Weekends on the Northern Beaches are made for the outdoors.
Whether it’s salty mornings by the sea or breezy bushwalks under the gum trees, there’s no shortage of open-air adventures that keep kids happy and burn off all that extra energy.
Here are some of the best outdoor spots where little legs can run, climb, splash and explore.
Playgrounds with a water view
The Northern Beaches is full of playgrounds with front-row seats to the water. A few family favourites:
- Flying Fox Park, Mona Vale: This one ticks all the boxes—sprawling play equipment, flying foxes, a bike path, picnic tables and a café within arm’s reach. Great for all ages, it sits within Winnererremy Bay Reserve, which also features BBQ facilities, shaded seating, and access to the calm shoreline, making it a full-day destination.
- Bilarong Reserve, Narrabeen Lagoon
Right on the edge of Narrabeen Lagoon, this leafy reserve is a local favourite for families. The playground is set in a peaceful, grassy area with shaded picnic tables, BBQs and easy access to the water. It's a perfect launch point for the Narrabeen Lagoon Trail, so you can combine a play session with a scoot or stroll. There’s ample parking and toilet facilities nearby. - Claude’s Playground, Narrabeen
Located within Bilarong Reserve, Claude’s Playground is a hidden gem with a nautical-themed play space that younger kids love. With climbing frames, a sandpit, and swings – plus ocean breezes and a surf club café nearby – it’s a great choice for a relaxed beach-play combo. There are shaded seating areas for parents and direct access to the beach for a post-play paddle - Collaroy Beach Playground: Fully fenced and designed with inclusivity in mind, this colourful beachfront playground has accessible swings, sensory play equipment, and soft fall surfaces. Right next door you’ll find cafes, a rock pool, and accessible amenities. It’s perfect for multi-age families wanting everything in one spot.
Bush trails and nature walks for little explorers
You don’t have to go far to find a bushwalk that suits younger walkers. Try these gentle but engaging trails:
- Warriewood Wetlands Boardwalk: Flat, pram-friendly and full of birdlife, this raised boardwalk winds through the largest remaining sandplain wetland in the northern Sydney region. Kids will enjoy spotting ducks, egrets and turtles, while parents will appreciate the peaceful surroundings.
- Manly Dam trails: There are several entry points, but the shorter loops are ideal for families. The Dam itself offers great picnic areas and calm water for
a post-walk swim. Trails include bridges, native bushland, and opportunities to spot water dragons, kookaburras and other local wildlife. - America Bay Track (Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park): A short trail with a big reward—views over the bay and small rock platforms to clamber across.
The walk is around 1km return and includes Indigenous rock engravings along the way. Bring binoculars to spot boats and birds from the lookout. - North Curl Curl to Dee Why path: This coastal walk includes ocean views, grassy stops and a few gentle hills for a challenge. You can stop off at Curl
Curl Lagoon or stretch out on Dee Why Beach. Ideal for older kids ready for a bit more independence.
Bike rides and scooter tracks
For kids who love wheels, these paths are safe, scenic, and mostly flat:
- Narrabeen Lagoon Trail: A family classic. This 8.4km loop around the lagoon can be done in sections, with multiple car parks, toilet stops, and cafes
dotted along the route. The wide, sealed path suits bikes, scooters, and prams. Watch for ducks and kayakers along the way. - JJ Melbourne Hills Reserve, Terrey Hills: Home to a well-kept BMX track and wide open spaces for riding. The reserve also has a fenced playground, shaded picnic tables, and native bush trails nearby for a nature break.
Water play, beach play and splash zones
Do your younger family members love water play? Winter or summer these spots allow for some great waterplay:
- Manly Andrew 'Boy' Charlton Aquatic Centre: Indoor and outdoor pools, including a shallow splash zone perfect for toddlers. There are shaded seating areas, a café, and swim lessons on offer. The MABC Aquatic Centre has a 50 metre (26 degrees) & 25 metre (26 degrees) outdoor Pools and indoor 25 metre (27 degrees) pool. The 25 metre heated indoor pool is ramp and hoist accessible. There is a shade covered baby area and a heated toddler pool, leisure pool and spa area. The centre is walking distance from Manly Beach and close to public transport.
- Shelly Beach: Sheltered and shallow, ideal for paddling and sandy play. Tucked between bushland and the ocean, it’s often quieter than nearby beaches, with flat water and rock pools to explore.
If you feel like adventuring further afield with the family, The Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre is an indoor, heated facility maintained at a comfortable 26 degrees year-round. This aquatic wonderland features five spas, a sauna, a steam room, a river rapid ride, spray jets, spurting volcanoes, a water slide, and a bubbling beach. Lush palm trees, vibrant mosaics, and a massive indoor water playground create the perfect setting for fun and relaxation.
Wildcards: Something a little different
We know winter usually means more time spent inside but, if you’re after an outdoor day with a twist, try one of these:
- Golden Ridge Animal Farm (Dural): A short drive inland, but worth it for hands-on animal experiences. Kids can feed lambs, milk a cow, and cuddle baby chicks. Bookings are essential and gumboots are recommended!
- Patchwork Pony Rides: Another short drive inland. Book ahead for a gentle ride through leafy surrounds—especially popular with younger kids. Patchwork Ponies also offers pony and unicorn parties that are sure to be a hit. Nearby, you'll find trails for walking and picnic spots to spend some time making memories.
- Eco tours or whale watching: Older kids might love a guided outdoor experience, with local operators offering nature cruises or seasonal whale watching tours from May to November. Look for options from Manly Wharf, or if you prefer to view from dry land, you’ll find good viewing spots at Manly’s North Head, the top of Long Reef headland, and Curl Curl boardwalk.
Your backyard of adventure
Living on the Northern Beaches means your weekends don’t need much planning—just sunscreen, a hat, snacks and a sense of adventure. With so many family-friendly outdoor spots on your doorstep, there’s always somewhere new to explore or an old favourite to return to.
Thinking of making a move?
If you're dreaming of a home close to parks, playgrounds and the kind of lifestyle your family will love, Mona Vale and its surrounds are hard to beat. Whether you're upsizing, relocating, or looking for a family-friendly neighbourhood to call home, we're here to help.
Get in touch with the team at LJ Hooker Mona Vale for expert local advice and to explore homes that suit the way your family lives.
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