Marginella Boulevard, Alkimos, City Of Wanneroo

Bathers Park at Alkimos Beach has fast become a real destination Playground in Perth’s north. Set on around 2.5 hectares at the ocean end of Leatherback Boulevard, this $2.8 million foreshore park combines big-ticket play equipment with a stunning coastal backdrop and plenty of space for the whole family to spread out and play.

The hero of the park is the surf rescue-themed play tower that soars an impressive seven metres into the air. Kids can climb up via a broad staircase or tackle the more challenging rope “wormhole” to reach the higher decks. From the top platforms there are great views across the park and out towards the ocean before children launch themselves back down via the giant spiral tunnel slide or drop pole. Along the way, they’ll discover play panels, speaking tubes, rope challenges and even a “4 in a row” game, so there’s lots to explore beyond just the climb and slide.

We loved that the tower also weaves in surf safety education. Panels explain the F.L.A.G.S acronym and the meanings of different coloured beach flags, turning playtime into a gentle lesson in staying safe at the beach. It’s a fun way to start talking to kids about swimming between the flags before you wander down to the water.

Around the base of the tower and throughout the main Playground there is plenty for younger children and cautious climbers too. There’s a smaller slide, traditional swings, a balancing surfboard, a rocking jetski and a cute beach buggy to ride. Sand and water play features encourage digging, pouring and building, while a digger lets kids really get stuck into the sand. The overall theme is very coastal and imaginative, so it feels like you’re playing on the beach even when you’re still in the park.

Water play elements and nature play are dotted through the space, adding another sensory layer to the experience. Expect the kids to get sandy and possibly a bit wet – it’s worth bringing a change of clothes and a towel if your little ones are drawn to splashing. The combination of sand, ropes, slides and water makes this a great spot for open-ended play that can keep children of different ages entertained for a good stretch of time.

Beyond the main Playground, Bathers Park also caters really well for older kids, teens and active adults. There are two sand beach volleyball courts with tiered seating, which double as a brilliant spot for a casual hit or more serious training sessions. A small informal limestone BMX and bike track provides a fun circuit for bikes and scooters, and there is outdoor fitness equipment positioned around the pathways for parents or older kids who want to squeeze in a workout.

Large grassed areas and a gentle amphitheatre-style slope create plenty of space for ball games, picnics and community events. An entry plaza has been designed to accommodate food trucks during special events, and the park links into the coastal path network, so it’s easy to walk, ride or scoot from nearby streets and down towards the beach. Lighting and well-planned paths help make late afternoon and early evening visits feel inviting, especially in the warmer months.

Facilities are excellent for families. You’ll find shaded picnic shelters, BBQs, seating and drinking fountains, making it easy to stay for a few hours. There is a unisex public toilet with baby changing facilities, which is a huge plus with younger children. Parking is available along the surrounding streets, and the park is close to the existing South Beach car park, so accessing the Playground and then heading down to the sand is very straightforward.

Being nestled within the Alkimos Beach community, many local families can simply walk or ride from home, and even if you’re visiting from further afield it’s well worth the drive. The surf life saving theme, mix of adventurous and inclusive play, and easy connection to one of WA’s beautiful beaches all combine to make Bathers Park a brilliant day out. Pack sunscreen, hats, balls, bikes or scooters and your bathers, and plan to stay a while – the kids won’t want to leave in a hurry.