Here are some of our top recommendations for activities with the little ones:
Busselton Foreshore Precinct
Only a 20-minute bike ride from Sandy Bay along Geographe Bay with absolutely no hills. There are 3 playgrounds along the foreshore as well as a brand new skatepark. It is absolutely amazing, and you can easily spend a whole day there. Bring a picnic or grab some fish ‘n’ chips for lunch.
Tuart Forest
A magnificent ancient forest with 300–400-year-old trees standing on average 33m high. There are several sign posted walks in the forest and picnic spots to enjoy and contemplate the sights, smells and sounds of nature. The forest is bordered by the Wonnerup wetland which has an abundance of waterbirds, frogs and reptiles which contribute significantly to the food chain of the forest. Visit the wetland boardwalk and watch the birdlife against the backdrop of the forest.
Jump off the Jetty
One of the favourite summer pastimes of the local kids is jumping off the Busselton Jetty. Not far past the Interpretive Centre on the right side of the jetty, is the exit stage. This is where kids and adults of varying ages dive, flip, roll and throw themselves into the sea. It’s a short swim to the ladder at the (near) water-level platform, then a quick jaunt up the stairs to do it all over again. A couple hours of this action will definitely tire the kids out.
Requirements: Bravado, swimming
$4 admission for ages 17 and older
Open 24 hours, free after 5pm
Canal Rocks
Witness spectacular seascape views across the Indian Ocean and up and down the remote coastline at Canal Rocks. A narrow timber walkway allows for easy access and great views of the rushing ocean beneath. It is always impressive no matter what the weather, but breathtaking when the big storms and swells roll in.
The timber pathway meanders around and across the rocks, taking in grand seascapes with swirling water to little pools and lagoons where you can look for marine creatures like cheeky crabs to brightly coloured starfish. For something more challenging there are areas to climb over rocks or take an energetic stroll to the lookout about 500m from the road.
Gnomesville
This place really has to be seen to be believed! Located at Wellington Mill in Ferguson Valley (about 45-minute drive from Busselton), there are 10,000 gnomes (yes you read this correctly) for you to enjoy. You’ll need to wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and some lunch for this one.