Mandurah has grown into one of WA’s most exciting coastal escapes for families. Just an hour south of Perth, you’ll find calm beaches perfect for little paddlers, playful dolphins cruising the estuary, quirky public art, and plenty of ways to get out on the water. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a full weekend away, these are some of the best family-friendly things to do in Mandurah – all tried, tested and loved by Buggybuddys families.
Thomas Dambo’s Giants of Mandurah
World-class attraction, Thomas Dambo’s Giants of Mandurah, is sure to capture the imaginations of young and old. The Danish artist has created this Australia-first art installation in and around Mandurah. While we usually love sharing all of Perth’s secrets… on this occasion, seeking out the hidden giants is all part of the fun. The free outdoor exhibition celebrating exploring the great outdoors will delight both little and big kids. Children and adults are invited to meet them, and to sit on the giants for photos, but please treat these beautiful creations with respect. And it’s just one of many things to do in Mandurah for free.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Giants of Mandurah
Mandurah Cruises
You can’t visit Mandurah without hopping aboard a Mandurah Cruise! Their popular Dolphin & Scenic Marine Cruises depart daily from the jetty opposite the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre. On a picturesque cruise, you’re sure to meet playful wild dolphins, which live in the estuary. It’s a family favourite way to see the city from the water.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Mandurah Cruises Dolphin & Scenic Marine Cruise
Kwillena Gabi Pool
The City of Mandurah’s popular Kwillena Gabi Pool, meaning “Dolphin Waters”, was named by the traditional owners of Bindjareb Boodja. Found on the eastern foreshore, this pool has fast become a favourite amongst the Mandurah attractions. A swim at this spot with dolphins occasionally cruising past has to be one of the best outdoor experiences in Mandurah.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Kwillena Gabi Pool
Koolaanga Waabiny Playground, Western Foreshore
Mandurah’s Koolaanga Waabiny play space is nothing short of EPIC! It’s the latest addition to the redevelopment of the Western Foreshore, which also includes Mandurah Skate Park and the meeting place artwork. The name is pronounced “kool-lung-ga waa-bin” and translates to “children playing” (Waabiny), while also referring to the local Swamp Sheoak trees (Koolaanga). The main feature is the Swamp Sheoak tree-inspired 12m high climbing tower, which also includes a 3-metre-long fully accessible ramp.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Koolaanga Waabiny Playground
The Pirate Ship
Shiver me timbers! The Pirate Ship Mandurah guarantees a super fun pirate adventure through the canals and inland waterways of Mandurah. Kids can dress up, man the wheel, and spot dolphins and grand canal homes along the way – it’s a must-do experience for your little shipmates.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: The Pirate Ship Mandurah
Amaze Miniature Park
Kids will love Amaze Miniature Park! It’s easy to spend hours exploring the beautifully manicured park, found just five minutes from Mandurah. Formerly known as Abingdon Miniature Village, there’s quirky miniature buildings, mini golf, mazes, a Playground and more to keep the whole family entertained.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Amaze Miniature Park
Mandurah 3D Art Trail
Be sure to snap an Insta-worthy picture on the impressive Mandurah 3D Art Trail! The three-dimensional artworks are dotted around Mandurah and are well worth hunting down. Kids will love posing with the optical illusions while you explore the foreshore and streets.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Mandurah 3D Art Trail
Mandurah Eastern Foreshore Reserve Playground
The Mandurah Eastern Foreshore Reserve Playground is a fantastic central spot for families to play right by the water. With a mix of equipment to suit toddlers through to older kids, plus shady trees, picnic spots and easy access to cafes and the foreshore path, it’s an easy place to spend a few hours. The Playground’s location makes it perfect to combine with a wander along the estuary or a bite to eat nearby.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Mandurah Eastern Foreshore Reserve Playground
Mandurah Boat Hire
Mandurah Boat Hire is a super fun way to get a taste for boating life! It’s easy to hire a boat and cruise the waterways of Mandurah, even if you’ve never driven a boat before – just keep your eyes peeled for dolphins.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Mandurah Boat Hire
Dolphin Quay Markets
The Dolphin Quay Markets at Mandurah Marina are the perfect spot to pick up something unique. Browse the stalls for gifts, fashion, toys and treats, then grab a bite to eat and enjoy the marina views. It’s an easy add-on to a day at the beach or the Lido.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Dolphin Quay Markets
The Lido
Found at Mandurah Ocean Marina by Keith Holmes Reserve, The Lido offers sheltered, shallow waters and plenty of sand for play. Kids can splash safely while parents relax on the grassed area or set up a picnic nearby. There’s even a beach volleyball net if you’re feeling energetic.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: The Lido, Mandurah Ocean Marina
Keith Holmes Reserve
This leafy park is located near Mandurah Ocean Marina, close to Dolphin Quay and The Lido. With a boat-themed play structure, shaded equipment for kids of all ages, BBQs and open lawn, it’s a great spot for a get-together, picnic or playdate by the water.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Keith Holmes Reserve
Mandjar Markets
Held under the shady trees on the Mandurah foreshore (Mandjar Bay), Mandjar Markets run every Sunday in the warmer months. Expect market stalls, live music, kids’ activities and plenty of food options – it’s an easy-going way to spend a Sunday by the water.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Mandjar Markets
Village Beach, Wannanup
Looking for a quiet beach? Seek out the hidden gem of Village Beach, located in Wannanup, south of Mandurah. Its calm inland waterways make for a lovely spot for little ones to paddle, build sandcastles and explore without big waves.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Village Beach, Wannanup
Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre
A visit to the Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre is another top option for a rainy (or hot!) day. The highlight for families is the fun pirate-themed indoor water Playground, plus pools suitable for all ages and abilities.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre
Mandurah Christmas Lights
Mandurah truly shines at Christmas time. As well as the foreshore Christmas light trail, the famous Mandurah Christmas Lights Cruises through the canal homes are a massive drawcard in December and book out fast. It’s a magical way to experience the festive season by boat.
Read the full Buggybuddys review: Mandurah Christmas Lights Cruise
The Peel Region is an Easy Day Trip from Perth
With its relaxed holiday atmosphere, calm waterways and ever-growing list of family attractions, Mandurah and the wider Peel region are ideal for both quick escapes and longer stays. Being just an hour’s drive from the Perth CBD, you can easily pop down for a day of dolphins, Playgrounds and markets, or use Mandurah as a base for exploring further south.
Mandurah Restaurants
Looking for kid-friendly places to eat while you’re there? Check out the full guide to family-friendly Mandurah restaurants and cafes here: Mandurah Restaurants – Eating Out With Kids
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Amanda Carlin has her own food and travel blog. Established in 2013, “The Chef, His Wife and Their Perth-fect Life” has enjoyed an exciting name change in 2021, as “The Chef’s Ex-wife” embarks on new adventures with Simply PERTHfect. Amanda loves getting out and about in Perth and WA, as well as brunching, tapas or something a little fancy in equal measures. With her son “Little Chef” in tow, Amanda always has plenty of family friendly eating options to recommend too! Be sure to check out Simply PERTHfect.
