north road foreshore playground, brighton
North Road Foreshore Playground has it all - the beach, water play, a beautiful city view and coffee, just a stone's throw away.
North Road Foreshore Playground has it all - the beach, water play, a beautiful city view and coffee, just a stone's throw away.
This seaside playground has a giant pirate ship at its heart, complete with slide, climbing nets and balance beams. The little ones happily sailed the seven seas while Mamma got to nurse a coffee from the nearby cafe.
Surrounding the ship are several in-ground trampolines, a spinning cup and nest swing for those who want to get the adrenaline pumping.
By the shaded sandpit, lies a small water play area, activated by the adjacent log seesaw so be sure to bring bathers or a change of clothes!
the nitty gritty
water play - toilet facilities - picnic tables - some paid parking- some sheltered areas - cafe across the road
Mamma's special mention:
Of course you can’t go past Brighton Beach for some more fun; but there’s also Dendy Park playground if you want to keep the playtime going.
dablam street playground, clyde north
Dablam Street Playground in Clyde North, is a fresh playground with something the whole family will enjoy - even the furry ones!
Stage 32 District Park
Here’s a fresh playground with something the whole family will enjoy - even the furry ones!
This park spreads out over 2.5 hectares and features a full size basketball/sports court, pump track, grassy area for ball sports plus a playground boasting two HUGE slides, high rope net climbs, swings, rocking emu, seesaw and a teepee.
There’s a path criss-crossing around the playground, so if the little ones aren’t too keen on the pump track, they can scoot around the path instead.
There are multiple undercover picnic tables, BBQs and toilets - so it is the perfect spot to bring a picnic and enjoy the day.
There is also an adjoining fenced off-leash dog park so the doggos don’t miss out on the fun either!
the nitty gritty
Cnr Portobello Bvd and Dablam Street, Clyde North 3978
undercover BBQ facilities - limited street parking - toilets - picnic tables - pump track - full basketball court - limited playground shade - fenced off leash dog park
Mamma’s special mention
There are SO many playgrounds in Clyde - Check out all of the CLYDE PLAYGROUNDS here
hurlingham park playground, brighton east
With a main wooden climbing structure (complete with turrets!) at its heart, Brighton East's Hurlingham Park offers up all the playground classics that kids love.
Mamma loves a good residential playground and Hurlingham park is a GREAT one.
With a main wooden climbing structure (complete with turrets!) at its heart, Hurlingham offers up all the playground classics that kids love.
There are slides, swings and monkey bars for the traditionalists and a flying fox, climbing wall and 4-way seesaw for those who want to get the blood pumping a bit more.
The playground doesn’t just cater to the kids’ needs though. With a dedicated carpark, ample benches for sitting and shade sails over most of the play spaces - this mamma was one happy camper!
It is worth noting however, that the playground includes a few chain link bridges and climbing ladders more appropriate for older kids so a little bit of hovering was involved when mamma’s 2 year old was let loose.
Right next to the playground is a fully fenced oval and undercover bbq area so the bring the four legged family members along as well and make an afternoon of it.
the nitty gritty
Nepean Highway, Brighton East, 3187
BBQ facilities - shaded - off street parking - fully fenced oval - toilet facilities across the oval- picnic tables - some undercover picnic area - lots of trees - bins - drinking fountain
Mamma’s special mention
All that play will make you hungry! Head up the road to the deliciousDolce House for some sweet treats.
heatherton 'troll' park, clayton south
For years now, Clayton South’s Heatherton park playground aka “Troll Park”, has been guarded by two towering trolls who, to this Mamma’s relief, permitted an afternoon of playground fun… toll free!
For years now, Clayton South’s Heatherton park playground aka “Troll Park”, has been guarded by two towering trolls who, to this Mamma’s relief, permitted an afternoon of playground fun… toll free!
Whether the kids are sliding through the mouth of an angry looking three tongued troll, balancing on a troll foot spring or traipsing the traditional playground equipment adorned with toothy troll smiles, it’s pretty obvious how this playground got its nickname.
There are a multitude of slides for sliding, multiple swings for swinging, two equipment structures for climbing and exploring and a giant wooden hut for hiding from hungry trolls. And once the kids have vanquished those pesky beasts, why not explore the rest of the park?
Since the playground is part of the greater Heatherton Park, it’s the perfect place to bring the scooters or bikes along. Follow the footpath through the sensory wrought iron walkway (adorned with various bits and pieces to clang, clash and bash) and you will find vast open areas of grass, perfect for running off that extra kid energy.
Mamma’s hot tip - though there is some shade available from the park’s beautiful towering trees and undercover bbq/picnic area, the playground itself offers little respite from the sun so be sure to slip slop slap before getting there!
the nitty gritty
1 Ireland Rd, Clayton South 3169
undercover picnic tables and bbq facilities - walking track - toilets - limited on street parking - basketball court - open green spaces
Mamma's special mention
Once the kids have had their fill of the outdoors, why not sample some of the cutest cakes in town over at The 1985 Kafe, just a few minutes drive down the road.
ballam park, frankston
What could be better than one adventure packed park? Two of them, of course!
What could be better than one adventure packed park? How about a huge park that is home to three different playgrounds?!
If you haven't been to Ballam Park before, you are seriously missing out! Especially now, as it has recently undergone an upgrade!
The park consists of three separate play areas at opposite ends of the park.
On the Western side you will find the adventure park - perfect for the older kids.
There's a skate park- packed with small hills and bumps, climbing wall, parkour area, basketball court, in-ground mini trampolines, zip-line - and all the usual suspects like swings, tunnels and the widest slide you have ever seen!
On the Eastern side is the new nature reserve play space. With a separate undercover shelter and BBQ, offering climbing ropes and nets, sculptures and balancing poles, it is a great space for kids who may be a bit overstimulated at the other area.
And then there’s the Water Play Park! There are dozens of water fountains that rotate in height and strength, ensuring that kids of all ages can enjoy running through - or simply standing -underneath the streams of water.
This is one park you will want to stay at for hours!
the nitty gritty
260R Cranbourne Rd,
Frankston
BBQ facilities
toilets - mostly fenced in
picnic tables - some under cover
- free parking
- basketball court
- climbing wall
mamma’s special mention: While you’re here - check out the WATER PLAY PARK too!
whistlestop reserve playground, frankston
Choo-choo! That’s the sound of a new upgraded playground coming through! Mamma LOVES an upgraded playground- especially when it is as cute as the new Whistlestop Reserve Playground in Frankston!
Choo-choo! That’s the sound of a new upgraded playground coming through! Mamma LOVES an upgraded playground - especially when it is as cute as the new Whistlestop Reserve Playground in Frankston!
Back in the 60s, this reserve used to be the home to an amusement park! Yep, right here in Frankston you could have a ride on a train, go karts, merry go round, chairlift, there was even pedal boats on a large lake with an island!
So here they have given a nod the reserve’s history, with the main attraction being the wobbly Whistlestop replica train carriage! Jump on board - quite literally as you will rock side to side in the carriage or walk along the suspension bridge to sit in the back. Mamma’s little one couldn’t get enough of the wobbly fun!
There’s also a great play structure showcasing multiple slides, a play shop, stepping beams, monkey bar and multiple swings.
With smooth paths weaving around the play equipment, it’s perfect for little bikes and scooters. Bring your basketball and enjoy the half court or a soccer ball to make use of the huge grassy space and, of course, bring a picnic to eat under the shade of one of those beautiful trees - or cook a snag on the BBQ!
There are still plans to upgrade this reserve even further over the next few months; including historical artwork, more concrete paths and landscaping.
It’s a great little playground - especially for the train lovers!
the nitty gritty
16 Dalpura Circuit, Frankston 3199
BBQ - basketball court - shaded play - undercover picnic table - no toilets
Mamma's special mention:
Keep the fun times rolling and head down the road to McClelland Sculpture Park
warawee park playground, oakleigh
Just off the main strip of Oakleigh’s bustling dining scene, is the quaint little Warrawee Park Playground. Boasting multiple play structures, an all abilities carousel, trampoline and mini maze - there is plenty to entertain a multitude of ages and interests.
Just off the main strip of Oakleigh’s bustling dining scene, is the quaint little Warrawee Park Playground. Boasting multiple play structures, an all abilities carousel, trampoline and mini maze - there is plenty to entertain a multitude of ages and interests.
There is a path that winds around the playground with painted lines which can be followed to the different attractions dotted around the park such as the colourful cubby, rock climbing wall and swings.
Like a moth to a flame, mamma’s five year old was captivated by the in-ground trampoline, but the extra wide slide was also a major hit as it meant being able to go down side by side with mister mamma.
The little maze structure, complete with chimes, fun house mirror and wheel wall, kept mamma’s little boy happily occupied intermittently throughout his hunt to find the “perfect” stick.
So grab a coffee from one of the many surrounding cafes and let the kiddos run off some of that seemingly limitless steam.
the nitty gritty
undercover picnic tables and bbq facilities - walking track - toilets - on street parking
Mamma's special mention:
Head to The Oakleigh Doughnut Co after to get those blood sugar levels back up.
evelyn street playground, clayton
Mamma did not ANTicipate such a lovely little playground in the middle of residential Clayton. With an overt ant theme that runs throughout the space, Evelyn Street Playground caters to a wide range of age groups and interests.
Mamma did not ANTicipate such a lovely little playground in the middle of residential Clayton. With an overt ant theme that runs throughout the space, Evelyn Street Playground caters to a wide range of age groups and interests.
There are two defined play structures (a worker ant for the littlies and bull ant for bigger kids) as well as a ride on car, tandem swing and balance beam for those who want to get their blood pumping.
For the children that prefer to take it a bit slower, there are multiple play panels and tables dotted around the periphery of the playground which is partially fenced and bordered with simple landscaping.
While the nest swing and tunnel were firm favourites amongst the kids, it was the 5 minutes of peaceful playing by the tic tac toe play panel that mamma loved watching the most.
This thoughtfully designed play space has equipment that encourages both solo and social play as well as active and mindful play. With a bit of everything for every interest and mood, this little gem has big park energy.
the nitty gritty
picnic tables - limited shade - partially fenced - animal theme - no toilets
Mamma's special mention:
Once you’ve worked up an appetite and thirst, take the short drive down the road to Two Rupees Brewing Company.
monterey community playground, frankston north
Monterey Community playground in Frankston North has a basketball court, a BBQ and shaded picnic tables, some quirky animal statues AND a toilet - the perfect recipe for a fun day of play!
Playgrounds don’t have to be all shiny and new in order for some good old fashioned play time! You just need some fun equipment including climbing structures, slides, swings - some large open grassy space, and some shaded picnic tables to have a good time!
Monterey Community playground in Frankston North has all of this - PLUS throw in a basketball court, a BBQ, some quirky animal statues AND a toilet - and you have the perfect recipe for a fun day of play!
The colourful equipment might not be the newest on the block, but the little ones will still love climbing through tunnels, playing shops, sliding down multiple slides and begging to be pushed some more on the swingset!
Mamma’s crew particularly love the wide open space to kick the footy and roll down hills and the basketball court too! Don’t forget your scooter or skateboard to do some tricks on the skate ramps! Bring a picnic lunch, a ball or two and you have the fun times sorted!
the nitty gritty
14N Monterey Blvd, Frankston North, 3200
BBQ- picnic tables - basketball court - toilets - drinking fountain - skate park
Mamma's special mention:
Grab a meal down the road at Dainton Brewery Taphouse
karkarook park, heatherton
Karkarook park playground has had a makeover and she is looking LOVELY! With its green and brown colour scheme, the revamped equipment beautifully blends into the natural surroundings of the parkland it sits on. The new play space has all the classics including slides, swings, climbing nets, monkey bars and bridge - there’s even a community library and book exchange box too!
Karkarook park playground has had a makeover and she is looking LOVELY! With its green and brown colour scheme, the revamped equipment beautifully blends into the natural surroundings of the parkland it sits on.
The new play space has all the classics including slides, swings, climbing nets, monkey bars and bridge - there’s even a community library and book exchange box too!
It’s easy to spend the good part of a day here, with Karkarook’s many walking trails, observation deck, bbq facilities and lake (byo fishing rod and kayak… no seriously!).
Mamma suggests heading to the Dragonfly carpark right off Fairchild st for proximity to the playground and picnic/bbq areas. Keep in mind there are no bins available on site as Karkarook has a “carry in carry out” rubbish policy, so make sure to bring a bag or two.
the nitty gritty
4 Fairchild st, Heatherton 3202
undercover bbq facilities and picnic tables - off street parking - toilets - walking trails - lake
Mamma's special mention:
Worked up an appetite? Head to Penny for Pound for some delicious pastries and coffee!
talbot park playspace, oakleigh south
Sail the seven seas aboard Talbot Park playground’s very own pirate ship or glide through the air on the reserve’s brand new flying fox. With ample ropes to climb, towers to explore, large tunnel slide and multiple swings to choose from, this mamma’s kids had to be lured back to the car with cheese sticks and sultanas.
Mamma loves a good playground transformation and Oakleigh South’s Talbot Park Playspace is no exception. After two and a half years of public consultation, planning and designing, this new playground has everything little hearts could desire.
Sail the seven seas aboard Talbot Park’s very own pirate ship or glide through the air on the reserve’s brand new flying fox. With ample ropes to climb, towers to explore, large tunnel slide and multiple swings to choose from, this mamma’s kids had to be lured back to the car with cheese sticks and sultanas.
With a strong focus on complimenting the newly established landscaping, most of the equipment is wood based with splashes of neutral grey which beautifully highlight the gorgeous native trees that surround the reserve.
18th century ball game lovers should follow the path past the nest swing, beyond the flying fox and across the old toilet block, to find two bocce courts (aka stretches of compressed sand for the kids to roll around in) which are due to be upgraded in the coming months.
There is some shade cover over the pirate ship and newly renovated picnic table/bbq area but other than that the playspace is very much open to the elements, as is the rest of the reserve.
Though fully fenced (and gated) from the main road, mamma’s need to be mindful that little legs are still able to gain easy access to the reserve’s carpark which sits conveniently next to the playground.
the nitty gritty
2 Coonil St, Oakleigh South 3167
bbbq- undercover picnic tables - bocce courts - toilets - limited shade - drinking fountain - botanic gardens - fully fenced
Mamma's special mention:
If you’re ready for a sit down but the kids still have some energy to run off, head to the neighbouring suburb of Oakleigh and visit Honeyccino Kids Cafe!
sir william fry reserve playground, highett
Set amongst the rolling hills, lake (with swans and ducks!) and walking trails of picturesque Sir William Fry Reserve, it’s hard to believe that this gem of a playground is situated off a major highway.
Set amongst the rolling hills, lake (with swans and ducks!) and walking trails of picturesque Sir William Fry Reserve, it’s hard to believe that this gem of a playground is situated off a major highway.
There is plenty to keep the little ones busy, with two seperate play structures with toddler friendly equipment at both, a large dual metal slide, swings and a sandpit (equipped with digger).
Though there is some shade around the perimeters of the playground thanks to the many trees and undercover bbq facilities, the equipment itself is very much exposed to the elements so don’t forget to pack the sunscreen and hats!
With large expanses of open grass as well as a number of walking trails, this is the perfect place to bring the scooter or a ball to kick about once the kids are done at the playground.
the nitty gritty
bbq facilities - picnic tables - toilets - off street parking - partial shade - skate park - rebound wall - lake - drinking fountain- walking trails - open grass
Mamma's special mention:
Once you’ve had your fill of the outdoors, head across the road to Southland and catch a movie at Vjunior cinema!
roth hetherington gardens playground, keysborough
Nestled in the middle of the tranquil Roth Hetherington Reserve, this playground feels like a child’s oasis amongst the native botanical gardens.
Nestled in the middle of the tranquil Roth Hetherington Reserve, this playground feels like a child’s oasis amongst the native botanical gardens.
Though not fenced, this little gem is far away from any roads and feels completely safe - even better? The undercover bbq and modern toilet block (including change table) are all but a few steps away!
Decked out with a number of playground classics, a massive highlight was the musical instrument equipment that got a walloping from both sets of little hands.
Mamma’s kidlets also loved exploring the reserve itself, with huge garden beds featuring local flora from each state and territory, a bridge “to fight trolls on” and hidden trails to discover and get lost in. If you’ve got some keen little bird watchers in the family, look out for the Tawny Frogmouths that frequent the area.
the nitty gritty
6 Woollahra Ave, Keysborough 3173
Undercover bbq - picnic tables - toilets with change table - limited shade - drinking fountain - botanic gardens
Mamma's special mention:
Once you’ve finished exploring, why not head to Dandenong Market for some fresh produce and hot jam donuts!
cameron avenue & progress park reserve playground, oakleigh south
Mamma can’t go past a good deal and two playgrounds for the price of one is as good as it gets.
Mamma can’t go past a good deal and two playgrounds for the price of one is as good as it gets.
Cameron Avenue and Progress Park Reserve playgrounds are a feast for the eyes, with brilliant pops of pink and yellow that carry across both spaces for the dopamine hit this mamma needed after a *very* early morning. If Pinterest designed a playground - this would be it.
On one side of of the street you have the “big kids” Cameron Avenue playground which includes a tunnel slide, monkey bar frame, rock climbing wall, nest swing, multiple rope structures and it’s very own scooter/bike loop for the little adrenaline junky in the family.
On the other side you have the Progress Park playground which is a more traditional but equally beautiful play space with equipment that is more accessible to the smaller kiddies with swings, a couple of slides and a “merry-go-roundesque” inclusive carousel.
There are undercover picnic tables at both playgrounds but if you are looking to fry up a couple of snags for the fam, the Cameron Avenue Reserve is where it’s at.
the nitty gritty
1-7 Cameron Avenue, Oakleigh South
BBQ facilities - picnic tables - street parking - limited shade - scooter loop - drinking fountain
Mamma's special mention:
Kaiju Cantina is a stones throw away on the other side of the golf course and make a mean pizza!
auburn grove playground, botanic ridge
This gorgeous little play space is just perfect for imaginations to run wild, and a haven for kids who get overstimulated at the larger playgrounds.
This gorgeous little play space is just perfect for imaginations to run wild, and a haven for kids who get overstimulated at the larger playgrounds.
Mamma’s Little Miss thinks the playground is based from the perspective of an ant, as you wander amongst giant toadstools, try to climb up mushrooms, cuddle frogs, walk along caterpillars and hide in acorn cubbies!
Whilst there aren’t any swings or slides here, kids will still enjoy trying to balance on beams, climb up rock poles and use their imaginations in some nature play.
the nitty gritty
4 Auburn Grove, Botanic Ridge 3977
nature play elements - no toilets - some street parking
Mamma's special mention:
After a play head to Vue Bar and Restaurant for a yummy meal!
sandfield reserve, carrum downs
Here’s a reserve with everything! Huge multi-court, skate park, parkour and TWO fully FENCED playgrounds!
Here’s a great reserve that has something the whole family will enjoy!
Sandfield Reserve in Carrum Downs is a brand new colourful youth space, that boasts a full size multi sports court- basketball, netball, there’s even cricket stumps painted on the rebound wall which also doubles as a rock-climbing wall, a parkour area and an updated skate park. Not to mention great wall art as well!
And for the littlies, just off from the court area, there are twoTWO separate FENCED playgrounds! Both offer plenty to keep the little ones climbing, swinging, sliding and flying! One has smaller slides and play equipment for the littler ones.
Even the fur babies are covered here, with a fenced dog park complete with obedience training equipment and a time-out area for overstimulated pups!
There’s also heaps of grass area to kick a footy or set up a picnic. It’s the perfect spot to spend a few hours with the family - except there are no toilets - so make sure you factor that into your play!
the nitty gritty
Sandfield Reserve, 49R Sandfield Dr, Carrum Downs, 3201
basketball court - rock climbing wall - fully fenced playgrounds - skate park - some shaded seats - free street parking
Mamma's special mention:
After all that play you will need to refuel at the nearby family friendly Dainton Brewery Taphouse
rosebud jetty foreshore playspace, rosebud
This little gem will become one of your favourite playgrounds, if it isn’t already!
This little hidden gem will become one of your favourite playgrounds, if it isn’t already! Tucked in beside the jetty and amongst the bushes, you might not even notice it as you drive past - so keep your eyes open!
Here there are three great slides - one steep and FAST, with the most amazing view, and two smaller slides. The slides might be stainless steel, but being brushed they aren’t too hot, however, still best to time a morning play for this one in summer.
There’s also a flying fox, swings, round about, plenty of nature play and a spectacular view of the water!
There are lots of ways to climb to the top of the steep hills - ropes, ant hills and stairs plus there are heaps of natural elements around the space as well- tree stump balancing trails, pebbles and spaces for a bush cubbies too.
There’s a bike path running parallel with the water, shaded picnic tables, toilets and, of course, Rosebud Pier is right there, too!
the nitty gritty
public toilets - beach nearby - BBQs- picnic shelters - water fountain - some shade - small carpark
Mamma's special mention:
Hungry? Just up the road you can get some spectacular bagels from NYC Bagels.
cardinia community playground, pakenham
Mamma LOVES this AMAZING community playground!
Mamma LOVES this community playground! The Cardinia Community Playground in Pakenham, (also known as PB Ronald Reserve) is based on a classic wooden framed play space with heaps of twists and turns and things to climb over.
A giant semi-trailer and wooden castle stand tall. Just not quite as tall as the MASSIVE triple slide tower! This epic slide is one of the tallest we have seen and it has been confirmed by a pint sized park-tester, one of the fastest as well!
When you think it couldn’t get any better, there’s also a junior playground shaped as a boat with shade sails, inbuilt trampolines, and possibly the coolest traffic playground around. The simple track is ideal for preschoolers learning about the left and right sides of the road. Alongside the trail is your community buildings too. Mamma can see plenty of imaginary play at the shops, the bank and at the ice-cream van!
the nitty gritty
PB Reserve,
John Street, Pakenham
shade sails - partially fenced - playing fields nearby - library near by - skate park - BBQs - sheltered picnic areas - drinking fountain - toilets - outdoor swimming pool next door
Mamma’s special mention: Keep the fun times going and head to the family friendly Drop Bear Escape Rooms
phoenix park, malvern
Surrounded by beautiful large trees and with so much to do, it’s a place you can play the day away.
Mamma LOVES this beautiful wooden playground!
Phoenix Park in Malvern is surrounded by stunning large trees and with so much to do, it’s a place you can play the day away.
Not only is there a mostly fenced in wooden fortress playground; complete with multiple swings of different varieties, slides, steering wheels, musical charms, and cute little paintings spread throughout - there’s also a library, community centre AND a cafe!
Oh and a HEAP of open grassy space with skate ramps, too!
This place has such a warm community feel to it, and that may be due to all the hard work the many volunteers put into making this park so great. Each fence paling has the name of families who helped in the production, which is a lovely local touch.
So pack a picnic, bring a BBQ or dine in at the cafe and settle in for a day of play!
the nitty gritty
picnic tables - BBQ facilities - free parking- toilet facilities - skate ramp - cafe on site - library onsite
Mamma's special mention:
Hungry or need a drink break? Lucky there is Phoenix Park Cafe onsite!
edithvale recreation reserve, edithvale
The colourful Edithvale Recreation Reserve Playground is a little shot of happiness in suburbia.
The colourful Edithvale Recreation Reserve Playground is a little shot of happiness in suburbia.
There’s plenty there to entertain a variety of ages. The heart of the playground is its large wooden structure with multiple slides, rock climbing wall and double story rope nets. There’s also a seesaw, swings, spinning cup and a cute sandpit complete with digger and toadstools that keeps Mamma’s two very happy the entire time.
Families can enjoy the undercover BBQ facilities just next to the playground, but it is worth noting that the bathrooms are all the way on the other side of the reserve, so mamma recommends planning toilet breaks in advance.
the nitty gritty
The nitty gritty
BBQ facilities - picnic tables - off street parking - toilets far away
Mamma’s special mention: Treat the family to some ice team down at Sunset Scoops afterwards!
