Parks & Playgrounds

Mandurah has many beautiful places that are free for your family and fun for the kids.
Here are our favourite playgrounds in Mandurah and surrounds. Check them out and let the kids run wild!

Parks & Playgrounds

Discover our
Parks & Playgrounds

Here are our favourite playgrounds in Mandurah and surrounds. Check them out and let the kids run wild!

Koolaanga Waabiny Playground

Located on Mandurah’s Western Foreshore, the Koolaanga Waabiny Playground (pronounced kool-lung-ga waa-bini) translates to children playing and also refers to the local Swamp Sheoak trees (Koolaanga).

The main feature of the playground is the Swamp Sheoak tree inspired 12m high climbing tower, which also features a 3-meter-long fully accessible ramp, speaking tubes from the top to the bottom, lookouts with binoculars, monkey bars, a small double slide, a fun spiral slide and so much more.

Koolaanga Waabiny Playground also features plenty of BBQs and seating and makes a great day out with all the family.

Don’t forget to pack the kids’ bikes, skateboards or scooter – the Mandurah Skate Park, designed for beginners to advanced users, is right next to the Koolaanga Waabiny Playground.

Click here for directions.

Playgrounds Mandurah Koolaanga Waabiny Playground
Koolaanga Waabiny Playground, Western Foreshore Mandurah

Mandurah Eastern Foreshore Playground

This lovely playground, located on Mandurah’s Eastern Foreshore and overlooking Mandjar Bay, is fully shaded and based on a soft fall surface. 

There are many slides, ladders, climbing walls, tunnels and many other play items to entertain toddlers and older children alike. 

Kids particularly love the big yellow boat, rockers, monkey bars and swings. With beautiful views over the Estuary, BBQs, picnic spots, shade and local coffee, bars and restaurants parents will have a ball too. A great playground for the entire family.

Click here for directions.

Playgrounds Mandurah Eastern Foreshore Playground
Playground at Eastern Foreshore, Mandurah

Keith Holmes Reserve and Beach

Located off the Mandurah Quay Footbridge, this playground is overlooking the man-made beach at Mandurah’s Ocean Marina making this a great little spot for family BBQs and picnics.

There are two adjacent play areas at Keith Holmes Reserve. One area is more suited to older kids whereas the second one is suitable to toddlers.

The little beach close by is ideal for kids to have a splash around as it’s very shallow and there are no waves.

Click here for directions.

Playgrounds Mandurah Keith Holmes Reserve
Keith Holmes Reserve, Mandurah

Osprey Waters Foreshore Playground

This big adventure and nature-based playground is located right on the water’s edge and is the perfect place to play, picnic, barbecue and even to fish. If you are in Mandurah a visit to this playground is a must and our recommendation is you allocate at least a couple of hours to enjoy it.

Perfect for toddlers and pre-schoolers, nature play strongly features at this playground with balancing rocks amongst the bushes and a fun wooden rope maze under natural shade. The most popular feature of this playground is the nest cubby house.

There’s also a small sandy beach, perfect for having a splash or throwing in a fishing line.

A cycle path / walk path runs along the length of the Erskine foreshore and through the playground area. Walk or cycle the foreshore and see Ospreys and their nests on the way. Ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) are fish eating birds of prey and known as the Guardians of the Estuary or Yoondoordo in Noongar language.

Click here for directions.

Playgrounds Mandurah Osprey Waters Foreshore Reserve
Osprey Waters Foreshore Playground, Erskine

Novara Foreshore Playground

Located in Falcon, this Mandurah adventure playground has custom-built nature play features including a 6m high climbing structure, accessible swings and a Miram which is a skate-style play element for older children and youth. There is also various fitness equipment suitable for all ages.

Click here for directions.

Playgrounds Mandurah Novara Foreshore Reserve
Image credit: Mandurah Mail | Novara Foreshore Playground

Caterpillar Park Playground

The Caterpillar Park Playground is definitely one of the most popular playgrounds in Mandurah, not only because it’s enclosed and safe but also because there’s so much to do. 

There’s several slides, swings, sensory play area, floor levelled merry go round, a nest swing and flying fox.

Surrounded by plenty of trees and sails, keeping the area shaded, this is not only a pleasant place for kids to play but also for families to enjoy a picnic or barbecue. There are separate undercover areas with benches, tables and BBQs.

Also known as Milgar Street Reserve, the Caterpillar Playground is easily accessible via Park Road with plenty of parking available. Be wary on weekends though, it is situated next door to the BMX track so it can be a little hard to find parking.

Click here for directions.

Playgrounds Mandurah Caterpillar Park
Liberty Swing at Caterpillar Park, Mandurah

Quarry Adventure Park

With a fantastic range of play equipment and different play areas, this playground is perfect for children of all ages.

There are huge climbing spider web nets, a long and steep slide, and other pieces of play equipment set all the way down the side of the quarry. If you have children who love to climb or love a challenge, they will just love this park. All the equipment is set on soft fall rubber. Off to the side, past some bushland is the amphitheatre, this area is grassed and offers a whole lot of fun for children too. The area is very shady thanks to the many trees there. 

Equipped with BBQs, picnic benches, toilets and water fountain, you can easily spend the whole day at Quarry Adventure Park enjoying a barbecue or picnic after play. 

Quarry Adventure Park in Meadow Springs is well worth a visit when you stay in Mandurah.

Click here for directions.

Adventurescape Playground

This farm-themed playground, located next to the two hectare lake in the Satterley Austin Lakes Estate in South Yunderup, will surely be a big hit with your children. 

The play area is dotted with small wooden farm animal play sculptures and features a huge 9-metre tall climbing windmill tower and slide, a large pig that is part cubby part slide, a 35-metre flying fox and old farm tractors that are half submerged in the sand. Other features include a custom rural style fence maze, a 3 metre spinning disk, a 5 way swing, a climbing net, balance pole bridge and see-saw.

The small lake which is located next to the playground is great for paddling in and has a small beach area with BBQs located close by.

Click here for directions.

Playgrounds Mandurah Adventurescape South Yunderup
Image credit: Renae Kaciuba | Adventurescape Playground at South Yunderup

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Trip planning and experience making is easy with our destination information guide.

Find more inspiration

Take a look at some of our best picks

Animal & Wildlife Encounters

The Mandurah region is the perfect destination to immerse yourself in nature.

Animal & Wildlife Encounters

The perfect destination
to easily spot native
wildlife as you explore
by water or land

The fresh air, blue skies, pristine forests and stunning waterways of the Mandurah region make it the perfect destination to immerse yourself in nature. Wonder at the world-class natural beauty and easily spot native wildlife as you explore by water or land.

Here are our insider tips of where to spot wild dolphins, kangaroos, emus and waterbirds:

Dolphins – regularly visit the calm waters in the centre of Mandurah and are a joy to watch while dining alfresco by the waterfront or just strolling along the foreshore. Some residents say that you are almost 100% guaranteed to see a dolphin at the Dawesville Cut as they have never once walked their dogs here without seeing a dolphin.

Kangaroos – graze on Melros Beach Reserve and Florida Beach Reserve in the late afternoon. You can also spot them close-up near the picnic area at Serpentine Falls National Park.

Emus – can often be spotted walking along the lake shores at Lake Clifton at Yalgorup National Park.

Black Swans – mass between October and March at Lake Pollard at Yalgorup National Park.

Red-tailed black cockatoos – are native to south western Australia and can be seen high up in the trees from the Emu Walk Trail that leads from Dwellingup town centre to the Forest Discovery Centre.

Visit our Wildlife Parks & Tours

Salt & Bush Eco Tours – Wildlife Nocturnal

Discover what happens in the Bush after the sun goes down.  Salt & Bush Eco Tours have amazing insight into the local nocturnal wildlife. Take a  walk with your head torches on and seek out the nocturnal animals that are waking up. Discover more about Western Australia’s amazing wildlife on a guided Nocturnal walk.  For more information and other tours visit Salt &  Bush Eco Tours.

Ranger Red’s Zoo

Ranger Red’s Zoo is a privately funded, hands-on zoo and wildlife sanctuary, in a lush setting on the banks of the Murray River in Pinjarra. Visiting Ranger Red’s Zoo is a bit like visiting one of your own family, who just happens to have hundreds of pets. Get close to and learn about over 100 species of birds and animals that will capture your imagination, including: koalas, wombats, dingoes, exotic birds, snakes, reptiles, bengal cats, quolls, possums and owls! The walk-through aviary and Tasmanian Devils are star attractions.

The Tasmanian Devil breeding programme is of vital importance. This species is endangered in the wild because of an incurable facial tumour disease and Ranger Red Zoo’s breeding program contributes to the Tasmanian Devil’s long-term future.

Kids can also experience working at the zoo with the ‘Zookeeper 4 a Day’ program.

Cohunu Koala Park

Located in Byford, Cohunu Koala Park has a colony of up to 15 koalas which you can pay to hold. You can also hand feed the native wildlife that roams free in the park.

Farm Animals

Caraholly Orchard – At this beautiful farmers market every Sunday you can hand feed the cows with apples from the orchard.

Midway Farmstall – Just off Forrest Highway, near Pinjarra Road, this is the perfect place to stop for delicious coffee and a bite to eat while the kids play with the farm animals.

Ferndale Springs Farm – Gain insights into a real working farm in Coolup. Mustering sheep, feeding cattle and eating damper and kangaroo are just some of the things you will experience here.

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Trip planning and experience making is easy with our destination information guide.

Find more inspiration

Take a look at some of our best picks

Top 10 things to do with kids

With plenty of coastal, forest and urban adventures to keep everyone in the family entertained, you’ll discover everything holiday memories are made of in Mandurah and the Peel Region.

Top 10 Things to do with kids

Top 10 Things to do with the kids in Mandurah

With plenty of coastal, forest and urban adventures to keep everyone in the family entertained, you’ll discover everything holiday memories are made of in Mandurah and the Peel region, only 1 hour south of Perth.

Here’s our top 10 things to do with kids in Mandurah and surrounds.

The Pirate Ship Mandurah

1. Say ahoy and get ready to Yo Ho Ho as you cruise Mandurah’s waterways on the Pirate Ship Mandurah.

Pirate Ship Mandurah 1

Mandurah Cruises

2. Watch our wild bottlenose dolphins play on the Dolphin & Scenic Marine Cruise with Mandurah Cruises.

02-Dolphin Cruise Visit Mandurah
Image Credit: Mandurah Cruises

Soulmate Charters

3. The whole family will have a ball on this relaxed 2 hour cruise with Soulmate Charters where you will not only explore Mandurah’s waterways but can also enjoy a swim or float in a blow-up lounge. Try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding or just sit back and relax.

Soulmate Charters Cruise Splash Cruise

Tourist Fun Train Company

4. Board the Tourist Fun Train Company for a train ride tour. Mini toot, the friendly miniature train, runs along the eastern foreshore and the Big Toot is a hopon/hop off tour for all ages.

Tourist Fun Train 1

Amaze Miniature Park

5. Appeasing the imaginations of those big and small, there are 70 adorable miniature buildings and model trains at Amaze Miniature Park plus hedge mazes mini golf and playground. Great day out for families.

Amaze Miniature Park

The Bike Kiosk

6. Hire e-bikes and e-scooters from The Bike Kiosk and explore Mandurah or its coastal trails on two wheels. 

04-Halls-Head-Coastal-Trail-04

Mandurah Instagram Trail

7.  Take lots of fun photos and create lasting holiday memories by walking the Mandurah Instagram Trail.

3dart pelican mandurah-1024x768
3D pelican at blue gatehouse at Mandurah Ocean Marina

Ranger Red’s Zoo

8. To learn about over 100 species of birds and animals, including the Tasmanian devil, head to Ranger Red’s Zoo in Pinjarra (only 20 mins from Mandurah). You should also check out the Zookeeper 4 a Day program where kids can work at the zoo and take on various, but important zookeeper duties.

Peel Zoo BUP3632

Indoor Activity Centres

9. Take the kids for a bounce at Inflatable World or Flip Out Mandurah Indoor Trampoline Park or have a climb at the Mandurah Indoor Rock-Climbing Centre.

Mandurah Indoor Rock Climbing
Mandurah Indoor Rock Climbing Centre

Treetops Adventure Dwellingup

10. Climb a tree-top obstacle course through the forest at Treetops Adventure in Dwellingup.

Trees-Adventure-Dwellingup

Plan your itinerary before your arrival and book in your activities. We look forward to seeing you in Mandurah soon.

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Trip planning and experience making is easy with our destination information guide.

Family Fun at Peel Produce Market

Get a fresh start in the morning at Peel Produce Market. On every Saturday morning, this beautiful market at the Dawesville foreshore is a great outing for families. Browse the local produce stalls, enjoy coffee, fresh juices or hot breakfasts by the water while listening to live music. There are also great activities for the kids.

Find more inspiration

Take a look at some of our best picks

Birdwatching

Bird life is abundant in Mandurah and the Peel Region which make it a perfect location for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Birdwatching

Mandurah and the
Peel Region are the
perfect locations for
bird watchers

Situated at the northern end of the Peel Inlet, Mandurah is the key point in a chain of lakes and estuaries from Perth to Bunbury. These expanses of open water are a habitat for up to 100,000 waterbirds.

Localities such as the Creery Wetlands are recognised under International Agreements as key habitats for migratory waders. To the West is the Darling Range with its diverse Jarrah forest flora and habitat for native birds.

Bird life is abundant in Mandurah and the Peel Region which make it a perfect location for bird watchers and nature lovers. The bird life around the Estuary is just as impressive. Over 100 different species of native and migratory birds nest, breed and feed on the estuary.

The Peel-Harvey Estuary is classified as a Wetland of International Importance in 1990 by the Ramsar Convention.

Some of the best places to observe water birds are between the two Mandurah bridges on the shores, amongst the marshes and on the islands of the Peel Inlet. Here you will see waterbirds feeding, Darter, cormorants, yellow-billed Spoonbill amongst others.

 

Find our insider tips below for some of the best birdwatching spots in Mandurah:

Mandurah Estuary

Between the two Mandurah bridges the shores, marshes and islands of Peel Inlet provide excellent opportunities to observe waterbirds feeding. Get your binoculars and watch out for Darter, Cormorants, Yellow-billed Spoonbill (occasionally Royal Spoonbill) and Blackwinged.

Mandurah Harbour & Dolphin Pool

These are good areas to observe Caspian, Crested and Fairy Tern. In summer among the waders are Bar-tailed Godwit, Eastern Curlew, Ruddy Turnstone, Australian Pied Oystercatcher and Grey Plover.

Directions:

Travel to Dolphin Drive, Mandurah

Len Howard Conservation Park

The park contains 60 hectares of bush on the north western shore of Peel Inlet and features a nature trail (Erskine nature trail) with boardwalks over wetlands.

Birds you may see on your walk include:
  • Splendid Wren
  • Black-face Cuckoo-shrike
  • Willie Wagtail
  • Grey Fantail
  • Golden Whistler
Waterbirds you may see on your walk:
  • White-faced Heron
  • Black Swan
  • Royal Spoonbill
  • Darter
  • Little Pied Cormorant
  • Pied Oyster Catcher
Directions:

Travel to Len Howard Drive, Mandurah

Coodanup and Creery Wetlands

One of the Peel Yalgorup Wetlands System’s must-see spots is the Creery Wetlands, made up of a 29-hectare nature reserve that’s connected with a series of boardwalks and pathways enabling you to enjoy this unique ecosystem where over 130 different species of native and migratory birds have been spotted. Pelicans, the rare red tail black cockatoo, black swans and osprey breed and nest here.

From the shore you can see Boundary Island, a nesting place for Fairy Tern. The bay inshore of Creery Island supports large numbers of Bar-tailed Godwit, Eastern Curlew, Great Knot, Banded Stilt and Pacific Australian White Ibis and Yellow-billed Spoonbill who come here to feed from nearby breeding colonies.

Samphire Cove is part of the 29 hectare Creery Wetlands and is on the edge of the Peel Inlet. There are walking trails, information shelters and viewing huts and platforms for enthusiastic birdwatchers. The saltmarsh and shallow waters are an important roosting and feeding area for waterbirds and shorebirds which migrate to the Mandurah area every year from Northern Asia and Alaska.

Our tip:

The best way to discover (or rediscover) what makes these stunning wetlands and the remarkable wildlife so special is on a guided walking tour with Ways to Nature.

Salt and Bush Eco Tours speciality bird trips can be land or water-based (from foot peddled kayaks) along the Ramsar protected wetlands of the Peel Harvey Estuary and Yalgorup Lakes – a truly unique way to birdwatch.

Directions:

Travel one kilometre east towards Pinjarra. Turn south along Wanjeep Street to Peel Inlet (Coodanup).

Lake Goegrup & Black Lake

These lakes are important waterbird feeding and breeding areas. You’ll find red-necked Avocet there throughout the year. Black Lake is a winter habitat for large flocks of Musk Duck.

Directions:

Follow Gordon Road to Lakes, Patterson and Dunkerton Roads.

Header image by Karyn Ellis

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Trip planning and experience making is easy with our destination information guide.

Find more inspiration

Take a look at some of our best picks

Dolphin Watching

A visit to Mandurah wouldn’t be complete without the sighting of at least 1 dolphin.

Dolphin Watching

A visit to Mandurah
wouldn’t be complete
without the sighting
of at least 1 dolphin.

The Mandurah dolphins that inhabit the Peel-Harvey Estuary and adjacent coastal waters are Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins. They are highly social creatures that can often be found traveling in groups of 5 – 15 dolphins or even higher.

Our Mandurah Dolphins

The Mandurah dolphins that inhabit the Peel-Harvey Estuary and adjacent coastal waters are Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins. They are highly social creatures that can often be found traveling in groups of 5 – 15 dolphins or even higher. Females have large networks of female friends, whilst males form such strong bonds with one another that “alliances” can last a lifetime. Juveniles spend several years with their family learning everything from social etiquette to vital hunting skills. Mandurah’s inland waterways offer protection for birthing and an abundance of fish for feeding, making this area an ideal playground for dolphins.

Best way to watch dolphins

Whilst you can see dolphins in Mandurah all year round, the best time for dolphin watching is between September and May.

A dolphin cruise is a great way to see these friendly creatures and enjoy a scenic tour. The friendly, playful dolphins often surf on the wake of the boat, sometimes stopping to take a good look at the people on board!

You can hire a waterbike from Mandjar Bay and pedal your way through the waterways on your quest to spot a dolphin.

Or hire a boat, kayak or canoe and seek them out for yourself. It’s truly magical when they suddenly pop up right next to you to join you on your very own water adventure.

Best locations for dolphins spotting in Mandurah

You can spot Mandurah’s dolphins playing in the estuary, boat harbour, Serpentine and Murray River and in the Indian Ocean.

Whether you are on or by the water, it will be hard to miss our friendly locals. The Dawesville Cut, Mandjar Bay, Mandurah Estuary and Mandurah Ocean Marina are considered particularly good spots to see dolphins.

Header image by: Bruce Ellis

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Trip planning and experience making is easy with our destination information guide.

Find more inspiration

Take a look at some of our best picks

Jet Ski Hire & Tours

Experience the exhilarating thrill of flying across the water on a jet ski with Stag Watersports.

Jet Ski Hire & Tours

Feel the thrill of driving your own jet ski

The scenic sheltered waters of the Peel-Harvey Estuary provide a fun, safe and comfortable ride for all experience levels.

Book a guided jet ski tour or do your own thing around Stag Watersports’ Freestyle Circuit which is permanently set up just off the Dawesville Foreshore.

After a briefing with Stag Watersports, jump on board the sleek Yamaha VX110 Sport 3 seater jet ski and feel your heart race as you speed across the Estuary.

Experience the exhilarating thrill of flying across the water on a jet ski as you follow your knowledgeable guide on an Adrenaline or Dolphin Sightseeing Tour. Cross the Estuary, start jumping waves and take in the beautiful views of the Peel-Harvey Estuary.

Even if you are not the most adventurous person in the world, we highly recommend you to get out of your comfort zone to go on this unforgettable adventure. We know you will love it.

Jet Skiing on the estuary in Mandurah

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Trip planning and experience making is easy with our destination information guide.

Find more inspiration

Take a look at some of our best picks

Canoeing, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddling

The calm waters of the Mandurah Estuary make this area perfect for an easy paddle.

Canoeing, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddling

The calm waters of
the Mandurah Estuary
make this area perfect
for an easy paddle.

There are endless places to explore along the way with a variety of bird life and you have high chances of kayaking next to dolphins as you paddle through the canals, past beautiful homes. Kayak hire is available on the Estuary’s Western Foreshore.

An especially magical experience is to paddle Mandjar Bay, Mandurah Estuary and through the canals in the early morning or late afternoon. The sheltered waters at Dawesville Foreshore, Dolphin Pool in the Mandurah Ocean Marina, Town Beach and Falcon Bay Beach are popular with paddlers.

Mandurah Boat Hire and Star Surf offer canoe, kayak, and paddleboard hire or lessons in Mandurah.

Salt and Bush Eco Tours offer 2-hour guided kayak tours and 3-hour sailing yak tours along rivers of the Peel-Harvey Estuary – it’s a great way to experience the Mandurah waterways and look out for birdlife and dolphins along the way.

Only a 30-minute drive north of Mandurah, you’ll find Capricorn Seakayaking who will take you on a Penguin and Seal Island Wildlife Adventure kayak tour suitable from 8+ years of age. The perfect way to get close and personal with nature.

The inland lakes and rivers are all suitable for paddling and you can even fast-water-raft on the Murray River with Dwellingup Adventures in Dwellingup in winter.

Paddling Trails

Mandurah Central Paddle Trail

Explore Mandurah’s spectacular and protected waterways on a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard.

Float lazily down the calm Mandurah Estuary, paddle past impressive multi-million dollar mansions and explore the impressive birdlife around Mandurah’s extensive wetlands system.

Whether you are a novice or experienced paddler you will love this easy to paddle trail. Dolphins are regularly spotted in the area, so do not be surprised if they suddenly pop up right next to you to join you on your water adventure.

Start your paddling experience in the heart of Mandurah where you can also hire kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards from the centrally located hire outlets if you do not have your own equipment.

For landing spots and public boat ramps download the Mandurah Boating Guide.

For more information on Trails in the Peel district see https://mehg.org.au/canoe-trail-friends/.

  • How the route runs

    You can launch at either Western Foreshore or Osprey Waters Foreshore and paddle north, through Mandurah Estuary, and/or into the bays and canals east and west off the Estuary, and/or into Dolphin Quay marina and bay. Landings cannot be made in the canals but many options to land are available along the estuary, in adjoining bays and the marina. Most of these provide access to cafes, picnic areas and conveniences. Use local paddling maps to plot outward and return journeys, keeping in mind time available, wind and water conditions and boating traffic.
  • Difficulty

    This is a Grade 2 trail; easy, with small waves and/or flowing water. Observe boating rules; keep to the righthand side, or outside, of designated boating channels.
  • Points of Interest

    Wild dolphins, waterbirds, historic and modern architecture, Mandurah War Memorial opposite historic Moreton Bay fig tree, Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, extensive marina and mooring pens, parklands and beaches.
  • Approximate Distance and Duration

    Approximate Distance: 1 – 15 km
    Approximate Duration: 1 – 5 hrs
Mandurah Central Paddling Trail
Mandurah Canals

Osprey Waters – Peel Inlet Paddle Trail

Blessed with 134 km² of calm inland waterways, Mandurah is the ultimate water playground for everyone and a true paddler’s paradise. The shallow Peel Inlet (commonly referred to as ‘the estuary’) stretches from Mandurah’s Estuary Bridge to the Dawesville Cut.

The Peel Inlet together with the Harvey Estuary to its south are listed under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland and ecosystem of international significance.  Osprey Waters Foreshore Reserve, about 2 kms from the Mandurah city centre, provides a great starting point for the exploration of the northern part of the Peel Inlet and the canals of nearby Mariners Cove.

View black swans, ospreys and dolphins along this trail which are regularly seen. The return paddle to Osprey Waters is dependant on water levels; if water levels are high, then the return leg can be via either side of Channel Island, and then the eastern side of the main channel. If water levels are low, then there is no other option than to follow the main channel for the full journey.

For landing spots and public boat ramps download the Mandurah Boating Guide.

For more information on Trails in the Peel district see https://mehg.org.au/canoe-trail-friends/.

  • How the route runs

    Start the Peel Inlet Paddle Trail at Osprey Waters where you can follow the shoreline south to Mandurah Quay, keeping west of the main boating channel. From here it is a short distance across Sticks Channel to the northern end of Boundary Island.
  • Difficulty

    This is a Grade 2 trail; easy with small waves and/or flowing water. Observe boating rules; keep to the righthand side, or outside, of designated boating channels. Avoid power boats and keep clear of the wash created by them.
  • Points of Interest

    Flora and wildlife habitats
    Water vistas
    Canal construction and canal front homes
  • Approximate Distance and Duration

    Osprey Waters to Mandurah Quay return 3 kms. The loop; Osprey Waters, Mandurah Quay, Boundary Island, Channel Island, Osprey Waters around 5 kms. Add another 3 kms for exploration of Mariners Cove canals. Approximate duration: 1 – 4 hours.

Serpentine River Paddling Trail

The Serpentine River is one of three rivers flowing into the Peel-Harvey Estuary, providing a habitat to many species of fauna and flora. Explore the incredible nature and birdlife on this beautiful and easy paddling trail.

For landing spots and boat ramps download the Mandurah Boating Guide.

For more information on Trails in the Peel district see https://mehg.org.au/canoe-trail-friends/.

  • How the route runs

    The lower reaches of the Serpentine River are readily accessed by launching at Riverside Gardens Reserve (cnr of Redcliffe and Wanda Roads, Greenfields). Paddle downstream toward Barragup Bridge, Pinjarra Rd, observing birdlife, occasional dolphins and a mix of sheoak, river gum and paper bark vegetation. Several small beaches offer rest points along the way. Paddle upstream into Goegrup Lake (0.5km), a large shallow waterbody best paddled in winter and spring after good rains. You’ll see many waterbirds and even occasionally some dolphins. No good landing beaches available.  (For the experienced paddler looking for a longer paddle, the Serpentine River enters the Peel Inlet approximately 5kms beyond the Barragup Bridge).

  • Difficulty

    This is a Grade 1 trail; suitable for both the experienced paddler and those with novice canoeing/kayaking skills and average level of fitness.
  • Points of Interest

    Surrounded by beautiful natural bushland, habitat to many species of flora and fauna. The bird life in particular is outstanding. There are some jetties and residences at different points along the river.
  • Approximate Distance and Duration

    Approximate Distance: 1 – 6 km
    Approximate Duration: 1 – 3 hours
Serpentine River Paddling Trail
Serpentine River, Greenfields

Header image by Mandurah Over 55s Kayak Club

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Trip planning and experience making is easy with our destination information guide.

Find more inspiration

Take a look at some of our best picks

Canal Christmas Lights Tours

If you are a lover of all things Christmas, then you won’t want to miss the Mandurah Christmas Lights cruise.

Christmas Lights Tours & Cruises

You won’t want to
miss the Mandurah
Christmas Lights cruise.

The coastal city of Mandurah, less than an hour south of Perth, is often compared to a little modern Venice because of its spectacular waterways and canal living. But did you know that Mandurah turns into a little Las Vegas every year from December until mid-January?

The Mandurah residents who live on the canals like to dress up their houses for Christmas with over 200 houses along the canals lit up all in the spirit of Christmas.

Experience a Christmas wonderland on water in Mandurah.

Thanks to the Mandurah canal residents for putting in an enormous effort and dressing up their houses for Christmas at their own expense, every year more than 200 homes come alive with lights and everyone wants to stand out. There is some healthy competition in the canals and people who do not light up their houses are called the grinches – in a friendly manner of course.

Some residents have about 100 items plugged in, spend about 80 man-hours to install their Christmas lights decoration, and use 15 timeclocks powered by 30 power boards from 20 extension leads.

The best way to watch this spectacle is from a boat. As you drift down the canals by boat or on board a cruise or private charter, there is a water wishing well with all proceeds going to local charities.

Ever popular, this delightful cruise experience becomes increasingly beautiful each year. Dress for the occasion, sing along with the Christmas carols and bring your Christmas cheer. This is a very special tour at a special time of year.

Don’t miss out on this spectacular event and book your Christmas Lights Cruise early with one of these local operators.

MANDURAH CRUISES

+Dates

Departing every night except Christmas Day from 1 December – early January.

+Tour information and Departure times

Cruise options include Standard 1 hour, Premium 1 hour and 1.5 hour sunset & lights. Plus special events of a 2 hour family and 2 hour New Year’s Eve Fireworks cruise.

Departure times include 7.15pm 7.30pm, 7.45pm, 8.45pm and 9pm (times vary depending on cruise type and vessel).

+More information and Booking

Ticket prices vary depending on cruise types with price brackets of Adults – 13 years and over, Child – 3 to 12 years and Children under 3 – FREE on all cruises.

Click here for more information and to book.

Mandurah Cruises
Image: Mandurah Cruises

PIRATE SHIP MANDURAH

+Dates

Departing every night except Christmas Day from 1 December – early January.

+Tour information and Departure times

Hop aboard The Pirate Ship for a 1 hour Christmas tour that combines two of our favourite things, Pirates and Christmas as they cruise through Mandurah’s beautiful inland waterways and canals.

The Pirate Ship is an open air vessel offering the 360 ̊views, BYO alcohol and of course a steering wheel for the kids!

Departure times: 7.30pm and 8.45pm.

+More information and Booking

The Pirate Ship is an open air vessel offering the 360 ̊views, BYO alcohol and of course a steering wheel for the kids!

Click here for more information and to book.

Pirate Ship Mandurah
Image: Pirate Ship Mandurah

MANDURAH BOAT CHARTERS

Charter a Deluxe Pontoon Boat for your very personal Christmas Lights Cruise. Mandurah Boat Charters have a  very comfortable and luxurious 16-person or 20-person pontoon boat to choose from. A skipper will be provided.

Click here for more information and to book.

Mandurah Boat Charters
Charter a 16-person or 20-person luxury pontoon to enjoy Mandurah's Christmas Lights.

SOULMATE CHARTERS MANDURAH

+Dates
Departing every night in December to early January. Closed Christmas Day only.
+Duration and Departure times
Choose from 1 hour and 1.5 hour cruises.

Departure times: 7pm for Sunset and Christmas Lights cruise.

+More information and Booking
Soulmate Charters is a personalised cruise so you can relax, taking the hassle out of operating a boat.

Click here for more information and to book.

Mandurah Christmas Lights

ECO BBQ BOATS

+Dates

Departing every night except Christmas Day from 1 December – early January.

+Tour information and Departure times

Get the ultimate and uninterrupted 360 ̊ view of Mandurah’s famous Canal Christmas Lights onboard unique open boats.

Enjoy the spectacular lights while comfortably sitting at a round table with a maximum of 9 passengers per boat on a very exclusive cruise.

80 minute guided tour, with two departure times: 7.30pm and 9pm.

+More information and Booking

Hire the whole boat for a private Christmas Lights tour for you and your friends and family.

Click here for more information and to book.

Eco BBQ Boats Mandurah
Image: Eco BBQ Boats Mandurah

MANDURAH HOUSEBOATS

+Dates

Departing every night except Christmas Day from 1 December – early January.

+Tour information and Departure times

Hire their Party Pontoon Boat for up to 6 people with one of their staff onboard to show your family and friends the lights.

The 1 hour 15 minutes guided cruise departs at 7:30pm or 9pm

+More information and Booking

Max 6 passengers (the boat is yours and there are no minimum numbers). No skipper’s ticket required.

Click here for more information and to book.

Mandurah Houseboats

MANDURAH BOAT HIRE

+Dates

Boats available every night, except Christmas Day & News Year’s Eve.

+Tour information and Departure times

Hire your own boat for your personal Christmas Lights cruise. A skipper’s  ticket/boat licence is required for all boat hire after sunset. However, if you do not hold a Recreational Skippers Ticket, we will supply a guide at an additional cost (the guide will be counted in the passenger numbers).

Departure times start at 6.30 pm and run till 10 pm. Boats can be rented for an hour to all night long. The choice is up to you.

+More information and Booking

Enjoy the spectacular Christmas lights aboard your own private boat, BYO drinks & food.

Click here for more information and to book.

Christmas Lights Cruises Mandurah Boat Hire
Image: Mandurah Boat Hire

Ride the Christmas Lights with The Bike Kiosk

+Dates
E-bike tours available every night, except Christmas Day.
+Tour information and Departure times
Experience the best of Mandurah’s Christmas lights on this new e-bike tour with The Bike Kiosk. You’ll see the colours on the canals, the Fantasyland on the foreshore, and hand-picked favourites from the Mandurah Christmas Lights trail.

Inclusions:

  • Norco Indie VLT eBike  (max load, 161kgs)
  • Helmet
  • Bottle cages (fits standard 600ml bottles)
  • Insect repellent
  • Buy one, get one free voucher – San Churro

Departure time: 7.30 pm

+More information and Booking

Enjoy the spectacular Christmas lights on this guided e-bike tour.

Click here for more information and to book.

Star lg

See what’s on at WA’s Christmas Capital

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Trip planning and experience making is easy with our destination information guide.

Stay a little longer

Instead of rushing back to normality or back to Perth, stay overnight and relax a little longer. Choose from our great Mandurah accommodation options. There’s something to suit all tastes and budgets – a choice of hotels, caravan and camping sites, charming bed and breakfasts, self-contained apartments, and even houseboats for hire.

banner lady

Find more inspiration

Take a look at some of our best picks

Self-Drive Boat Hire

Mandurah is often compared to a modern Venice due to its network of canals.

Self-Drive Boat Hire

Mandurah is often
compared to a modern
Venice due to its network
of canals

Explore these stunning waterways at your own pace with a hire boat, and you don’t need a boat licence.

Mandurah Boat Hire

Experience the adventure of being a skipper for an hour or the whole day by hiring a boat from Mandurah Boat Hire. Choose from well-maintained and GPS tracked dinghies, pontoon boats, or luxury Sun Tracker-style boats and enjoy the scenic views and watch dolphins play while you cruise through the Mandurah Canals and Estuary. Pets are welcome on board and you can also hire fishing and crabbing gear if needed.

Mandurah Boat Hire offers a series of other water activities; this includes single sit-on-top kayaks, double seater sit-on-top kayaks, and stable beginner stand up paddle boards in either fibreglass or inflatable.

Eco BBQ Boats

Another great and unique way to enjoy Mandurah’s waterways is Eco BBQ Boats. Hire Western Australia’s only donut-shaped electric BBQ boats to float around the beautiful Mandurah Ocean Marina and Venetian Canals and enjoy your very own floating barbecue with up to 10 people. Bring your own food and drinks or take advantage of their BBQ meat packs. With all equipment supplied and no skipper’s ticket required, this is the ultimate 360 degree dining experience on the water.

Eco-BBQ-Boats-Mandurah

Mandurah Houseboats

To completely unwind, take your holiday home with you by hiring a fully-equipped houseboat from Mandurah Houseboats who have boats leaving from Mandurah Ocean Marina (their office location) and from Ravenswood on the Murray River.

Enjoy waterways for days cruising the estuary and Murray River, dining at one of the riverbank restaurants, fishing, crabbing or just relaxing on the deck as you enjoy the spectacular views. One of their houseboats even has a spa on the deck! How good is that? And the best thing is you don’t need a boat licence to drive these houseboats. You’ll get a 1 hour tutorial by their friendly staff and you’ll be ready to go on your holiday of a lifetime.

Mandurah Houseboats

Emily Louise suitable for wheelchair users (Mandurah hOUSEBOATS)

Emily Louise can comfortably accommodate 8 people; offering 2 double bedrooms with queen-sized beds, a set of bunks in the passageway and a pull out double sofa bed in the lounge room along with a shower and 2 toilets. A fully equipped galley includes a microwave and Nespresso coffee machine. Reverse cycle air-conditioning and all linen are also included. The large rear deck has a luxurious spa, BBQ and outdoor table and chairs.

Emily Louise is a luxury 2020 purpose built houseboat. Suitable for wheelchair users, she offers ramp access, spacious rooms, wide doorways/passageways and handrails in wet areas. The toilet/shower, helm, benchtops and light switches are all positioned to allow wheelchair users easy access.

Wheelchair Accessible Houseboat

EXPLORING WITH YOUR OWN BOAT?

Boat owners have the option to rent short or long term pens at Mandurah Ocean Marina. You can hire a pen through a flexible licence, ranging from one night to one year. Find out more.

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Trip planning and experience making is easy with our destination information guide.

Find more inspiration

Take a look at some of our best picks

Boat Tours & Cruises

Mandurah’s pristine, uncrowded beaches are playgrounds for all ages and interests.

Boat Tours & Cruises

Explore an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour

A relaxing way for you to explore the vast, calm, inland waterways around Mandurah is on a guided tour.

Mandurah Cruises

Experience the best of Mandurah’s incredible natural environment on 1-hour, half-day or full-day marine adventures with Mandurah Cruises.

Encounter Western Australia’s best dolphin population on their daily 1 Hour Dolphin & Scenic Marine Cruise which offers you the opportunity to experience playful wild dolphins in their natural environment, wetlands teeming with diverse bird life, magnificent canal homes, heritage listed pioneer and cultural sites, live commentary and more. You can even enjoy a delicious, fresh fish & chips lunch on board!

If you’re after a relaxing half day on the water, then join Mandurah Cruises for a Murray River Lunch Cruise or learn about the region’s rich indigenous history and culture on a Dreamtime Cruise. They also offer seasonal and special event cruises across the year.

There are also great seasonal cruises for you to choose from:

Start the weekend with Mandurah Cruises’ Floating Bar Cruise  – Every Friday Night for ONLY $10!

Departing from Mandjar Square at 5pm, 6pm, 7pm & 8pm every Friday night, you can hop on board for one 45-minute loop or stay until the bar closes at 9pm. Enjoy sunset skie, sweet tunes, cocktail specials, and purchase chilled drinks from the bar. BYO share platters welcome.

Watch the sun go down on the water of Mandurah’s peaceful estuary on the 1.5-hour Sunset Cruise, set against a golden summer sunset, accompanied by live music. Sit back and relax with a drink in hand from the bar on board as you take in the stunning views. Dine on a delicious shared cheeseboard for 2 or munch on WA’s famous Fish & Chips for dinner from Cicerello’s.

Enjoy a scrumptious high tea on the relaxing 2-hour High Tea Cruise through Mandurah’s luxurious canals and picturesque inland waterways. Included is a complimentary glass of sparkling and unlimited tea & coffee. Specialty cocktails, wine and spirits can also be purchased from the bar on board.

BC Mandurah Cruises
Dolphin Cruise & Views | Image courtesy of Mandurah Cruises

The Pirate Ship Mandurah

The Pirate Ship Mandurah offers tours through the inland waterways and canals throughout the year on board a custom-built Pirate Ship.

Take your seats as you depart from the Eastern Foreshore for a 45 minute cruise and venture through Mandurah’s inland waterways and canals on the fun pirate adventure for children and adults of all ages.

As you cruise through Mandurah’s canals, you can steer the pirate wheel, ring the bell or sit back and enjoy the scenery and lookout for the wildlife that call the Mandurah canals home, including the famous bottlenose dolphins.

The 1.5 hour Sundowner Cruise on the famous Mandurah Pirate Ship departs from the Eastern Foreshore and heads north towards the marina to see all the amazing boats.

You’ll also cruise by Dolphin Quay before coming back into the estuary and into the Port Mandurah canals. Check out the magnificent homes before enjoying a spectacular sunset. The cruise is BYO and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.

The Pirate Ship Mandurah

Mandurah Boat Charters

Why not charter a boat for the day and explore the waterways of Mandurah? Get a group of friends and family together and head out for a day of sightseeing and fishing, or cruise along the estuary, stopping for a drink or bite to eat. It’s the ultimate way to relax and enjoy our beautiful waterways.

Hire a Deluxe Charter Pontoon Boat with Mandurah Boat Charters for a fun day out on the water. A skipper comes with the pontoon when you hire the the 16-person or 20-person Deluxe Pontoon.

BC Mandurah Boat Charters
Mandurah Boat Charters

Soulmate Charters Mandurah

You can cruise Mandurah’s waterways at a slower pace with  Soulmate Charters Mandurah.

Do a personalised trip with Soulmate Charters to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the waterways and admire the wildlife with friends and family.

Join the 45 minute Giant Scenic Cruise from the Port Bouvard Marina to take in the exceptional sculpture designed by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, “Seba’s Song”, the only Giant with premium viewing from the water.

The 2 hour Cruise and Chill Adventure takes you through the Mandurah canal and then heads into the Peel Inlet, later anchoring to take a swim or paddle board.

Let Soulmate Charters show you Mandurah’s backyard while you lay back and live the Mandurah lifestyle.

Soulmate Charters Mandurah

Luxury Boutique Boat Charters Mandurah

Come and join in the fun and experience a different side to Mandurah’s waterways and Peel inlet.

Luxury Boutique Boat Charters Mandurah offer unique, personalised and intimate chartered experiences on the beautiful Murray River for a minimum of 2 guests and a maximum of 4 guests.  If you book, you’ll have the skippered boat to yourself.

Luxury Boutique Boat Charters Mandurah offer 3 cruises per day. Choose from the Breakfast & Birdsong Cruise or their Bubbles & Grazing Board Cruise or their signature cruise,  the Sunset & Tapas Cruise. Check out all cruises here.

From the moment your skipper welcomes you aboard, all  you have to do is relax and enjoy!

All cruises are 2 hours in duration and are inclusive of food.

Luxury Boutique Boat Charters Mandurah will accommodate whatever it is you would like to do.

BC Luxury Boutique Boat Charters
Image credit: Luxury Boutique Boat Charters

Discover
how the
locals
like it

Download Your
Guide to Mandurah!

4390 MAPTO 2023 Planner Cover

Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Trip planning and experience making is easy with our destination information guide.

Find more inspiration

Take a look at some of our best picks