There are worse things than being stuck on a long car ride with irritable children… but a kid kicking the back of your seat, or claiming they need the toilet again can wear on even the most forgiving parent.
This is where playgrounds step in – the perfect energy burner, while mum and dad get to stretch the legs and enjoy a nice cup of coffee (and maybe something delicious from the local bakery, too)
Here’s a list of 4 of our favourite playgrounds around the Eyre Peninsula for when the kids (and you) need a break.
Get your skate (and spray) on
This is one of the newest playgrounds in the region, and it’s a real hidden gem. Kids can take their pick – Apex Park boasts a playground and lawn area, with BBQ facilities and even some exercise equipment, but the crown jewel is the new skate and spray park. There’s a pump track, so the kids can get out their bikes and scooters, and a splash pad to cool down on those warm days.
Oh, and did we mention there’s also a jumping pillow AND it’s located outside the local swimming pool, so you can enjoy a dip in the summer months*?
Brodie, aged 8, said: “It’s big, there’s lots of grass, with a jumping pillow, splash pad, pump track and even exercise equipment! And it’s right next to the pool… and it has a stage.”
(We forgot about the stage.)
Yep, this is a small town with a quality playground – and with lots to explore in the surrounding areas, it’s worth stopping over.
*Swimming pool opening hours vary.
Don’t touch the floor, it’s lava!
As this author hasn’t actually visited a playground in quite a while, we had to outsource for some of the information. According to Jordy, age 9, Wellington Square playground in Port Lincoln is an excellent spot for a run-around.
Why?
“Because of the wizzy thing, there’s lots of grass and it’s good for floor is lava.”
You heard it here first – there’s plenty of room for ball sports so be sure to bring the netball or football, as well as picnic tables and two free BBQs. And the majority of the playground is also under shade, with nearby benches to watch the kids from.
Plus, there’s the wizzy thing.
The playground for all abilities
Another of the Eyre Peninsula’s new playgrounds, this gem at Kimba was the brainchild of a local mother to create a more inclusive playground.
The result of this upgrade is exactly what kids want!
Under cover from the sun, the playground now includes a group swing, wheelchair accessible ramps and a wheelchair accessible merry-go-round under two separate shelters.
And there’s a jumping pillow (also under cover), which is perfect for burning off energy.
While you’re in Kimba, you’ll also have to check out the epic silo art – it’s not to be missed!
Beachside views
Just down from this quaint little playground is the beach, and a curved jetty you can drop a line from.
That’s one of the drawcards according to Ava, age 9: “There is lots of equipment – three slides, monkey bars, swings, climbing walls – and it’s so close to the beach!”
What else do you do when it gets too hot on the playground but run 30m down to the beach and build a sandcastle! This little town is a local favourite, and in addition to the other equipment there is also a basketball hoop and modern public toilets on site.
It’s also near the fish cleaning facilities, so if you want to get out of scaling fish…
Where: Dolly Graham Memorial Playground