Sykes Foreshore Reserve, Bunbury

Set on the banks of the picturesque Leschenault Inlet, Sykes Foreshore Reserve is a brilliant family-friendly spot in Bunbury, offering a fantastic combination of fenced Playground, fun splash pad and calm inlet beach. It’s right next door to Discovery Parks – Bunbury Foreshore, making it an easy stop if you’re holidaying in the area, or a great day trip destination for locals.

The centrepiece of the reserve is a large boat-themed Playground which ties into the area’s maritime history. In the late 1800s a ship was wrecked on this very shoreline, and at low tide you can still spot the remains of the hull in the shallow water directly in front of the Playground. Kids will love playing sailors and pirates on the big “ship”, then heading down to the water’s edge to see a real shipwreck for themselves.

The main play structure offers plenty to climb, slide and explore. There are stairs, rope climbs and steep bridge-style ramps to tackle, plus a fireman’s pole and a small flying fox that’s always popular with older kids. Multiple slides give children different ways to whoosh back down, and there’s lots of opportunity for imaginative play as they steer the ship, lookout from different levels and role-play sea adventures. This part of the Playground will best suit confident toddlers through to primary school-aged children; little ones may need a helping hand with the steeper sections.

You’ll also find a good selection of swings, including a traditional set and a large birds-nest swing that’s perfect for siblings to share. A spinning “clothesline” style swing is another big hit with kids who love speed and a bit of a thrill.

Younger children are well catered for with a separate sand-fall play area. Here the equipment is all low to the ground, making it easier for toddlers to explore more independently. There’s a cute little dinghy for climbing and pretend play, along with some musical play elements that invite little hands to bang, tap and create different sounds. The sand base throughout the play areas is great for soft landings and digging.

A major drawcard is the splash park, which was added as part of the reserve’s redevelopment. It’s free to use and open to the public – you don’t need to be staying at the neighbouring Discovery Parks to enjoy it.

The splash area offers a mix of sprays and jets that are ideal for cooling off on warm Bunbury days and give kids another way to burn energy between Playground sessions. Combined with the sandy inlet beach near the jetty, there are plenty of water play options whether your kids prefer running through sprinklers or paddling in the shallows.

The only real downside is that shade over the main play structure is limited. On hot summer days, some of the equipment can become quite warm under little hands and feet, so it’s worth planning an early morning or late afternoon visit, packing hats, sunscreen and perhaps sandals or water shoes for the kids.

Sykes Foreshore Reserve is well serviced with modern facilities, making it an easy place to spend several hours. There are BBQs and picnic shelters, along with benches dotted around the reserve so you can sit and supervise while the kids play. Toilet facilities include male, female and unisex toilets, plus a unisex change room and baby change facilities. This setup is particularly helpful for solo parents, including dads, who may find it easier to use a unisex cubicle with little ones of different genders.

Mature trees throughout the reserve provide welcome natural shade away from the equipment, and the grassy areas are ideal for throwing down a picnic rug. With the combination of Playground, splash park and inlet beach, it’s very easy to while away half a day here – pack a picnic or grab some takeaway from Bunbury and settle in while the kids move between the different play areas.

Whether you’re in Bunbury for a family holiday or just passing through, Sykes Foreshore Reserve is well worth a stop. With its engaging play equipment, historical shipwreck, water play and great facilities, it’s a spot that will keep kids happily entertained and adults relaxed by the water.

Sykes Foreshore Reserve

Address: Lyons Cove, Leschenault Inlet, Bunbury WA 6230