John Tonkin Reserve, East Freo

John Tonkin Reserve in East Fremantle is a beautiful riverside spot that’s ideal for relaxed family outings. Set right on the banks of the Swan River, the park has a lovely open feel with big mature trees providing plenty of shade over grassy areas, picnic shelters and park benches. It’s the kind of place you can easily spend a few hours, between playing, picnicking and pottering along the riverbank.

The main Playground is a large, boat‑themed sand play space that really makes the most of its riverfront location. In warmer months, shade sails are installed over the equipment, making it much more pleasant on hot days.

The “boat” itself is packed with climbing opportunities – there are tunnels with climbing rungs, rope climbs, a small climbing wall and a fireman’s pole. Children can zoom down the slides and then scramble back up via different routes, which keeps even confident climbers entertained.

The nautical theme lends itself perfectly to imaginative play; kids can take turns steering the ship’s wheel, scanning the horizon with the telescopes for pirates, or calling out instructions as the “captain”.

A wobbly rope bridge adds a little thrill and is a great balance challenge, especially for preschoolers and early primary kids. It feels a bit like “walking the plank” high above the sand, though it’s still very manageable for younger children with a bit of adult reassurance.

Underneath the structure, there are word puzzles and a little “shop” window where children can play cafes or stores, extending the fun beyond just climbing and sliding.

You’ll also find a smaller toddler-friendly sand play area that’s more compact and dappled with natural light from surrounding trees. This area has its own climbing structure with a small slide and a see‑saw, which is perfect for younger children who might find the big boat a bit overwhelming. The generous grassy spaces around the play areas are great for ball games, running races or simply laying down a picnic rug.

One of the charming touches at John Tonkin Reserve is the public art – a larger‑than‑life sculpture of a lady and her dog, which kids tend to gravitate towards. It adds character to the park and makes for a fun photo stop. Dog owners will also appreciate that the reserve is recognised as a dog‑friendly space, with open areas where dogs can enjoy a run, provided they are under control and on a leash where required.

Because the reserve sits right beside the Swan River, supervision is important, particularly with toddlers and younger children. The bonus is that being so close to the water adds a whole other layer of play: kids can splash in the shallows on the little beach area, dig in the sand and watch ducks waddling and paddling nearby. There’s always something moving on the river too, from yachts to powerboats, thanks to nearby yacht clubs and the water police station, so young boat‑spotters will be in their element.

Picnic facilities here are very family‑friendly, with BBQs, picnic tables and shelters dotted through the park, as well as plenty of park benches if you just want to sit with a coffee while the kids play.

Speaking of coffee, Zephyr Cafe and Kiosk sits right next to the reserve. It is ideal for takeaway drinks, snacks or an easy bite to eat before or after a Playground session.

Practicalities are well covered, with public toilets available in the park. Parking is along Riverside Road, and from there it’s only a short walk across the grass to the Playground and river’s edge. With its combination of river views, dog‑friendly open space, good shade, handy café and engaging play equipment for both toddlers and older kids, John Tonkin Reserve is a great all‑round choice for families looking for a relaxed day out in East Fremantle.

John Tonkin Reserve

Address: 110 Riverside Road, East Fremantle, WA 6158

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