Perth is a vibrant sprawling city boasting more sunshine hours than any other Australian capital. That’s just one of the reasons Western Australia’s capital is made for family fun!
Perth earns its status as one of WA’s top kid-friendly places to visit, thanks to an abundance of exciting attractions, stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities galore. Take the family to one of Perth’s renowned beaches or on a scenic cruise along Swan River and visit family-friendly museums at the Fremantle Prison, Western Australian Museum and the Art Gallery of WA.
It would also be a shame to skip the beach in Western Australia’s capital. Grab fish and chips and play some beach cricket at Cottesloe or Scarborough Beach. Kings Park and the Botanic Gardens are also prime picnic spots – they have plenty of room to run around and explore.
There are so many ways to make memories in Perth, so read on for our wrap-up of the BEST things to do with kids.
1. Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Spreading across 400ha of natural bushland and landscaped beds, Kings Park and Botanic Garden offers endless opportunities to relax on the banks of the Swan River.
Kids can connect with WA’s native flora at the Naturescape, which has large aerial walkways, a creek and waterhole for wading in, a cubby-building area, tunnels, rocks and a web of climbing ropes. The 6ha nature space can be explored on accessible paths, bridges and boardwalks.
They are also sure to love the dinosaur-themed equipment of the May Drive Parkland, or let loose in the Saw Avenue Picnic Area.
2. Perth Zoo
Five minutes from the Perth CBD on the banks of the Swan River is Australia’s best small zoo. Opened in 1898, the Perth Zoo is home to more than 1,200 animals across its three zones —Australian Walkabout, Asian Rainforest and African Savannah — all of which are designed to mimic the wildlife’s natural habitat.
Come face-to-face with Asian elephants, Sumatran orangutans and rhinoceros, or book in for a close encounter with a giraffe or Galapagos tortoise. Keeper talks and animal feeding sessions are also held throughout the day.
3. Island Aqua Park
Located at Hillary’s Boat Harbour, this floating obstacle course is ideal for kids aged six and over, with endless opportunities to bounce, slide and swim. Entry to the Island Aqua Park includes 90 minutes of fun (plus a safety aid) and it’s within viewing distance of several cafes and eateries where non-participating parents can relax.
4. Amaze Miniature Park
Nestled in beautifully manicured grounds, the Amaze Miniature Park features replica model buildings from the English village of Abingdon and beyond. Watch the miniature trains coming and going as you explore England’s oldest continually inhabited town or challenge yourself in the hedge and circular mazes. The Park also has a 12-hole miniature golf course, a secret garden and a children’s playground … and there’s a chocolate factory just across the road!
5. iFLY Perth
If launching yourself out of a plane at 10,000ft in the air doesn’t appeal to you, but you still want to experience the thrill, then head to iFly Perth. Kids as young as three years can step into the iFly wind tunnel to soar in a safe and secure environment, with a skilled instructor at their side.
6. Rottnest Island
Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Perth is the beautiful island of Rottnest, which is ringed by pristine beaches and protected coral reefs that are ideal for snorkelling. Whether you tour the island by bus, boat, segway or e-bike, there are some attractions and experiences not to miss, including the Wadjemup Lighthouse, the Cathedral Rocks fur seal colony and taking a selfie with a quokka.
7. Elizabeth Quay
Backed by the skyscrapers of Perth’s CBD, the waterfront Elizabeth Quay precinct is home to picturesque promenades, public artworks and a diverse range of restaurants and bars. Kids can ride the traditional Venetian carousel, play in the maritime-inspired playground, and cool off amidst the choreographed jets of the water park.
8. Yagan Square
Connecting Northbridge to the CBD, Yagan Square is a vibrant urban space where locals and visitors come to meet, eat and play. It’s dotted with artworks and installations that pay respect to the area’s Indigenous people and centres around the Market Hall, where you can dine on cuisine from around the globe. On the upper level of the building is a kid-friendly play space inspired by Western Australia’s natural rock formations.
9. Swan Valley
Encompassing the upper reaches of the Swan River, the Swan Valley is the oldest wine-growing region in Western Australia and an easy escape from Perth’s hustle and bustle. Rent bicycles to explore one of the seven themed trails, pick up fresh produce from the roadside stalls and meet native animals at the Caversham Wildlife Park.
10. Cottesloe Beach
As one of Perth’s most iconic beaches, Cottesloe needs no introduction. It offers just over a kilometre of pure white sand and inviting turquoise waters in which to swim, snorkel and surf. Towering Norfolk pines and terraced lawns back the beach if you prefer a sand-free picnic, or there’s an excellent choice of cafes and restaurants along the buzzing boulevard.
Cottesloe hosts Sculpture by the Sea in March every year. It also has a great cycle trail that follows the coast to Hillarys Boat Harbour, plus a couple of fun playgrounds.
11. Coogee Beach
It’s not every day you can don a pair of goggles and set off from the beach to explore a historic shipwreck. Except in Coogee Beach, 30 minutes south of the city, where you can do exactly that.
The historic Omeo was sunk just off the coast in 1905, with underwater artworks and an artificial reef added to the snorkelling trail since. Back on land there’s a short Aboriginal heritage track designed to share local Indigenous stories and language, with colourful glass artworks and lovely views from the lookout.
12. Penguin Island
Penguins are just one of the drawcards of the amazing Penguin Island, an hour’s drive south of Perth. From Rockingham, it’s a five-minute trip on the cute ferry to the island’s sheltered waters, beautiful beaches and incredible wildlife.
There’s a myriad of adventures to choose from – swimming with wild dolphins, sea kayaking and wildlife tours, watching the penguin feeding, swimming, snorkelling and walking the short nature trails. Take a picnic or refuel at Pengo’s Café, but be aware that the island is closed in bad weather and winter, when it’s penguin breeding season.
Enjoy a Dolphin, Penguin and Sea Lion Cruise from Rockingham
13. Yanchep National Park
With guaranteed wildlife, as well as walking, caving and tree top adventures, Yanchep National Park packs it in, and it’s less than an hour’s drive north of the city. If it’s animals you’re after, there’s an abundance of kangaroos, as well as a resident population of koalas.
There are more than 400 caves in the park, including Perth’s only tourist caves, with guided tours exploring their history, formations and chambers. Take one of the park’s eight bushwalks (from half hour to multi-day rambles), or try the ropes course at Treetops Adventure. If one day is not long enough, there is accommodation at the Yanchep Inn and campsite.
14. Swan River scenic cruise
A morning cruise on the tranquil Swan River is a great way to learn more about Perth’s history while enjoying the sights including Perth’s Bell Tower, the Swan Brewery, King’s Park, the Royal Perth Yacht Club as well as getting a glimpse at some of the amazing homes overlooking the river.
15. Scitech Perth
Curious kids will love a visit to Scitech in West Perth. Scitech is a hands-on science centre and planetarium with interactive exhibitions and programs designed for children (and adults) of all ages. Be sure to keep an eye out for for the baby chickens hatching.
16. Mundaring Weir
Originally built to service the goldfields with fresh water, Mundaring Weir is now a popular spot for families to picnic or gather for an afternoon of food, music and playground fun at quirky Mundaring Weir Hotel. The location is beautiful and at dusk the kids will enjoy seeing kangaroos come out to play in the old gardens adjoining the weir. On a Sunday morning, stop off at the Kalamunda farmers market to pick up breakfast on the way before continuing on to the Weir.
17. Rockingham dolphin encounter
Just 45 minutes south of Perth on the shores of the spectacular Shoalwater Islands Marine Park families can explore the enchanting underwater world of Rockingham’s wild dolphins. Perth Dolphin Encounters offers you the chance to swim alongside more than 150 local dolphins in their natural environment.
An unforgettable and exhilarating close encounter with wild dolphins, this is a nature experience like no other, with no tricks and no feeding – just you and everyone’s favourite ocean mammal enjoying each other’s company, ensuring the best experience for both visitors and dolphins alike.
18. Bailey's Beach
This tiny cove near the popular Mettam’s Pool is a local secret well worth exploring. Bailey’s Beach is a very photogenic spot, and while it’s not as ideal for swimming as other Perth beaches, the reef is a great snorkelling spot when conditions are calm.
19. Cycle on Perth's bike trails
Comfortable on two wheels? Bike around Fremantle Markets, jam-packed with food and clothing and everything in between. There is an E-shed full of free bikes provided by the Free Wheeling Fremantle initiative.
Cycling the Swan River Walk Trail around Elizabeth Quay is another delightful option, although you’ll need to take your time and be prepared to dodge pedestrians. There are plenty of bike racks. Barrack Street Jetty is a good bet.
20. Take a scenic drive
Located an hour east of Perth is the picturesque Avon Valley. A patchwork of rolling hills stretches from Brookton to the historic towns of York and New Norcia.
About an hour south of Perth is the Rockingham Scenic Drive that follows spectacular coastline and offers beach, bay and island views – you might even spot a dolphin or two
The Zig Zag Scenic Drive twists downhill through the undulating Gooseberry Hill National Park. It provides panoramic views to Perth City and the coastal plains of the Indian Ocean.
21. FRINGE WORLD Festival
Families will love Perth’s annual entertainment extravaganza! From music and musicals to comedy and circus, there’s something for everyone at FRINGE WORLD, which is the third largest fringe festival on the planet. The event is presented by charity ARTRAGE Inc, which is one of the oldest arts organisations in Western Australia.
22. Perth Cultural Centre
Perth Cultural Centre is the home of all things arty. The possibilities are truly endless here! There’s the inspiring Art Gallery of Western Australia, PICA (Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts), the State Theatre Centre, State Library and the WA Museum. When it time to refuel, there’s even more choice at hand – there’s soft pretzels, pub grub from Picabar, icy-cold treats from Chico Gelato, and the list goes on! Squeeze in time for the playground, wetlands and urban orchard too.
23. Fremantle Markets
The Fremantle Markets have been running for over a hundred years and counting! Every Perth holiday itinerary should include a day hunting for treasure in these hallowed brick walls. Keep yourself fuelled up with tasty treats and samples as you browse the clothing, homewares and knick-knacks on display or follow the History Trail to learn about the building’s Victorian roots.
24. Go snorkelling in Shoalwater Islands Marine Park
Ideal for wildlife spotting, Rockingham’s Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is less than an hour south of Perth. The waters here are excellent for snorkelling (and ideal for beginners). Once the whole family masters the basics, you can snorkel the shipwrecks in search of a dolphin or sea lion! If you don’t want to get your feet wet, try a spot of birdwatching. Silver gulls, pelicans, cormorants and terns can all be ticked off the list here.
25. Lesmurdie Falls
Head out to Mundy Regional Park to the east of Perth to find the spectacular Lesmurdie Falls. Unlike many other waterfalls around Australia, you can witness these without breaking a sweat – it’s only a few hundred metres from the car park to the viewing platforms. For a more strenuous day out, you can tackle a range of moderate-to-difficult walking trails, up to around two hours in duration.
Top tips for visiting Perth with kids
Best time to visit
Except for a few short weeks in mid-summer when the worst of the heat hits, Perth’s climate makes it an ideal holiday destination all year round.
How to get there
Perth Airport is serviced by all the major airlines including Qantas.
How to get around
Public transport is safe and and an easy way to get around the city. For slightly further afield, Perth and its surrounds are best explored by car. Most major car rental companies have outlets at the airport and in various locations in and around Perth.
Where to stay
See our guide to Perth’s best family-friendly accommodation.
Content contributors: Elisa Elwin, Lee Taylor
