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This is your sign to go on the ultimate Aussie vacation! We’ve got a list of the best family activities in Perth, plus recommendations for your home away from home.
All-Ages-Friendly
Exploring Western Australia’s crown jewel, you’ll be thrilled to find a harmonious blend of bustling city life and refreshing outdoor escapades tailor-made for all ages. Indeed, family activities in Perth promise wholesome vacations, courtesy of the city’s serene parks, pristine beaches, historical treasures, and thriving wildlife.
Above everything else, however, Perth’s suitability as a family travel destination could be owed to its dependable climate. Boasting an incredible 3,200 hours of sunlight each year, it is sunnier than any of its Australian counterparts.
Be it educational museum trips or exhilarating kayaking trips, these handpicked family activities in Perth guarantee fun for all ages. Read on to find out what to do, what to visit, and where to book your home away from home in Western Australia.
10 Must-Try Family Activities in Perth, Australia
Eager to soak in Perth’s radiant sun and lively city vibe? Dive right into the excitement with these 10 standout family activities in Perth, ensuring joy for every age group:
1. MEET LOCAL FAUNA AT THE PERTH ZOO
Location: 20 Labouchere Road, South Perth
The Perth Zoo offers a glance at over 1,200 creatures across 170 varied species. Traverse the Australian Bushwalk, marvel at the creatures of the African Savannah, or have a delightful encounter with playful penguins. A treat for eco-conscious visitors, this attraction provides hands-on sessions that help youngsters better understand the essence of conservation.
2. CRUISE ALONG THE SWAN RIVER
Location: Departure from Barrack Street Jetty, Perth
What better way to relax than sailing along the picturesque Swan River? Admire the stunning city and river views, watch out for the elegant black swans, or anchor at Swan Valley for a memorable family picnic. Honestly, it is a cruise that pairs thrill and serenity seamlessly among the top family activities in Perth.
3. RELAX AT KINGS PARK AND BOTANIC GARDEN
Location: Fraser Avenue, West Perth
As one of the world’s most expansive and enchanting city-based parks, Kings Park and Botanic Garden offers panoramic, metropolitan views and spaces for the quintessential family picnic. Wander amid gardens teeming with diverse flora and let the kids have fun at the various playgrounds.
4. SHOP AND SOCIALIZE AT THE FREMANTLE MARKETS
Location: Intersection of South Terrace & Henderson Street, Fremantle
Fremantle Markets is a hub bursting with life and offers a dive into Perth’s essence. From farm-fresh offerings to artisanal crafts and local delicacies, it promises a sensory delight. After all, who could say no to a little bit of shopping?
If you want to discover more shopping havens beyond Fremantle, we’ve got a guide to Perth’s best markets that we think you’ll love!
5. PADDLE AWAY IN LANE POOLE RESERVE
Location: Dwellingup, Peel Region
Perth’s natural splendor is owed chiefly to its abundance of water, and kayaking in Lane Poole Reserve is one activity that lets you enjoy the best. The Australian wilderness will envelop you in its lush charm as you navigate the Murray River.
If you fancy an extended stay, many riverside family vacation rentals in Mandurah offer private access to the waterways. However, keep in mind that Perth is an hour away from Mandurah, so plan your family activities in Perth wisely if you set up camp here.
6. REVEL IN WHITEMAN PARK
Location: Lord Street, Whiteman
Spanning almost 4000 hectares of untouched greenery, Whiteman Park is a favorite for families. From hopping onto historic trains to greeting local fauna or picnicking amid the aromatic eucalyptus, choices abound!
And with Whiteman Park being only 30 minutes from the CBD, you can gear up to visit the must-see landmarks in Perth once you’re fully refreshed.
7. UNWIND AT COTTESLOE BEACH
Location: Marine Parade, Cottesloe
No Perth itinerary is comprehensive without embracing the beach vibes. Renowned for its crystalline waters, golden shores, and calming aura, Cottesloe Beach beckons families for swimming, snorkeling, or just basking in the setting sun’s glory. It also caters to four-legged family members with pet-friendly beachside accommodations.
8. EMBRACE THE ADVENTURE AT PINNACLES DESERT
Location: Nambung National Park, Cervantes
Infuse some adrenaline into your trip by sandboarding amidst the Pinnacles Desert. Feel the thrill sliding down vast sand mounts, all set against the mesmerizing limestone landscapes. Surely, it is a perfect finale to a day packed with exciting family activities in Perth!
And if you feel like you’re up for some more thrill-seeking, do check out our guide to more adventurous things to do in Perth.
9. UNRAVEL WONDERS AT SCITECH
Location: City West Centre, Sutherland Street, West Perth
SciTech is tailored for inquisitive minds across all ages. It fuses interactive showcases and gripping science displays to make learning intriguing and genuinely entertaining. This fusion of technology and nature makes it the perfect stop for visiting families with young kids.
10. NAVIGATE AQWA
Location: 91 Southside Drive, Hillarys
Venture into the marine wonders of the Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA). The journey from the chilly depths of the Southern Ocean to the warm coral reefs, letting families span 12,000 kilometers of Western Australia’s coast in mere hours!
Where to Stay in Perth, Australia
After experiencing the many family activities in Perth, having a cozy spot to refresh and rejuvenate is important. We have a list of top Perth accommodations for different travel styles and groups which we’d love for you to check out. But if you need just a general idea of where to stay, here are the most family-friendly districts of Perth, each radiating its unique allure and assortment of attractions:
SOUTH PERTH
Just a stone’s throw away via ferry from the bustling city hub, South Perth emerges as a serene residential space a few steps away from Perth Zoo. It’s a haven with verdant parks, captivating river vistas, and diverse culinary delights– including the renowned Coco’s Riverside Bar & Restaurant. And the tranquil promenade of South Perth Foreshore beckons for a stroll.
WEST PERTH
For families with a penchant for the wonders of science and nature, West Perth is the go-to zone. Nestled close to the magnificent Kings Park and the enlightening SciTech, this district isn’t just about nature. It houses trendy hangouts like Gordon St Garage, offers gastronomic delights at Black Tom’s, and promises retail therapy at the celebrated Watertown Brand Outlet Centre.
COTTESLOE
Beach enthusiasts, rejoice! Cottesloe is your dream destination. Beyond the mesmerizing Cottesloe Beach, the locale is renowned for hosting the yearly Sculpture by the Sea exhibit. Treat your taste buds to exquisite seafood at the iconic Cottesloe Beach Hotel. Sip on some refreshing brews at the stylish John Street Cafe.
FREMANTLE
Fondly called ‘Freo’ by the natives, Fremantle pulsates with energy and resonates with history. Its crown jewels near Adventure World include the legendary Fremantle Markets and the esteemed World Heritage-recognized Fremantle Prison. Gourmet escapades await at the buzzing Cappuccino Strip, and a delightful dollop of gelato at Dolce Vita Gelato is the cherry on top!
HILLARYS
Heading northward from Perth, the coastal charm of Hillarys awaits. Not only is it the residence of the Aquarium of Western Australia, but evenings here come alive at the bustling Hillarys Boat Harbour, sprinkled with eateries, with 3Sheets on the Harbour leading the way. Surely, Hillarys curates a mosaic of experiences apt for all sorts of family activities in Perth.
Find Your Home-Away-From-Home With Hotala
Having tasted the countless family activities in Perth, it’s high time to zero in on a crucial aspect of your Australian vacation — your holiday home. Let Hotala simplify your accommodation-hunting process!
We list thousands of hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals in Perth, and our easy-to-use filters allow you to narrow down your choices based on the amenities you want. We at Hotala understand the importance of familial bonding, so we feature the choicest stays that allow you to cozy up and have fun with your loved ones.
Start planning your Aussie adventure and create memories to last a lifetime with Hotala.
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