A palette of experiences: Plein Air Down Under Festival in Mandurah

French for open air, ‘plein air’ painting is all about capturing the spirit and essence of a landscape or subject outdoors. And that’s exactly what the Plein Air Down Under Outdoor Painting Festival sets out to do.

Plein Air Down Under Festival in Mandurah

Discover a palette of experiences

Love to paint? Why not take it ‘plein air’!
French for open air, ‘plein air’ painting is all about capturing the spirit and essence of a landscape or subject outdoors. And that’s exactly what the Plein Air Down Under Outdoor Painting Festival sets out to do.

Western Australia’s largest outdoor painting festival returns this year during the September long weekend (23-25 September), providing a unique opportunity for artists to share their love of painting outdoors amongst the magnificent surrounds of Mandurah’s town centre, cultural precinct and the historic town of Pinjarra.

But you don’t have to be a Vincent Van Gogh to enjoy what’s on offer. Whatever your age or level of artistic skills – there’s something for everyone – spectators and art collectors alike.

What’s on at the festival hub

The Mandurah Performing Arts Centre is where it all comes together. It’s where you can view exhibited works, sign up for workshops, watch various painting demonstrations with guest artists and in the evening, switch off and kick back with live music.

On Saturday 23rd September, the Lotterywest Demo Zone on the Eastern Foreshore will also be buzzing with a series of free hands-on painting demonstrations. Never tried painting with watercolours? See how easy it is to get started with award-winning artist Amanda Brett.

Be sure to check out the full line-up of free events across the weekend.

plein air down under mandurah 1

Want to register as an artist?

All artists who register to paint at the Plein Air Down Under Outdoor Painting Festival can enter two paintings into the exhibition to be held at Mandurah Performing Arts Centre. Judges will be awarding artwork across various categories and there’s a prize pool of over $12,000 up for grabs.

Head to the festival website to register.

plein air down under mandurah 3

There’s artwork to inspire you everywhere you go

Wherever you go in Mandurah, you’ll be immersed in the arts. Continuing outdoors, you’ll stumble upon some of the most creative artworks along Mandurah’s Instagram Trail

3D pelican - Mandurah Instagram Trail
Follow the Mandurah Instagram Trail to find this hungry pelican by artist Jenny McCracken

Thomas Dambo’s famous Giants are still calling Mandurah home, and with the mild weather in play, it’s the perfect opportunity to head further out and explore the Giants of Mandurah

Yaburgurt Winjan Cirkelstone by Thomas Dambo, Coodanup Foreshore
Yaburgurt Winjan Cirkelstone by Thomas Dambo, Coodanup Foreshore

Visit the Mandurah Visitor Centre to get started, choose the Giants you’d like to visit and embark on your self-guided expedition. Don’t forget to check out the amazing ‘Welcome to Country’ mural by artists Peta & Corey Ugle and the 3D Augmented Reality experience that brings the artwork to life by telling the Aboriginal creation story of Mandurah’s vast waterways.

3D Augmented Reality Experience at the Mandurah Visitor Centre
Come to the Mandurah Visitor Centre to enjoy a 3D Augmented Reality experience.

Leave your car at the hotel and hire an e-bike or e-scooter, or jump on a ‘Ride the Giants’ e-bike tour. You can also take a cruise with Soulmate Charters to visit the Giant ‘Seba’s Song’ – which is best viewed from the water. See all Giants of Mandurah tours here.

Seba's Song Giant by Thomas Dambo
Seba's Song Giant by Thomas Dambo

If you need a change of pace, head indoors and visit some of Mandurah’s colourful art spaces and galleries.

Black Stump Art Gallery in Mandurah
Black Stump Gallery by Emma Blyth, Mandurah

Where to venture beyond the festival

When you feel like taking a break from all the action on land, change up the scenery and hit the open water. If you’d like to see dolphins in the wild and up close, jump on a boat tour or cruise through Mandurah’s waterways and estuaries. It’s home to more than 100 Indo-Pacific Bottlenose dolphins – the largest population in WA. And if you’re exploring with little feet in tow, the Pirate Ship Mandurah is an absolute must! 

For more ideas on where to go and what to do, check out our top 10 things to do in Mandurah.

CC Boat Cruises in Mandurah
Cruising the Mandurah Canals in Halls Head | image courtesy: Mandurah Cruises

Explore a different kind of palate

When you’ve run your paint palette dry and worked up an appetite, there’s no shortage of places to eat in Mandurah. Our top picks include breakfast at Wood and Stone Café, a relaxing lunch that lingers into the afternoon at Boundary Island Brewery and a dinner to share at Flics Kitchen

Boundary Island Brewery
Boundary Island Brewery

Mandurah’s restaurants are always cooking up great vibes no matter where you go. From popular local haunts Brewvino and The Pen to the iconic flavours of Redmanna on the waterfront – you’ll be spoilt for choice. There are so many great places to eat and drink in Mandurah. Just be sure to book ahead and reserve your table to avoid disappointment!

The Peninsula Bar & Restaurant
The Peninsula Bar & Restaurant

Where to stay in Mandurah

If you like to stay close to all the action of the festival, you’re in luck! Some of the best accommodation in Mandurah is centrally located for your convenience. The Sebel Mandurah and Dolphin Quay Apartments are footsteps away from popular attractions and dining options.

Venture a little further along the coast and Seashells Mandurah and C Mandurah Resort & Serviced Apartments have all the facilities you need for a relaxing stay by the water.

Check out all Mandurah accommodation here.

Seashells Resort Mandurah
Seashells Resort Mandurah

And if you don’t want to leave the pooch behind, there’s plenty of pet-friendly accommodation options and experiences.

Pet friendly experiences Mandurah
Walking along the Mandurah Estuary in Falcon

The Plein Air Down Under Outdoor Painting Festival kicks off the Mandurah Arts Festival. Check out ‘our guide to Mandurah’ and plan your visit now!

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A Family Day in Mandurah for only $100

Have the best day ever in Mandurah for only $100 with these fun family-friendly activities!

A Family Day in Mandurah for only $100

A Family Day out in Mandurah on a Budget

Have the best day ever in Mandurah for only $100 with these fun family-friendly activities! Whether your family are looking for an outdoor adventure, are massive foodies or, you’re a bunch of beach bums – Mandurah is full of exciting activities to make your day out a memorable one.

From the morning to the evening, Mandurah has your entire day sorted with family-fun activities that will cost you $100 or less for the entire day! Having fun on your family holiday doesn’t need to be expensive. Here, we’ve picked out our favourite ideas to keep you and the kiddos entertained from breakfast to dinner.

Idea 1: Amaze-ing Adventure

Begin your morning with a stroll around the Peel Produce Market. Hosted every Saturday morning rain, hail or shine, pick up local produce, jams, cheeses and baked goods that will make for a delicious lunch later on. All goodies are made locally, meaning it’s all high quality, delicious and affordable. 

Peel Produce Market Dawesville
Peel Produce Market Dawesville

Take your packed lunch and head on an adventure to Amaze Miniature Park! The park offers a Family Pass (2 adults, 2 children or 1 adult, 3 children) for $50, plus under 3 years old are FREE. 

Admission to Amaze Miniature Park also includes unlimited mini golf, hedge maze, scale model trains, lego exhibition and playground offering hours of fun for the family. Enjoy the packed lunch at the beautiful picnic area at Amaze Miniature Park and soak up the quality time with your little ones. 

Amaze Miniature Park
Amaze Miniature Park

Head back into town to explore the Instagram trail and 3D artworks. This is the perfect way to discover the city and appreciate its wonderful art and culture. 

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3D pelican at blue gatehouse at Mandurah Ocean Marina

After the walk, spoil your youngsters with a visit to one of the many playgrounds in Mandurah! Sprinkled throughout the city, there’s the Caterpillar Park, Adventurescape Playground as well as Mandurah’s iconic Skatepark for those with a board or bike. Sit back and relax whilst your children play. 

With Mandurah’s many beautiful beaches, it’s essential that your family make time to visit the seaside. The hardest bit will be deciding which beach to go to – there’s simply so many to choose from! Falcon Bay, Town Beach, Pyramids Beach, Lido Beach and more. Rally the family together and visit some of the best beach spots in WA. 

Town Beach Mandurah at sunset
Town Beach, Mandurah

As dinner rolls around, pop by one of the great fish and chip shops in Mandurah. For an affordable seafood feast, we recommend Foreshore Fish & Chips, Halls Head Fish and Chips, Smiley Joe’s Fish and Chip Shop, Ginger Groper Blue Bay Fish & Chips, Sharky’s Fish & Chips… the options are endless.  

Dining at Mandurah Ocean Marina 2
Mandurah Ocean Marina

I scream, you scream, we all scream – for ice cream! Make your kiddies jump for joy with a delicious scoop of ice cream from WA’s renowned Simmos ice cream or the local Cool Eats. The perfect way to finish off a fantastic day. 

Idea 2: Explore, Eat & Repeat

All aboard on an adventure in Mandurah! 

Pack up some homemade sandwiches and head on an excursion to the Pirate Ship Cruise

Whilst the parents can admire the stunning views on the 45 minute scenic cruise, the children will be entertained with the interactive pirates. For a family-deal of $75, it’s a bargain for the whole family. Just make sure you keep an eye out for the many Indo-Pacific Bottlenose dolphins that play in Mandurah’s waterways. 

Pirate Ship Mandurah
Pirate Cruise, Mandurah

Alternatively, the Mandurah Cruises’ Dolphin Cruise and Views offer an incredible  and interactive water experience as you cruise the Mandurah canals and estuary and spot the wonderful dolphins splashing beside the boat. The kids will have a ball watching a western rock lobster catch demonstration and seeing this iconic creature up close. Mandurah Cruises’ offer a Family Pass (2 adults & 2 children or, 1 adult & 3 children) at $79 including dolphin guarantee. 

Dolphin and Scenic Marine Cruise Mandurah
Dolphin Cruise & Views | Image courtesy of Mandurah Cruises

After the cruise, book a spot for your family on Mandurah’s Little Toot train, which takes passengers on a fun journey along the Eastern Foreshore for only $25 for the whole family! The Tourist Fun Train never fails to excite the kids and impress the parents. 

Exploring Mandurah's Eastern Foreshore aboard the Mini Toot
Exploring Mandurah's Eastern Foreshore aboard the Mini Toot

Take it easy after the day’s activities and find a spot to watch the sunset at an insta-worthy location in Mandurah. 

If you’re looking to update your family album or snap a picture to post on Instagram, Mandurah’s sunsets are guaranteed to deliver breathtaking backdrops. From the Mandurah Bridge to Stingray Point and The Lake Clifton Thrombolites – your family album will never look so good.  

Thrombolites 4 day Mandurah itinerary
Lake Clifton Thrombolites

As bellies begin to growl for dinner, we recommend making use of the great BBQ spots

You can find BBQ facilities at most reserves in Mandurah. Some of the best spots are the Eastern Foreshore Reserve, Dawesville Foreshore Reserve, Caterpillar Playground, Falcon Bay and Henry Sutton Grove. Grab some delicious snags from the local butcher and enjoy a sausage and bun on the grass.

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Falcon Bay Beach

Affordable family adventures

Who said family activities had to be costly? Not us! 

Choose how much (or how little) you spend on your holiday without having to sacrifice on activities. Here in Mandurah, there’s plenty of free and affordable activities that will keep the kids entertained. 

Looking for more affordable and free activities? Check out our blogs  Visiting Mandurah On A Budget and A day in Mandurah as a couple for only $100.

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10 Affordable Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re popping down to visit the much-hyped Giants of Mandurah, or just looking for fun day trip ideas with the fam, check out our 10 fun family activities that won’t break the bank.

Affordable Family Fun

10 Affordable Family-Friendly Activities Around Mandurah

by Troy Mutton for PerthisOK!

In case you missed the memo, Mandurah is poppin’ right now with so many BIG reasons to visit!

Along with winning a host of tourism awards this year including WA’s 2022 Top Tourism Town, the coastal city continues to expand its offerings, most recently launching the much-hyped Giants Of Mandurah attraction, which has been capturing the imagination of people from all over the state.
Thomas Dambo Giants of Mandurah
Little Lui by Thomas Dambo, Parklands

The Giants of Mandurah are the latest addition to WA’s ultimate aquatic playground, one that features vast stretches of beautiful beaches and lovely inland waterways and an array of fun and unique activities to enjoy.

Indeed, it’s an epic spot to take the whole family – including a heap of activities that won’t break the bank, just like the 10 we’ve listed below:

Pirate Ship Cruise

Sure you could drift around the waterways of Mandurah on a normal old boat, but if you ask us conquering the canals aboard a pirate ship is way, way cooler. This 45 minute cruise is great for all the family, and kids can have a go at steering the wheel, shooting water cannons and ringing the bell while you can sit back and relax, making sure to keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins. A family ticket will only set you back $68.

The Pirate Cruise Mandurah School Holiday Activities Mandurah
The Pirate Cruise

Dolphin Views & Cruise

Speaking of dolphins, your best chance at spotting Mandurah’s beloved bottlenoses is aboard Mandurah Cruises’ Dolphin Cruise & Views Tour. The one-hour scenic voyage explores the waterways of Mandurah with guides giving you the lowdown on Mandurah history, heritage landmarks and coastal sites along the way. Along with dolphins you’ll also spot an array of amazing waterbirds, grab a drink from the licensed bar and more. Family passes are $79, and come with a guarantee – if you don’t see a dolphin on your trip you can come back any time in the next year for free!

Dolphin Cruise Views Mandurah
Dolphin Cruise & Views, Mandurah Cruises

The Bike Kiosk

While cruising Mandurah’s waterways is a lot of fun, it can be equally as cool to explore Mandurah on land, and one of the most fun ways to do so is on an e-scooter or e-bike. The Bike Kiosk is located next to the Mandurah Visitor Centre and you can choose from a range of e-rideables to suit all preferences and experience levels.

E scooter hire in Mandurah
Hire an e-scooter from The Bike Kiosk, Mandurah

Amaze Miniature Park

It might be called the Miniature Park, but Amaze is so big you might need a whole day to tackle it all! The centrepiece is of course the 70 miniature buildings on display complete with interactive model trains, manicured lawns and even a replica of Perth’s famed Blue Boat Shed. There’s also the 1000 square metre hedge maze to get lost in, mini golf (included free with admission), shaded playground, the Tiny Teapot Café, and an incredible LEGO Exhibit as well.

The best part? Family passes are only $50.

Amaze Miniature Park Mandurah
Amaze Miniature Park

Tourist Fun Train

From tiny trains at Amaze to the real deal, Mandurah’s Tourist Fun Train is a fun way to explore the Eastern Foreshore. There’s two to choose from: BIG TOOT tackles 10 stations and goes for around 50 minutes, while MINI TOOT trips are great for smaller kids and only go for 15 minutes. Family tickets are only $45, though if you want to just send the kids on their way it’s only $7 each.

Mini Toot School Holiday Activities Mandurah
Mandurah Tourist Fun Train | Mini Toot

Cruise & Splash

The whole family will have a ball on this relaxed two hour cruise with Soulmate Charters where you will not only explore Mandurah’s waterways but can also enjoy a swim or float in their super fun blow-up lounges. Try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding or just sit back, relax and chill out in cool, coastal surroundings.

Soulmate Charters Cruise Splash Cruise
Soulmate Charters

Peel Produce Market

When you’re road tripping away from Perth there’s nothing better than finding a fresh farmers market with goods direct from the source, and that’s exactly what you’ll get at the Peel Produce Market, every Saturday morning from 7am-midday. There’s always plenty of free kids activities happening around the market to keep them busy while you stock up for the pantry or a picnic lunch.

Peel Produce Market 1
Kids activities at Peel Produce Market

Mandurah Skate Park + Koolaanga Waabiny Playground

As far as public open spaces go, Mandurah has truly levelled up in the past couple of years with the expansion of their popular skate park, and the completion of the spectacular Koolaanga Waabiny Playground next door. Both are part of the $22m Mandurah Waterfront Project, with the skate park now featuring a massive new competition bowl, with three zones suitable for all levels.

Skate Park Mandurah
Mandurah Skate Park

Meanwhile its new neighbour boasts a 12m high play tower, swinging and climbing zones, slides, shaded cubby pods, music play zones, balancing logs, a spinning carousel and even a human hamster wheel. You won’t be able to drag them away!

Koolaanga Waabiny Playground Mandurah
Koolaanga Waabiny Playground. Western Foreshore Mandurah

Instagram Trail

Phones are of course a part of life for both adults and kids these days, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be incorporated into fun activities with positive outcomes. The Mandurah Instagram Trail is a great way to experience Mandurah’s picturesque natural and unique environments, while creating long lasting holiday memories you can look back on for years to come. There are almost 20 stops to snap, including quirky 3D art, murals, memorials and more.

Mandurah Instagram Trail 3D Pelican
3D pelican at Mandurah Ocean Marina, Mandurah Instagram Trail

Family-Friendly Restaurants + Great Picnic & BBQ Spots

While Mandurah is flush to the gills with great restaurants, it’s hard to go past one of the many delicious fish and chip shops around town. For an affordable seafood feast you’re truly spoilt for choice by the likes of Foreshore Fish & Chips, Halls Head Fish & Chips, Smiley Joe’s Fish & Chip Shop, Ginger Groper Blue Bay Fish & Chips, Sharky’s Fish & Chips… The options are endless, though must always finish with some sweet treats from Simmo’s or Cool Eats on the foreshore.

And finally, if you prefer to pack your own lunch there are BBQ facilities at most reserves around Mandurah, including the Eastern Foreshore Reserve, Dawesville Foreshore Reserve, Caterpillar Playground and Henry Sutton Grove. Forget the snags? Never fear, there’s plenty of great butchers in town who’ll help you out.

Family BBQ at Falcon Bay Beach Mandurah
Falcon Bay Beach

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Giants of Mandurah Tours

Enjoy an active, fun-filled day on our guided tours of Thomas Dambo’s amazing Giants.

Giants of Mandurah Tours

Discover the Giants of Mandurah on a guided tour

Enjoy an active, fun-filled day on our guided tours of Thomas Dambo’s amazing Giants.

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Outdoor Activities

The natural beauty of Mandurah and the Peel region offers lots of outdoor adventures for families.

Outdoor Activities

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Outdoor Activities

The natural beauty of Mandurah and the Peel region offers lots of outdoor adventures for families.

Explore the Wetlands

The internationally significant Yalgorup Wetlands System is a habitat for a vast number of birds, animals, and plant species. Explore and spot wildlife by the many walking trails, reserves, and viewing platforms. Many places also have information signs to help children learn about this vital eco-system. Find out more.

For an inspiring guided nature walk through the precious ecosystem, contact local tour operator Salt and Bush Eco Tours.

creery-wetlands
The Mandurah region boasts a wealth of protected waterways, national parks, nature reserves and nature parks.

Boat Cruises

Exploring Mandurah’s spectacular waterways is something the whole family will enjoy. Join a cruise with Mandurah Cruises and learn all about the marine environment as you tour the canals, estuary and wetlands.

On the Pirate Ship Mandurah cruise, kids can dress up as pirates, steer the wheel, ring the bell and look through a telescope. Find out more.

Boat-Tours-and-Cruises
Explore an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour.

Water Adventures

Get everyone’s adrenaline pumping on a jet ski tour with Stag Watersports.

In winter, take the family fast water rafting on the Murray River with Dwellingup Adventures.

Kids can experience the thrill of catching their own dinner fishing from the estuary, beach, or on a fishing charter. Mandurah Cruises and Skills2Fish offer tours and clinics to teach kids how to fish. In season you can go scooping for blue swimmer crabs in the shallow waters of the estuary.

Kids can also learn how to sail at one of the Mandurah Offshore Fishing and Sailing Club clinics that are held throughout the year.

To explore at your own pace, hire a boat, paddleboard, or kayak.

Soulmate Charters can take you on a cruise at your own pace, with skipper included.

But to really get away from it all, take the family for a holiday on the water and completely unwind as you slowly meander through the waterways in a houseboat from Mandurah Houseboats.

Water-adventures-mandurah
Experience Mandurah to its fullest on these adrenaline pumping water activities. You’ll be spoilt for choice.

Adventure and Amusement Parks

Treetops Adventure in Dwellingup is a tree rope obstacle course the whole family can enjoy, offering 9 different levels and over 20 flying foxes. Dare Adventures in Dwellingup and the Fairbridge Village Adventure Course in Pinjarra are outdoor adventure camps with a range of activities, especially for kids.

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Swoop, swing and fly your way through a thrilling day on a flying fox or treetop adventure that will make even the biggest adrenaline junkie jealous.

Amaze Miniature Park

The Amaze Miniature Park has hedge mazes, a miniature English village and railways and mini-golf.

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This wonderful attraction has an extensive display of scale model miniature buildings and railways

Train Rides

Mandurah Tourist Fun Train in the City Centre is a fun way to tour Mandurah. The child-sized Mini Toot runs along the Eastern Foreshore and the Big Toot is a hop-on/hop-off tour for all ages. Purchase tickets at the Mandurah Visitor Centre or when boarding the train.

The Hotham Valley Tourist Railway in Dwellingup will take you on a journey back in time on the historic Steam Ranger (Sunday, May – October) or through the forest on the open-air carriages of the Forest Train (Saturday, Sunday and public holidays all year).

Mandurah Tourist Fun Train Company
“The Spirit of Mandurah” (BIG TOOT) is our larger train for groups of up to 60 people and stops at 10 designated Stations around the City.

Cycling & E-Scooter

Cycling is a great and easy way to get out and explore with the kids. Mandurah has good cycle paths around the city centre, marina and along the coast. Hire an e-bike or e-scooter from The Bike Kiosk to explore Mandurah.

About a 45 minute drive from Mandurah, there are also family-friendly forest cycle trails.  Dwellingup Adventures offers bikes for hire as well as guided tours.

Mountain-Biking-&-Cycling
Explore winding forest tracks and Mandurah’s best cycling trails.

Skate Parks & BMX Tracks

Skateboarding, scooter and bike riding are great ways to get outdoors and get active. Kids of all ages can test their skills and have fun at Mandurah’s skate and BMX parks which include multiple features to challenge riders and boarders alike.

  • Mandurah (Bill Bowler) Skate Park, Leighton Pl, Halls Head
  • Falcon Skate and BMX Park 3 Flame Street, Falcon 
  • Pinjarra Skate Park Roe Avenue, Pinjarra
  • Mandurah BMX Track Milgar Street Reserve, Mandurah
  • Duverney Reserve Skate and BMX Zone 221-239 Wanjeep Street, Coodanup

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Indoor Activities & Entertainment

The rain might be pouring outside. However, you’ll be dry and warm having fun inside with these fun and family-friendly indoor activities:

Indoor Activities

Enjoy a whole lot of under-cover fun.

The rain might be pouring outside. However, you’ll be dry and warm having fun inside with these fun and family-friendly indoor activities.

Gone are the days of having to stay cooped up inside playing board games until the bad weather passes, in Mandurah the fun doesn’t stop just because the rain starts! Mandurah is full to the brim with engaging, active and exciting activities that are suitable for the whole family. Whether your family is looking to burn off some energy, challenge your minds or get creative – there’s something for everyone to enjoy and all while staying dry.

Get active, indoors!

Mandurah Rock Climbing Centre

For the kids who are bouncing up and down with energy, give them something to jump on other than the couch with the many indoor activities at Inflatable World or Flip Out Mandurah Indoor Trampoline Park.

Inflatable World is just how the name sounds, a colourful indoor world with inflatable slides, climbable towers, jumping pillows, bouncy castles and more! Kids of all ages as well as adults (if you dare) are encouraged to bounce and enjoy the indoor attractions that will get the little and the big family members jumping with joy.

If trampolines are more your style, Flip Out is a great day trip when the family are eager to get active but can’t head outdoors. Not only is Flip Out a flippin’ good trampoline park but they also offer foam pits, inflatable attractions and ninja courses (for little and big ninjas). Kids will be able to runamuck during the day, allowing them to sit still and relax when they get back home. Check out their calendar before visiting to see what events are on and to book in your spot.

For the under 8 year olds, Giggle Zone BOORN Playcentre, Mini land and Cafeis an exciting indoor space. Giggle Zone is more than just a playground but a unique environment that not only encourages children to have fun but also to learn with activities to test physical coordination. Mandurah’s Giggle Zone also has a new baby area where infants up to 8 months can play with developmental toys and equipment.

If your kids are older, scale a wall at the Mandurah Indoor Rock Climbing Centre. This will not only improve their motor skills but also tire them out for a good night’s sleep! Alongside rock climbing, there’s also ninja courses, aerial classes and bouldering. During school holidays, the Centre also runs special events and day trips for kids of different ages. Your kids (and you) will be spoiled for choice when visiting the Mandurah Indoor Rock Climbing Centre.

Escape Experiences

Challenge the mind, explore your imagination and get the family working together with an escape room at Escape Squad Mandurah. Kids and parents will have great fun combining their skills to solve puzzles, find clues, and ultimately escape the room together as a family. There are three rooms to choose from, each with its own unique theme that changes seasonally as well as ranging in difficulty from easy to medium to hard. This is the perfect indoor activity that takes the kids away from the screens and stimulates creativity!

Splashing fun

Rain, hail or shine, the indoor Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre provides plenty of activities for parents and children to burn some energy, have fun and make a splash. The Centre holds a 50 metre outdoor pool, indoor leisure pool with kids’ water playground, indoor 25 metre program pool and wellness centre with spa and sauna. There are also barbeques, outdoor lounges and beanbags and a cafe. With so many different activities at the Centre, families can create their day out specific to the wants of all family members.

Entertainment

Mandurah Performing Arts Centre
Image Credit: Stephen Heath and City of Mandurah

Mandurah Performing Arts Centre is an exciting hub of shows, sculptures, stories, concerts, workshops and diverse art pieces. Visitors are invited to explore, engage and interact with the wide array of activities and sights, providing endless entertainment for the whole family. Throughout the year the Arts Centre also hosts different events to appeal to kids, be sure to view their calendar before planning your visit.

When you’re searching for a relaxing indoor activity for the whole family, book a movie at Mandurah’s Reading Cinemas. There’s something cosy and comforting about watching a movie at the cinema when the weather is rainy outside. The Cinema screens all of the latest movies with a great selection to appeal to kids. Buy some popcorn and drink before you head in and enjoy the cosy interior as you relax in front of the big screen.

Fun indoor activities for kids in Mandurah

No matter what your family’s interests may be, Mandurah has a wide range of exciting indoor activities to ensure endless fun for everyone. Whether your little ones have energy to burn, the family are looking for a challenge in an Escape Room or you’re looking for a space to relax and enjoy a film – Mandurah offers a plethora of indoor activities that are available all year long, no matter the weather outside. No more fretting about what to do on a rainy day in Mandurah, these indoor activities are guaranteed to entertain and excite all family members big and small. 

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Mandurah is the ultimate aquatic and nature playground. Trip planning and experience making is easy with our 2021 destination information guide.

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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

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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

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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.

Being a free attraction, the Giants of Mandurah are very popular with families in particular and continue to be a major drawcard to Mandurah. There are so many more ways to have BIG family fun. Check out our top 10 things to do with kids in Mandurah and surrounds besides the Giants.

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.

The Pirate Ship Mandurah
The Pirate Ship Mandurah

Mandurah Cruises

2. Watch our wild bottlenose dolphins play on the Dolphin Cruise & Views 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.

Big Toot Tourist Fun Train Mandurah
Big Toot, Mandurah

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
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. 

The Bike Kiosk Top things to do with kids in Mandurah
Exploring Mandurah by e-bike or e-scooter

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.

Range Red's Zoo
Range Red's Zoo

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.

School
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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.

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School Holiday Activities

Give your kids the opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills and have adventures over the school holidays.

School Holiday Activities

Spring into Adventure this School Holiday Season in Mandurah!

Give your kids the opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills and have adventures over the school holidays.

Looking for an exciting way to keep your kids entertained during the Spring school holidays? Look no further than Mandurah and the beautiful Peel region, where a world of fun and adventure awaits.

Outdoor Activities

Giants of Mandurah

Prepare to be amazed by the Giants of Mandurah, a remarkable series of larger-than-life wooden sculptures created by the renowned artist Thomas Dambo. These incredible sculptures have found their home in secret and picturesque locations scattered throughout Mandurah. The best part? This outdoor exhibition is completely free to enjoy!

If you’d like some company and a bit of guidance on your Giant hunt, consider booking a guided Giant tour. There are guided e-bike, boat, and coach tours available to choose from.

Giants of Mandurah School Holiday Fun
Santi Ikto Giant by Thomas Dambo

Cruise into fun with the kids

Exploring Mandurah is incomplete without embarking on a boat cruise. Join a cruise with Mandurah Cruises and dive into the world of marine wonders.

Take your family on a thrilling adventure as you meet Mandurah’s playful wild dolphins, spot pelicans, ospreys, and swans in the wetlands, and explore the city’s enchanting canals and marina. Kids can even help steer the ship from the junior captain’s helm, while adults can enjoy complimentary coffee and tea.

The Dolphin Cruise & Views sets sail daily at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm, with family passes priced at just $79. Plus, there’s a guarantee: if you don’t spot a dolphin on your trip, you can come back anytime in the next year for free!

Dolphin and Scenic Marine Cruise Mandurah
Dolphin Cruise & Views | Image courtesy of Mandurah Cruises

Pirate Adventures Ahoy!

Arr, matey! Did you ever think you’d find pirates in Mandurah? Join ‘Pete Blackbeard’ and his merry crew at Pirate Ship Mandurah for a fantastic day on the high seas. This open-air vessel allows kids to dress as pirates, steer the ship, ring the bell, and peer through telescopes for an unforgettable pirate role-playing experience.

The Pirate Cruise Mandurah School Holiday Activities Mandurah
The Pirate Cruise

Splash & Cruise

The whole family will have a blast on this relaxed 2-hour cruise with Soulmate Charters, where you can explore Mandurah’s scenic waterways and even take a dip or lounge on a blow-up float. Try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or simply relax and unwind.

Soulmate Charters Cruise Splash Cruise
Soulmate Charters

Float your boat in Mandurah

Mandurah is best explored by boat, and even if you don’t have your own, you can easily rent one. Alternatively, you can explore at a more leisurely pace on a paddleboard or kayak. Mandurah offers excellent cycle paths around the city center, marina, and coastline.

Or dip your toes in Mandurah’s magnificent new estuary pool on a sunny day, any time of the year. Named Kwillena (dolphin) Gabi (waters) by the traditional owners of Bindjareb Boodja, this natural waterway shares its habitat with local marine life.

Boat Hire Mandurah School Holiday Fun
Cruising the Mandurah Ocean Marina with a boat from Mandurah Boat Hire

Delight in Miniature Marvels

Captivate the imagination of young and old alike with a visit to Amaze Miniature Park, where you’ll discover 70 adorable miniature buildings and model trains. Set amidst four acres of beautifully manicured gardens, the park also features mini-golf, a hedge maze, and a playground.

Amaze Miniature Park School Holiday activities Mandurah
Amaze Miniature Park

All aborad the Tourist Fun Train

Hop on board Mini Toot, the friendly miniature train that runs along Mandurah’s Eastern Foreshore. Or embark on the Big Toot, a hop-on/hop-off tour suitable for all ages. These charming trains are operated by the Mandurah Tourist Fun Train Company and offer a fun way to explore Mandurah. Tickets are available at the Mandurah Visitor Centre or when boarding the train.

Mini Toot Tourist Fun Train Mandurah School Holiday Activities
Tourist Fun Train Company's Mini Toot

Explore on an e-scooter or e-bike

For an exhilarating way to explore the beauty of Mandurah with your kids, look no further than our fantastic biking options. Mandurah boasts excellent cycle paths winding through the city center, marina, and along the stunning coastline. And here’s the best part: you can enjoy a seamless and effortless journey with e-bikes and e-scooters available at The Bike Kiosk, conveniently located next to the Mandurah Visitor Centre.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Venture into the lush surroundings with family-friendly forest cycle trails scattered throughout the region. And for the daring explorers, the renowned Munda Biddi Trail, a world-class off-road cycling track, beckons from Dwellingup.

E Bike Hire Mandurah School Holiday Activities
Coastal Path Halls Head

Adventure Awaits at Mandurah (Bill Bowler) Skate Park and Koolaanga Waabiny Playground

Mandurah’s public spaces have received a major upgrade in recent years, including the expansion of the popular skate park and the completion of the spectacular Koolaanga Waabiny Playground next door. The skate park now boasts a massive new competition bowl with three zones suitable for all skill levels.

Next door, the Koolaanga Waabiny Playground features a 12-meter high play tower, swinging and climbing zones, slides, shaded cubby pods, music play areas, balancing logs, a spinning carousel, and even a human hamster wheel. Your little ones won’t want to leave!

Mandurah Skate Park 1
Mandurah Skate Park

Mandurah Instagram Trail

Uncover Mandurah’s most Instagram-worthy spots and capture fantastic photos while strolling along the Mandurah Instagram Trail.

Mandurah Instagram Trail 3D Pelican
3D pelican at Mandurah Ocean Marina, Mandurah Instagram Trail

Be a zookeeper for a day

Is your child a wildlife enthusiast? Fantastic! They can become professional zookeepers for a day at Ranger Red’s Zoo, where they’ll have the opportunity to handle and feed over 100 species of birds and animals. Get up close to Tasmanian Devils, koalas, kangaroos, snakes, ferrets, lizards, and various bird species. Learn more about the Zookeeper 4 A Day program.

Peel-Zoo-Zookeeper-4-A-Day

Indoor Activities

Even if the rain is pouring outside, the fun in Mandurah won’t stop. Check out these family-friendly indoor activities.

Dolphin Talk at Mandurah Visitor Centre

Free interactive school holiday activity at Mandurah Visitor Centre on Wednesday, 27th September and 4th October:
Learn all about Mandurah’s marine wonders with special guest Dudley the Dolphin, led by Estuary Guardians & Mandurah Cruises experts. Book your spot here.

Dolphin Cruise Views Mandurah

Escape Squad Mandurah

Book an epic escape room adventure with Escape Squad. Choose from three rooms with varying levels of difficulty, from easy to medium and hard.

Mandurah Indoor Rock Climbing Centre

Challenge your family’s climbing skills at Mandurah Indoor Rock Climbing, featuring 40 top ropes, a fantastic bouldering cave, slack lines, a climbing club, circus and aerial classes. It’s a fantastic way for kids to burn off energy while having a blast in a safe and friendly environment.

Check out Mandurah Indoor Rock Climbing Centre’s school holiday program and workshops here.

Mandurah Indoor Rock Climbing
Mandurah Indoor Rock Climbing Centre

Bounce into Fun at Flip Out Trampoline Park

Flip Out Trampoline Park offers the ideal indoor activity in Mandurah. Bounce, jump, and leap for joy with your family in this massive trampoline arena. Who can resist the allure of a trampoline park? Find out more here.

Inflatable World

Another amusing indoor activity in Mandurah is one of Australia’s biggest indoor inflatable playgrounds. This family-friendly attraction will surely get the adrenaline rushing! Tickets are sold on the spot. Find out more here.

Top 10
things
to do
with kids

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