Joondalup Square Playground is a small but very handy fenced play space set within Joondalup Square shopping complex on the corner of Joondalup Drive and Sundew Rise. Tucked opposite the large Bunnings Warehouse and surrounded by casual eateries, it’s a super convenient stop for families needing a coffee break, a bite to eat or a quick play while running errands.
The Playground is fully fenced and gated, with two separate gates. One opens to a pram-friendly ramp with railings, and the other has a couple of steps down, as the play area itself is slightly sunken. This layout helps keep speedy toddlers contained while still feeling open and airy.
The entire space is covered in softfall rubber, and there are signs asking visitors to avoid high heels, which helps protect the surface. Two shade sails give good coverage over the main play structure, making it a more comfortable option on sunny days.
Around the outside of the fence there are benches where adults can sit and supervise while enjoying a takeaway coffee or snack. You can also choose to sit at the outdoor tables belonging to the surrounding eateries, though these are set a little further back, so you’ll need to be extra vigilant if the Playground is busy. Being within a shopping centre complex, there is plenty of parking, and the short walk from your car to the Playground makes it an easy stop with little ones in tow.
The play structure is bright, colourful and designed with toddlers and young children in mind. Everything is low to the ground and easily accessible via a short ramp, low ladder or simple steps. Multiple tunnels invite kids to crawl, hide and explore, and these are linked by a variety of interactive play panels and sensory features. Children can spin noughts and crosses, turn a steering wheel, explore a maze game, rattle chains and play with a spinning flower. The tunnels have ridges inside to help with climbing, encouraging a bit of gross motor play without being intimidating for younger children.
At one end of the structure is a gently sloping blue slide that offers just enough thrill for toddlers without being too fast or steep. The rail above the slide doubles as a handy spot for kids who love to swing or hang. The overall size of the structure is compact, which suits the target age group perfectly and allows parents to keep a close eye on their children at all times.
A fun extra feature that’s easy to miss at first glance is the pair of “whisper” speakers – two trumpet-like tubes positioned at opposite ends of the Playground. Children can speak into one and be heard clearly at the other, which quickly turns into a game of whispering, shouting and giggling back and forth. It’s a simple idea that adds a bit of novelty and encourages social play.
One of the biggest drawcards of Joondalup Square Playground is its proximity to food and facilities. A range of eateries are located immediately alongside the play space, including options for coffee, sandwiches, Chinese and more, depending on current tenants. This makes it a perfect meet-up spot for playdates, or a reward stop after a big Bunnings shop. Public toilets are conveniently located about 20 metres down the lane between the eateries, which is ideal when you’re dealing with toilet-training toddlers or sudden “I need to go!” moments.
Joondalup Square Playground won’t rival a large regional park in terms of size or variety, but that’s not really its purpose. It’s best thought of as a super practical, toddler-friendly pit stop: fenced, shaded, close to food, with toilets and ample parking. For local families, or anyone visiting Bunnings or the surrounding stores, it’s an easy way to break up errands and give little ones a chance to burn off energy. Many parents will happily plan coffee dates here while the kids play, and sending one adult off to Bunnings suddenly doesn’t feel like the short straw.
Overall, if you’re in or around Joondalup and need a safe, convenient Playground for young children with the bonus of on-site food and amenities, Joondalup Square Playground is a very handy option to have up your sleeve.
Joondalup Square Playground
Address: Joondalup Square, corner of Joondalup Drive and Sundew Rise, Joondalup WA 6027
Opening hours: Playground accessible during Joondalup Square centre trading hours (check centre times before visiting)
Website: Joondalup Square
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Place Categories: Fenced, Playgrounds, Near Cafes, With Shade, With Toilets, and Best for Toddlers
