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Perth with Kids: The Best Family Activities in Perth, Western Australia

Perth is one of Australia's most family-friendly cities, with wildlife encounters, beach days, interactive museums, and island adventures all within easy reach. This guide covers the best activities for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens.

Aerial view of a Perth beach and adventure playground with shaded areas, green lawns, and kids’ play structures right next to the sand.

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Perth is an unusually strong family destination. The city sits beside the Indian Ocean and the Swan River, giving families a natural playground of beaches, parks, and wetlands, backed by world-class zoos, aquariums, and museums. Whether you have a weekend or a full week, the options are genuinely excellent. For a broader overview of what to see and do, thethings to do in Perth guide is a good starting point, and if you're planning your first visit, the 3-day Perth itinerarymaps out a practical schedule. This guide focuses specifically on what works best with children in tow.

💡 Local tip

Transperth's $7 FamilyRider lets up to seven people travel unlimited on buses, trains, and ferries for one day. Outside school holidays it's available weekdays after 6pm (Mon–Thu) or 3pm (Fri); during school holidays, after 8:30am weekdays. Kids under four travel free. Verify current times at transperth.wa.gov.au before you go.

Wildlife & Nature Encounters

Two kangaroos standing on green grass with a forested background, representing wildlife encounters in Australia.
Photo Line Knipst

Perth's greatest family asset may be its wildlife. From koalas and quokkas to penguins and kangaroos, kids can get up close with animals that exist nowhere else on earth. TheRottnest Island day trip is the headline act, but there are excellent wildlife experiences much closer to the city too.

Koalas perched in eucalyptus branches inside an enclosure at Caversham Wildlife Park, giving a close-up look at these iconic Australian animals.

1. Meet Koalas and Kangaroos at Caversham Wildlife Park

One of Perth's top family stops, Caversham lets kids hand-feed kangaroos, hold a koala, and see wombats and Tasmanian devils up close. Allow two to three hours. It sits inside Whiteman Park, so combine both attractions for a full day out.

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Large sea turtle swimming in a blue-lit aquarium tank at AQWA, surrounded by fish and underwater plants.

2. Walk Through the Shark Tunnel at AQWA Aquarium

AQWA at Hillarys Boat Harbour is Australia's largest aquarium complex dedicated to West Australian marine life. The walk-through tunnel puts sharks, rays, and sea turtles directly overhead. Budget two to three hours and arrive early on school holidays.

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A group of little penguins standing together on sandy ground near shallow water, showcasing the unique wildlife of Penguin Island sanctuary.

3. See Little Penguins at Penguin Island

A short ferry from Rockingham, Penguin Island still has a little penguin colony, though numbers have declined. Kids can snorkel the clear shallows; the old feeding presentations have closed. It's about 50 minutes south of Perth, making it a very manageable half-day trip.

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Two meerkats interact on sunlit gravel at Perth Zoo, with their sandy brown fur illuminated by natural daylight and scattered leaves nearby.

4. Spend a Morning at Perth Zoo in South Perth

Perth Zoo houses over 1,200 animals across Australian, African, and Asian precincts. It's compact enough for younger children and daily keeper talks add genuine learning value. Children under four enter free; check the official site for current adult and family admission prices.

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Aerial view of Heirisson Island showing Swan River, surrounding parkland, bridges, and Perth city in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

5. Spot Wild Kangaroos for Free at Heirisson Island

A small island in the Swan River accessible by causeway, Heirisson Island has a free-roaming kangaroo colony and river views of the city skyline. It costs nothing, takes about 30 minutes, and makes a perfect quick stop between the CBD and other attractions.

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Brick walking path winding through native bushland and tall trees in Yanchep National Park on a sunny day.

6. Explore Limestone Caves and See Koalas at Yanchep

Just 51 km north of Perth, Yanchep National Park has a resident koala colony, guided cave tours through striking limestone formations, and the calm Yanchep Lagoon for swimming and picnics. Spring visits add the bonus of wildflower displays throughout the park.

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A group of kangaroos rests in the shade beneath a large tree in the golden grasslands of Whiteman Park, Perth.

7. Ride Vintage Trams and Explore Whiteman Park All Day

Whiteman Park pairs Caversham Wildlife Park with vintage tram and train rides, cycling trails, a motor museum, and vast picnic areas. It's designed for full family days and has enough variety that kids of different ages all find something engaging. Entry to the park is free.

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Beaches & Water Play

Busy patrolled beach in Perth with lots of families and children playing in the shallow water near a surf rescue board and safety flags.
Photo Hengki W

Perth's coastline is one of its greatest gifts to families. ThePerth beaches guidecovers the full range, but for kids the key factors are calm water, patrol flags, good facilities, and shade. The options below tick all those boxes.

Wide sandy shoreline at City Beach, Perth, with a rocky breakwater, lifeguard tower, and cloudy sky over the Indian Ocean.

8. Swim at City Beach for Calm Water and Great Facilities

City Beach has sheltered, patrolled swimming zones, a popular café, clean change rooms, and ample parking close to Kings Park. Its calmer conditions compared to nearby surf beaches make it the most straightforward choice for families with young children on a beach day.

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Scarborough Beach with bright sand in the foreground, gentle blue Indian Ocean waves, and a partly cloudy sky on a sunny day in Perth.

9. Hit the Waterpark and Foreshore at Scarborough Beach

Scarborough's revamped foreshore adds a free splash pad and water play area for young kids alongside the surf beach. The beachfront dining strip means parents can eat well while children play. Go early on summer weekends as the carpark and splash zones fill quickly.

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Visitors swim and relax in the clear, reef-protected waters of The Basin at Rottnest Island, surrounded by rocky outcrops and sandy beach.

10. Snorkel the Turquoise Shallows of The Basin on Rottnest Island

The Basin is Rottnest's most family-friendly swimming spot: a shallow, sheltered lagoon with brilliant visibility and coral reef snorkelling just metres from shore. Hire snorkel gear from the Thomson Bay settlement and walk or cycle over. Conditions are calmest in the morning.

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Serpentine Falls waterfall cascading down smooth granite rocks into a natural swimming hole, surrounded by rugged cliffs and a clear blue sky.

11. Swim in the Natural Rock Pool at Serpentine Falls

About 60 km south of Perth in Serpentine National Park, these falls tumble over granite boulders into a clear swimming hole surrounded by jarrah forest. It's a favourite summer outing: arrive before 10am to beat the crowds and secure a shaded picnic table nearby.

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Daytime view of Hillarys Boat Harbour with boats docked alongside the waterfront and recognizable Breakwater complex, restaurants, and boardwalk visible.

12. Spend the Day at Hillarys Boat Harbour

Hillarys combines AQWA Aquarium, a calm swimming beach, seafood restaurants, and ferries to Rottnest in one precinct. It's ideal for a full family day without driving between multiple locations. The sheltered harbour beach is safe for young children and free to use.

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Museums, Science & History

Interior view of a dramatic contemporary museum space with geometric windows, warm lighting, stone walls, and families exploring the exhibits.
Photo Lu Zhao

Perth's museums have improved dramatically in recent years, led by the 2020 reopening of the flagship Perth CBDinstitution. Most permanent collections are free for children 15 and under, making them ideal budget-friendly activities, especially on overcast days or during the summer heat.

Exterior view of WA Museum Boola Bardip showing modern glass and metal architecture alongside restored red-brick heritage buildings under a clear blue sky.

13. Explore 'Many Stories' at WA Museum Boola Bardip

Perth's flagship museum reopened in 2020 with a bold new building wrapped around the original 1890s structures. Natural history galleries, dinosaur skeletons, an immersive ocean gallery, and interactive Indigenous culture displays keep children genuinely engaged for two-plus hours. Adult general admission is A$15 (free for visitors aged 15 and under).

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Wide view of The Perth Mint's historic sandstone building with distinctive arches, red roof, manicured gardens, and visitors enjoying the main entrance under a blue sky.

14. Watch a Real Gold Pour at The Perth Mint

The Perth Mint has been producing gold since 1899 and runs live gold pour demonstrations that genuinely captivate kids. Seeing molten gold poured into a bar is memorable, and the chance to hold one of the world's largest gold coins makes for a great photo. Check the official site for current tour times.

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The WA Maritime Museum’s modern, white and glass building sits perched above the water at Victoria Quay with cranes and cloudy sky in the background.

15. Board a Real Submarine at the WA Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum in Fremantle lets visitors board HMAS Ovens, a decommissioned Royal Australian Navy submarine, on guided tours. The story of the America's Cup-winning yacht Australia II is also here. Budget 90 minutes and note that the submarine tour costs extra; book in advance on busy school holidays.

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Heritage brick building and tower at Perth Observatory in the Perth Hills, pictured under a clear blue sky with trees surrounding the site.

16. Stargaze Through Heritage Telescopes at Perth Observatory

Perth Observatory in the Darling Range runs public stargazing nights and school holiday programs for families. The dark skies of the Perth Hills produce excellent viewing of the southern sky. Sessions book out quickly; check the observatory's website and reserve spots well in advance.

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Parks, Gardens & Outdoor Play

Signage and entrance of the Western Australian Botanic Garden at Kings Park, lush greenery and trees in the background.
Photo Line Knipst

Kings Park is Perth's most loved outdoor space and a superb family destination, especially in spring when the wildflowers are out. For more walking ideas across the region, thePerth hiking guide covers trails suited to different fitness levels and ages.

The State War Memorial and eternal flame at Kings Park, with city and river views in the background and people visiting the site.

17. Run Wild in the Kings Park Botanic Garden

The WA Botanic Garden within Kings Park has a dedicated children's nature playground, open lawns for running around, and over 3,000 native plant species to explore. The free entry makes it an easy addition to any city day, and the spring wildflower season from August to October is genuinely spectacular for kids.

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Kings Park DNA Tower rises among green trees under a bright blue sky, with people visible at the top and along the spiral staircase.

18. Climb the DNA Tower Treetop Walk in Kings Park

The double-helix DNA Tower rises above the Kings Park canopy and connects to the Lotterywest Federation Walkway, a suspended bridge at treetop height. Kids love the elevated perspective over the forest and the views of the Perth skyline. It's free, takes about 30 minutes, and works for most ages.

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Wide view of Lake Monger with native reeds in the foreground, calm water, and Perth city skyline in the distance under a clear sky.

19. Walk Around Lake Monger to See Perth's Black Swans

The 3.5 km loop around Lake Monger passes through a large colony of black swans, pelicans, and ducks in a relaxed suburban park setting. It's stroller-friendly, completely flat, and free. Go on a calm morning for the best bird activity and bring bread crusts to feed the ducks nearby.

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Aerial dusk view of Elizabeth Quay, showing the Swan River waterfront, pedestrian bridge, inlet boardwalk, and Perth CBD skyline with illuminated buildings.

20. Play at Elizabeth Quay's Waterfront Playground

Elizabeth Quay has a free waterfront playground with a water-play splash area, climbing structures, and a carousel. The ferry terminals here connect to South Perth and the zoo. It's a short walk from Perth's main train station, making it an easy first or last stop on a city day out.

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Elevated wooden walkway winding through jarrah forest at John Forrest National Park under clear blue sky and afternoon sunlight.

21. Discover Waterfalls and Rock Pools at John Forrest National Park

WA's oldest national park is 30 km east of Perth in the hills and has a heritage pool, short waterfall walks, and granite outcrops perfect for scrambling. The trails are well-graded for families and the park is cool and shaded even on warm Perth days. Entry fees apply; check Parks and Wildlife WA for current rates.

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Day Trips Worth the Drive

Person with backpack exploring the Pinnacles Desert, a famous day trip destination from Perth, under a bright blue sky.
Photo Rachel Claire

Some of Perth's best family experiences require leaving the city, but the distances are manageable. Theday trips from Perth guide covers a wider range of options if you want to explore the region further.

Wide view of the Lancelin Sand Dunes under a clear blue sky, with tire tracks and small figures visible on the sandy slopes.

22. Sandboard Down Giant Dunes at Lancelin

About 130 km north of Perth, Lancelin's massive white sand dunes are a natural playground for kids and teenagers. Hire sandboards in town and spend a few hours sliding down slopes of various steepness. It pairs well with a swim at Lancelin's sheltered lagoon beach on the way back.

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Aerial view of Matagarup Bridge in Perth, showing its dramatic arched design spanning the Swan River, with city buildings in the background under a clear blue sky.

23. Try the Zip Line and Climb at Matagarup Bridge

The Matagarup Zip+Climb adventure experience on the Burswood pedestrian bridge suits older kids and teens looking for a thrill. The climb to the top of the cable-stayed pylon rewards with exceptional views of the river and Optus Stadium. Check height and age requirements on the operator's website before booking.

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✨ Pro tip

For Rottnest Island, book ferry tickets well in advance, especially during school holidays and summer. Rottnest Express runs from Fremantle, Hillarys, and Barrack Street Jetty; prices and sailing times vary by departure point. Children under four travel free if they don't occupy a seat.

FAQ

What is the best age range for a Perth family trip?

Perth works well for all ages. Toddlers love the beach splash zones, lake walks, and Caversham Wildlife Park. Primary school-aged children get the most out of Rottnest Island, AQWA, Perth Zoo, and WA Museum Boola Bardip. Teenagers enjoy the Matagarup Zip+Climb, sandboarding at Lancelin, and snorkelling on Rottnest.

How do families get around Perth affordably?

Transperth's $7 FamilyRider covers up to seven people on buses, trains, and ferries for a full day. Outside school holidays it's available weekdays after 6pm (Mon–Thu) or 3pm (Fri), and during school holidays after 8:30am on weekdays. Children under four travel free at all times. Free CAT buses run through the CBD every 5–15 minutes.

Is Rottnest Island worth it with young children?

Yes, especially for the quokka encounters and The Basin's calm, shallow snorkelling lagoon. The ferry crossing takes about 25–90 minutes depending on the departure point, which is manageable for most children. Book in advance during school holidays; the Rottnest Express family return fare is around $240 for two adults and two children aged 4–12, varying by season.

When is the best time to visit Perth with kids?

Spring (September to November) offers mild temperatures, wildflowers in Kings Park, and comfortable beach conditions. Autumn (March to May) is equally pleasant. Summer (December to February) means school holidays, busy beaches, and temperatures regularly above 35°C; plan outdoor activities for the morning and save indoor attractions like WA Museum and AQWA for the afternoon heat.

Are there free things to do with kids in Perth?

Yes, many. Kings Park including the DNA Tower and Botanic Garden, Heirisson Island kangaroos, Lake Monger, Elizabeth Quay's playground, and the Art Gallery of WA are free. WA Museum Boola Bardip is free for children 15 and under; adult general admission is $15. Free CAT buses also make the CBD easy to navigate at no cost. For more ideas, see the free things to do in Perth guide.

Tickets & tours

Live prices and dates from our booking partner. If you book, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Related destination:perth-australia

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