McIntyre Park, Burns Beach

Tucked away on McIntyre Avenue, McIntyre Park in Burns Beach is a brilliant neighbourhood Playground with a real “wow” factor for pirate fans. A large green oval sits alongside a nautical‑themed wooden Playground, with picnic shelters dotted around the edge, making it a great spot for a casual play or a low‑key birthday get‑together.

The Playground itself is mostly constructed from timber, giving it a natural coastal feel that suits its beachside location. The main play area is sand based with a soft-fall pathway running through it, so kids can play barefoot or in thongs. Cute little seagull details are scattered across the structures, which adds to the seaside atmosphere and gives little ones something fun to spot as they climb.

A big drawcard is the tall slide tower. Kids climb two sets of internal wooden ladders to reach the top, which makes it feel like a proper adventure for confident climbers. Shade sails are usually erected over the slide in the warmer months, offering some relief from the hot metal and bright sun. However, aside from those seasonal sails there is limited natural shade across the Playground, so hats, sunscreen and water bottles are a must, especially in summer or the middle of the day.

The main play equipment is split into two impressive ship‑style structures. One side caters more for older children, with higher platforms, trickier access points and a captain’s wheel at the top for imaginative play. There’s also a little cubby area tucked underneath where kids can “hide out” below deck. Off this larger ship are various rope climbing elements that challenge balance and upper body strength – great for energetic primary-schoolers who love to climb and swing.

Across the Playground, a second ship structure has been designed with younger children in mind. The platforms are lower and the access points easier, making it less intimidating for toddlers and preschoolers who are still building confidence. Kids can clamber up into the crow’s nest to keep watch, or “walk the plank” over a wobbly wooden slat bridge that is just the right level of exciting without being too high off the ground.

For the very youngest visitors, there’s a gorgeous timber cubby house with its own mini picnic area inside. Toddlers can toddle up the small wooden ramp, enjoy a pretend snack at the little table, then slide back down the low slide. It’s a lovely space where smaller siblings can play independently while older kids tackle the bigger equipment.

You’ll also find a collection of very cute rockers, including two boat-shaped ones that can seat two children at a time, perfect for siblings or friends to share a “voyage”. A birds nest swing offers that always‑popular group swinging option, and there’s a traditional swing set with two seats – one standard swing and one box‑style baby swing – so infants and bigger kids are both catered for.

Around the perimeter of the Playground are several picnic shelters with benches and tables, making it a handy spot for snacks or a simple birthday party. Some nearby parks in the Burns Beach estate include barbecues and gazebos, and McIntyre Park is often used in a similar way by local families as a community gathering spot. There are no dedicated toilets at the park, so it’s worth planning a quick stop elsewhere before you arrive, especially with younger children in tow.

The large adjoining grassed oval is ideal for kicking a footy, throwing a frisbee or letting kids and dogs (on lead) stretch their legs. It gives the whole space an open, breezy feel and is great for mixed‑age groups where some kids want structured play and others just want to run. Parking is roadside along McIntyre Avenue; it’s usually straightforward, but it can feel a little tight during busy times, so allow a few extra minutes to find a spot.

If you’re after a coffee or bite to eat before or after your visit, the Burns Beach foreshore – including Sistas Burns Beach Café – is only a short drive away, and Lakeside Joondalup is within easy reach by car for a more substantial meal or some shopping.

McIntyre Park is best suited to ages 2 and up, with plenty to keep both younger siblings and adventurous older kids busy. With its pirate ships, rope challenges, tall slide and cute toddler areas, it’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for a coastal‑themed Playground that feels a little bit different from your standard suburban park.

McIntyre Park, Burns Beach

Address: McIntyre Avenue, Burns Beach WA 6028
Website: City of Joondalup

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