The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park is a must-see destination for families visiting Western Australia, but the surrounding areas also offer plenty of family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking to explore wildlife, enjoy beautiful beaches, or experience a bit of adventure, there are many options to keep kids and adults entertained. Here’s a guide to the best family-friendly activities near the Pinnacles.

1. Explore the Pinnacles Desert

The Pinnacles Desert itself is a fascinating spot for families to explore. Kids will love walking among the towering limestone formations that dot the desert, while parents can enjoy the surreal beauty of the landscape. The Pinnacles are easily accessible, and families can explore them by foot or by car along the 4-kilometer driving loop. There are plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and learn about the geological history of the Pinnacles.

• Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre: Don’t miss the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre, where kids can learn about how the Pinnacles were formed and the unique flora and fauna of the region. The interactive displays make it both fun and educational.

Best for: Families with kids who love outdoor exploration and geology.

Tip: Visit during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the midday heat.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

2. Visit Hangover Bay

Distance from the Pinnacles: 15 km / 10-minute drive

Hangover Bay is a peaceful beach located just a short drive from the Pinnacles Desert. It’s the perfect spot for a family picnic, swimming, or simply relaxing by the ocean. The calm waters make it a safe spot for kids to paddle and play, and it’s also a great place for fishing or snorkeling.

Families can enjoy the scenic surroundings and may even spot some dolphins swimming near the shore. There are picnic areas and BBQ facilities available, making it an ideal location for a family day out by the water.

Best for: A relaxing beach day with swimming, picnics, and wildlife spotting.

3. Discover Wildlife at Yanchep National Park

Distance from the Pinnacles: 130 km / 1.5-hour drive

Yanchep National Park is a family-friendly destination that offers a wide range of activities for all ages. The park is home to many koalas and kangaroos, and kids will love seeing these iconic Australian animals up close. The Koala Boardwalk is a short, easy walk that takes you through eucalyptus trees where koalas lounge in the branches.

In addition to the wildlife, Yanchep National Park also offers picnic areas, scenic walking trails, and the opportunity to explore the beautiful Crystal Cave. Guided tours of the cave take you through its limestone formations, making it a fun and educational experience for families.

Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts and families who enjoy nature walks and cave exploration.

Tip: Bring a picnic and spend the day exploring the park’s walking trails and wildlife areas.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

4. Swim and Snorkel at Jurien Bay

Distance from the Pinnacles: 45 km / 35-minute drive

Jurien Bay is a family-friendly coastal town known for its pristine beaches and shallow waters, making it perfect for a day of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the sea. The beach is safe for kids, with gentle waves and plenty of space to play in the sand.

One of the highlights of visiting Jurien Bay is the opportunity to take a sea lion snorkeling tour, where you can swim alongside these playful creatures in their natural habitat. It’s an unforgettable experience for older kids and adults, while younger children can watch the sea lions from the boat.

Best for: Families who love beach activities and marine wildlife encounters.

Tip: Be sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, as the sun can be strong along the coast.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

5. Sandboarding at Lancelin Sand Dunes

Distance from the Pinnacles: 80 km / 1-hour drive

For a fun and adventurous family activity, head to the Lancelin Sand Dunes, where you can try sandboarding down the towering white sand dunes. Kids and adults alike will enjoy sliding down the soft sand on sandboards, which can be rented in town.

The dunes are also a great spot for a bit of 4WD or quad biking if you have older kids who are up for a bit of excitement. The views from the top of the dunes are spectacular, with sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape and ocean.

Best for: Adventurous families who want to try sandboarding or explore the dunes.

Tip: Bring plenty of water and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright sand.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

6. Explore Lake Thetis and Stromatolites

Distance from the Pinnacles: 18 km / 15-minute drive

Just outside Cervantes, Lake Thetis is home to some of the oldest living organisms on Earth — stromatolites. These ancient rock-like formations were created by microbes over thousands of years and provide a fascinating glimpse into the early life forms that shaped our planet.

A short, easy walking trail around the lake allows families to view the stromatolites up close and learn about their significance. The area is peaceful and scenic, making it a great spot for a family walk, especially if you have kids interested in science or geology.

Best for: Nature walks, science-loving kids, and families interested in unique natural history.

Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the lighting is best for photos and the area is less crowded.

7. Fishing and Boating at Cervantes

Distance from the Pinnacles: 17 km / 15-minute drive

The coastal town of Cervantes is a fantastic spot for family-friendly activities like fishing, boating, and beachcombing. The calm waters of the town’s beaches are perfect for swimming with kids, while the nearby jetties and rock platforms offer excellent fishing spots.

If your family enjoys boating, you can rent a small boat or join a fishing charter for a fun day out on the water. Cervantes is also famous for its rock lobster, and several local restaurants offer the freshest seafood for lunch or dinner after a day of outdoor fun.

Best for: Fishing, boating, and families who love seafood.

Tip: Don’t forget to pack some fishing gear and sunscreen for a day of fun on the water.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

8. Jurien Bay Adventure Playground

Distance from the Pinnacles: 45 km / 35-minute drive

If your kids need to burn off some energy, head to the Jurien Bay Adventure Playground, located in the heart of Jurien Bay. This large, well-maintained playground offers plenty of climbing structures, slides, and swings for children of all ages.

The playground is located right by the beach, so families can enjoy a day of fun in the sun, with easy access to picnic areas and BBQ facilities. It’s a great stop for younger kids who want to play and explore while parents relax and enjoy the coastal views.

Best for: Younger children and families looking for a relaxed, fun-filled day by the beach.

Tip: Bring a picnic or snacks to enjoy at the playground’s picnic tables.

9. Stockyard Gully Caves

Distance from the Pinnacles: 80 km / 1.5-hour drive

For a fun family adventure, explore the Stockyard Gully Caves, located a short drive inland from Jurien Bay. The caves are easy to access via a short walk from the car park and provide a cool, shady escape from the desert heat. Kids will love walking through the sandy cave tunnels and learning about the area’s geological history.

The surrounding Stockyard Gully National Park also has plenty of bushwalking trails where families can spot wildlife, explore the unique landscape, and enjoy a picnic.

Best for: Families who enjoy exploring caves and nature walks.

Tip: Bring a flashlight for exploring the darker parts of the cave, and wear sturdy shoes for walking on sandy and rocky terrain.

Final Thoughts

The area around the Pinnacles Desert offers a variety of family-friendly activities, from beach days and wildlife encounters to adventurous sandboarding and cave exploration. Whether your family prefers relaxation or excitement, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.