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The whole of the South West really could be called one big playground with plenty of different things to see and do. Whether you live locally or are down on a family holiday, here are 10 family friendly activities that we think are a must!
1. Whale watching
Did you know that the largest whale migration in the world happens right here off the coast of WA?! Head out on a whale watching tour from Augusta to witness the Humpbacks make their way up North to warmer waters during the months of June, July and August. Southern Right Whales can also be seen during these months as they come into Flinders Bay to give birth to their young.
Humpbacks can then be spotted again out of Dunsborough from August to November as they make their way back south with their calf. You may even be able to show the kids the largest animal on the planet with Blue Whales frequently seen in the bay. So if you are looking for things to do in Dunsborough, give whale watching a shot!
2. Mini golf
The South West has several fun mini golf courses to offer that will have the whole family entertained. Try for a hole in one and have a laugh at each other along the way as you tackle the 18 hole courses ahead. Simmo’s Ice Creamery has a great mini golf course so why not create a little family competition with a delicious ice cream as the finishing prize!
3. Bush walk
Head off on a bush walking adventure and see what treasures you can find! The South West is full of bush walks that lead to the coast, waterfalls, forests and more. During the spring the wild flowers are abundant and native animals aplenty; from Kangaroos, to birds, lizards and whales playing in the ocean. Why not create your own seek and find list and tick off as you head along your walk. Can you find Castle rock, a native orchid, a lighthouse or bobtail lizard?
4. Maze
If you have some time on your hands, then finding your way through a maze is certainly an activity to kill some time. There are a few options for mazes in the area from an ever changing wooden panel maze to a half hectare hedge maze that is sure to keep your mind challenged and the kids busy. Both mazes have a café located on site, so after your “a’maze’ing” adventure you can sit and relax with the family with a treat or two in hand.
5. Caves
The infamous Caves Road certainly got its name for a reason! The South West has over 150 limestone caves within the region with several open to the public. Ngilgi, Mammoth, Lake & Jewel Caves all offer their own individual wonders and beauty. From self guided to guided tours you will be sure to wow the kids as you head down underground. Why not search for the fossilised jawbone of the Zygomaturus Trilobus (a snouted marsupial the size of a cow that lived around 50,000 years ago!) in Mammoth Cave or view the longest straw stalactites found in any tourist cave in the world in Jewel Cave!
6. Mountain biking
If you are after something to get the heart pumping and enjoy some pedal power, then be sure to check out some of the mountain bike trails that the South West region has to offer. There are mountain bike trails to suit casual riders and trails for the more experienced adrenaline seeking riders. It’s also a great way to see the spectacular scenery that is abundant within the region that can’t be accessed by car.
7. Beach day
The South West has some of the most stunning coastlines in the whole of Australia (ok, we may be a little biassed!) But with turquoise waters and calm bays, a family beach day is definitely one to have on the bucket list! Whether some of the family want to catch a few waves or the little ones want to have a family sandcastle building competition, there are plenty of different beaches to keep everyone in the family happy. And the best thing about the cape coastline is that you can always find a beach that is sheltered should any pesky wind be around.
8. Adventure rope courses
Ever wanted to swing from the trees like a monkey? Well now you can! Next Level Monkey Business & Forest Adventures located in Dunsborough & Busselton offer zip lining and rope courses to suit both children and adults. Rope courses work their way up from just below the ground to high up amongst the trees. So, bring on the jungle vibes, climb up amongst the trees and get swinging!
9. Animal & reptile parks
Kangaroos, Lizards and Lambs oh my!
Do you want to smile at a crocodile, learn all about reptiles (did you know that Stimson’s pythons may not eat for around 6 months of the year!) and see some pretty big creepy crawlies? Then Discover Deadly is the place to take the kids!
If reptiles and spiders just aren’t your thing, then don’t you worry as the South West has cute and cuddly on offer too! Take a walk through the several animal farms where you can cuddle baby animals, pat a pony and feed an alpaca (just watch out for their spit!).
10. Water park
If you are looking for a fun way to cool off during those warm South West summer days, then pack the bathers and towels and head along to a water and adventure park! From water slides and giant tipping buckets to trampolines, adventure playgrounds and laser tag, there really is plenty on offer for the whole family to have a fun-filled day!
Whatever the adventure you may choose, the kids will be sure to have a fun filled time making memories with you to last a lifetime! Explore activities in Dunsborough and the South West for a great vacation!
