Looking for fun and free activities to do with your kids in the Shire? Look no further! We’ve rounded up eight of the best things to do with your little ones that won’t cost you a dime. From exploring nature to discovering new playgrounds, these activities are sure to keep your family entertained and create some unforgettable memories. So grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and get ready to have some fun in the sun without breaking the bank!
1. Explore the Royal National Park
The Royal National Park is a stunning nature reserve that is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and exploring. The park has many walking trails that are suitable for all ages and abilities, and there are several picnic areas with BBQ facilities where you can stop for lunch. Make sure to check out the park’s beautiful beaches, including Wattamolla and Garie Beach.
2. Visit the Sutherland Shire Libraries
Sutherland Shire Libraries offer a range of free activities for kids, including storytime sessions, craft workshops, and coding classes. There are also plenty of books and DVDs available to borrow, so you can take some entertainment home with you.
3. Explore the Cronulla Esplanade
The Cronulla Esplanade is a beautiful coastal walk that offers stunning views of the ocean. Stretching from Greenhills in the north to Salmon Haul in the south, the esplanade offers over 4km of coastal, pram-friendly walking potential. Take a stroll with your kids and stop to enjoy the beautiful beaches, rock pools, parks, playgrounds and cafes along the way.
4. Check out the Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre
The Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre is a great place to take your kids for a day out in Gymea. The centre features a range of exhibitions and workshops that are designed to engage children of all ages. There are also beautiful gardens to explore and plenty of outdoor spaces for your children to run around in.
5. Visit the Kamay Botany Bay National Park
The Kamay Botany Bay National Park is another beautiful nature reserve that is perfect for exploring with kids. Discover its rich Aboriginal culture, explore Captain Cook’s Landing Place, spot native plants on a bushwalk or whales at Cape Solander. Make sure to check out the park’s Visitor Centre, which has interactive exhibits that are sure to capture your children’s imagination.
6. Have a swim or a picnic at Darook Park
With its sheltered bay, sandy beach, and pretty bush backdrop, Darook Park is a great spot for families looking to swim without the roughness of the ocean waves. The park has plenty of grassy areas for picnicking and playing. You can also take a stroll along the beach and rocks and admire the many boats in Gunnamatta Bay.
7. Visit the Como Pleasure Grounds
The picturesque Como Pleasure Grounds is a fantastic, peaceful spot to spend a morning with kids. During the week especially, parking is plentiful, so you can grab your scooters and helmets and head straight in. The park has several walking trails, picnic areas, and a large playground.
8. Feed the ducks at the Camellia Gardens
Enjoy a stunning array of beautiful flowers and trees that offer a beautiful backdrop for picnics, games, and exploration. The Camellia Gardens are home to a variety of wildlife including ducks, fish, and turtles that kids can feed and observe. There are two large playgrounds with slides, swings, and climbing equipment, a cafe and several BBQ areas, making it a perfect place for a family day out.
The Sutherland Shire has plenty of free activities for kids that are both fun and educational. With its beautiful beaches, stunning parks, and cultural attractions, the area is a wonderful place to explore.
Looking for more day out ideas? Read more of our “A Day Out in…” series or visit our “What’s On” page to read about local events.
