Top 10 family-friendly things to do in Western Australia
Planning to rent a travel van and treat the family to an awesome holiday in Western Australia? They’ll love it! Western Australia is full of fun things to do for families. Whether you’ve got kids keen on wildlife experiences, fun in the water, or exploring the outback, this sprawling state has it all.
Meet Quokkas on Rottnest Island
Sitting 19km off the coast of Perth, Rottnest Island is a must-do family destination on your campervan road trip. This scenic island offers an immersive escape into nature, with landscapes ranging from idyllic beaches to salt lakes and native woodlands. Go snorkelling at Little Salmon Bay or take in the spectacular ocean views from the West End. If you prefer to just relax, there are plenty of amazing spots to sit and enjoy the views. History enthusiasts can visit the old lighthouse or the remnants of military installations from the Second World War. The island is also home to friendly quokkas. These cute and curious marsupials are native to the island and will often come close enough to allow for great photo opportunities.
Eat and shop in Fremantle
The vibrant coastal city of Fremantle blends maritime heritage and bohemian charm, making it an ideal stop on your campervan road trip. As you roll into its historic streets, you're greeted by beautifully preserved 19th-century port streetscapes. Fremantle’s shops are open seven days a week, so it’s a great opportunity for the kids to spend some pocket money on a souvenir. Stock up the campervan pantry with some goodies from the Fremantle Markets. They’re open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with over 150 stalls offering a tantalising array of local crafts, fresh produce, and antiques. For a look back in time, discover the mysteries of the Fremantle Prison with its intriguing tales of convicts and crime. After a day of exploration, the city’s eclectic mix of restaurants and cafes offer the perfect spot to relax and sample local delicacies.
Cuddle Koalas at Caversham Wildlife Park
Looking for an authentic, intimate experience with Australia’s unique wildlife? You’ll find it at Caversham Wildlife Park. This expansive sanctuary is home to iconic Australian animals such as kangaroos, koalas, wombats, Tasmanian devils, and wallabies. For a truly special experience, book in to meet and cuddle a koala. There are plenty of other experiences too including feeding kangaroos and milking cows. It’s a great way for children to not only observe but actively engage with the wonders of Australian wildlife. To make the most of all the great attractions on offer, it’s a good idea to enter the park before 2 pm and spend at least 3-4 hours exploring.
Experience the Pinnacles Desert
Nestled within Nambung National Park, around 200 km north of Perth, is the surreal and captivating landscape of the Pinnacles Desert. This otherworldly terrain is covered in thousands of uniquely shaped limestone pillars rising mysteriously from the golden sands. The stark contrast of the sunlit spires against the azure sky makes for a captivating sight. The desert spans an area of 17,487 hectares and provides a natural habitat for a wide array of native animals and bird life. Equipped with well-designed roads and viewing points, the desert is easily accessible by campervan.
Encounter marine life at Ningaloo Reef
Got a budding marine biologist in the family? You’ll want to add a visit to Ningaloo Reef to your travel itinerary. This World Heritage-listed natural wonder stretches over 260 km, making it the world's largest fringing reef. Families can snorkel among coral gardens, tropical fish, manta rays, and turtles. One of Ningaloo's most incredible experiences is swimming with the gentle whale sharks, the world's largest fish. Equally unforgettable is witnessing baby turtles making their determined trek to the sea from January to March. Numerous campervan-friendly sites dot the coastline, ensuring families can stay close to the action.
Enjoy adventure in the Margaret River region
The Margaret River region’s diverse landscapes and awesome array of attractions make it a prime choice for families on a campervan road trip. The region is known globally for its premium wines. And there are plenty of great family-friendly wineries to visit too. For some underground exploration, majestic limestone caves like Lake Cave and Jewel Cave offer an incredible day of discovery. Coastal areas such as Prevelly offer pristine beaches, perfect for surfing and sunbathing. Local farmers' markets and artisanal boutiques offer the perfect opportunity to sample the region's rich produce.
Visit Perth Zoo
You can’t plan a Western Australia road trip without a visit to Perth Zoo. With more than 1,200 animals calling the 41-acre zoo home, you’ll want to plan a whole day here to see them all! See the cute meerkats, the lazy sun bears, and the giant Galapagos tortoises. There are also snakes, spiders, monkeys, birds, and quite possibly a few animals you’ve never even heard of! The zoo's design mirrors natural habitats for an authentic experience. From the African Savannah to the Asian Rainforest and the Australian Bushwalk, families can move from one continent to the next. The zoo's emphasis on conservation and sustainability is woven into interactive displays and activities. It’s a great way for kids to learn about the importance of caring for the planet's diverse wildlife. With dedicated picnic spots, playgrounds, and eateries, there are plenty of options for rest and refreshments throughout the day.
Wander through Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Sitting high above the city of Perth, Kings Park and Botanic Garden is one of the world’s largest and most beautiful inner-city parks. Wander through the 400-hectare park, take in the beautiful views of the Swan and Canning Rivers, visit the gallery shop, and take one of the great tours on offer. The park's expansive lawns and picnic areas provide ample space for kids to play. For some serious fun, the kids can burn off energy on one of the great playgrounds. And for an elevated perspective, take the Lotterywest Federation Walkway. This 620-metre walk is set among the treetops offering up spectacular views of the city skyline.
Go for gold at the Perth Mint
If you’re spending a bit of time in Perth, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Perth Mint and take a guided tour. Learn everything there is to know about this precious metal, from its raw extraction to the crafting of intricate coins and bullion. A standout moment for many is the live gold pouring demonstration, where visitors can witness molten gold being transformed into a gleaming solid bar. Children will be fascinated by the interactive exhibits, while the allure of Australia's largest collection of gold bars promises to captivate visitors of all ages. The Mint's shop offers unique mementoes to commemorate your visit. While you’re there, step onto the Mint’s special scales and find out what your weight is worth in gold!
Discover the magical Valley of the Giants
Home to towering tingle trees, some over 40 metres high, the Valley of the Giants is a must-do destination on your WA road trip. The highlight for many is the Tree Top Walk. This elevated 600-metre-long walkway offers a bird's-eye view of the lush forest below. Children will be thrilled by the sensation of walking amidst the treetops, while the ground-level Ancient Empire Walk offers a closer look at the gnarled roots and massive trunks of these ancient trees. There’s plenty more to see and do while you’re here, including the Swarbrick art trail. This easy 500-metre loop track that takes you past a fascinating selection of art exhibits. You might also like to call in at the nearby Spiral Studio where you can watch pottery being created and choose a favourite piece to take home.
Ready to explore Western Australia?
From cuddling a koala and snorkelling with whale sharks to gold tours and treetop walks. Western Australia really is the perfect destination for a family campervan road trip. We’ve listed just a handful of the many great experiences you can enjoy in this sensational state. Pick out your favourites or do them all!
Don’t wait any longer, book your Apollo campervan hire online today and start planning your Western Australia road trip. Pick up your camper from our Perth branch, explore the city, then decide where to go next. Adventure awaits!