Family Holidays

Take a scenic journey through Western Australia’s magnificent karri forests on this historic tourist railway. Operating since 1987 and recently revitalized under new local family ownership in 2023, the Pemberton Tramway offers a 10km journey through some of the region’s most picturesque countryside. Experience Features: Scenic tram rides through deep forests Informative and entertaining commentary Multiple river crossings Stop at the beautiful Cascades Heated station building with refreshments Pet-friendly activity Gift shop with souvenirs Current Timetable: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10:30am service Saturday: 10:30am and 2:00pm services   Buggybuddys Review Pemberton Tramway Company, Pemberton   Read more…

The Kalbarri Skate Park is a popular place to while away the hours and exhaust the kids at the same time. The Skate Park is located a few minutes walk from the main Kalbarri Foreshore and is opposite a few of the local caravan, camping and hotel resorts. It is on a main road so not ideal for younger kids to go alone. There is plenty of seating and shade around the park as well as a toilet block.Plenty of space for bikes and scooters, but it’s not shaded and does get hot during Summer.The park is split into a few areas, Read more…

Busselton Skate Park is HUGE!!! Designed for Skaters and BMX riders the skate park is over 2000 metres suitable for beginners through to experts.  The park will host state wide competitions so look out for events happening in Busselton before heading down there for a play. Now I’m by no means a technical whizz kid on Skate parks, my two kids are novice novices and we didn’t even take padding or helmets with us when we went to check it out. There are a few longer runs to get some decent speed and plenty of blocks and rails if you want to Read more…

Jewel Cave is the biggest show cave in Western Australia, with three massive chambers. It is also home to one of the longest straw stalactites found in any tourist cave in the world. Buggybuddys Review Jewel Cave, Augusta   Save 5% off the entry fee with Klook Get 5% off your first booking on the mobile app – use code BetterOnApp Klook.com Read more…

Located near Dunsborough, the recently upgraded Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse offers families a fascinating historical experience. Built in 1903 from local limestone, this working lighthouse features guided tours, an observation platform with panoramic ocean views, and is housed within beautifully restored grounds. Stand-Out Feature: The lighthouse tours are particularly engaging, with guides sharing interesting historical details, ghost stories, and insights into lighthouse operations. The climb is relatively easy compared to other lighthouses, as it sits atop a hill, making it accessible for families. From September to December, visitors might spot whales from the observation deck. Top Tip: Book onto one of Read more…

Margaret River Hideaway and Farmstay is a charming accommodation option just 5 minutes from Margaret River town, offering families a perfect blend of comfort and farm experiences. Stand-Out Features: Regular animal feeding sessions Various farm animals including cows, sheep, alpacas, emus, and friendly chickens Modern, well-equipped cottages Hands-on farm activities for kids Dog-friendly accommodation Top Tip: Book a superior cottage for families of 3-4 and try to time your stay with the feeding sessions    Buggybuddys Review Margaret River Hideaway and Farmstay   Read more…

Midway Southbound & Northbound, West Pinjarra   Travelling for a holiday in WA’s South West Region recently, we found a convenient place to stop and break up our drive. Midway Southbound is about 80 kilometres south between Perth and Bunbury. For the return journey, there’s a sister stop, Midway Northbound, on the opposite side of the highway. Both stops feature a petrol station so you can fuel up if needed, along with food vendors, a fenced dog park and a small kids playground. Initially, we were on the hunt for Miami Bakehouse. On a trip to Bunbury 3-4 years ago, Read more…

Next Level Monkey Business is an exciting treetop adventure park located between Dunsborough and Yallingup, offering age-appropriate zipline and ropes courses for the whole family. Stand-Out Features: Three different course levels: Mega Zip: 100-meter zipline across a lake No adult participation required 2-hour sessions Professional safety instructors On-site café Top Tip: Complete the online waiver before arrival and wear closed shoes. Book the morning sessions when it’s cooler and less busy. Buggybuddys Review Next Level Monkey Business, Dunsborough   Read more…

Koombana Foreshore Playground is at the heart of Bunbury and opened in late 2017.  The Koombana Bay Foreshore area is a great stop point to let the kids run off some energy if you’re travelling to the South West of WA. Or if you’re staying at once of the local caravan parks or hotels in Bunbury.  The location is perfect for an energetic play followed by a dip in the sea to cool off, so remember the kids bathers if you’re heading here as the sea is very inviting from the foreshore. The main feature of the playground is the Read more…

Big Swamp Playground is a huge playground located next to Bunbury Wildlife Park on Prince Phillip Drive, Bunbury. The park spans a large area with many different pieces of playground equipment. It is fenced but there are gate width openings to be aware of. The playground has play equipment suitable for all ages. The playground is all inclusive and has a wheelchair access merry-go-round and seesaw. The playground also has BBQs, toilets including disabled access and shaded areas with picnic benches. The merry-go-round has wheelchair access and there is a wheelchair friendly seesaw. Read more…

Aravina Estate is an elegant yet welcoming winery in Yallingup that perfectly balances sophistication with family-friendly amenities. This stunning estate features manicured gardens with beautiful hydrangeas, sweeping lawns, and multiple dining options including an a la carte restaurant and casual pizza bar, all set among picturesque vineyard views. Stand-Out Features: Fenced playground near the dam with diverse equipment including swings, dual slides, and climbing frames Classic car gallery and surf museum for added entertainment Beautiful gardens with decked walkways perfect for exploring 8 Waves Brewery on-site for beer lovers Top Tip: Make a day of it by combining lunch with Read more…

Located in the heart of Western Australia’s premier wine region and just a hop from Perth CBD, Discovery Parks – Swan Valley offers the perfect blend of family fun and grown-up getaways. This welcoming park provides a peaceful base where kids can splash in the swimming pool and play on the playground, while parents enjoy the convenience of modern amenities including a well-equipped camp kitchen and BBQ facilities. The park’s spacious grounds provide plenty of room for families to spread out and relax in comfort. Stand Out Feature The park’s unique location puts you right in the middle of the Read more…

Discover Deadly is the Southwest’s largest reptile education centre, featuring an impressive collection of over 40 different species of reptiles, amphibians, birds, and arachnids. Located in Carbunup River, this unique attraction offers hands-on educational experiences that help separate fact from fiction about Australia’s infamous wildlife. Stand-Out Features: Daily reptile talks and feeding demonstrations (10:30am & 1:30pm) Educational presentations that bust common wildlife myths Largest reptile display in Southwest WA Keeper for a Day experiences Birthday party options Coffee available until 2pm Top Tip: Plan your visit around the daily reptile talks and feeding times (10:30am or 1:30pm) for the best Read more…

Bootleg Brewery is a laid-back, casual brewery in the Margaret River region offering hearty pub-style meals including burgers, salads, ribs, and pizzas. This established venue provides a more relaxed alternative to the region’s fancier establishments, making it an ideal spot for a casual family lunch without the need for advance bookings. Stand-Out Features: Sand-based playground with climbing equipment and large slide Spacious outdoor seating area Kid-friendly menu options including chicken nuggets and chips Top Tip: Arrive early and order your food straight away to avoid peak-time queues. Consider ordering drinks in pairs to minimize waiting time at the bar, and Read more…

Located just 4km from Pemberton along the Karri Forest Explorer Drive, Big Brook Dam is a peaceful family-friendly destination offering multiple outdoor activities against a stunning karri forest backdrop. Features: Sandy white beach perfect for swimming and paddling 4km walking/cycling trail around the dam (stroller and wheelchair accessible) Fishing opportunities (freshwater license required) Canoeing and kayaking Marron catching (seasonal) Abundant wildlife including blue fairy wrens Dog-friendly (must be leashed, not allowed on beach area) Facilities: Free parking Picnic tables BBQ facilities Public toilets Grassed areas for picnicking Information boards Best For: Family picnics and swimming (water is refreshingly cool year-round) Read more…

 Denham is about 30mins drive from Monkey Mia in the Shire of Shark Bay.  If you’ve staying in Shark Bay or travelling through then Denham’s foreshore playground is fantastic for kids of all ages.  We stayed at the Denham Tourist Village Caravan Park and the playground became a regular activity for us to cycle to along the foreshore. Denham is a very small town with little more than a few cafes, bakery, petrol station and a few boutique shops.  We were actually quite amazed at how big the pirate/nautical themed playground was and the fantastic structures and equipment it offered. The Read more…

Perfectly positioned in the stunning Margaret River region, Prevelly Caravan Park offers a laid-back coastal camping experience just moments from the famous surf breaks and pristine beaches of Prevelly. Located at 99 Mitchell Drive, this family-friendly park provides a peaceful base where you can fall asleep to the sound of distant waves and wake up to fresh ocean breezes. The park’s convenient location puts you within easy reach of both Margaret River’s world-class wineries and the region’s natural wonders. Stand Out Feature The park’s prime location near Prevelly Beach makes it a surfer’s paradise and perfect for beach-loving families. You’re Read more…

Geordie’s offers 5 senses coffee, freshly made juices, smoothies, cakes and salads as well as an extensive dine in and takeaway menu. Local and Rottnest themed artworks are also on display and available for purchase. Buggybuddys Review Geordie’s Cafe and Art Gallery Rottnest   Read more…

Rotary Park is located at the entry to the Margaret River township if driving south from Busselton. It is nestled right next to Margaret River amongst some beautiful forest and is an excellent spot for a picnic and play with the kids. There are two main playground areas – one is a modelled in the shape of a ship and has a slide and some great climbing frames. The other has a dual slide, monkey bars, and some more climbing frames. Plus there are rocking horses and a digger. There is also an old steam engine called Kate that the Read more…

Visit the Old Settlement at the entrance to town and be transported back to the days of Group Settlement and the hardy pioneers who opened up the region to farming. It comprises a collection of relocated buildings including a Group House, set up to reflect the people who lived there, and a Group School with a small schoolroom display together with a changing-exhibition area, cowshed, machinery sheds, dairy and outbuildings. Bugybuddys Review Margaret River Old Settlement   Read more…

Forest Adventures offers an exciting treetop challenge perfect for active families looking for an adrenaline-packed experience in the beautiful Tuart Forest between Busselton and Bunbury. Stand-Out Features: 6 different skill-level courses from beginner to advanced Over 77 different activities including flying foxes, rope bridges, and unique challenges 500+ meters of zip lines, with some stretching 150 meters Fun elements like high-wire unicycles, BMX bikes, and snowboards in the trees 2-hour adventure sessions with full safety equipment and training Suitable for children aged 7 and above Top Tip: Start with the easier courses to build confidence before tackling the more challenging Read more…

The Berry Farm is a charming farm-to-table destination nestled in Rosa Glen, just 15 minutes from Margaret River town. Stand-Out Features: Cottage Café with seasonal menu featuring farm produce Cellar Door offering unique tastings Handcrafted products made on-site Beautiful green farm setting Family-friendly atmosphere Traditional recipes “just like grandma used to make” Top Tip: Book a table at the Cottage Café and save room for dessert! Visit between 10am and 4pm Tuesday through Sunday for the best experience. Read more…

The Busselton Foreshore Toddler Playground is a great asset to this area where families love to hang out.  It’s on the opposite side to the  Busselton Foreshore Adventure water playground, next to the side of the Goose Restaurant.   The nature playground is sand based and partly shaded with shade sails.  There’s plenty of grass around the playground to put a picnic blanket down and enjoy a few hours here.  You can grab a coffee, ice cream and lunch from the local cafe on the foreshore near the Jetty. There are a few picnic shelters with benches and BBQs over Read more…

A 4-star resort offering the perfect blend of luxury and family fun, set against natural bushland just 35 minutes from Perth in the Swan Valley, where wild kangaroos roam at dusk. Family Highlights: Mini golf course perfect for all ages Resort swimming pool Wildlife spotting (kangaroos on golf course) Spacious family rooms and apartments Safe, natural surroundings Guided kangaroo safaris Recreation for Everyone: 36-hole championship golf course Tennis & squash courts 24/7 gymnasium Family-friendly dining options Mini golf adventures Swimming facilities Outdoor activities Day spa & hair salon Family Dining Options: Muscats Restaurant The Vines Cafe & Bar Greenside casual Read more…

A premier marine education facility offering guided aquarium tours and dining experiences in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area. Led by marine biologists and ocean experts, visitors can discover the diverse marine life of Western Australia’s most western point. Features: Expert-guided aquarium tours Marine life exhibits featuring: Multiple shark species Stingrays Tropical fish Local marine creatures Educational presentations Panoramic views over Shark Bay Facilities: Oceans Restaurant & Café Licensed bar Viewing tanks Educational displays Expert marine guides Additional Services: Eco tours available Boat tours 4×4 adventures Research and conservation programs Buggybuddys Review Ocean Park Aquarium, Shark Bay   Read more…

Located just 500m off the Forrest Highway, Eaton Tavern is a retro-inspired family-friendly pub perfect for road-trippers heading to WA’s southwest. The venue features a diner-style dining room and offers a diverse menu of pub favourites, including Paris, fresh salads, burgers, and brisket. Kids’ meals come with a soft drink or juice and include options like nuggets, fish and chips, cheeseburgers, hotdogs, and healthier choices like ragu bolognaise. Stand-Out Feature: The dedicated arcade room is a major highlight, featuring both free and coin-operated games including air hockey, console stations (Rocket League), and retro classics like Street Fighter. For younger children, Read more…

A luxurious family-friendly resort offering world-class accommodation and facilities perfect for a memorable family getaway in Perth. Family Accommodation Options: Premier Twin Rooms (sleeps 4) with two queen beds Spacious Studios ideal for families Luxury bathrooms featuring TVs in bathtubs State-of-the-art tablet room controls kids will love Floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular river views Family-Friendly Facilities: Multi-tiered lagoon pools perfect for children Expansive grassed areas for play Family-friendly dining at Epicurean restaurant 24-hour in-room dining Children’s menus available High chairs and cots available on request Resort Features: Complimentary wireless internet Valet parking available State-of-the-art fitness center Multiple dining options Easy access Read more…

The Margaret River Chocolate Company is a beloved tourist destination that has been delighting chocolate lovers since 1999. Located in Metricup, this chocolate factory offers a sweet experience for the whole family. Stand-Out Features: Free entry and chocolate tastings Viewing windows where kids can watch chocolate being made Family-friendly café serving both savoury meals and decadent desserts Famous chocolate brownies (claimed to be Australia’s best!) Indoor and outdoor dining areas Extensive range of chocolate products including bars, pastelles, rocky road, and drinking chocolate Top Tip: Visit earlier in the day to see the chocolate-making process through the viewing windows and Read more…

Charter 1 is a family-run business operating from Fremantle and Rottnest. The striking 12.5 metre Catamaran Capella or ‘The Yellow Cat’ as she is more affectionately known offers Eco sails, sunset sails, private charters, overnight escapes, snorkel tours and more. Buggybuddys Review Charter 1 Sailing, Fremantle   Read more…

Mammoth Cave is one of Margaret River’s most accessible and fascinating limestone caves, perfect for self-guided family adventures. Stand-Out Features: Self-guided cave tours with audio guides Ancient fossil remains on display Wheelchair accessible first chamber Well-lit pathways with handrails Educational audio commentary in multiple languages Beautiful bushland setting Impressive cave formations Top Tip: Pick up the audio guide at the entrance – it’s great for kids as it explains the cave’s history and points out interesting features along the way. Visit in the morning when it’s quieter and cooler. Family-Friendly Bonus: No need to wait for guided tours Go at Read more…

Nestled along the pristine shores of Geographe Bay, just two hours south of Perth, Sandy Bay Holiday Park offers a peaceful coastal retreat perfect for families. This charming park features unique accommodation options including Swiss-style chalets (sleeping 4) and spacious rammed earth chalets (sleeping 6), plus caravan and camping sites. The park’s biggest draw is its stunning beachfront location – you’re literally a stone’s throw from the sand! The property maintains a peaceful atmosphere while providing all the essential amenities families need for a comfortable stay. Stand Out Feature The park’s distinctive Swiss-style chalets give it a unique character you Read more…

Golf Gardens offers a unique triple-threat of golfing fun in the Margaret River region, perfect for families looking for an active outdoor adventure between wine and chocolate tasting stops. Stand-Out Features: Three different golf experiences: Mini Golf, Big Ball Golf, and Soccer Golf (18-hole course) Shady bamboo-landscaped course with fun obstacles including boats and trailers On-site café serving snacks, drinks, and pizza Located just minutes from Margaret River Chocolate Factory Top Tip: Try the Soccer Golf course first when energy levels are high – it requires the most physical activity with lots of running and kicking. Save the more relaxed Read more…

Beerfarm is a rustic brewery set on a picturesque hillside in Metricup, offering a genuine taste of Margaret River region’s relaxed atmosphere. This working farm-turned-brewery serves up BBQ-style cuisine and craft beers in a converted dairy barn, creating a unique dining experience that perfectly balances adult enjoyment with family fun. Stand-Out Features: Epic summer slip-and-slide on the hill (for kids 16 and under) Wooden nature play fort and old tractor for climbing Farm animals including alpacas, sheep and ducks Spacious rolling lawns with AFL goals for active play Top Tip: Visit in summer for the famous slip-and-slide, but remember to Read more…

West Winds Distillery and Tavern in Cowaramup, offers a sophisticated yet family-friendly venue. This impressive establishment features a spacious interior with a large bar, multiple dining areas including an upstairs space, and a casual outdoor courtyard. Stand-Out Features: Award-winning spirits and cocktails Cellar door for tastings Gin masterclasses available Live music on weekends Dog-friendly courtyard Fenced outdoor area Top Tip: The playground area isn’t shaded, so bring sun protection for the kids and visit during cooler parts of the day.   West Winds Distillery and Tavern, Cowaramup   Read more…

Cheeky Monkey Brewery and Cidery is a beloved family destination in Margaret River’s Wilyabrup area, offering the perfect blend of adult refreshments and kid-friendly fun. Stand-Out Features: Extensive shaded playground with sand base New nature play area with wooden fort Dedicated toddler/kindy play equipment Multiple dining areas including covered alfresco Six craft beers on tap plus ginger beer and cider Di Latte Estate cellar door on-site for wine and spirits Top Tip: Choose a table in the covered alfresco area to keep an eye on kids in the playground while enjoying your meal. Be mindful of the dam area with Read more…

Located at Willoughby Park Winery (678 South Coast Highway, Denmark), Boston Brewery is a family-friendly country brewery offering quality pub food, craft beer, and wine. The venue features both indoor and outdoor dining spaces, with a large dining hall inside and a spacious beer garden overlooking the vineyard outside. The menu includes pub favourites, wood-fired pizzas, and a dedicated kids’ menu. Stand-Out Feature: The extensive outdoor playground set in a large sandpit is a major highlight for families. It features a slide, rope climbing frame, “little shop” for imaginative play, see-saw, roundabout, and a toddler slide, all protected by shade Read more…

Located at 60 Earl Street in Albany, the Earl of Spencer is one of Western Australia’s oldest taverns, offering a welcoming family-friendly dining experience. The venue features warm fireplaces and traditional English pub-style décor, creating a cosy atmosphere. Known for its generous portion sizes and high-quality pub food, the restaurant caters to both adults and children with an extensive menu and drink selection. Stand-Out Feature: The enclosed beer garden with a children’s play area is a major highlight, allowing parents to relax while keeping an eye on their kids. The play area includes a cubby house, climbing wall, fireman’s pole, Read more…

Country Life Farm is a delightful family attraction on Caves Road, Dunsborough, easily spotted by its iconic red double-decker bus. This interactive farm experience combines animal encounters with indoor and outdoor play activities. Stand-Out Features: Large indoor play center with dedicated areas for different age groups (including baby, under 2’s, and under 4’s sections) Animal feeding experiences with a variety of friendly farm animals (including ponies, alpacas, llamas, goats, rabbits, and guinea pigs) Complimentary carousel ride and paddleboat/canoe experience included with entry Bouncy castle with huge slide and row of cubby houses for imaginative play Top Tip: Each child’s entry Read more…

  Located on Bandit Road, Bow Bridge between Denmark and Walpole, Dinosaur World is a unique attraction combining prehistoric and living creatures. The park features Australia’s only T-Rex display, live reptile and bird encounters, and a kangaroo paddock where visitors can interact with friendly marsupials. Facilities include a coffee shop with gifts and souvenirs, BBQ and picnic areas, and ample parking for all vehicles. Stand-Out Feature: Daily live animal handling sessions at 11am and 2pm where visitors can get up close with reptiles, birds, and other wildlife. The park offers an unusual mix of dinosaur displays in the Dinosaur Shed Read more…