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 over the last two years including Australia’s Top Tourism Town 2023, the coastal city continues to expand its offerings, including 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 $75.

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 $88, 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 and e bike hire Mandurah 960x640 1
Riding e-scooters along Mandurah's Eastern Foreshore

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 1

Mandurah Boat Hire

Explore the wonders of boating life with Mandurah Boat Hire, offering an affordable and exciting experience for the whole family! Be your own captain and cruise through the picturesque waterways of Mandurah and keep an eye out for playful dolphins along the journey. Renting a 4-person dinghy is hassle-free and budget-friendly, priced at just $105 for a delightful 1.5-hour adventure.

Boat Hire Mandurah

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 8am-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 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 more than 10 stops to snap, including 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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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

Ready for some school holiday fun? Let’s make your break unforgettable!

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

Got restless kids on your hands these school holidays? Mandurah and the stunning Peel region have got you covered with loads of fun and adventures just waiting to happen!

What’s On These School Holidays?

Peel Produce Market

For a more laid-back experience, explore the vibrant weekend markets such as the Peel Produce Market in Dawesville on Saturdays and in Madora Bay on Sundays. With plenty of stalls to peruse and family-friendly entertainment, it’s the perfect way to spend a leisurely weekend day.

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.

Kids looking up to Little Lui Giants of Mandurah 960x640 1
Little Lui by Thomas Dambo., Giants of Mandurah

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, with family passes priced at just $88. 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!

Alternatively, there’s the Giant & Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise, where you’ll journey into vast waterways, guided by a resident marine biologist. You’ll discover one of the most famous Giants of Mandurah — Seba’s Song — which is located on the water’s edge and visible in full only by boat. You’ll also spot dolphins and birdlife along the way.

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.

Pirate Ship Family Deal

Set sail with Pirate Ship Mandurah these school holidays! Enjoy a Family Pass (2 adults, 2 kids) for just $75, which means the second child sails FREE. Book your adventure today!

The Pirate Cruise Mandurah School Holiday Activities Mandurah
The Pirate Cruise

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 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

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

Nature Play WA

For some outdoor exploration in nature, download the City of Mandurah Nature Play Passport. The activity booklet includes a variety of nature-based activities and challenges, designed to engage children with their surroundings and foster a love for the outdoors.

Cover of City of Mandurah Nature Passports

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

Looking for a great way to keep the kids entertained these school holidays, no matter the weather? You’re in the right place! Explore our exciting indoor activities that promise endless fun, whether you’re escaping the heat or staying cosy indoors.

+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

Looking for an exciting family adventure this school holiday? Mandurah Indoor Rock Climbing Centre has it all – 40 top ropes, a bouldering cave, slack lines, climbing clubs, and even circus and aerial classes! It’s the perfect place for families to challenge their skills, burn off energy, and make unforgettable memories in a safe, friendly environment.

+Flip Out Trampoline Park

Rebound Arena Mandurah 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?

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

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