Family-Friendly Adventures in Cervantes!

Pinnacles Desert

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure to Pinnacles Desert, a mesmerizing landscape located about 200 kilometers north of Perth in Nambung National Park. This natural wonder features thousands of limestone spires, some reaching up to five meters high, set against a backdrop of golden sands and vibrant blue sky—a true spectacle of nature’s artistry.

### Morning Arrival

Start your day early by renting a car from Perth and enjoying a scenic 2-hour drive along the Indian Ocean Drive. This route offers stunning coastal views and a chance to spot wildflowers if you visit during the spring.

### Exploring the Pinnacles

Upon arrival at the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre, delve into the informative displays about the region"s natural history, cultural significance, and unique ecology. The center opens at 9:30 AM and provides a great introduction to what you’ll witness.

Next, take a leisurely walk or drive through the Pinnacles Desert Loop, an accessible 4km road that winds around the majestic limestone formations. Feel free to stop at various points to take photos and let the kids explore. The formations are most striking during the early morning or late afternoon, as the sun casts dramatic shadows and bathes the landscape in warm light.

### Picnic and Wildlife Watching

Around midday, enjoy a picnic at the designated area near the Discovery Centre. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including kangaroos and emus, which often make an appearance.

### Beach Exploration

In the afternoon, head to nearby Kangaroo Point or Hangover Bay for a refreshing swim or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. These beaches are less crowded and offer a perfect spot to relax and unwind.

### Sunset Magic

Wrap up your day by watching a breathtaking sunset over the Pinnacles, a perfect end to an adventurous day.

### Tips

- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats to protect from the sun.

- Check weather conditions and park alerts on the day of your visit.

With its stunning landscapes and engaging educational opportunities, Pinnacles Desert promises a memorable outing for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Swan River

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Exploring Swan River

Day 1: Discovering Downtown Swan River

- Morning: Start your family adventure with a breakfast at a cozy cafe in town before heading to Swan River Valley Museum. Here, learn about the region"s indigenous history and the fur trade era. It"s a fantastic way to introduce your kids to local culture and history.

- Afternoon: After grabbing lunch at a local diner, take a leisurely stroll in Legion Park. It has a well-equipped playground to keep the little ones entertained and plenty of space for a family picnic.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

- Morning: Pack a day’s snacks and drive out to Thunderhill Ski Area, about a 20-minute drive from downtown. In winter, enjoy snowboarding and skiing lessons, which are great for beginners and children. In the summer, the area offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the valley.

- Afternoon: Post lunch, visit the Swan River Nature Trail. It’s perfect for a gentle hike. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and birds, and don’t forget to carry binoculars for a mini birdwatching session.

Day 3: Leisure and Local Cuisine

- Morning: Start with a casual breakfast followed by a visit to the Swan Valley Sports Fishing Enhancement facility. Engage in interactive activities and learn about fish species in the region, a great educational experience for the whole family.

- Afternoon: Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local orchard. Many offer fruit picking during the harvest season and have fresh, homemade jams and pies for sale. It’s a sweet and relaxing way to end your family trip.

Travel Tips

- Most attractions are within a short driving distance from downtown Swan River. Renting a car would be the most convenient way to navigate between activities.

- Check the opening hours and book tickets in advance for specific attractions to avoid last-minute unavailability.

This short itinerary combines education with entertainment, making your visit to Swan River memorable and enjoyable for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Perth Mint

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring Perth Mint

Morning Arrival

Start your day with a fun and educational trip to Perth Mint, one of the oldest mints in the world still operating from its original premises. Conveniently located in East Perth, you can easily reach Perth Mint by public transport (bus or train) or drive and park nearby.

Tour of the Mint

Book a guided tour that kicks off every hour. The tour is a fantastic way for your family to learn about Western Australia’s gold mining history. The highlight for many is watching a live gold pour, where pure gold is heated to molten temperatures and transformed into a solid gold bar. Kids will be amazed watching gold being transformed right before their eyes!

Interactive Exhibits

After the show, explore the interactive exhibits. The kids can try their hand at lifting a 400 oz gold bar and find out who can hold it the longest! Discover the largest coin ever made, the Australian Kangaroo One Tonne Gold Coin, right here at the Mint. It’s a Guinness World Record holder and a sight to behold.

Souvenir Shop

Visit the Perth Mint Shop, where you can purchase a unique souvenir. From collectible coins to precious metal jewelry, there’s something to remember your visit by.

Lunch Break

For lunch, head to one of the cafes or restaurants in East Perth or along the beautiful Swan River, just a short walk from the Mint. The area offers various options catering to different tastes and budgets.

Afternoon Activity

To cap off your day, take a leisurely stroll or a short drive to the nearby Queens Gardens for a picnic and let the kids play around in the beautiful surroundings. This serene spot is perfect for winding down after an exciting and educational morning.

With fascinating displays and interactive activities, Perth Mint offers an enriching experience that’s both fun and informative for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lancelin Sand Dunes

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating family adventure at Lancelin Sand Dunes, located just 1.5 hours north of Perth, Australia. Known for being the largest sand dunes in Western Australia, this natural attraction offers a perfect blend of excitement and stunning scenery.

Morning Arrival & Preparation

Set off early from Perth, heading north on the Indian Ocean Drive. Arrive in Lancelin by mid-morning to maximize your day. As you approach, you"ll be greeted by the majestic sight of endless white sand, stretching over 2 kilometers wide.

Sandboarding Fun

Kickstart your family outing with some thrilling sandboarding. Rentals are available right at the entrance of the dunes from local operators. After a quick safety briefing, slide down these soft, pristine sands — a sure hit with kids and adults alike! The gentle slopes are perfect for beginners, while steeper sections thrill the more adventurous.

Picnic Lunch

By midday, take a break under a beach umbrella and enjoy a packed picnic lunch. Relish your meal amidst the stunning backdrop of the sweeping dunes and azure sky. Hydration is key, so pack plenty of water alongside your sandwiches and snacks.

Exploring & Photography

Post-lunch, explore the surrounding area. The dunes" ever-changing landscape, shaped by the winds, offers a new scene with every visit. Capture family photos with spectacular panoramic views — the perfect holiday memento.

Sunset Watching

As the day winds down, settle in for one of Lancelin"s famed sunsets. The sun dipping below the horizon paints a breathtaking picture against the sand, a serene way to end your adventurous day.

Departure

Head back to Perth after sunset, filled with lasting memories of a fun-filled family day out at Lancelin Sand Dunes. This natural playground promises a delightful escape into the wild beauty of Western Australia, combining thrill and relaxation in a stunning setting.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Penguin Island

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure to Penguin Island, a natural gem located just 45 minutes south of Perth, Australia. This enchanting island is accessible via a brief 5-minute ferry ride from Mersey Point in Rockingham, making it an easy and exciting excursion.

Morning: Arrival and Penguin Feeding Show

Start your day early to make the most of your visit. Catch the first ferry at 9:00 AM to enjoy the island in the quieter morning hours. Upon arrival, head straight to the Penguin Discovery Centre, where you can witness the fun and informative Penguin Feeding Show at 10:30 AM. Kids will be thrilled watching these playful creatures while learning fascinating facts, like how penguins can hold their breath underwater for up to 3 minutes!

Midday: Picnic and Exploring

After the show, unpack a picnic by the serene shores overlooking stunning coastal views. Penguin Island boasts pristine white sandy beaches perfect for a family lunch. Post meal, explore the island’s boardwalks which provide easy walking paths suitable for all ages. Keep your eyes peeled for wild penguins, pelicans, and other bird life that inhabit the island.

Afternoon: Glass Bottom Boat Tour

At 1:00 PM, join the Glass Bottom Boat tour to explore the surrounding marine park. This 45-minute journey offers a window into the underwater world of Shoalwater Islands Marine Park without getting wet. It"s a chance to see dolphins, sea lions, and the diverse aquatic life that thrives here.

Late Afternoon: Free Time and Return

Spend your remaining time snorkeling in the clear waters or simply relaxing on the beach. Make sure to catch the last ferry back at 4:00 PM. Before you depart, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for some memorable souvenirs from this unique island experience.

Penguin Island is a treasure trove of nature, wildlife, and fun-filled activities making it ideal for a family day out!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.