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 (21-23 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
Join us for an exciting weekend of art, music, and community spirit at the Plein Air Downunder Painting Festival. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect each day:
Day 1: Mandurah Performing Arts Centre
Kick off the festival with artist registrations, workshops, and live painting demonstrations. Enjoy free activities for all ages, including painting sessions, children’s art activities, and live music. In the evening, relax with food, drinks, and a panel discussion with featured artists.
Day 2: Explore Pinjarra
Experience the charm of Pinjarra with live painting along the Heritage Trail, engaging activities for both adults and children, and captivating demonstrations by renowned artists. Don’t miss the live music performances and optional nocturne painting session in the evening.
Day 3: Grand Finale in Mandurah
The festival culminates with the exciting Quick Draw Painting Competition, followed by an awards ceremony and exhibition. It’s the perfect chance to see art created in real-time and maybe even purchase a piece to take home.
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.
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.
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
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.
Come to the Mandurah Visitor Centre to enjoy a 3D Augmented Reality experience.
If you need a change of pace, head indoors and visit some of Mandurah’s colourful art spaces and galleries.
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!
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
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
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.
Part of Mandurah Arts Festival, 6 September – 6 October 2024
An investigation into coding through contemporary ceramics
About the Event
CASM delivers its inaugural contemporary ceramics exhibition, showcasing new works by 17 professional and emerging Peel artists.
This exhibition, presented in partnership with international event Indian Ocean Craft Triennial (IOTA) responding to the IOTA24 theme of ‘Codes in Parallel’ through their chosen craft:
“Objects often contain hidden depths, encoded in the depicted motifs and symbols, through techniques and materials, or found in their ritual or spiritual uses.”
Exhibiting artists include Shannon Baggott, Chris Britza, Gayle Bukey, Jacq Chorlton, Carol Clitheroe, Penelope Collis, Tich Dixon, Isaac Gould, Alana Grant, Amanda Harris, Patricia Hines, Kell Lakia, Jean-Michell Maujean, Lyn Nixon, Bec Thomas, Fox Ward and Hamish Webster.
Exhibition Opening: Friday, 6 September 2024, 6pm
Artist Talks: Sundays, 15 and 22 September, 11am
Location: Contemporary Art Spaces Mandurah (CASM)
Date: Saturday, 7 September – Sunday, 13 October 2024
Part of Mandurah Arts Festival, 6 September – 6 October 2024
Uncover the lives of seafaring pets in this photographic exhibition at Mandurah Museum.
About the Event:
Cats, dogs, monkeys and birds have been cherished on board ships for as long as people have made sea voyages. In a life from which children and families are usually missing, pets provided an important source of comfort and affection.
Photographer Samuel Hood boarded hundreds of ships between 1900s and 1950s that were moored in Sydney Harbour. He took thousands of photographs of crew members, often featuring their beloved pets. More than just a ship’s mascot, these photographs solemnly express the clear attachment that exists between the animals and crew.
These beautiful historical photographs will be on display at Mandurah Museum through September and October, alongside stunning artwork by RT Kids students, inspired by the exhibition.
Activities for children will be announced soon – watch this space!
Location: Mandurah Museum
Date: Tuesday, 3 September – Thursday, 31 October 2024
This exhibition celebrates the vast landscapes of rural, regional and remote Australia, through the eyes of exhibiting artists.
In telling these stories, artists may choose to reference place, the people of remote communities, the topography of the landscape or the challenges of living and working in remote Australia. This carefully curated selection of award-winning artists will ensure a high standard of work while acknowledging their continued involvement and support of the Plein Air Down Under Outdoor Painting Festival.
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
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
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.
3D pelican at blue gatehouse at Mandurah Ocean Marina
After the walk, spoil your youngsters with a visit to one of the many playgroundsin 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 manybeautiful 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
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.
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 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 $88 including dolphin guarantee.
Dolphin Cruise & Views | Image courtesy of Mandurah Cruises
Take it easy after the day’s activities and find a spot to watch the sunset at aninsta-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.
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.
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.
‘heartbeat.’ tells the real stories of those attempting to create a career in the arts long after everybody else has grown up.
blending theatre, spoken word, music and verbatim elements, this debut show from ‘perhaps, a theatre company.’ follows five west australian artists as they desperately try to find meaning in their role as a performer. ‘heartbeat.’ explores the power of art in a world that favours the monotonous, returning both the audience and the performers to the magic of childhood and the thing that connects us all: the all-consuming, undeniable desire to create.
Organising a day’s activities as a couple doesn’t need to be expensive. Here in Mandurah, you can enjoy a romantic getaway or weekend away without having to stress about money and instead, focus on enjoying the day with your other half.
A day in Mandurah as a couple for only $100
A Couples Day out in Mandurah on a Budget
Reconnect with your partner for only $100 in Mandurah. Yes – it’s possible! Whether you’re a couple who love art and culture, you’re love birds that enjoy the outdoors or, you’re simply looking for an easy breezy day of relaxation – Mandurah caters to all.
A day of fun with your partner doesn’t need to be expensive, Mandurah has you and your partner’s day of activities sorted. And the best bit… you only need $100 in your pocket to get involved! Spoil your significant other with a special day in Mandurah.
Idea 1: A day on the bike
If you and your partner enjoy keeping active on your holidays, this itinerary has your names all over it.
Stroll down to the Mandurah Visitor Centre, which is conveniently centrally located and browse the bike maps beside the front desk. Mandurah is renowned for the many bike friendly paths and routes, it’s one of the best ways to get around!
Start your ride from the Visitor Centre with either the Bridge Loop Ride, or the Relaxed by Nature Bike Map. Both great ways to discover the rich history and stunning scenery throughout Mandurah.
The Bridge Loop Ride is an easy 10km loop, that starts at the Visitor Centre, takes you through Samphire Cove, Sutton’s Homestead, Hall’s Cottage and the 3d art installation – all whilst you admire the beautiful Mandjar Bay.
The Relaxed by Nature path is a smooth 15km picturesque ride with beautiful views throughout the whole journey… and we’re not just talking about the view of your partner!
If you are seeking an extended cycling adventure, we invite you to experience the Mandurah Sea Explorer.
Explore Western Australia’s spectacular coastline on this relaxing 26km ride. Taking in Doddis to Falcon Bay, there are plenty of spots to stop including one of Thomas Dambo’s Giants of Mandurah, and just let time pass you by. Make sure you bring your bathers for a dip along the way.
Don’t have a bike? No problem. Hire an electric bike at The Bike Kiosk located just outside the Mandurah Visitor Centre. A one hour hire is only $80 for 2 people.
You’ve worked hard on your bike trip so you deserve to take it easy. Take a casual stroll through the Mandurah Art Trail, a walk that showcases fantastic and diverse local artists. Stop by the free art galleries in Mandurah and appreciate the wonderful art world hidden in the WA city.
Idea 2: Journey through the coast
For the couples who love the beach, you’re in for endless surprises in Mandurah.
Begin your day with a delicious light breakfast at Café Coast that comes with captivating views of the Port Bouvard Marina. With a little bit of luck, you may see some dolphins playing in the estuary.
After your bite to eat, head further south to the stunning natural attraction Lake Clifton and visit the 2,000-year old thrombolite reef. Many travel from far and wide to get a photo of these living fossils. Discover what everyone is talking about!
2,000 year old Thrombolite Reef, Lake Clifton
On the way back from your Lake Clifton trip, pop by Dawesville for the Channel Walk, which is one of the most popular locations for dolphin spotting. Dolphins tend to travel in groups of 5 – 15, keep your eyes peeled for the happy mammals splashing together.
Idea 3: Nature and beer lovers
Calling all tree-hugging/beer-drinking couples! We’ve got you covered.
Begin the day by heading to the Creery Wetlands and breathe in the refreshing and peaceful scenery of the morning. Enjoy a walk around the 3km Mariner Cove Trail that will take you right through the Creery Wetlands.
On your walk, keep an eye out for the many extraordinary bird species that have found home in the wetlands.
You’ve worked off the calories with your walk, you deserve a good feed. Head to Mandurah’s micro brewery Boundary Island Brewery to enjoy a delicious lunch with stunning views of the estuary. With delicious food, beer on tap and views of Mandurah’s waterways, this is a gorgeous spot for you and your partner to enjoy each other’s company.
Boundary Island Brewery, Erskine
With a full belly, enjoy a light stroll at Len Howard Conservation Park for a nice nature walk by the estuary. Crossing the fresh water pools, the park is rich in native plants and insects.
Now that you’ve enjoyed and relaxed by nature, you will feel rejuvenated to head back home with a great love for Mandurah and your partner.
Len Howard Conservation Park | Image: Callum Taylor
Affordable day with your partner
Spoil you and your partner with a special day in Mandurah.
Organising a day’s activities as a couple doesn’t need to be expensive. Here in Mandurah, you can enjoy a romantic getaway or weekend away without having to stress about money and instead, focus on enjoying the day with your other half.
Looking to rekindle the romance in your relationship or need to score some serious brownie points with your belle or beau?
Romantic 2 Night Getaway Near Perth
Loved up in Mandurah – your romantic 2 night getaway near perth
Looking to rekindle the romance in your relationship or need to score some serious brownie points with your belle or beau? This time of year calls for a surprise romantic weekend getaway, and you don’t have to travel far to make it one to remember.
Couples, here’s the perfect bitesize rundown for spending a relaxed and romantic weekend in Mandurah.
Romantic places to stay – just the two of You
To make the most of your raunchy weekend away, we suggest arriving the night before, or arrange an early check-in on the day of your arrival (subject to availability of course), so you can take advantage of the full day ahead.
For a relaxing waterfront retreat, nothing beats The Sebel Mandurah. Spoil your plus one staying in a stylish king spa suite, with magical views of Mandurah’s picturesque Mandjar Bay, or settle in with all the creature comforts lounging around in a one bedroom self-contained apartment.
Missing the Bali vibes? Then an adults only stay at Bali @ Avalon will make you feel like you’re a world away. This hidden Balinese oasis is not your typical B&B. You can book the entire place for just the two of you or with another couple. Relax by your own private pool, soak up the sun and put your feet up and imagine you’re in paradise!
Bali@Avalon
Day 1
Before checking in, drop in for lunch at the 2023 Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Winner – Café Coast in Wannanup – along the Port Bouvard Marina. If you love seafood, you’ll appreciate their extensive menu from the ocean. Book your table ahead or just call in.
Must try: Grilled octopus with garlic and chilli, fresh seafood fettuccine marinara and Rottnest swordfish.
How to spend a romantic afternoon
Mandurah’s relaxed by nature and there’s no better way to get amongst it than being on the water. Be your own skipper and hire a boat for the arvo. Cruise along the waterways and soak up the summer sun with your bestie by your side. Best of all, there’s no skippers ticket required.
For a more active experience, why not hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from Mandurah Boat Hire, Down Under Discoveries, or Mandurah Kayak Hire? Explore the serene estuary and canals at your own pace for as little as $25 per hour per person. It’s the perfect way to connect with nature and each other.
Cruising through the Venetian Canals
Where to eat and drink for romantic vibes
After pulling up on dry land, you’ll be ravenous with stylish dining options aplenty along the waterfront and Dolphin Quay marina. Our top picks for a bevvy and amazing fare include Brewvino, The Pen, Flics Kitchenand Wood and Stone.
Happy to stay out on the water? Get yourself on board Mandurah Cruises’ popular Sunset Cruise (operates January – May). Send romantic vibes soaring while you watch the stunning sunset and see what nature gets up to at night.
Day 2
Energy boosting breakfast options
Whether you’re up with the crows at first light or opt for a lazy start (we wouldn’t blame you if you do), whenever you’re ready to get your day started, we’ve got you both sorted.
A wholesome option favourite is Mataya Eatery. Pop in for brunch until 12.30pm where the crew are known for their delicious acai bowls and killer specialty coffee. They also have a great selection of food on the run should you wish to head out early and explore.
Get back to nature with your plus one withDown Under Discoveries. Take a guided kayaking tour through the protected wetlands of the Peel-Harvey estuary, where you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away, not another soul in sight. Or paddle around Mandjar Bay, Mandurah Ocean Marina and the Venetian Canals to explore Mandurah’s vast waterways and meet the inquisitive Indo-Pacific Bottlenose dolphin population.
Want to get a real life glimpse of what life was like before humans stepped on earth? Make new discoveries exploring the 2,000-year-old thrombolite reef at Lake Clifton. Learn about the history and cultural significance of these rare living rock-like structures. Summer is also the best time to view the thrombolites while water levels are low.
Closer to town, take a romantic stroll around the city’s unique and hidden art scene on Mandurah’s Instagram Trail. Get loved up on the Spring Swing along Tuckey’s Lane, take a couples snap by the Heart sculpture and find other insta-worthy locations.
We could go on and on—but that would spoil all the surprises waiting for you to uncover yourselves.
Savour the moments, the memories and magic on a romantic escape to Mandurah.
Follow along with Hollies steps to create your own interpretations of “She’s a Handful”
This workshop has been designed for you to try something new, unwind and have fun.
Come on your own or come with friends everyone is welcome.
Doors open at 6:00pm and we begin painting at 7pm
What’s Included
Stretched Canvas Ready to hang in your home.
All High Quality Art Materials (ie Acrylic paints, brushes)
Step by Step Guide from an Experienced Artist
Light Snacks
There is no age limit at this event.
You will have access to the bar and restaurant throughout the event (Drinks purchased from the bar separately)
Dreaming of a day trip or relaxing weekend away? If you’re looking for the ultimate short break, there’s nothing quite like Summer in Mandurah to soak up the laidback vibes and take in the fresh coastal air. Heavenly.
6 Ways to Spend Summer in Mandurah
6 ultimate ways to spend summer in Mandurah
Dreaming of a day trip or a relaxing weekend away? If you’re looking for the ultimate short break this summer, there’s nothing quite like Mandurah to soak up the laidback vibes and take in the fresh coastal air. Heavenly.
We’ve got your water play covered including all the fun holiday things you’d expect on a summer vacay. And it’s super easy to get to from Perth! Mandurah’s just a short 1-hour drive south down the main drag (Kwinana Freeway). Or, if you’re coming back from down south, it’s the perfect pitstop to extend your little getaway.
PLAY
The ultimate scene to sail
Play skipper for the day and explore Mandurah’s waterways at your own pace. Whether you’re cruising or casting a line, you’re in for a treat. And there’s no shortage of options. Mandurah Boat Hire offer everything from GPS tracked dinghies, pontoon boats and luxury sun tracker-style boats.
If you’re up for something a little different, enjoy the 360-degree views on a deluxe Eco BBQ Boat – so much fun! Planning to stay a few days? Hire out a houseboat, complete with a spa on deck.
Best of all, there’s no skippers ticket required to sail on any of these vessels.
The ultimate place for paddling
Mandurah’s aquatic wonderland is perfect for stand up paddle boarding (SUP). If you’re a beginner, there’s plenty of sheltered waters to give paddling a go. Once you get over the wobbles, you can choose a trail and explore to your heart’s content. Or, until your core gets sore! Glide past multi-million dollar mansions, marvel at the impressive birdlife and if you’re lucky, our resident dolphins might join you for the ride!
Don’t have your own equipment? No worries! There’s plenty of places you can hire a SUP.
SEE
The ultimate spot for social gatherings
With Mandurah’s dolphins of course! And it’s the best time of the year for it too. Set sail on a dolphin cruise where you’re likely to spot this playful bunch frolicking through the waterways. You might even catch one surfing by the boat.
Keen to go it alone? Jump on a waterbike, kayak or canoe to really get up close and personal with these friendly curious creatures. You just never know when they’ll pop up beside you!
The ultimate destination for discovery
For a truly unique experience, head to Lake Clifton in Yalgorup National Park. It’s here among the shallows you’ll find one of the world’s largest thrombolite reefs. Extremely rare on Earth, these incredible living rocks are around 2,000 years old. Scientists believe these micro-organisms were among the first life forms.
You can view this phenomena via the purpose built observation boardwalk, but the best way to experience the thrombolites and learn about their significance is on a guided tour.
Indulge
The ultimate setting for seafood
Mandurah is renowned for its seafood, home to an abundance of crabs, lobsters, crayfish and many other mouth-watering ocean delicacies.
Want to put your feet up and let someone else do the driving? Hit up Kaleidoscope Tours for a full day of fun. There’s something here for everyone, whether you’re a lover of wines, partial to a beer paddle or want a change of scenery, these guys have it all. They can even create a custom tour for you if you’re after something extra special.
STAY
The ultimate for rest and relaxation
Take the guesswork out of where to stay with these great package deals. We have accommodation packages available for families, mid-week escapes, girls’ trips and romantic escapes. Just pick your dates, pack your bags and we’ll see you soon.
Short summer breaks here we come! Although we won’t be surprised if you want to stay longer.
