From whale watching to adventure playgrounds—Warrnambool is packed with family fun!
Warrnambool is Victoria’s largest coastal city (outside Port Phillip Bay), about 250km west of Melbourne. While it’s a favourite summer spot, there’s plenty to do year-round—especially in winter! Think up-close whale encounters, fascinating museums, and cosy indoor attractions perfect for chilly days.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, here are the best things to do in Warrnambool with kids, no matter the season.
For accommodation options in Warrnambool, I recommend checking out what’s available on Booking.com.
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Things to Do in Warrnambool
1. Lake Pertobe Adventure playground
Warrnambool’s best playground is easily Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground. This 8-hectare adventure playground has it all! A huge sandpit, giant slides, flying foxes, a maze, rock structure with water play and you can even hire boats for paddling.
We also love the toddler play area and a super large modern slide, making this one of the best outdoor attractions in Warrnambool for kids.
There are picnic and BBQ facilities, too.
The Lake Pertobe precinct is also home to lawn tennis courts, mini golf, an athletics track and skatepark.
Lake Pertobe Adventure playground, Pertobe Road, Warrnambool
2. Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village is a maritime museum with Australia’s richest shipwreck collection and a reconstructed 1870s outdoor village overlooking Lady Bay.
Enjoy daily exhibits, engaging sound and light shows, and delicious treats at the tea rooms and lolly shop.
Lady AB and I enjoy exploring the village’s shops and buildings, feeding the ducks and sampling the scones in the tea rooms.
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village 89 Merri St, Warrnambool VIC 3280, Australia (03) 5559 4600 or Toll free: 1800 556 111
3. Flagstaff Hill Sound and Light Show
The Flagstaff Hill Sound and Light Show is a night-time sound and laser show at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village that takes you on a journey of the village through projections onto a nine-metre high water wall.
Guests are seated undercover but it’s open to the elements so dress warmly. I don’t think it is really suitable for younger children due to the loud noises and late starting times (after sunset).
Flagstaff Hill Sound and Light Show, 89 Merri St, Warrnambool VIC 3280, Australia (03) 5559 4600 or Toll free: 1800 556 111
4. Deep Blue Geothermal Pools
The award-winning Deep Blue Hot Springs in Warrnambool is a geothermal mineral bathing Sanctuary. Visitors can experience the thrill of bathing among a myriad of curated rockpools, sensory caves and cleansing waterfalls while benefiting from therapeutic minerals and heat of the natural earth drawn waters.
Whether passing through or staying over, the Deep Blue Hot Springs is one of Warrnambool’s absolute must do experiences and will leave you feeling completely rejuvenated.
Numerous time allocated sessions are offered daily and suitable for children age 5+. (Night time sessions are reserved for adults age 16+).
Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs Warrnambool, Worm Bay Road, Warrnambool VIC 3280, (03) 5559 2000, reservations@thedeepblue.com.au
5. Mini Golf By The Sea
Check out Mini Golf by the Sea, a super fun spot right by the Warrnambool foreshore and Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground.
With 18 creative holes and a massive Jumping Pillow, it’s the perfect place for a bit of friendly competition—and loads of laughs!
Mini Golf by the Sea, 47 Pertobe Road, Warrnambool, 03 5562 0644
6. Warrnambool Art Gallery
Take the kids to Warrnambool Art Gallery for a creative adventure!
Located on Liebig Street, this family-friendly gallery is open daily and features a mix of exciting exhibitions and events. It’s a great spot to introduce little ones to art, with plenty to spark their imagination and curiosity.
Warrnambool Art Gallery, 26 Liebig St, Warrnambool (03) 5559 4949
7. Lady Bay Foreshore Playground and Promenade
Lady Bay Foreshore Playground and Promenade is a must-visit when in Warrnambool with kids.
Enjoy sunning views for a coastal walk, including a beachfront playground with modern equipment.
8. Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is Victoria’s first national park and home to many native birds and wildlife. You’ll likely spot koalas, kangaroos, emus and much more on your visit.
The visitor centre is managed by Worn Gundidj Aboriginal Cooperative and features a collection of aboriginal arts and crafts. Free entry.
Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, 105 Lake View Rd, Tower Hill, 13 19 63
9. Warrnambool Botanic Gardens
Take a stroll through twenty acres of tranquil gardens at Warrnambool Botanic Gardens.
The nature-based play space provides a captivating outdoor environment designed to engage children in immersive and educational play amidst nature.
Free entry.
Warrnambool Botanic Gardens, 24 Bromfield St, Warrnambool, (03) 5559 4800
10. Allansford Cheese World
Warrnambool is big on dairy, and Allansford Cheese World is the perfect place to taste it for yourself!
This family-friendly spot has a cheese museum, free tastings, and a licensed restaurant. Plus, there’s a great selection of local wines—perfect for the parents while the kids enjoy the cheese!
Allansford Cheese World, 5330 Great Ocean Rd, Allansford, (03) 5565 3127
11. Fletcher Jones Gardens
The FJ Gardens are a little slice of history and a great spot for a family stroll!
Originally a rubbish dump, they were transformed in 1948 by Fletcher Jones into a beautiful green space with sculptures, waterfalls, and perfectly kept lawns. These days, it’s a peaceful spot to let the kids run around while you soak up the charm of this local favourite.
Fletcher Jones Gardens, Cnr Flaxman Street & Raglan Parade
12. Logan’s Beach foreshore walk
Take the kids on a scenic walk along Warrnambool’s coastline, starting at Logans Beach and winding around the Lady Bay foreshore to Thunder Point.
With stunning ocean views, fresh sea air, and plenty of spots to stop and explore, it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors as a family!
Logan’s Beach, Logans Beach Rd, Warrnambool
13. Logan’s Beach Whale Watching Platform
From June to September, Logans Beach is the place to be for whale watching with kids!
Southern Right whales come right up to the shore, and you can spot them from a free viewing platform. It’s an unforgettable experience watching these gentle giants, especially knowing their numbers are bouncing back after years of conservation efforts.
14. Warrnambool Kart Club
Get ready for some high-speed fun at Warrnambool Kart Club!
On the last Sunday of each month, you can watch (or even join in) the action-packed kart races. Whether your kids dream of being racers or just love the thrill, it’s a great day out for the whole family.
Warrnambool Kart Club, Buckleys Rd, Allansford VIC 3277
15. More Warrnambool Beaches
Warrnambool is enveloped by a diverse coastline, providing a blend of sheltered swimming spots, open surf breaks, and exciting areas to explore. Find a post and spend a day building sandcastles and playing by the ocean.
16. Breakwater And Stingray Bay
Stingray Bay is a hidden gem for families! This sheltered cove at the entrance of the Merri River is perfect for exploring crystal-clear rock pools with the kids.
Wander along the Breakwater for stunning views of the harbour and city—it’s a great spot for a relaxed family adventure.
Stingray Bay, 61 Viaduct Rd, Warrnambool
17. Lighthouse Theatre
Keep an eye on Lighthouse Theatre for family-friendly shows and events! From kids’ performances to live entertainment the whole family can enjoy, it’s a great spot for a fun day or night out in Warrnambool.
Lighthouse Theatre, 185 Timor St, Warrnambool VIC 3280, (03) 5559 4999
18. Middle Island Maremma Project
Middle Island Maremma Project isn’t strictly a tourist attraction but it is one of Warrnambool’s most famous projects.
The children’s book Chooks in Dinner Suits is a warm, funny account of one man’s quest to save a penguin colony, assisted by two very unusual helpers – Max and Mimi, the Maremma dogs. Inspired by the world-first Middle Island Maremma Project in Warrnambool, this is an incredible true story about one town’s efforts to protect their population of Little Penguins.
Faced with the decline of their feathered friends, the people involved in the project undertook a radical approach and trained two Maremma dogs to become penguin guardians. There are guided ‘Meet the Maremma’ tours offered in Summer at low tide which are run by the Warrnambool City Council.
Where to Eat in Warrnambool
Warrnambool still has a country town feel to it so don’t be surprised if you find that cafes and shops shut in the early afternoon on a Saturday and don’t open Sundays or public holidays. As we visit on a long weekend, unfortunately, our dining out choices are limited.
19. Proudfoot’s Boathouse
Proudfoot’s Boathouse is a heritage boathouse built in 1885 at the mouth of the Hopkins River.
The dining room serves enormous meals of classic pub grub with gorgeous views.
Proudfoot’s Boathouse, 2 Simpson St Warrnambool, Victoria 5561 5055
20. Bohemia
Bohemia Cafe & Bar is a relaxed cafe with a fairly standard cafe menu.
Prime seating is by the bay window where we try the decent pancakes and a classic avo smash.
Bohemia Cafe & Bar 127 Kepler Street, Warrnambool 03 5562 7533
21. Chitticks Hopkins River Bakery
A bakery with a range of artisan products including handmade sourdough breads, naturally fermented breads and rolls, pastries pies and pasties. They also sell their wares at the fortnightly Fresh Market Warrnambool.
Chitticks Bakery, 9A Albert Street, Warrnambool VIC 3280
22. Pavilion Cafe and Bar
Pavilion Cafe offers great coffee and spectacular views over Lady Bay, the Southern Ocean and Middle Islands. In the early hours of the morning you might spot race horses training on the beach. It’s also the perfect starting point for a long stroll along the promenade.
23. Day Kitty
A cafe focusing on healthy fare with a great variety of vegetarian/vegan options. They also sell house-made ice-cream (including cones), cold-press juices and smoothies, a range of coffees and teas.
Day Kitty, 52B Kepler St, Warrnambool, (03) 5561 6921
24. Elements Restaurant and Bar
Elements Restaurant & Bar (located at the centre of town on Raglan Parade) is open at dinner times and offers great food including popular Hot Stone steaks, Burgers and Parmas.
Best of all, they have a great indoor play area for the kids.
Elements Restaurant and Bar, 525 Raglan Parade, Warrnambool, (03) 5562 3866
Where to Stay in Warrnambool
25. Flagstaff Hill Lighthouse Lodge
Lighthouse Lodge is the former lighthouse keeper’s lodge at the base of the Lady Bay Lighthouses.
The fully renovated accommodation retains the heritage aspects of the house with interesting historical artefacts and pictures along with modern conveniences such as free wifi, BBQ, large screen TVs and heating/cooling systems.
The lodge consists of three Queen/King rooms with a shared lounge/kitchen/outdoor area, or you can book the whole lodge exclusively. Each room has its own ensuite with shower, TV and DVD player and ipod docking station working desk.
It is walking distance to the front entrance of Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village and visitors get discounted entry into the Flagstaff Hill and the Shipwrecked Sound and Light Show.
Rates are available on a per room basis, or you can book the whole lodge!
Flagstaff Hill Lighthouse Lodge, 89 Merri St, Warrnambool VIC 3280, Australia (03) 5559 4600 or Toll free: 1800 556 111
26. Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs
Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs is Warrnambool’s icon for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. With an idealistic coastal location, guests rest comfortably in hotel rooms adorned in soft seaside tones and with many boasting ocean or partial ocean views to admire the surrounding beaches, walking tracks and coastal attractions.
Each room offers additional comforts for the modern day traveller with in-room movies and entertainment. The Deep Blue provides the perfect setting to enjoy a comfortable night’s stay or for those with a little more time a visit to the Indoor Bath house, Swimming Pool, Day spa, Sauna, Salt Therapy and more.
Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs, Worm Bay Road, Warrnambool, +61 3 5559 2000, reservations@thedeepblue.com.au
For more accommodation options in Warrnambool, I recommend checking out CozyCozy, a website that allows you to compare prices of accommodation across multiple online booking sites.
Where to Stop When Driving to Warrnambool
There are two major highway routes to get to Warrnambool – along the Princes Hwy or along the winding coastal Great Ocean Road.
You can also book a 2-day Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne to see all the major sites and stop at popular spots along the way.
We take the faster inland route and stopped at Winchelsea and Camperdown on the way there and Colac on the way back.
Cafe La Hoot Winchelsea
The perfect pit stop for travellers on the Princes Highway. It’s next to the Barwon River, a playground, BBQ area, public toilet block and public pool. The cafe is actually within an old house and the main room is perfect for children, with high chairs, lots of toys and a hand-carved wooden rocking boxing kangaroo!
Café La Hoot 1 Willis St, Winchelsea +61 407 528 999
Tips for Visiting Warrnambool with Kids
- Before your trip, check local event calendars for family-friendly activities and events. Warrnambool often hosts events suitable for kids, adding extra excitement to your visit.
- If you’re interested in whale watching at Logan’s Beach, plan your visit between June and September when Southern Right Whales frequent the area.
- Warrnambool’s weather can be changeable, especially near the coast. To make the most of Warrnambool tourist attractions, pack layers and be prepared for varying temperatures.
- Stop by the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre for maps, brochures, and additional tips. The friendly staff can provide insights into current attractions and family-friendly activities.
HELPFUL TRAVEL TIPS
- If you’re looking for accommodation, check-out Booking.com.
- Rent a car from Europcar or a campervan from Jucy.
- Book your tours and activities prior to departure with GetYourGuide or Viator.
- Accidents do happen. In case they happen to you, make sure you have a travel insurance. We recommend Cover-More or VisitorsCoverage.
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