The Best of Perth

Family Travel Guide

Lending you a Guide to Perth’s little gems

  • Hillarys Boat Harbour

    Hillarys Boat Harbour

    The ultimate kids playground!

    Calm water lapping on the sand at Hillarys Marina Beach is a great and easy spot for the kids to paddle and play without the worry of waves or deep water.

    There is a jetty for jumping off and a slide on a pontoon which the bigger kids can swim out to. Often there are blow up obstacles for the dare devils!

    There are plenty of food options and ice cream parlours for refuelling.

    Alleycats Espresso makes a delish coffee and the WhizzPop Candy shop is sure to be a hit. For dinner, 3 Sheets has loads of pub type options and Jarrah serves up some yummy wood fired pizza. During the day cruise the boutique stores.

    It can draw a crowd, particularly on school holidays but there is plenty of parking.

  • Matilda Bay

    Matilda Bay

    Shady Eucalyptus trees providing shade on the water’s edge with a picturesque view of the city? Bliss!

    Matilda Bay, situated right near The University of Western Australia is the perfect picnic spot. It is protected from the wind and calm water makes for a great swimming spot.

    Pack a picnic and get down there!

  • Cottesloe Beach

    Cottesloe Beach

    Watching the sunset with a beer and fish and chips makes for the perfect (and cheap) evening. The iconic bell makes the picture-perfect backdrop for a family snap as the sun sets over the ocean will get you feeling all of the ‘West is Best’ vibes.

    The shark net which extends to the groin will allow you to enjoy a carefree swim where you can focus on soaking up the glorious sun and glistening water. Join the swimming crew and cruise along the length of the net if you need to catch up on some exercise. You will be sure to spot some fish swimming beneath you.

    Il Lido is a win for yummy coffee post swim or if you’re lucky enough to have a kid-free night, book in for a delicious and authentic Italian meal. The Cottesloe Beach Hotel and Ocean Beach Hotel offer a pub vibe with incredible views.

    Off the ‘main drag’ Daisies is a cute corner deli which has great takeaway options, coffee, smoothies, toasties and açai bowls. This is the locals’ fave!

    Cottesloe Beach will be a holiday highlight!

  • Rottnest Island

    Rottnest Island

    Wadjemup is a true gem and is only a 20 minute ferry ride from Fremantle or a 40 minute ferry ride from Hillarys. Crystal clear water, white sand, lunch at the Rottnest Pub, a selfie with a quokka, bike ride and snorkel at The Basin will be the ultimate day trip which will have you raving about Rotto to your friends and family.

    The bakery will provide you with some delicious snacks and easy lunch options, or the pub will give you a hearty meal with a jaw dropping view.

  • Mettam's Pool

    Mettam's Pool

    Mettam’s Pool is a coastal pearl.

    It homes a beautiful reef system accessible right off the beach. Lap up the water on the shore or go exploring with a set of snorkels and flippers.

    Yelo is a trendy cafe just a short walk from the beach to refuel with yummy smoothies, cakes, quiches and other savoury goodies.

    It is quite popular so parking can be a nightmare. Look up some side streets for a spot!

  • Kings Park

    Kings Park

    Perth’s ‘Central Park’!

    You will just need to dodge the high school ball crew who like to cash in on the amazing view.

    Kings Park is for everyone. it is exploding with flora and celebrates the historical and cultural significance of our city. It is home to the Botanic Gardens which features over 3000 species of flora. It has panoramic views of Perth, the Swan River and Darling Ranges, which make you feel like you are floating above the city. There are countless walks to enjoy either for the leisurely stroller and the athletes. The Lotterywest Federation Walkway is among the treetops and includes a suspended bridge.

    Zamia Cafe and the Mary Drive Parkland, which includes an island fort is a fave for the kids. The Rio Tinto Naturescape is a winner to keep the nature-lovers busy.

    Visit their website for tour and special event information.

    https://www.bgpa.wa.gov.au/kings-park

  • Fremantle

    Fremantle

    There is endless fun to be had in the hustle and bustle of Freo. It oozes character and history, celebrating its maritime history, Victorian buildings and remnants of the days as a British penal colony.

    Little Creatures Brewery is a crowd favourite for a family pub lunch overlooking the water. Although the New Gage Roads is definitely worth a look. This kids will love the playground!

    A trip to Freo would not be complete without a visit to The Markets which house an array of street style stalls, plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables to take back to your accomodation. There is a never a dull moment in Freo and you will be sure to see some busking characters out of the front of the markets. They love a volunteer.

    The Pickled Fairy Shop is a hidden treasure and a ‘must see; for any little lads and ladies who love a little fantasy.

  • South Perth Foreshore

    South Perth Foreshore

    Perspective is everything!

    South Perth Foreshore is another amazing picnic location with breathtaking views of the city.

    If you fancy a family bike ride, there is a 10km loop which takes you through Elizabeth Quay and around the river.

    For an adventurous outing, you can get on a Transperth ferry over to Elizabeth Quay. Or stay around the foreshore and enjoy the most fresh and delicious Acai bowls thanks to the ever so popular ‘The Acai Corner’. Grab a deckchair under an umbrella and marvel in the view and the deliciousness! Check their socials for opening hours.

    From November 12 to April 18 ‘22 South Perth Streats sets up an array of food trucks to fill those empty bellies. With some live music and plenty of space for kids to run around, its a great spot for an easy dinner.

  • Elizabeth Quay

    Elizabeth Quay

    Let’s be honest, our CBD is not a draw card for visitors, like the big cities of Melbourne and Sydney. The New Elizabeth Quay, situated on the water (of course) is a little hub with a great adventure playground, a gorgeous carousel and a couple of bars if you can drag the kiddies there.

    An ice-cream at Gusto is a delish treat for everyone!

    For a ‘big ticket item’ organise a cruise of the Swan River with Captain Cook Cruises.