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harbour town park, patterson lakes

Ship ahoy! Mamma’s found a cute little themed playground that is sure to shiver the kids’ timbers.

Ship ahoy! Mamma’s found a cute little themed playground that is sure to shiver the kids’ timbers. Located in Patterson Lake’s aptly named Harbour Town, this park is perfect for little shipmates to burn off some of that extra energy on the high seas. 

There’s something for all ages at this playground, with equipment perfect for both big and littlies. Whether the kids want to sail the seven seas or dig for treasure in the sandpit, Harbour Town Park has got the goods.

Climb aboard the sinking ship that doubles as a cubby/shop and includes a ladder, rope netting and dual slides. Or row to safety in the brightly coloured spring dingy which Mamma’s kids loved gripping on to during “rough seas”. 

With a flying fox, monkey bars, swings and spinning chair rounding out Harbour Town Park’s playground, there is also ample green space to kick the ball around and a paved walking trail for scoots and bikes. Make sure to bring a picninc rug and some snacks because the kids will happily play here until its time to come ashore.

the nitty gritty

24 The Parkway, Patterson Lakes 3197

drinking fountain - picnic tables - sandpit - street parking - nautical theme - green space

Mamma's special mentions: When the kids are all played out, peruse the stalls of Market 3196 just a couple minutes down the road.

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royal mile avenue playground, berwick

As the final playground to be built on the Minta Estate in Berwick, the best has certainly been saved for last. So round up the kids, bikes and scooters because Royal Mile Avenue Playground is a must visit.

As the final playground to be built on the Minta Estate in Berwick, the best has certainly been saved for last. So round up the kids, bikes and scooters because Royal Mile Avenue Playground is a must visit.

This is a playground of two halves. First is a fairly traditional play equipment setup with all the classics - think swings, dual slides, monkey bars, rock climbing wall and spring rocker. There’s also a couple of undercover picnic tables and the fanciest bin Mamma has ever seen at a playground (but alas, no BBQ).

The absolute draw card though? The epic bike track with traffic school vibes - it’s set up with stop signs, zebra crossings, a ramp and massive roundabout. There’s even parking spots so the little ones can duck into the “shops” for some groceries, book in to the “garage” for a tune up or recharge at the “charging station”. 

This is also a wonderful place to get some practice in if the little ones are a bit nervous to ride. Mamma absolutely loved watching Miss 5 thrive and grow in confidence pedalling around the circuit over and over (and over) again. 

Something to consider before visiting though - there are no toilet facilities on site so Mamma suggests a tactical wee before dropping by. 

the nitty gritty

19 Royal Mile Ave, Berwick 3806

drinking fountain - undercover picnic tables - bike track - street parking

Mamma's special mentions: The kids will have worked up an appetite after playing here, so head to Nice Buns for some burgers and frozen yoghurt.

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hillview reserve playground, dromana

If you’re anywhere near the Mornington Peninsula - or feel like making an a day trip, you have to check out the brand new Hillview Reserve Playground in Dromana. It’s one of the best nature-themed playgrounds we’ve seen in a while - and wait for it … it is FULLY FENCED!

If you’re anywhere near the Mornington Peninsula - or feel like making a day trip, you have to check out the brand new Hillview Reserve Playground in Dromana. It’s one of the best nature-themed playgrounds we’ve seen in a while - and wait for it … it is FULLY FENCED!

Most equipment is made from natural materials, lots of wood, ropes, rocks, and it’s packed with fun features that add a bit of creative play.

There’s a big wooden log swing that’s perfect for multiple kids to swing on, and climbing stumps scattered throughout the play space for balancing, hopping, and imaginative games. Mamma’s crew love the climbing walls too. There’s both a bouldering block and a little rock climbing wall, which keeps the older kids busy while the younger ones play on the rope nets and intricate mazes of the main climbing structure.

The whole playground has a great mix of challenge and creativity suited to all ages. There’s a small flying fox that’s just the right amount of thrill for the littlies, classic monkey bars, and a little merry-go-round and slide for the kids who love spinning and zooming.

AND the whole playground is fully fenced, a huge win for the parents of little runners! And yes, there are toilets nearby (in the car park), there’s undercover picnic tables and water tap too - so it is the perfect playground to stay and play all day!

the nitty gritty

191 Boundary Rd, Dromana 3936

drinking fountain - fully fenced - picnic tables - toilets nearby

Mamma's special mentions: Just up to your right in the same reserve is the Dromana Pump Track - so pack your bikes or scooters too!

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austin reserve playground, seaford

Austin Reserve Playground in Seaford has had a facelift and the kids are going to love it! The new space features recycled materials thoughtfully incorporated across the entire design - from the blue stone paver maze to the tangram snake path art.

Austin Reserve Playground in Seaford has had a facelift and the kids are going to love it!

The new space features recycled materials thoughtfully incorporated across the entire design - from the blue stone paver maze to the tangram snake path art. The playground itself draws inspiration from the natural surrounds of the reserve it backs onto, with a large wooden carved echidna and metal bird installation to reflect the local wildlife. 

One of Mamma’s 5 year old’s favourite features though was the magical fairy door carved into the balancing log at the edge of the park. Mamma knocked several times but the fairies must have been out enjoying the sunshine!

Little climbers will have a field day here with a spider web net, rope tunnel, monkey bars and disc run to one side. On the other side is a spinning rope climber that Mamma’s little one could see from the car because… well, it’s HUGE. 

There is also a play structure perfect for smaller kids which includes a cave like cubby hole and arched climbing wall that leads to a slide. The talking tubes, swings, small pump track and in-ground trampoline complete the playground and offer some more low key alternatives. 

With plenty of green space to kick a ball as well as Tennis courts and walking tracks that lead to the larger bushland reserve - it’s best to block out a few hours before visiting this local gem. 

the nitty gritty

217R Austin Rd, Seaford 3198

drinking fountain - tennis court - picnic tables - pump track

Mamma's special mentions: Once the kids have worked up an appetite, take a step back in time and head to Cafe La Wheels retro diner for some food.

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damper creek conservation reserve, mount waverley

Mamma just LOVES a good playground/trail combo and Damper Creek Conservation Reserve has just that. A really fun playground, in an 11 hectare bushland reserve with walking tracks.

Mamma just LOVES a good playground/trail combo and Damper Creek Conservation Reserve has just that. A really fun playground, in an 11 hectare bushland reserve with walking tracks.

Mamma and her boys like to go for a little bike ride/wander along the walking track. We never get far as there is too much to explore including a sneaky water crossing that leads you over the creek and through to the playground.

There is some good sized hills for toddlers on bikes and scooters to head and up down without too much fear from Mamma. If you’re wandering through the reserve keep an eye out for some exciting wildlife including frogs, flying foxes, peregrine falcons, gang-gang cockatoos and sugar gliders.

The playground has 2 levels, to reach the top you can climb the stairs or go up the rope pull before heading back down the slide.

Up the top is a single structure with monkey bars, rope climbs, and a slide. Down below has a gorgeous blue tongue lizard (yes their tongue is blue) to climb along, swings, balance beams, and sea saws.

The playground is spread out amongst gorgeous bushland so there’s lots of other things for your little ones to explore and play with, including cute little table and chairs cut from trees just perfect for a picnic.

the nitty gritty

38 Park Road, Mount Waverley

shaded by trees - picnic tables - walking track - pram accessible - no toilets

Mamma's special mentions: Once you’ve worked up an appetite head to Kaiju Cantina for some epic pizzas!

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berwick waters tree walk park (livvi’s place), clyde north

Explore amongst the treetops at this fully fenced and inclusive playspace designed for all ages and abilities - Tree Walk Park at Berwick Waters in Clyde has got the lot!

Explore amongst the treetops at this fully fenced and inclusive playspace designed for all ages and abilities - Tree Walk Park at Berwick Waters in Clyde has got the lot!

Immerse yourself in nature while exploring the wheelchair accessible treetop canopy walkways complete with sensory play panels and talking tubes for those super secret messages (or for Mamma’s 5 year old to shout the lyrics to APT.) 

Kids can follow the winding staircase up to the viewing platform that sits just above the park’s tree tops. From there they can survey the land and decide what area of the playground to conquer next. An impressive tunnel slide at the top makes an easy exit for those who love a quick escape. 

There are plenty of rope tunnels and ladders to climb as well as a number of different slides accessible by the walkway and designed to accommodate all abilities. There are also a wide array of swings for all to enjoy. 

For those who like to take things a little slower, there is a generous sandpit with stationary diggers dotted around as well as beams and stepping stones to traverse. Explore under the playground’s walkways, and you will find a number of hidden delights like concealed monkey bars and tubular bells for those music makers. There are so many elements to this thoughtfully designed playground, that the kids will find something new every time! 

There are toilets, picnic tables and undercover bbq facilities within the fenced off play-space as well as a seperate fenced off dog park, fitness equipment and basketball court just outside. If you’re venturing outside the designated playground area though, make sure to keep the littlies close by as the wetlands are not enclosed and may interest curious little minds. 

the nitty gritty

54I Crosswater Bvd, Clyde North 3978

sand pit - drinking fountain - fully fenced - basketball court - picnic tables - undercover BBQ facilities - toilets - all abilities equipment

Mamma's special mentions: Head to Social Fair for some indoor play and a feed afterwards.

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valley reserve, mount waverley

Attention nature lovers! Adventure awaits at Valley Reserve Play Space. Winner of the 2016 “Best New Major Playspace - Victoria” in the Parks and Leisure Australia awards, it’s hard to believe that this playground, immersed in its surrounding bushland, is a stones throw away from cafes and the local supermarket.

Attention nature lovers! Adventure awaits at Valley Reserve Play Space. Winner of the 2016 “Best New Major Playspace - Victoria” in the Parks and Leisure Australia awards, it’s hard to believe that this playground, immersed in its surrounding bushland, is a stones throw away from cafes and the local supermarket.

The play space is looked over by its feathered custodians - a wooden Yellow Tailed Black Cockatoo, a stone Powerful Owl and a steel frame King Parrot.

The main play area is comprised of a series of wooden towers, rope bridges and climbing ropes… the ultimate obstacle course! On one side of the grounds, adrenaline junkies will find two flying foxes - one with a traditional disc seat and the other, an all abilities harnessed seat for any person wanting to feel the breeze through their hair.

On the other side, kids will find a space to “chill” with a sandpit and massive quartz block - the perfect surface for creating “sand cakes” that Mr Mamma spent the morning pretending to eat.

If the littlies need some down time to touch grass and enjoy the serenity of the surrounding  bush, the Eastern Long-necked Turtle sensory play space is perfect for those seeking a little quiet time. Tucked away near the bbq and picnic area, this haven can be hard to find if you’re not looking for it.

It’s worth noting mammas, as the play space is part of a reserve, the gates to the carpark close at 5pm between April to October and 8pm from November to March so plan accordingly!

the nitty gritty

80 Waimarie Dr, Mount Waverley 3149

public toilets - bbqs - shelters - shaded - walking tracks - nature reserve - carpark - nature play - sand - water play has been shut off

Mamma's special mention: Do some park hopping and head to Wellesley Road Reserve to keep the fun times going.

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yabbie hill playscape at jells park, wheelers hill

This multimillion dollar, nature-based playground at Jells Park is incredible. Not only is it GIANT, but it has countless features that this Mamma hasn’t seen anywhere else. The design has used the hillside (Yabbie Hill) to its advantage, as the different zones all follow the dry creek bed down the hill, from the amazing mosaic map of the local area, right down to the sand and turtle with her babies at the bottom.

This multimillion dollar, nature-based playground at Jells Park is incredible. Not only is it GIANT, but it has countless features that this Mamma hasn’t seen anywhere else. The design has used the hillside (Yabbie Hill) to its advantage, as the different zones all follow the dry creek bed down the hill, from the amazing mosaic map of the local area, right down to the sand and turtle with her babies at the bottom. Each section along the way celebrates and teaches about the local native animals. We found a mob of kangaroos, a giant yabbie, cute possums and some beautiful bird wings, sharing information about our feathered friends.

On top of the classic features - swings, slides and telephone pipes - that you find in all great playgrounds, there are also trampolines, a ropes course, floating rocks, huge sand pit complete with some small water pumps, round cubby houses and plenty of community circles to sit and chat! This place buzzes with life on a beautiful day but there is so many pockets and spaces, you don’t feel like you are on top of each other at all! Plus, now that the trees have grown (check the difference from 2021 in the photos below), there are is great shade cover in many areas.

It is also nice and close to the cafe, the car parks and the toilets! We are super impressed by this amazing playscape and can see this being a family hit for many years to come.

the nitty gritty

best access to main trails from Waverley Road, Wheelers Hill

picnic areas - walking trails - dog friendly - NO rubbish bins - kiosk - restaurant - bbqs - picnic shelters - toilets - plenty of parking - good shaded area 

Mamma's special mentions: Once the kids have had their fill of the great out doors, get your craft on at Creative Sparks

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highview park playground, glen waverley

This charming little pocket playground is tailor-made for younger kids, with big and little slides that cater to both the daring and the cautious. For those who love a good spin, the rotating climbing frame will take them to dizzying (but grabable) heights

The Glen Waverley neighbourhood just got a whole lot more fun with the shiny new Highview Park Playground. This charming little pocket playground is tailor-made for younger kids, with big and little slides that cater to both the daring and the cautious. For those who love a good spin, the rotating climbing frame will take them to dizzying (but grabable) heights. And let’s not forget the swings—including a nest swing that’s perfect for a cozy group ride.

The playground is right next to a large oval, giving your kiddos all the space they need to run, jump, and let off steam. Plus, there’s a perfect hill nearby for those who enjoy the simple pleasure of some good old-fashioned run around.

the nitty gritty

51-58 Springvale Rd, Glen Waverley

no toilets - grassy areas nearby - picnic table - parking on Springvale Rd service lane

Mamma's special mentions: Head to Cubetown for some indoor fun.

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bonbeach sports reserve playground, bonbeach

This playground’s name doesn’t evoke a sense of awe or wonder but Mamma’s 5 year old likes to call it  “The Secret Place” which is a much more fitting name for this magic little (fully fenced!!) oasis. 

This playground’s name doesn’t evoke a sense of awe or wonder but Mamma’s 5 year old likes to call it  “The Secret Place” which is a much more fitting name for this magic little (fully fenced!!) oasis. 

You’d have no idea this place existed unless  actively seeking it out. At first glance it’s just a local recreation centre with basketball courts and footy fields at the end of a residential street. But if you follow the walking trails past the basketball rings and native bushland, you will come to a clearing where this glorious little playground hides.

All the classics are here but in updated form - there’s a main play structure with things to climb and slide down, monkey bars to swing across and a rotating rope climber to spin on. 

The draw card of this beautiful little playground though is the sand and water nature play area - complete with pump and sand scoop. Miss 5 spent most of the morning digging out a path for the water to follow and pretending to fish in the little “pond” where the water collected. 

This Mamma got to sample many a “sand cake” from the adjoining mud kitchen decked out with inbuilt bowls for mixing! **chef’s kiss**

If wet sand is not your cup of tea, be sure to bring a picnic or a couple of snags to throw on the undercover BBQ facilities that sits within the fenced off playground.

the nitty gritty

46 CannesAve, Bonbeach 3196

sand pit - water play - drinking fountain - fully fenced - basketball court - picnic tables - undercover BBQ facilities - off street parking

Mamma's special mentions: Little Buttons Messy Play is just down the road if the weather turns!

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cheltenham park reserve and playground, cheltenham

Pack a picnic and be prepared to play the day away at this great reserve!

Pack a picnic and be prepared to play the day away at this great reserve!
Mamma has fond memories of growing up in this fab little playground. It was the perfect place for kids parties way back then, and is even more so now!

There’s multiple BBQ’s and picnic tables to enjoy some lunch, or grab your picnic rug and take advantage of the abundance of space to sprawl under the shade of the leafy trees.

Perhaps a little bush walk is more your cup of tea? Well there are multiple walking tracks on offer here, too!

Of course, the play equipment is also a winner. There’s a BIG slide and a few smaller ones, spinning cup, flying fox, climbing structures, rock walls, swings and there’s also a cricket batting cage.

the nitty gritty

Park Rd, Cheltenham, 3192

BBQ facilities - picnic tables - free parking- walking track - toilet facilities

Mamma's special mention:
Head up the road to Bromley’s Bread for some delicious baked goods and coffee.

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sherbrooke avenue playground, oakleigh south

Based on the sheer volume of sand kids bring home in their shoes, it is no secret that little ones gravitate towards a sandpit. This universal truth makes Oakleigh South’s local secret even better!

Based on the sheer volume of sand kids bring home in their shoes, it is no secret that little ones gravitate towards a sandpit. This universal truth makes Oakleigh South’s local secret even better! 

Let Mamma introduce you to Sherbrooke Avenue Playground’s “sand factory” - a series of stations that allow children to interact and engage with sand in different ways. 

From using the pulley system to collect sand to manually cranking the conveyor belt to transport it - this little factory will keep the kids busy for AGES! There are also scales for weighing and measuring and a stencil table to create sand art. 

Besides the amazing sandpit, this suburban playground also boasts an obstacle course of balancing platforms and ropes to test little ones’ agility and coordination aka the most epic game of floor is lava! 

The swing set which also includes a pod swing rounds out the little playground that sits on a greater reserve. 

The playground is fenced and gated on its street side but backs on to the City of Kingston’s Green Wedge zone which includes expanses of grass for running and walking trails that connect this playground to other recreational spaces.

the nitty gritty

40a Sherbrooke Ave, Oakleigh South 3167

sand pit - sand factory - drinking fountain - fenced - walking trails - obstacle course

Mamma's special mentions: Grab the bikes and head to Bike Skills Indoor Bike Park in the neighbouring suburb of Bentleigh East!

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cooinda reserve playground, clarinda

Imagine having this hidden gem on your doorstep! Cooinda Reserve (sometimes referred to as Dalbeattie Dr Reserve) is a  special little spot that makes this Mamma incredibly jealous of the Clarinda locals who get to enjoy it on the daily. 

Imagine having this hidden gem on your doorstep! Cooinda Reserve (sometimes referred to as Dalbeattie Dr Reserve) is a special little spot that makes this Mamma incredibly jealous of the Clarinda locals who get to enjoy it on the daily. 

The only ones that might love this playground more than Mamma’s two year old are the beautiful Rainbow Lorikeets that can be found fleeting from tree to tree, feasting on the native plant life. If you’re as lucky as we were, you might even spot a very stoic Tawny Frogmouth perched in one of the eucalyptus trees which can be found dotted around the perimeter of the play space. 

The playground itself offers such a variety of options for a residential playground of its size. The main play structure houses a generous cubby style alcove on ground level. There is a ladder and climbing net to help little ones up to the large viewing deck, where they can take in the lay of the land and decide what to play on next. With a fireman pole and double slide to slip down, the playground adventure can continue! 

The little tool shed (complete with cute wooden tools attached to the walls) is a big draw card for Mamma’s boy who loves to go around the house “fixing” aka banging doors and walls. 

The playground also includes a spinning cup, swings, seesaw and sandpit, with a picnic table positioned perfectly to be able to watch little legs dart from spot to spot. 

With some grass to kick a soccer ball about and a paved trail perfect for little scooters or trikes, Mamma thinks this is the perfect spot to whittle away a few hours between naps for younger kids or those who enjoy a more laid back style of play.

the nitty gritty

Cooinda Crescent, Clarinda 3169

sand pit - picnic table - drinking fountain - nature play

Mamma's special mentions: If the weather takes a turn, head to Crocs Playcentre in the neighbouring suburb of Clayton

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dales park playground, oakleigh south

This playground screams little kid’s birthday party. It’s fully fenced with undercover BBQ facilities and picnic tables, toilets, drinking fountains and off street parking. Tick, tick, tick! 

This playground screams little kid’s birthday party. It’s fully fenced with undercover BBQ facilities and picnic tables, toilets, drinking fountains and off street parking. Tick, tick, tick! 

There are two main play structures (one for the littlies and one for the big kids) connected by a rope bridge. They have nets to climb, slides to slide down, planks to walk and fireman poles to whirl down. 

Surrounding these two structures are swings, seesaw, ride on spinning top, sandpit complete with wooden teepee and spiders web net with two rope hammocks attached.

The space has been thoughtfully designed with paths leading to each play zone and some bench seating located in the centre (with more found around the BBQ shelter). There are some lovely trees dotted around the perimeter of the playground that may provide shade in years to come but for the moment, Mamma would suggest a liberal slip slop slap before getting there . 

The playground sits behind Dales Park’s massive netball courts where you can often find families kicking the footy or getting some trike/scooter/skate practice in when games are not on - so be sure to pack it all and make a day of it!

the nitty gritty

Washington Drive, Oakleigh South 3167

off street parking - sand pit - picnic table - bbq facilities - toilet - drinking fountain - netball court - fully fenced

Mamma's special mentions: Head to Big Pig Canteen afterwards for some delicious American style BBQ.

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lyle anderson reserve playground, highett

Surrounded by a beautiful rose garden and flanked by dramatic leaf adorned archways at either end, it is easy to forget that Lyle Anderson Reserve playground is nestled between the back end of new build apartments and train tracks. 

Surrounded by a beautiful rose garden and flanked by dramatic leaf adorned archways at either end, it is easy to forget that Lyle Anderson Reserve playground is nestled between the back end of new build apartments and the train tracks. 

This hidden gem is easy to miss, making it even more delightful when you find it. Drive down the gravel road to the off street carpark and try to keep up with the kidlets as they race through the archways to  a small clearing where the train themed playground sits. There is a small locomotive complete with steering wheel and climb through tunnel that will greet you as you enter the playground.

To the left there are traditional and nest swings which sit next to the picnic table and bbq facilities. To the right you will find the main play structure which is designed for little climbers - there is an abseil/rock climbing wall, rope ladder and disc climber which all lead to the big orange spiral slide. But don’t worry grown ups - if you need to follow them up, there are stairs too! 

Since starting prep, Mamma’s 5 year old has mastered and subsequently hyper-fixated on monkey bars and anything monkey bar related so we spent most of our time swinging from bar to bar and zipping across the flying fox. 

For those who need a little peace and quiet, follow the disc stepping stones to the small sandpit. There, you will also find an arch bridge which leads to a hidden alcove, perfect for little ones to conspire or engage in imaginative play. 

Once the kids have finished playing, why not take a quick walk around the small but nicely maintained grounds that the playground sits on - and if the little train enthusiasts are lucky, they’ll be able to see one zip past the perimeter of the reserve! 

the nitty gritty

Highett Grove, Highett 3190

off street parking - sand pit - picnic table - bbq facilities - toilet

Mamma's special mentions: For some indoors fun, head to MoPa (Museum of Play and Art) which is just a short drive down the road.

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pasadena avenue playground, beaumaris

Pasadena Avenue Playground, is everything you want a little residential playground to be. This quaint Beaumaris play space has the magic of a secret garden with all the  classic playground amenities

Pasadena Avenue Playground is everything you want a little residential playground to be. This quaint Beaumaris play space has the magic of a secret garden with all the  classic playground amenities.

The equipment is surrounded by native trees that provide a nice bit of shade, and creates a feeling of seclusion that makes you feel like you have stumbled across a secret little playground in bushland. 

There are three separate play structures to keep the kids happy as well as a couple of swings and the most whimsical fairy ring of toadstools. Mamma’s 2 year old was a big fan of the suspended rubber trampoline and sandpit, complete with digger.

There’s so much packed into this beautiful little spot  that the kid’s won’t want to leave in a hurry. So bring a picnic and take advantage of the reserve’s grassy knoll or picnic table and soak in the surrounds while the little ones play. 

the nitty gritty

10 Pasadena Ave, Beaumaris 3193

sand pit - picnic table - drinking fountain - tree shade

Mamma's special mentions: Head to Ginger Fox, just a few minutes drive away, for some food and coffee.

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east seaford reserve, seaford

The East Seaford Reserve playspace has recently been upgraded and now offers a great little play area - especially for the littler kids with the main play structures aimed for junior adventurers!

Mamma loves a fresh local playground, especially one that has toilets!
The East Seaford Reserve playground has recently been upgraded and now offers a great little play area - especially for the littler kids with the main play structures aimed for junior adventurers!

There’s a great mix of bright colour, blended through with natural wooden elements from the climbing logs, little wooden bench seats and balancing beams.

There’s loads here to keep little hands and legs busy with things to climb, slide, balance, swing and explore. The main structure features multiple slides, small climbing walls, musical instruments, and plenty of tunnels.

There’s also a square climbing frame, see-saw, spinning wheel and nest swing.

There are some seats under the shade of some leafy trees, but most of the equipment isn’t under shade - so slip, slop and slap!

the nitty gritty

100 Austin Rd, Seaford, 3198

toilets - car parking - no shade

Mamma's special mentions: Head down the road and try arguably the tastiest gelato in the south at Gelato Unou!

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carrum foreshore playground, carrum

This gorgeous, seaside playground, with a marine-theme is a perfect all-year-round winner!

This gorgeous marine-themed seaside playground, is a perfect all-year-round winner!

Perfect for the summer days spent at the beach; and for those colder winter months, the vibrant decor is sure to brighten up a dreary day!

Here you'll find a lighthouse with telescope, rock-maze, rocking-boat, swings, slides and as the ground is all sand - one GIANT sand pit!

With bbq facilities available at the playground, a cafe a stones throw away and the beach right next door, what more could you ask for?

the nitty gritty
Old Post Office Lane, Carrum 3197

partially fenced - toilets - BBQ facilities - drinking fountain - picnic tables - partially shaded - paid parking 

Mamma's special mention
Mamma says you have to visit The beach bar Carrum - perfect for the kids with a a kids corner!

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aughtie drive adventure playground, albert park

There just seems to be no end at all to the wooden platforms, turret, bridges, and cubby holes of this intricate adventure playground.

There just seems to be no end at all to the wooden platforms, turret, bridges, and cubby holes of this intricate adventure playground.

The fun here is also endless, with slides, swings, lots of grassy picnic spots, BBQ and nice city views - it'd make a great place for a family gathering. This is a fave for Mamma and the crew on a windy or cold day as it is protected from the elements, there are also good sails to provide sun shelter too.

There is plenty for the BIG kids here and most toddlers will enjoy clambering on the lower parts of the playground - this place is a real marvel and we love it.

the nitty gritty

Aughtie Drive, Albert Park 3206

toilets - lots of car parking - BBQ's - sun shelter

Mamma's special mentions: Once the kids have had enough of playing, head to Bayside Social for some food.

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elsternwick park playground north, brighton

Mamma’s got another fully fenced playground to add to the list! Elsternwick Park Playground (North) is a wonderful little oasis on the Bent Avenue end of the park. 

Mamma’s got another fully fenced playground to add to the list! Elsternwick Park Playground (North) is a wonderful little oasis on the Bent Avenue end of the park. 

If there are little climbing enthusiasts in the family, they will love this playground! On one end, there is the giant rope climbing frame with a nest at the top for little adventurers to take in the view of the surrounding parkland. On the other end is a play structure complete with rock climbing wall, vertical rope tunnel and chute slide. 

For the younger kids, there is a small water play area with a hand wheel pump, low toddler swing, tunneled mounds to explore and musical instruments to thump. 

And once the kids are done on the equipment, why not pull out the  scooters or bikes and follow the paths around the park -  make sure to stop at the small skate park (the perfect size for kids!) and lake where you can look out for the resident turtles. 

the nitty gritty

Bent Avenue, Brighton 3186

fully fenced - BBQ facilities - limited street parking - toilets - water play - walking trail - skate park - pond - picnic tables - drinking fountain - bins

Mamma's special mention:
Head down the road to Popkin’s Artisan Popcorn for a little treat!

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