Kids, coast and adventures: school holiday fun at The Cape
The school holidays are here at The Cape, there’s no shortage of fun and adventure for kids (and adults!) of all ages. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the break, here’s a handy guide to make the most of the beautiful coastal surroundings and family-friendly activities.
Beach days and nature play
The beaches at The Cape are perfect for exploring. From peaceful walks at F Break where you might have the whole beach to yourself, to swimming and boogie boarding at First Surf or the rock pool at the Bay Beach, there’s something for everyone.
Little adventurers will love fossicking for crabs in the rocks, collecting shells, or climbing Elephant Rock at First Surf – a favourite for hours of imaginative play.
Biking and exploring
Grab the bikes and cruise around The Cape’s shared paths, where you might spot kangaroos, echidnas (if you’re lucky!), and a variety of birdlife. For a scenic ride, follow the trail from the Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club car park past the lookouts down to the Bay Beach. Keep your eyes peeled – you might spot a surfer or even catch a glimpse of a whale!
Adventure playground, sports and more
The Cape’s adventure playground is a magnet for kids of all ages, featuring a flying fox, sand and water play. Right next door, the sports precinct offers a great spot to shoot hoops or have a go at pickleball. Dog lovers will also enjoy the off-leash dog park – a safe, fenced space for four-legged friends to burn off some energy.
School holiday workshops at The Cape Community Farm
This Easter break, the Cape Community Farm is hosting its first school holiday workshop. Kids will learn how to compost, plant seedlings, and harvest fresh produce – a hands-on, eco-friendly experience not to be missed! For more information click here.
Just up the road in Wonthaggi
Only ten minutes away, Wonthaggi is home to everything you might need – supermarkets, Big W and Kmart, Bunnings, the hospital, and the public library. Check out myli.org.au for a full schedule of free school holiday activities at the library.
Guide Park near the hospital is a family favourite, with areas designed for both younger and older kids, including a fenced toddler section, climbing frame, flying fox, and a tower slide.
The State Coal Mine is a fascinating historical site with above-ground heritage buildings and underground tours (note: the descent is steep and not suitable for those with certain health conditions). There’s also a lovely café onsite – perfect for lunch or a cuppa after your visit.
Local events and evenings out
On Thursday evenings, don’t miss Sippers at the Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club – a relaxed evening of drinks and snacks while watching the sunset over First Surf. A perfect way to end a day of adventure.
Coastal drives and day trips
A scenic drive around the coast will take you to Inverloch, with plenty of beautiful beaches to explore along the way. Try your luck at finding sea glass at Twin Reefs or walk out to the rock at Eagles Nest during low tide.
In Inverloch, visit the Bunurong Environment Centre to learn about the ancient dinosaurs that once roamed this coastline. Sign up for a dinosaur fossil tour, or check out the Shell Museum, a treasure trove of shells from around the world – all for a gold coin donation.
Walks for all ages
For a gentle walk, take the kids to Screw Creek, a 1.5km one way trail through mangroves and salt marshes, leading to a lookout at Townsend Bluff with panoramic views of Anderson Inlet. If the tide is low, walk back along the sand and look out for tiny mud crabs dancing across the beach.
If you’re up for something a bit more adventurous, tackle the George Bass Coastal Walk. This stunning 7km one way cliff-top trail between Kilcunda and Punchbowl Road on the outskirts of San Remo takes around two hours one way and offers sweeping views of the ocean – and maybe even whales! (They’ve already been spotted this year!)
Day trip to Phillip Island
Just a 30-minute drive from The Cape, Phillip Island is packed with attractions. Stop at San Remo at midday to watch the pelicans being fed, then cross the bridge to explore the Chocolate Factory, Churchill Island Heritage Farm, and A Maze’N Things – with mazes, illusions, puzzles, mini golf, and a high ropes course.
For more indoor fun, there’s tenpin bowling, and Clip ‘n Climb – perfect for those not-so-sunny days. Of course, the Penguin Parade in the evening is a magical way to finish off the day (take a picnic blanket so the kids can sit on the sand and take extra layers to keep warm!).
Enjoy the holidays!
Whether you’re adventuring locally, heading into town, or taking a quick trip down the coast, there are endless things to do during these school holidays. Make the most of your time together, and enjoy this beautiful place.
