Whitfords Nodes Health and Wellbeing Hub

Whitfords Nodes Health and Wellbeing Hub in Hillarys has become a go‑to spot for active families, and it’s easy to see why. Often called “Jacob’s Ladder of the North”, this coastal park combines a big cardio challenge with family‑friendly green space and a popular Playground right across the grass. It’s the kind of place where you can squeeze in a serious workout while the kids play, or simply enjoy a relaxed walk and picnic with ocean views.

The star attraction is the 21‑metre fitness staircase with 145 steps up the dune. While it’s shorter than the original Jacob’s Ladder in Kings Park, it still gives your legs and lungs a decent workout.

There’s plenty of signage on the way up and down so you can see how far you’ve come (and how far you’ve got to go!), plus a couple of landings where you can pause for a breather, take in the view or swap over with kids who might be going at a different pace. 

The staircase is 2.2 metres wide, so there’s good room for people to pass each other without feeling crowded, even at busier times.

Families with prams or anyone not keen on steps can take the winding path up the hill instead. The path is a great option if you’re walking with younger children or pushing a stroller, though it is quite steep, so wheelchair users and those with limited mobility may find it challenging.

Whichever way you choose to get to the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views over the Indian Ocean, Whitfords Nodes Park and Hillarys Boat Harbour – a lovely spot to catch your breath and snap some photos.

At ground level, the health and wellbeing hub includes a range of fixed outdoor fitness equipment. Each station has step‑by‑step instructions, clear demonstration diagrams and a QR code you can scan for video demonstrations, making it easy to use even if you’re new to exercising outdoors. It’s an ideal set‑up for parents who want to fit in a quick circuit while the kids are nearby, and for older kids and teens who enjoy trying the different exercises and timing themselves.

There are also handy facilities to help you linger longer. A drinking fountain and bottle refill station mean you can keep everyone hydrated without needing to lug lots of extra water, especially on warm days when the climb can feel tough. Picnic shelters and benches are scattered around the grassed area, making it simple to set up a base for snacks, lunch or just a sit‑down while the kids burn off more energy.

Just along from the staircase and fitness area you’ll find the Whitfords Nodes Ninja Warrior Course, which adds a big dose of adventure to the hub. The bright, soft‑fall obstacle course includes TV‑style challenges such as quintuple steps, spinning elements, climbing nets and a mini Mt Midoriyama‑style tower, so kids, teens and adults can test their balance, strength and coordination. Families often turn it into a friendly competition, racing each other from the start gate to the final climb, and younger visitors love playing imaginative games like “the floor is lava” on the coloured surfacing. There’s tiered seating and open grass around the course, making it easy for parents to watch on and cheer while younger siblings play nearby.

Also, right opposite the fitness area is the well‑loved Whitfords Nodes Playground opposite, so you really do get the best of both worlds – structured exercise for adults and older kids, and traditional play equipment for the younger ones. The large grassed area between the two is perfect for ball games, cartwheels or just spreading out a picnic rug. BBQs and public toilets nearby make it easy to turn a quick visit into a half‑day outing without having to leave the park.

Whitfords Nodes Health and Wellbeing Hub works just as well for a solo workout as it does for a whole‑family trip. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially lovely, with cooler temperatures and beautiful light over the ocean. Whether you’re tackling the stairs, strolling the paths, or simply watching the kids play while you enjoy a coffee and the sea breeze, this coastal hub is a fantastic free option for getting active together in the northern suburbs.

Whitfords Nodes Health and Wellbeing Hub

Address: Whitfords Nodes Park, Whitfords Avenue, Hillarys WA 6025