With Australia’s new social media ban having kicked in, there’s never been a better excuse to swap scrolling for real‑life fun these summer school holidays. School’s out and the tweens and teens are in… your fridge, your Wi‑Fi and your personal space – and with a lot less TikTok to keep them busy, you might be hearing “I’m booooored” more than ever. Don’t panic – we’ve rounded up 65 awesome things to do around Perth and WA that will get them out of the house, off their screens and actually enjoying the holidays.
We’ve rounded up 65 awesome things to do in the summer school holidays with tweens and teens around Perth and WA – from water parks and adrenaline adventures to chill foodie hangs and easy day trips. All the ideas below link through to full Buggybuddys reviews, so you can check details, prices and age limits before you go.
To make it easier, we’ve grouped everything into:
- Water Fun
- Adrenaline & Adventure
- Indoor Fun & Gaming
- Foodie Spots Tweens & Teens Love
- Day Trips & Explore WA
65 Summer School Holiday Ideas for Tweens and Teens in Perth
WATER FUN
1. Chill out at Perth’s Outback Splash
Stay cool in the Swan Valley at Perth’s Outback Splash, Bullsbrook. Epic waterslides, splash zones, mazes and mini golf make this a winner for tweens and teens. Book ahead for hot days – this place is super popular in summer.
2. Make a splash at Adventure World
Turn up the thrill factor these school holidays with a big day out at Adventure World with Tweens. Big waterslides, rollercoasters and the Kraken will keep even hard‑to‑please teens smiling, while the pools and lazy river are perfect for cooling off between rides.
3. Tackle the inflatables at Perth Aqua Park Baldivis
Burn off holiday energy at the giant inflatable obstacle course at Perth Aqua Park Baldivis. Older kids can slip, slide, bounce and race their mates around the floating course. Life jackets are supplied and wetsuits are available if the sea breeze kicks in.
4. Bounce around Island Aqua Park Hillarys
Head to Hillarys Boat Harbour and tackle the floating Playground at Island Aqua Park. It’s ideal for confident swimmers and thrill‑seekers, and you can finish the day with fish and chips or gelato at the harbour.
5. Zip down slides at Kalamunda Water Park
Old‑school fun never goes out of style. Kalamunda Water Park has waterslides, pools and plenty of grass to chill on between swims. It’s a lower‑key, budget‑friendly alternative to the big theme parks and perfect for local families.
6. Swim at the Kwillena Gabi Pool, Mandurah
For a more relaxed water day, head south to Kwillena Gabi Pool in Mandurah. This stunning circular estuary pool is shark‑netted and calm, making it great for floating, paddling and hanging with friends on a hot day.
7. Play and paddle at Yanchep Lagoon
Pack the snorkels, boogie boards and beach tent and make a day of it at Yanchep Lagoon. The protected lagoon is perfect for confident swimmers and teens who want to explore the underwater world close to shore.
8. Road trip to Moore River, Guilderton
For a classic river‑meets‑ocean day, head north to Moore River, Guilderton. Hire a canoe, paddleboard or paddle boat, float down the river on inflatables, or hit the beach. It’s a relaxed day out that feels like a mini holiday.
9. Explore Lake Leschenaultia, Chidlow
Escape the city heat with a day trip to Lake Leschenaultia, Chidlow. Teens can swim, paddle, jump off the jetty, hire canoes or SUPs, and explore the walking trails. Pack a picnic or use the BBQs for an all‑day outing.
10. Snorkel the Omeo Shipwreck at Coogee Beach
Grab snorkels and explore the underwater Omeo Shipwreck Dive Trail at Coogee Beach. Ocean‑loving tweens and teens will be blown away by the marine life and the eerie, Insta‑worthy wreck just offshore. Too bad they no longer have insta.
11. Cruise the canals with Mandurah Boat Hire
Let them be “captain” for the day with Mandurah Boat Hire. Cruise the canals, spot dolphins and sticky‑beak at the waterfront mansions. No skipper’s ticket is needed for some boats, making it a fun family activity.
12. Spot dolphins and giants on a Mandurah cruise
Combine wildlife and art on a Mandurah Cruises Giant Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise. Teens will love spotting dolphins and checking out the incredible Giants of Mandurah sculptures from the water.
13. Paddle the Swan with Swans on the Swan
Hop aboard a swan‑shaped pedal boat on the river with Swans on the Swan. It’s a fun, slightly silly way to get tweens and teens moving while still feeling pretty chill. Perfect for city‑side summer evenings.
14. See the ocean from a glass‑bottom boat at AQWA
See what’s swimming below without getting wet on the AQWA Glass Bottom Boat Adventure. Older kids will love gliding over sharks, rays and fish and viewing the aquarium from a totally new angle.
ADRENALINE & ADVENTURE
15. Try ice skating at Cockburn Ice Arena
When the heat is just too much, rug up and hit the rink at Cockburn Ice Arena. Public sessions with music and lights make it feel like a mini winter escape right in the middle of summer.
16. Conquer the trees at Trees Adventure Yanchep
Got little daredevils? Send them sky‑high at Trees Adventure Yanchep National Park. Climbing, swinging and zip‑lining through the treetops is a massive confidence‑booster and a great way to get tweens and teens off screens.
17. Scale and zip from Matagarup Bridge
For serious brag‑worthy thrills, book Matagarup Zip+Climb. Teens can climb the bridge arch, take in epic views of the river and city, then zoom back down on the zipline – definitely a school holiday highlight.
18. Walk the HALO rooftop at Optus Stadium
Level up your city visit with the HALO Rooftop Tour at Optus Stadium. Clipped into safety harnesses, tweens and teens can walk around the top of the stadium and soak in incredible 360‑degree views.
19. Fly a Boeing 737 at Flight Experience Perth
Aviation‑mad teens will be in heaven at Flight Experience Perth. They can step into a Boeing 737 simulator, choose a destination and experience the thrill of “flying” a commercial airliner with a real‑feeling cockpit.
20. Explore the Aviation Heritage Museum, Bull Creek
Pair Flight Experience with a visit to The Aviation Heritage Museum, Bull Creek. Teens can climb inside historic aircraft, check out engines, and learn fascinating stories from wartime to modern day.
21. Hit the Swan Valley Adventure Centre holiday program
Active older kids can push their limits at the Swan Valley Adventure Centre School Holiday Program. Think high ropes, flying fox, canoeing and team challenges – perfect for gaining independence and making new friends.
22. Go go‑kart racing at PowerPlay Malaga, Joondalup and Bibra Lake
Feel the need for speed? Head to PowerPlay Malaga for high‑tech electric go‑karts. Tweens and teens can challenge siblings, parents or mates to see who’s fastest around the track.
23. Race mates at Hi Voltage Belmont
Another great option for speed demons is Hi Voltage Belmont. Fast karts and a twisty circuit make it ideal for older kids who love racing games in real life.
24. Try kid‑friendly paintball
For something a bit edgy but still age‑appropriate, check out kid‑friendly paintball in Perth. Low‑impact gear lets tweens and teens enjoy tactical games and missions without the bruises of full‑strength paintball.
25. Throw axes in the Swan Valley
Teens 14+ can try a very different kind of target practice at Maxed Out Axe Throwing, Swan Valley. It’s surprisingly safe, seriously fun and makes for great “you’ll never guess what we did” stories.
26. Ride the pump tracks of Perth
If your tween or teen practically lives on their bike or scooter, work your way through some of the best pump tracks in Perth. From beginner loops to more advanced lines, there’s a track for every skill level across the metro area.
27. Safari with kangaroos at The Vines
Staycay or day trip, a Kangaroo Safari at The Vines Resort is a uniquely Aussie experience. Jump in the resort buggy, spot roos at sunrise or sunset and enjoy the chilled resort vibes.
28. Play mini golf at Wanneroo Botanic Gardens
Mini golf at Wanneroo Botanic Gardens is a Perth classic. Lush gardens, bridges and water features create a gorgeous setting, and night‑time glow golf is a massive hit with tweens and teens.
28. Tee off at The Vines Mini Golf
Stick around and hit the beautifully landscaped Vines Mini Golf. The course is challenging enough for teens but still fun for the whole family, and it’s a great way to round out a day in the Swan Valley.
30. Try Hey Caddy & X‑Golf Balcatta
Golf, but make it cool. Hey Caddy and X-Golf Balcatta offer themed mini golf and high‑tech golf simulators. It’s a fun way for older kids to play without trekking around a full‑size course.
31. Go wild at Bounce Joondalup
Let them flip, bounce and dodgeball their way through a few hours at BOUNCE Joondalup. Trampolines, performance zones and the X‑Park are ideal for parkour‑mad kids and teens who love a physical challenge.
32. Trampoline fun at Flip Out Bibra Lake
On the south side, Flip Out Bibra Lake delivers wall‑to‑wall trampolines, foam pits and parkour areas. It’s perfect for super‑hot or windy days when you want them to burn energy indoors.
INDOOR FUN & GAMING
33. Take on the challenge rooms at Hijinx Hotel, Karrinyup
Step into a wacky world of themed challenge rooms at Hijinx Hotel, Karrinyup. Tweens and teens can team up to solve puzzles, complete silly tasks and race the clock – it’s like a live‑action game show.
34. Go bowling, arcade and more at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq
Bowling, arcade games, dodgems and more – Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq, Karrinyup is a huge hit with older kids. Bright lights, fun music and great food make it an easy all‑in‑one outing.
35. Rack up tickets at B. Lucky & Sons, Perth CBD
For a cool retro vibe, head into the city to B. Lucky & Sons, Perth CBD. Teens can play modern and vintage arcade games to win tickets, then swap them for quirky prizes.
36. Play and dine at The Breakwater Bowl, Hillarys
Older kids will love the boutique bowling lanes and chill atmosphere at The Breakwater Bowl, Hillarys. Add burgers or pizza and a sunset stroll along the boardwalk for a perfect summer evening.
37. Escape from Fox in a Box Fremantle
Lock them in… then help them get out! Fox in a Box Escape Rooms, Fremantle offers themed escape rooms that require teamwork, problem‑solving and a bit of lateral thinking – ideal for older kids.
38. Crack the puzzles at Escape This, Perth CBD
Another fantastic escape room option is Escape This Perth CBD. Pick a theme that suits your tween/teen’s interests – from spooky to mystery – and see if your family can beat the clock together.
39. Dive into free‑roam VR at Zero Latency Perth
Gamers will think you’re the coolest parent ever when you book them into Zero Latency Perth. This free‑roam virtual reality experience lets teens fight robots or zombies or explore new worlds together in a massive play space.
40. Hit the arcades and more at Planet Royale, Northbridge
Movie buffs and gamers should check out Planet Royale, Northbridge. Retro arcade games, pinball machines and pop‑culture décor make it a fun hangout for big kids.
41. Mix karting, laser and games at ViTA Player Innaloo
ViTA Player, Innaloo is jam‑packed with fun for older kids – think arcade games, racing simulators, laser tag and more. It’s a great option when it’s too hot to be outside.
42. Build and battle at Warhammer Perth
Creative, strategy‑loving teens might enjoy picking up a new hobby at Warhammer Perth. They can paint miniatures, learn the tabletop game and meet other fans in a friendly, welcoming space.
43. Get crafty at Crafter Studio Perth
Crafter Studio Perth is a fun, family‑friendly studio where you can customise phone cases, create fluid bears, try polymer clay and more. It’s a great screen‑free activity to do with tweens and teens – they’ll love designing their own masterpiece and taking home something totally unique.
44. Get competitive at Cubetown Perth
For tweens and teens who love active challenges, Cubetown Perth is a new indoor gaming experience. Race through five interactive arenas, tackling challenges like shooting hoops, climbing light‑up walls, and playing real‑life “floor is lava.” It’s fast‑paced, physical fun that tests quick thinking and coordination – perfect for burning off energy and having a laugh with mates.
45. Visit Fremantle Prison
Step back in time with a visit to Fremantle Prison. Tweens and teens can join a guided tour through the cell blocks, exercise yards and tunnels while hearing stories of convicts, escapes and prison life. It’s a fascinating, slightly eerie experience that really brings WA’s history to life for older kids.
46. Explore the Terracotta Warriors at WA Museum Boola Bardip
Head into the city to see the incredible Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor of China exhibition at WA Museum Boola Bardip. Tweens and teens will be amazed by the life‑sized warriors, ancient treasures and immersive displays that bring this 2,000‑year‑old archaeological wonder to life.
47. Dive into Body Worlds – The Anatomy of Happiness
If it’s on during the holidays, Body Worlds: The Anatomy of Happiness is a fascinating dive into how our bodies and brains work. Science‑minded tweens and teens will find it equal parts weird, educational and amazing.
48. Tour the WA Wildlife Hospital
Animal‑loving teens will appreciate a behind‑the‑scenes WA Wildlife Hospital Tour at Cockburn Wetlands Precinct. See how injured wildlife are cared for and learn what to do if you find an animal in need.
49. See a movie under the stars at Moonlight Cinema
Grab a picnic rug and settle in for a movie at Moonlight Cinema, Kings Park. With blockbusters and family favourites on the program, it’s a magical way to spend a warm summer night.
50. Go retro at Galaxy Drive‑In, Kingsley
Keep the classic summer tradition alive at the Galaxy Drive‑In, Kingsley. Load the car with pillows, blankets and snacks, and enjoy a movie (or double feature) under the stars.
FOODIE SPOTS TWEENS & TEENS LOVE
(These make great add‑ons after another activity or as a “special treat” outing on their own.)
51. Freakshakes and burgers at Milky Lane Perth
Take your teen foodie to Milky Lane Perth for over‑the‑top burgers, loaded fries and insane desserts. The hip‑hop vibes and neon décor definitely pass the vibe check with older kids.
52. Burgers and sport at Varsity Cannington
Varsity Cannington is a favourite for sport‑loving tweens and teens. Big screens, American‑style burgers and a buzzy atmosphere make it perfect after a big day out or as a casual catch‑up venue.
53. Big feeds at BrewDog West Perth
Head to BrewDog West Perth for a relaxed, family‑friendly meal with street‑style bites, burgers and plenty of space. It’s a good option when you’ve got a mixed‑age crew to feed.
54. DIY dinner at King Hot Pot, Morley
Give them a more interactive meal at King Hot Pot Morley. Teens can choose their own ingredients and cook at the table – it’s fun, different and very filling.
55. Dessert heaven at Fryd, Leederville
Sweet tooth in the family? Fryd Leederville serves up decadent dessert creations that are very Instagrammable (on your insta, not theirs). Ideal as a reward after a day of adventure… or just because it’s the holidays.
56. Fro‑yo fun at Yo‑Chi Yoghurt
Self‑serve fro‑yo is always a winner with tweens and teens, and Yo‑Chi has locations across Perth. They can swirl their own frozen yoghurt and load it up with all their favourite toppings – the perfect “little treat” after a day out.
57. Bubble tea stop at Taning Lemon Tea
Top off your outing with a drink from Taning Lemon Tea Perth. Fruity teas, jellies and boba are a guaranteed crowd‑pleaser for older kids.
58. Creative desserts at Gemini Cafe, Perth CBD
Gemini Cafe Perth CBD is a fun city stop‑off thanks to its over‑the‑top drinks and pretty, dessert‑style creations. Tweens and teens will love trying the colourful sodas, loaded shakes and cute themed treats – perfect between escape rooms, shopping or a city wander.
DAY TRIPS & PLAYGROUNDS
59. Wander the Mandurah 3D Art Trail
Arm them with phones and let them snap themselves into quirky scenes along the Mandurah 3D Art Trail. It’s free, walkable, and packed with fun photo ops – perfect for budding photographers and social‑media‑savvy teens (or should that be those over the age of 15)
60. Take a scenic ride on The Tourist Wheel Fremantle
Head to Freo and take in the harbour, rooftops and ocean from above on The Tourist Wheel Fremantle. Pair it with gelato and a wander through the markets for an easy, laid‑back family day.
61. Join an Oh Hey WA Street Art & Sculpture Tour
Explore the city’s coolest laneways and public art with an Oh Hey WA Street Art & Sculpture Tour. Teens who love photography, fashion and urban vibes will really enjoy discovering hidden murals and sculptures.
63. Hire bikes in East Perth and ride the river
See the city in a new way by hiring bikes from About Bike Hire, East Perth. Cruise along the river foreshore, stop at Playgrounds or cafés, and enjoy a relaxed summer afternoon without needing to leave town.
64. Pedal around Whiteman Park with Pedal Play
Explore Whiteman Park in a fun, active way with Pedal Play. Hire pedal‑powered go‑karts, including options for teens and adults, and cruise the park’s trails and picnic areas. It’s a great screen‑free activity to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise with friends or family.
65. Youth Entertainment Space at Sutherlands Park
For active tweens and teens who love to skate, scoot, or just hang out, the Youth Entertainment Space at Sutherlands Park is a fantastic spot. This purpose-built area features a skate park, BMX track, and plenty of open space for kicking a ball or just chilling with friends.
With Australia’s social media ban for under 16s now in place, there’s never been a better time to swap endless scrolling for real‑life memories. These 65 ideas prove there’s no shortage of ways for tweens and teens to stay busy, active and connected with friends offline – whether they’re chasing thrills on a zipline, hanging at a water park, or working together to escape a locked room.
So instead of dreading the “What am I supposed to do now?” conversations, grab a calendar and start planning some screen‑free summer fun. A couple of outings each week can turn the holidays into something they’ll actually look back on fondly – no phone required. For more inspiration and detailed reviews, keep exploring Buggybuddys – your go‑to guide for family fun in Perth and WA.
Find more school holiday activities
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
After spending 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie McNichol made the move to Perth in 2010. As the Co-Founder and Editor of Buggybuddys, she has been able to use her experience and passion for helping families to create a trusted online resource for parents across Perth.
Jennie is the proud mother of two daughters, aged 16 & 14 and is a big advocate of the family-friendly lifestyle that Perth has to offer.
){kind=link}