Sure, the kids love them, but school holidays can be a stressful time for parents. As well as other responsibilities, we have the extra burden of looking after our delightful, sometimes easily bored, children.

As much as we’d sometimes like to plop them in front of their favourite babysitter, Uncle Television, we know that they should actually get out and about.

Some activities in Perth can be pricey when you’re on a budget, so we’ve compiled a list of 5 cheap and fun school holiday activities. Whether you live in Perth or are popping up for a visit, these activities are sure to keep you sane and the kids entertained.

1. Synergy Parkland

King’s Park is Perth’s most valuable natural asset. Where else in Australia can you find native bush and animals in the heart of the city?

You might not have thought there was a reason to visit King’s Park, but think again—King’s Park is the perfect place for kids and parents alike!

On the western side of King’s Park is Synergy Parkland. It’s a great place for kids to explore and learn about nature.

A long elevated walkway, large scale replicas of extinct Australian mega fauna (the crocodile is particularly impressive) and an island fort make Synergy Parkland a kid’s wonderland.

Best of all, it’s absolutely free! Take some food with you and fire up one of the free electric barbeques, or just have a nice picnic on the well-kept lawn.

Cost: Free!

2. Scitech

It’s hard to explain how crazy kids go for Scitech without comparing it to the relationship cats have with catnip.

Who knew you could get kids so excited about science? Designed for children up to the age of 12, Scitech has a great display of interactive exhibits, puppet shows and a planetarium.

It’s also very reasonably priced, compared to many other family outings.

Cost: For $48, you can get a “mini pass” that will allow entry for: 2 adults + 2 children or 1 adult + 3 children

3. Western Australian Museum

It’s important to teach kids about our natural, social and cultural history. That is why places like the Western Australian Museum are so essential, particularly in our digital age.

With just a gold coin donation, you can gain access to a wide variety of exhibits including natural fauna, meteorites, indigenous culture and dinosaurs.

 

During the school holidays, the museum holds events and activities for the little ones and their parents.

Check out what’s on for a very cheap way to keep your darlings occupied and delighted!

Costs: Gold coin donation.

4. Shoalwater Islands Marine Park

Located just off the coast of Rockingham, less than an hour’s drive south of Perth, is the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. If your children are a bit older, this is a great place to take them.

While there may be a cost to do some activities, entry to the marine park is free. The reefs surrounding the islands are perfect for snorkeling, as they are filled with sea stars, molluscs, urchins and many different species of fish.

 

If you’re lucky, you’ll also see a pod of bottlenose dolphins, sea lions or penguins.

Costs: Entry to the park is free but some activities do cost money.

5. Cottesloe Beach

Perth is home to some of the best beaches in Australia, if not the world.

In 2009, Cottlesoe Beach was voted as the second best beach for families by Lonely Planet. Now that’s saying something.

With clear blue water, pristine white sand and a variety of cafes, restaurants and pubs (to keep the adults happy), Cottesloe Beach is the perfect place for the family.

Costs: Free

Hopefully this list has given you some good ideas about where to take your kids over the school break.

Remember to keep an eye on the weather forecast (however Perth has the highest number of sunny days out of every Australian metropolitan city), pack some snacks and have fun!

Do you have any other special spots to add to this list? Please share in the comments below.

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