The July School Holidays are nearly here, and the stunning Margaret River Region is bursting with family-friendly activities, from caves and playgrounds to whale watching, animal encounters and outdoor adventures.
Whether you're planning a long weekend or a week-long getaway, there's no shortage of things to do with kids in the South West. To help you make the most of your holiday, we've rounded up some of our favourite family-friendly attractions and activities, organised by location.
Busselton
Visit Busselton Jetty and the Marine Discovery Centre
No family holiday to the South West is complete without a visit to the iconic Busselton Jetty. Stretching 1.8 kilometres into Geographe Bay, it's one of Western Australia's most recognisable attractions.
The recently opened Marine Discovery Centre offers interactive displays and educational exhibits where children can learn about the fascinating marine life found beneath the jetty and throughout Geographe Bay.
After exploring the jetty, grab some fish and chips from the foreshore and spend the afternoon at the spectacular Shipwreck Adventure Playground. This incredible playground has quickly become the crowning jewel of the Busselton Foreshore redevelopment and is guaranteed to keep little adventurers entertained for hours.
Stop at South West Bottega in Vasse
Make a stop in nearby Vasse at South West Bottega.
It's the perfect place for a relaxed family breakfast, lunch or afternoon coffee. While parents enjoy quality Italian-inspired food and great coffee, children can explore the boat sandpit, outdoor playground and dedicated kids' corner. With plenty of room for families to spread out, it's an easy stop that everyone will enjoy.
Why families love Busselton:
- Busselton Jetty and Marine Discovery Centre
- Shipwreck Adventure Playground
- Family-friendly foreshore
- Fish and chips by the beach
- Safe cycling paths
Dunsborough, Yallingup & Wilyabrup
Next Level Monkey Business, Dunsborough
Looking for an activity for a cooler winter day? Next Level Monkey Business in Dunsborough is packed with climbing challenges, obstacle courses and adventure activities designed to keep kids active and entertained.
It's a fantastic option for families wanting to burn off some energy during the school holidays.
Visit Yallingup Maze & Mini Golf
Challenge the family to a race through the giant maze before putting your skills to the test on the mini golf course. Yallingup Maze & Mini Golf has been a favourite with South West visitors for years and offers fun for all ages.
Stay Nearby
If you're planning to explore Dunsborough, Yallingup and Wilyabrup, Wilyabrup Waters Retreat makes the perfect base. Surrounded by nature and close to many of the region's most popular family attractions, it's ideal for a relaxing South West getaway.
Cowaramup
Enjoy Nougat Tasting at Bettenay's
Cowaramup is famous for its country charm and family-friendly atmosphere, and a visit to Bettenay's Margaret River is a must.
Children can sample delicious handmade nougat while the grown-ups enjoy wine tasting in the picturesque vineyard setting. It's a unique experience that offers something for everyone.
Why families love Cowaramup:
- Delicious nougat tastings
- Family-friendly winery experience
- Beautiful countryside setting
- Close to Margaret River and Wilyabrup attractions
Stay Nearby
If you're planning to explore Cowaramup and the surrounding region, Bo'vine Apartment offers a comfortable and convenient place to stay.
Margaret River
Ride Through Wooditjup National Park
One of the best free family activities in Margaret River is cycling along the trails that follow the Margaret River through Wooditjup National Park.
The scenic pathways wind through beautiful bushland and offer plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy nature along the way. Feeling adventurous? Continue all the way to Ten Mile Brook National Park for an even bigger family adventure.
Travelling without bikes? No worries! Swing by The Hairy Marron and rent some for the day.
Stop for Gelato at Mai Tardi
After a morning of exploring, reward the family with a visit to Mai Tardi Gelato in the heart of Margaret River.
Known for its handcrafted gelato and ever-changing range of delicious flavours, it's a local favourite and the perfect school holiday treat.
Feed the Animals on Caves Road
A visit to Scoops Animal Farm is always a winner with younger children. Bottle-feed baby animals, meet friendly farmyard residents and enjoy a relaxed day in the countryside.
It's one of the most popular family attractions in the Margaret River Region and a school holiday classic.
Visit The Berry Farm in Rosa Glen
Just a 15-minute drive from Margaret River town, The Berry Farm in Rosa Glen is a favourite for families visiting the region.
Famous for its homemade scones, boysenberry pie and berry-inspired treats, it's the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a delicious afternoon tea. Children will love spotting the friendly animals while parents can relax amongst the beautiful gardens and peaceful surroundings.
Why families love The Berry Farm:
- Famous homemade scones and boysenberry pie
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Friendly farm animals
- Beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces
- Only 15 minutes from Margaret River
Stay Nearby
Looking for family-friendly accommodation in Margaret River?
Courtside is a fantastic choice for active families, complete with its own tennis court for hours of entertainment.
For families wanting a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, Roo Haven offers space, comfort and a true South West experience.
Witchcliffe
Explore the New Witchcliffe Nature Playground
The new Witchcliffe Nature Playground has quickly become one of the best playgrounds in the region.
Designed to encourage imaginative play and outdoor exploration, it's the perfect place for children to climb, explore, balance and burn off some holiday energy.
Stay Nearby
If you're planning a family getaway to Witchcliffe, Casa Rua is perfectly positioned for exploring Witchcliffe, Margaret River and the surrounding South West attractions.
Augusta
Go Whale Watching with Naturaliste Charters
Augusta is one of the best places in Australia to see humpback and southern right whales.
Join a whale watching tour with Naturaliste Charters and experience the excitement of seeing these incredible marine mammals up close.
Children are often amazed by the sight of whales breaching, tail slapping and swimming alongside the vessel, making it one of the most memorable experiences of a South West family holiday.
Why families love whale watching:
- See migrating humpback and southern right whales
- Learn about marine wildlife and conservation
- Incredible coastal scenery
- One of the best winter activities in Western Australia
Explore Lake Cave in Boranup Forest
Nestled amongst the towering karri trees of Boranup Forest, Lake Cave is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the South West.
Descending into the cave is an adventure in itself, with visitors entering through a massive sinkhole before discovering crystal formations, stunning reflections and the cave's famous suspended table hanging above the underground lake.
It's a fascinating experience for children and adults alike.
Plan Your July School Holiday Escape
From exploring ancient caves and cycling through national parks to meeting farm animals, tasting local treats and spotting whales off the coast, the Margaret River Region offers endless opportunities for family fun during the July School Holidays.
Whether you're staying in Busselton, Dunsborough, Cowaramup, Margaret River, Witchcliffe or Augusta, there's no shortage of adventures waiting for the whole family.
Many of our family-friendly holiday homes still have limited availability for the July School Holidays, but dates are filling fast. Book your South West getaway now and start planning an unforgettable winter escape.
