Why Dunsborough Is the Ultimate Family-Friendly Holiday Spot in 2025 (And Where to Stay)

If you ask my kids where they want to go on our next family holiday, the answer comes out faster than an ice cream melts in February: Dunsborough. Nestled on the edge of Geographe Bay in South West WA, this coastal gem isn’t just beautiful—it’s blissfully easy for families.

I’ve been lucky enough to holiday here for years, and trust me, Dunsborough in 2025 still delivers the same carefree charm—only with better coffee and more playgrounds. Here’s why it’s the ultimate destination for a family-friendly holiday—and why our clan keeps coming back for more.

Dunsborough in 2025: Still a Gem for Families

The sun still shines a little brighter here, and the pace of life feels refreshingly slow. Families are welcomed with open arms, menus have kid-size portions, and the beaches? Still safe, stunning, and stroller-accessible. The best times to visit are March to May and September to November—pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and often lower rates on accommodation.

Beaches That Practically Babysit Your Kids

Let’s be honest—if the beach isn’t child-friendly, it’s just stressful. Thankfully, Dunsborough boasts some of the best:

• Meelup Beach: Calm waters, shaded lawns, free BBQs, and facilities. The holy grail for beach-loving families.
• Bunker Bay: Soft white sand and gentle waves. Excellent coffee from the nearby resort café.
• Eagle Bay: Less crowded, more peaceful. Perfect for stand-up paddleboarding with older kids.

Local tip: Low tide at Meelup = epic rock pools. Bring a bucket and watch your little marine biologists go wild.

Adventure & Play: What to Do with Kids (When You’ve Run Out of Snacks)

• Simmo’s Ice Creamery: Over 60 flavours, a massive lawn, and a resident emu. Enough said.
• Dunsborough Funpark: Think mini-golf, trampolines, waterslides, and a café for frazzled parents.
• Country Life Farm: Feed farm animals, ride a tractor, and pretend you’re on a rural escape.
• Ngilgi Cave: Older kids will love the torchlit tours and dramatic underground chambers.

Scenic Trails for Short Legs (and Big Views)

• Dunsborough Foreshore Trail: Flat, stroller-friendly, and packed with Insta-worthy ocean views.
• Meelup Reserve Trail: Shady, coastal, and peppered with kangaroo sightings.
• Yallingup Lookout Loop: A breezy loop with big views over the surf below.

Eats Even the Picky Ones Will Love

• Tass’ Bakery: Sausage rolls, pastries, and pies that save many a hangry meltdown.
• Occy’s Brewery: Great local beer for parents, open lawn for cartwheeling kids.
• Margaret River Chocolate Factory: Free samples = free babysitting (sort of).
• Bailey’s Brewing: Laid-back with a huge lawn and excellent pub-grub.

Pet-Friendly means the Whole Family Gets to Have Fun

Your furry friends are welcome here, too:

• Dog-friendly beaches: Try the off-leash stretch at Geographe Bay Rd.
• Cafes with pupacinos: Several local spots offer water bowls and snacks for pooches.
• Exclusive Escapes Pet-Friendly Homes: Spacious backyards, outdoor showers, and room for Rover to roam.

Why Holiday Homes Beat Hotels for Families

Look, I love a luxury hotel as much as the next person, but when travelling with kids? Give me a Dunsborough holiday home any day.

• Space: Separate bedrooms mean actual sleep.
• Kitchens: Cook the kids’ favourites without leaving your jammies.
• Yards and Pools: Built-in entertainment.

Family Rentals have been our go-to for stylish, family-approved stays. Expect coastal chic interiors, kid-friendly amenities, and locations close to the action.

Events to Plan Around in 2025

​Dunsborough and its neighbouring regions host a variety of annual family-friendly events that can enrich your holiday experience. Here are some notable events to consider when planning your visit:​

1. Dunsborough Arts Festival and Sculpture by the Bay

• When: Labour Day long weekend, March 1–3, 2025​
• Where: Dunsborough Foreshore​
• What: A vibrant celebration featuring live music, art markets, dance performances, and the renowned Sculpture by the Bay exhibition. The festival culminates with a fireworks display, offering entertainment for all ages. ​

2. Busselton Jetty Swim

• When: February 8–9, 2025​
• Where: Busselton Jetty​
• What: An annual swimming event featuring a 3.6 km swim around the iconic Busselton Jetty. The event includes activities and entertainment suitable for the whole family.​

3. South West Craft Beer Festival

• When: May 17, 2025
• Where: Aravina Estate, Yallingup​
• What: Showcasing the best craft beers from the South West region, this festival offers live music, food stalls, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

4. Cabin Fever Festival

• When: July 18–27, 2025​
• Where: Various venues in the Margaret River region
• What: A winter festival featuring a series of events, including bonfires, live music, and culinary experiences, designed to warm up the colder months. ​

5. Margaret River Ultra Marathon

• When: May 10–11, 2025
• Where: Margaret River region
• What: A challenging ultra-marathon event that offers scenic trails through the region. Family and friends can support participants and enjoy the associated festivities. ​

6. Margs Youth Fest

• When: April 17, 2025​
• Where: Fearn Avenue Festival Precinct, Margaret River​
• What: A festival tailored for young people, featuring music, activities, and workshops. ​

7. South West Youth Fest

• When: April 11, 2025​
• Where: Busselton Foreshore​
• What: An all-ages event offering live music, activities, and entertainment, celebrating youth culture in the region. ​

8. Taste Great Southern

• When: May 1–4, 2025​
• Where: Various locations in the South West region​
• What: A culinary festival celebrating the local produce, wines, and gastronomic delights of the region, featuring events suitable for families. ​

Attending these events can provide enriching experiences and create lasting memories for your family. Be sure to check the specific dates and details as they may vary annually.​

​Note: Some events may require prior registration or ticket purchases. It’s advisable to plan ahead to secure your spot.​

The Wrap-Up: It’s Not Just a Holiday—It’s a Memory Machine

Dunsborough isn’t just a place to visit. It’s a place where beach towels double as picnic rugs, where sunsets are applauded, and where your kids might just look up from their screens (at least for a while).

Book your stay, pack your snacks, and get ready to make those golden summer-core memories in the Margaret River Region. It’s not just family-friendly. It’s unforgettable.

Some Commonly Asked Questions About Family Holidays in Dunsborough:

What activities are available for families in Dunsborough?

Dunsborough has lots of activities for families, such as swimming, snorkelling, and surfing at the local beaches. Also, hiking and biking on scenic trails and visiting local wineries and farmers markets.

Are there any family-friendly events in Dunsborough?

Dunsborough has many events for families, like festivals, markets, and outdoor concerts. There are also many activities for children, including horseback riding, mini-golf, and go-karting.

Is Dunsborough a safe place for families?

Dunsborough is a safe place for families to visit. The community is welcoming and friendly, and the local authorities are present to ensure safety.

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