a visit to Lake Argyle is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As Australia’s second-largest man-made freshwater lake, travellers flock here to soak in the views from boats, helicopters and Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle .

The latter is a lakeside oasis, a resort where travellers crossing from Western Australia into the Northern Territory (or vice versa) converge. Fifty minutes’ drive south of Kununurra, the property is perched atop a cliff overlooking the sprawling Lake Argyle.

Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle was originally built in the late 1960s to provide accommodation for builders of the Ord River dam, which formed Lake Argyle. In the decades that followed it had several owners, until a Kununurra local took the reins in 2004 and reinvented the property with luxury villas and its now world-famous infinity pool. The iconic property was added to the Discovery Resorts portfolio in 2021, undergoing a major upgrade that took the resort from a beloved campground to an all-encompassing resort with premium waterfront villas.

A boat glides across the expansive waters of Lake Argyle, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Kimberley. As part of the Discovery Holiday Parks experience, this unforgettable journey offers adventure and relaxation. — Glide across the vast, shimmering waters of Lake Argyle.

The rooms

A lakeside resort like no other, Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle offers something for everyone, from campsites to villas and cabins . The Deluxe Lakeview Cabins have views of the opposing cliff and are surrounded by bush, ensuring plenty of privacy, while both the Deluxe and Standard Cabins are ideal for families, with contemporary furnishings and one, two or four bedrooms. The campsites also come in a variety of sizes.

The facilities

There’s no doubt the biggest drawcard to Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle is the lake, 20 times the size of Sydney Harbour. One of the best ways to experience it is on the Kimberley Durack Sunset Explorer Cruise , during which you’ll see freshwater crocodiles nesting along the banks (it’s home to 30,000 freshies) and even get the chance to swim in their waters. The cruise also takes in Mt Misery, towering above the original and now submerged Argyle Downs Homestead.

If you have young children who need to get to bed early, a great alternative is the three-hour Lunch Explorer Cruise . You’ll tour around the lake’s bays as you learn about the local wildlife before stopping at a remote island for a swim.

Refuel between adventures at the onsite pub-style eatery, The Lake Argyle Cafe. The cafe is the heart of the resort, bringing together friends new and old over a steak, cold beer and live music. Hours vary with the seasons, but rest assured you’ll be able to enjoy a good feed year-round, with a well-stocked general store also open during the day.

Cool off from a day of exploring in the striking infinity pool with some of the best views in the country (you’ll find sweeping views of the lake below). Or enjoy a flight with HeliSpirit, or clear your mind during a yoga class on the lawn.

Two people unwind in an infinity pool, overlooking stunning Lake Argyle at Discovery Holiday Parks. — Take a dip in the infinity pool and soak in breathtaking Lake Argyle views.

Your guide to El Questro

The backstory

One of the most famous stays in Australia is El Questro . A former cattle station, it’s evolved into one of the country’s most recognisable tourism destinations over the past 30 years, and is now embarking on a new chapter to elevate the region’s rich First Nations culture.

The property draws travellers seeking to reconnect with nature and the beauty of this country. Wild in spirit but immaculate in style, El Questro is a 283,000-hectare property like no other; surrounded by dramatic gorges, impressive mountain ranges, thermal springs, secluded waterfalls and even rainforest, it’s the perfect base for adventurous souls.

A person floats leisurely in the river at Discovery Holiday Parks, immersed in nature’s tranquillity. — Float along Zebedee Springs and immerse in nature.

The rooms

Across the sprawling El Questro are three properties catering to the wide variety of travellers who journey this way. The most impressive is the luxurious Homestead , where 10 suites perch at the edge of a burnt-orange cliff, with cantilevered bedrooms over the peaceful Chamberlain River. The adults-only, all-inclusive Homestead is a member of the prestigious Luxury Lodges of Australia collection and offers a backdrop of thick bushland; riverside, you’ll find an immaculate lawn and a shaded pool that lures guests out of their rooms.

At Emma Gorge , travellers will be immersed in the beauty of the Cockburn Ranges, falling asleep to the sounds of wildlife in safari-style tented cabins. This is where you come if you want to completely connect with your environment while retaining a few creature comforts. The Emma Gorge Tented Cabins sleep three or four people and feature private ensuites and ceiling fans.

Families also love The Station , home to simple yet comfortable air-conditioned rooms, as well as a large, leafy campground. Sitting by the Pentecost River, The Station is open from April to October and has a range of accommodation, from unpowered and powered campsites to air-conditioned tents for two people and a Gardenview Family Room for five.

Two people stand beside a suite perched on the edge of a striking burnt-orange cliff, gazing out over the serene Chamberlain River below. — Take a breather with stunning views of nature all around.

The facilities

Located in the heart of the Kimberley, El Questro retains its strong connection with its Traditional Owners, the Ngarinyin people. A highlight of a stay here is the Injiid Marlabu Calls Us experience ; over two hours, guests are immersed in the soul of Country by witnessing ancient healing rituals, listening to generational stories and learning about the land’s ancestral heritage.

Other experiences include bird watching, cruising through Chamberlain Gorge, hiking through Emma Gorge, horse riding, four-wheel-driving and soaking in Zebedee Springs. At the properties, you can also cool off in the pools, and relax in the restaurants or at private dining locations. A bonus of staying at The Homestead is the exclusive service of El Questro’s dedicated reservations team, who will craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your travel tastes.

A group of people stand beside a tree, with a car parked nearby, taking in the surrounding natural beauty. — Experience thrilling nature activities.

Book your East Kimberley adventure today with Discovery Resorts.

20 family-friendly activities to do in Perth

If you’re travelling to Perth with your little ones in tow, you’re in luck.

1. Visit Perth’s markets

2. Play at Kings Park

3. Take a trip to Rottnest

4. Explore Elizabeth Quay

5. Visit WA Museum Boola Bardip

6. Go strawberry picking

7. Unplug with a camping trip

8. Swim and snorkel at the beaches

9. Get sunset fish and chips

10. Catch an outdoor movie

11. See the animals at Perth Zoo

12. Explore Scitech

13. Visit Mandoon in the Swan Valley

14. Dive into AQWA

15. Spend the day in Fremantle

16. Visit Caversham Wildlife Park

17. SUP or swim at Matilda Bay

18. Ride the bridges

19. Get dinner in Chinatown

20. Catch a game at Optus Stadium

This hotel room just became my favourite in Australia

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A local’s guide to the ultimate things to do in Perth

Inspire your senses with these iconic East Kimberley stays

The East Kimberley should be on every bucket list, and here’s why.

Your guide to Lake Argyle

The backstory

The rooms

The facilities

Your guide to El Questro

The backstory

The rooms

The facilities