Planning a family-friendly WA road trip can be tough. You want fun for the kids, but also a break for yourself. It’s hard to find the right mix of activities and places that everyone will enjoy.
Did you know Western Australia is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches? From Perth to Margaret River, you’ll find white sand and turquoise waters perfect for family fun.
This guide will help you plan the ultimate WA road trip. We’ll cover top spots, must-see sights, and tips to keep the kids happy. Ready for an epic family adventure?
Planning Your Family-Friendly Road Trip
Ready to hit the road with your crew? A family trip through Western Australia needs some smart planning. You’ll want to map out a route that keeps everyone happy and pack all the essentials for your little travelers.
Choosing the right route
Picking the perfect path for your family road trip in Western Australia is key. You’ll want to balance fun stops with manageable driving times. Start by mapping out must-see spots like Perth, Busselton, and Margaret River.
These places offer a mix of city sights and natural wonders. Next, factor in your kids’ ages and interests. Younger ones might need more frequent breaks, while older kids can handle longer stretches.
Don’t forget to check road conditions and distances between stops. The drive from Perth to Dunsborough is about 247 km and takes roughly 3 hours without stops. Plan for pit stops every 2-3 hours to keep everyone happy.
Also, think about the time of year. September to June is ideal for exploring WA. This way, you’ll dodge extreme heat and enjoy more comfortable travel days.
Packing essentials for kids
Packing for a family road trip can be a bit of a puzzle. Let’s look at some must-haves to keep your little ones happy on your Western Australia adventure.
- Activity Box: Pack road trip books, plasticine, and beading kits. These quiet activities will keep kids busy during long drives.
- Snack Box: Bring a Snackle Box filled with healthy treats and snack packs. Don’t forget to plan hydration breaks to keep everyone refreshed.
- Prize Box: Include travel-friendly games and collectible toys. These can be great rewards for good behaviour or milestones reached.
- Comfort Box: Pack chargers, a first aid kit, wipes, and emergency supplies. These items will help you handle any unexpected situations.
- Sun Protection: Bring hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses for everyone. The WA sun can be harsh, so keep your family safe.
- Swimwear: Pack bathers, towels, and goggles. You’ll find plenty of beautiful beaches and pools along your journey.
- Outdoor Gear: Include sturdy shoes, insect repellent, and a small backpack for each child. These will come in handy for bush walks and exploring.
- Entertainment: Load up tablets with movies and games. These can be lifesavers during long stretches of driving.
- Comfort Items: Pack each child’s favourite toy or blanket. Familiar items can help kids feel at ease in new places.
- Camera: Bring a kid-friendly camera. Let your children capture their own memories of the trip.
Top Family-Friendly Destinations in Western Australia
Ready for a ripper family adventure in Western Australia? From Perth’s bustling streets to Margaret River’s laid-back vibes, WA’s got heaps of spots your whole clan will love. Pack your swimmers and sunnies – we’re about to show you the best family-friendly haunts in the west!
Perth and Fremantle (2-3 days)
Perth and Fremantle offer a perfect start to your family road trip. Kick off your adventure in Perth, the world’s most isolated city. You’ll find heaps of fun at Nostalgia Box, Australia’s first video game console museum.
Sci-Tech is another top spot, with hands-on exhibits that’ll wow the kids. Don’t miss the Hop On Hop Off bus tour for an easy way to see the sights.
Next, head to Fremantle, just a stone’s throw from Perth. This port city is chock-full of history and charm. The kids will love spotting sea lions at the harbour. For a true blue Aussie treat, grab some fish and chips by the beach.
Holiday Inn Perth City Centre is a top pick for families, with kids staying and eating for free.
Perth’s not just a city, it’s a playground for the whole family!
Busselton and Margaret River (4 days)
Busselton and Margaret River offer a perfect mix of beach fun and wine country charm. You’ll love Busselton’s 1.8-kilometre jetty, where kids can spot fish through underwater windows.
The foreshore area buzzes with playgrounds and picnic spots. Just a short drive away, Margaret River awaits with its world-class wineries and stunning caves. Don’t miss Ngilgi Cave, where little ones can crawl through tunnels and learn about Aboriginal culture.
Your four days here will fly by in a flash. Spend mornings building sandcastles on pristine beaches and afternoons exploring lush forests. Take the family on a whale watching tour from September to May – it’s an unforgettable experience.
For a change of pace, visit local farms where kids can feed animals and taste fresh produce. With so much to do, Busselton and Margaret River will keep your whole clan happy and busy.
Pemberton and Walpole (2 days)
Pemberton and Walpole offer a two-day nature escape for your family. You’ll love the 120 km drive from Pemberton to Walpole, taking about 1 hour and 35 minutes. Start at One Tree Bridge for scenic walks and a history lesson.
Cool off at Glenoran Pool, a top swimming spot nearby. Don’t miss Beedelup Falls with its walking trails and family areas. Entry costs $15, but it’s worth every cent.
For a unique forest adventure, hop aboard the Pemberton Tramway Company’s train. It’s a hit with kids and grown-ups alike. As you chug through the towering karri forests, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
In Walpole, the Tree Top Walk is a must-do. You’ll stroll high above the ground, getting a bird’s-eye view of the ancient tingle trees. It’s a thrill that your family won’t soon forget.
Must-Visit Attractions Along the Way
Get ready for some jaw-dropping sights on your WA road trip! You’ll find heaps of cool spots to check out with the kids along the way.
Busselton Jetty and underwater sculptures
Busselton Jetty offers enjoyment for the whole family. This 1.8km wooden marvel stretches out into Geographe Bay, inviting you to explore its underwater world. You can join a guided snorkel tour to see colourful fish and unique sculptures beneath the waves.
It’s an excellent spot for kids aged 6 and up, with tours capped at six people.
Explore an underwater world of wonder at Busselton Jetty!
Tickets start at $62 per adult, making it an affordable day out. You’ll get to swim around the jetty’s pylons and spot marine life in their natural habitat. The underwater sculptures add an extra element of enchantment to your swim.
It’s a fantastic way to cool off and create memories on your WA road trip.
Ngilgi Cave and Ancient Lands
Ngilgi Cave offers a top-notch family adventure in Western Australia. You’ll love the new Ancient Lands Experience, which opened in November 2023. This fresh addition brings interactive exhibits and immersive activities to life.
Kids and adults alike can explore Aboriginal culture and the cave’s natural wonders.
The cave’s cool interior provides a welcome break from the Aussie heat. You’ll find yourself lost in the beauty of stalactites and stalagmites.
It’s a ripper of an outing that blends learning with fun for the whole family.
Tree Top Walk in Walpole
You’ll feel like you’re walking on air at the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk. This sky-high path stretches 600 meters through the treetops, reaching up to 40 meters above the forest floor.
It’s a thrill for the whole family, and you’ll get up close with rare red Tingle trees. Don’t worry about pushing prams or wheelchairs – the walk is fully accessible.
For $52.50, your family of four can enjoy this breathtaking experience. As you stroll along the walkway, you’ll spot native birds and maybe even a quokka or two. The kids will love feeling like they’re floating among the giants of the forest.
It’s a chance to see Western Australia from a whole new angle, and create memories that’ll last a lifetime.
Tips for a Smooth Road Trip with Kids
Keeping kids happy on long drives can be tricky. But don’t fret! We’ve got some top tips to make your family road trip a breeze. Want to know more? Read on!
Scheduling regular breaks
Regular breaks are a must on your WA road trip with kids. Plan to stop every 2 to 3 hours. This gives everyone a chance to stretch their legs and use the loo. It’s also perfect for nappy changes and feeding times.
Your little ones will thank you for these pauses in the journey.
Timing is key when you’re on the road with family. Try to start your drive early or during nap times. This way, you’ll cover more ground while the kids are sleepy. But don’t stress if things don’t go to plan.
Stay flexible and roll with the punches. After all, that’s part of the fun of a family adventure in Western Australia!
Entertainment ideas for long drives
Long drives can be a blast with the right entertainment. Pack some Crayola Twistables and Paint by Sticker books for hands-on fun. These keep little fingers busy and spark creativity.
For group fun, try travel bingo or the Alphabet Game. Spot items outside the car window that start with each letter. It’s a great way to stay alert and engaged with your surroundings.
Audio options are perfect for quiet time. Try the Maked Up Stories podcast for imaginative tales. NPR’s But Why podcast answers kids’ curious questions about the world. These shows entertain and educate, making the kilometres fly by.
Mix up your activities to keep everyone happy. A combo of quiet and active games helps balance energy levels on your WA road trip.
Conclusion
Your WA road trip will be a blast! You’ll make memories that stick like glue. From Perth’s beaches to Margaret River’s caves, there’s fun for everyone. Pack your bags, grab the kids, and hit the road.
Western Australia’s wonders await your family’s next big adventure!
FAQs
1. What’s the best route for a family-friendly road trip in Western Australia?
Start your adventure in Perth, heading north to Kalbarri National Park. Then, cruise along the Indian Ocean to Geraldton and Jurien Bay. Don’t miss The Pinnacles and Hutt Lagoon’s pink lake. Finish up in Esperance for stunning beaches and friendly quokkas on Rottnest Island.
2. How long should we plan for a WA family road trip?
Two weeks is ace for seeing Western Australia’s top spots. This gives you time to explore Kalbarri’s gorges, snorkel at Ningaloo Reef, and chill on Esperance’s white sand beaches. Remember, WA’s a big place, so don’t rush it!
3. What are some kid-friendly activities along the way?
Your little tackers will love sandboarding on massive dunes, spotting dolphins in Monkey Mia, and climbing the Diamond Tree near Pemberton. For a ripper day out, try abseiling in Kalbarri or kayaking in Augusta. There’s heaps to keep the ankle biters entertained!
4. Are there good places to stay for families on this road trip?
Too right! You’ll find family-friendly hotels and caravan parks all along the coast. Jurien Bay’s got great holiday homes, and Kalbarri offers camping spots with top-notch facilities. For a real Aussie experience, try glamping in the Margaret River region.
5. What should we pack for a WA family road trip?
Chuck in your swimmers, sunnies, and plenty of sunscreen. Don’t forget the esky for snacks and cold drinks. A good map or GPS is a must, and pack some games for the long drives. Oh, and bring your sense of adventure – you’ll need it!
6. Are there any cultural experiences we shouldn’t miss?
Absolutely! Learn about the traditional custodians of the land at Nambung National Park. Visit Aboriginal art galleries in Margaret River and join a bush tucker tour in Bremer Bay. It’s a bonza way to connect with Australia’s rich history and continuing culture.
References
- https://adventureawaits.ca/what-to-bring-on-a-road-trip-with-family/ (2024-07-17)
- https://www.heremagazine.com/articles/packing-road-trip-with-kids
- https://www.margaretriver.com/plan-your-trip/self-drive-itineraries-routes/4-day-family-holiday-busselton/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g2454550-i26648-k14628282-1_Week_MR_itinerary_with_Kids-Margaret_River_Region_Western_Australia.html
- https://wanderlog.com/drive/between/82816/83058/pemberton-to-walpole-drive
- https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g255103-i531-k3771454-o10-All_in_a_day_Pemberton_Albany_Walpole_Pemberton-Perth_Greater_Perth_Western_Australia.html
- https://rac.com.au/travel-touring/info/family-friendly-road-trips-wa
- https://westernaustraliantravel.com/guide-to-the-valley-of-the-giants-tree-top-walk-walpole-denmark/
- https://thrive.psu.edu/blog/road-trips-with-young-children/ (2023-12-11)