Affectionately called “Bunno” by its locals, this South West town is often a stopping point on a road trip to the Margaret River region. I recently discovered that there are plenty of family-friendly attractions and things to do (as well as stopping at the Bunbury Farmers Market!), to justify lingering a little longer. There are loads of accommodation options too, making spending an entire weekend away with kids in Bunbury a breeze. From amazing playgrounds to nature-based attractions – there is lots to love about this West Aussie ocean-side spot.
See the big Buggybuddys guide on things to do in Bunbury here…
Things to do in Bunbury – Attractions
Dolphin Discovery Centre Bunbury
The Dolphin Discovery Centre is a must-visit for kids of all ages. There’s a very clear message throughout the centre… that dolphins belong in the ocean – and we agree! The Dolphin Discovery Centre has a big hands-on element, with aquariums, a touch pool, activities and many interactive displays, as well as eco boat cruises and a popular café. It’s also easy walking distance to the super fun Koombana Foreshore playground. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Bunbury Wildlife Park
The leafy Bunbury Wildlife Park is home to many species of Australian animals – be they feathered, scaly or furry. Kids will love getting up close to interact with the friendly kangaroos. Right next door, the Big Swamp Playground is worth a look too. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Forest Adventures South West
Hidden amongst tuart forest, south of Bunbury, Forest Adventures offers a rope course challenge for the whole family. Spend two hours packed with exhilarating action-packed climbing, crawling and flying foxes swinging through the trees. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Koombana Beach
On the lookout for a calm, sheltered beach for the kiddies? Koombana Beach (right next to the brilliant Koombana Bay Playground) is a great spot to throw down the beach towels. The sandy spot includes lots of handy shade sails over the sand too.
Beach Park, Dallyellup Beach
About 5kms south of Bunbury, you’ll find “Beach Park” at Dallyellup Beach. Park up and head down the wooden staircase for fun in the sun. The family and dog-friendly beach is great for a splash. Visit in the morning and you may also spy curious dolphins, as we did! Read more in the Buggybuddys review.
Find Beach Park, Dallyellup Beach at 66 Hutt Dr, Dalyellup.
Playgrounds in Bunbury
Sykes Foreshore Reserve Playground
Sykes Foreshore Reserve is found on the banks of the Leschenault Inlet, there’s a redeveloped boat themed playground, new splash park and the Leschenault Inlet. This popular spot is perfect for spending a few hours. There are swings, a huge ship with climbing challenges, including stairs, a fireman’s pole, a small flying fox and slides. Plus, there is a separate sand-fall play area for the little ones. The inlet has a great little beach by the jetty, perfect for splashing on the shores. Read more in the Buggybuddys review.
Skye’s Foreshore Reserve is located at Lyons Cove, Bunbury.
Sykes Foreshore Splash Park
Bunbury’s brilliant Sykes Foreshore Reserve now has a splash park! Found next to the boat playground, the Sykes Foreshore Splash Park is already proving a big hit with the kiddos. The ship-wreck-themed splash park has over 40 water features, with a giant tipping bucket proving most popular! The facilities at the Sykes Foreshore Reserve Splash Park are modern and new. They include BBQs, toilets, picnic shelters and benches. Read more in the Buggybuddys review.
Skye’s Foreshore Splash Park is located at Lyons Cove, Bunbury.
Koombana Foreshore Playground
Want a playground that’s guaranteed to amuse kids for hours? The brilliant Koombana Foreshore Playground is a great spot to let the kids run off energy. There are slides, water play, flying foxes and more. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Koolambidi Woola – Bunbury Youth Precinct
In the heart of Bunbury, the new Koolambidi Woola Youth Precinct (Noongar for ‘celebrating young people’) is perfect for entertaining tweens and teens. As well as a world-class skatepark and bowl, there’s parkour, multi-sports courts, a huuuge beach climbing net, mini golf (BYO clubs) and more. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Mangrove Cove Playground
Mangrove Cove, opposite the Dolphine Discovery Centre, is a spot where nature and adventure collide. This nature playground and lookout on the Leschenault Inlet invites families enjoy a little outdoor fun. Mangrove Cove’s accessible elevated adventure playground means EVERYONE can enjoy this space. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip down south or simply seeking somewhere new to explore in Bunno, this newly opened (2023) playground promises plenty to discover. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Karragarup Play Space, Australind
Taking its name from the local Wardandi Noongar language, Karragarup means “place of crabs”. And you can’t miss the giant blue swimmer crab that takes pride of place here. The playground has a coastal theme and lots of features – one of the most popular being a flying fox. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Family-Friendly Places to Eat
There are plenty of yummy places to dine in Bunbury where kids are welcomed. From the many cafes, burger joints and bakeries of Victoria Street to the waterside Vat 2 (with a neighboring playground), and kid-friendly pubs The Rose Hotel and Froth (the legendary Exmouth Brewery).
Treendale Farm Hotel, Australind
Known locally as “The Farm”, this mega pub has not one, but THREE kid’s play areas. Found in the Treendale area of Australind, just north of Bunbury, this new-ish pub is fab for families. There are playgrounds indoors and outside, a huge beer garden and better than your average pub grub. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Last Slice, Dalyellup
Found just behind the popular kid’s indoor playground “Gravity”, Last Slice is a buzzing family-friendly restaurant that offers up giant New York style pizzas, and plenty to keep the kids occupied. There’s a play corner equipped with toys and tablets, which keeps children happily entertained while parents enjoy their meals. Plus, a climbing frame at the front of the venue, within view of the beer garden. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Accommodation in Bunbury
Lord Forrest Hotel Bunbury
The Best Western Plus Hotel Lord Forrest is right in the heart of Bunbury found next to the “milk carton” aka Bunbury Tower. It’s perfectly placed to explore the town year-round – there’s a brilliant indoor pool there. Large families are catered for with rooms sleeping up to 5 people. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Discover Parks Bunbury Holiday Village
Discovery Park Bunbury Holiday Village is a great base for a weekend getaway in Bunno. There’s chalets and camping options to suit all budgets. With a pool, playground, mini golf and everyone’s favourite – a bouncing pillow – there’s tones of fun to be had here. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Quality Hotel Lighthouse Bunbury
The Lighthouse Hotel in Bunbury has long been an institution, and its recent renovations make it the perfect spot for families to spend a few nights while visiting the South West. An indoor pool makes it a perfect spot for a winter break. Walking distance to the beach, the shops, cafes and restaurants found in the city centre, it has self-catering facilities too. Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Discovery Parks Bunbury Foreshore
Discovery Parks Bunbury Foreshore is right across from the sandy beaches of Koombana Bay, where dolphins cruise by in the calm waters. There’s lots of accommodation options, and there’s a new splash park right next door too! Find out more in the Buggybuddys review.
Have we missed any of your favourite things to do in Bunbury? Let us know in the comments below.
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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.
