As a new dad and a lifelong lover of the Margaret River region, my perspective has shifted… Instead of scouting out the latest surf breaks, I now find myself searching for cosy, safe and kid-friendly swimming spots.
Yes, it’s a familiar conundrum for many parents: balancing the love of adventure with the safety and fun of our little tikes.
So, if you’re after the best sheltered and family-friendly rock pools in Margaret River, I’ll share some of the most stunning rock pools and swimming spots that are perfect for families with young kids in the stunning southwest region.
Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, these spots offer the perfect blend of natural beauty and family-friendly fun.
Why Margaret River is Perfect for Family Swimming Adventures
Margaret River isn’t just a haven for surfers and wine lovers; it’s also a fantastic destination for families. The combination of calm rock pools, beautiful coastal scenery, and family-friendly amenities makes it an ideal spot for young children to safely explore and play.
There is seriously so much to do down here to check out — so much coastline to explore — that even long-time locals will find new coastal gems on the regular. While I’m not a local (although with near-weekly trips to Margs, I’d use to consider myself one before my little girl arrived on the scene), these toddler and child-friendly rock pool spots will have any visitor ready to call the Margaret River Region home.
Margaret River’s Best Rock Pools for Kiddos
1. Injidup Natural Spa (Yallingup)
Geez, Dave — first rock pool on the list and it’s not even in Margaret River.
Well, while verbiage may differ for some, the Margeret River region incapsulates a lot of the southwest’s havens, including Yallingup. And the Injidup Natural Spa might easily be one of the most memorable of our list.
A part of the Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park, and hidden among Wyadup Rocks, Injidup promises to be a highlight of your day when you’re visiting Margs (or Yallingup). The incoming swell does create some pretty epic white wash that you and your little ones can enjoy, meaning an eye on the ocean on the other side of the rocks is a must. The rocks are smooth and perfect for a lay down if you get the chance, or if mum needs a place to give bubba a feed. Just note, there ain’t not shade down here.
`The place is accessible via Wyadup Road, parking at Injidup’s carpark and then taking the obvious pathway down where your secluded and stunning rock pool awaits.
2. Prevally Rock Pool
The area between Margaret River Mouth and Surfer’s Point is also home to some lovely rock pools. These spots are less crowded and offer a more secluded experience for families. It’s a great place for kids to enjoy the water in a more peaceful setting.
When you’re headed towards Surfer’s Point, take a right on Rivermouth Road until you see a teardrop carpark on your right. Across the road is a short staircase down to the sand, where you’ll see the Prevally Rock Statue (this is Layla, the sea goddess statue and great granddaughter of the surf god “Huey”). Hang a right, and the most kid-friendly rock pools in Margaret River awaits.
For those hiking the Cape to Cape Track, this neighbours your long walk. You’ll head onwards to Margaret Rivermouth or to Surfer’s Point from here.
3. The Aquarium (Yallingup)
For families happy to add a short walk to their swim, The Aquarium near Yallingup is a standout. Reached via the Cape to Cape track, this naturally enclosed lagoon feels like a hidden reward at the end of the trail. Surrounded by rock shelves, the water is often calm and exceptionally clear, making it one of the most visually impressive rock pool–style swims in the Margaret River region.
It’s better suited to confident toddlers and older kids rather than babies, as the water is deeper than most rock pools. On calm days, though, it’s ideal for gentle floating, paddling and even beginner snorkelling with close supervision. There’s no shade or facilities, so it’s best visited with a bit of planning — but when conditions are right, it’s a beautiful place to slow down and enjoy the ocean together.
If you’re up for turning the legs over (and have time on your hands to do it), there are some amazing trail runs right by The Aquarium. We’ve made a list of the best hidden running trails in the Margaret River here.
4. Surfer’s Point
While Margs’s main break is known for its surf, a low tide reveals beautiful, family-friendly rock pools at the foot of Surfer’s Point. The contrast of heavy surf way out the back and calm, toe-dip-friendly waters in the foreground makes one of the most iconic oceanic sites in Margaret River that much enjoyable — for you, and your littles ones.
Parking is in abundance at the top of the set of stairs that leads down to the beach. It cops the onshore breeze, so a pre-midday visit is likely the way to go.
If you’re as lucky as I was, you’ll have a partner who spotted you glimpsing the surf one too many times and gave the approving nod to head out for a paddle at Surfer’s Point.
Safety Tips for Exploring Rock Pools with Kids
Yes, these spots are kid-friendly. But any activity near the ocean needs absolute vigilance. The Indian Ocean carries with it swell that has journeyed a long, long way to find a shore to break on. Even if the seas appear calm, don’t be fooled into thinking rogue sets are impossible. Keep an eye out on the ocean as much as you keep an eye out on your little one.
And as town is a good ways away from these pools, it’s wise to pack even a small first aid kit. Clue up on the local nasties, like stingers and coral which can leave their mark on your bubs. While it’s rare to come across anything deadly, it’s never nice spending a day in the sun with a stinger rash or coral cut.
Lastly, bring some shelter. None of these beaches have any shade to boast about (except maybe alongside one of the boulders on the shore, depending on the position of the sun).
Best Times to Visit Margaret River Rock Pools
The best time to visit is during low tide, when the pools are calm and safe for kids. Summer and early autumn tend to offer the warmest weather and the most inviting conditions for family hangs.
As a new-ish dad, watching my little girl splash about the rock pools in Margaret River is one of the most fulfilling experiences as an ocean loving papa. She’s more adventurous down here than at home, seemingly connecting with the seaside and all its goodies. Shells, sand and seaweed all find their way back to the car, but as do the big old smiles on her and her parents’ faces after a morning or arvo down at one of these rock pools.
IA family hang at a rock pool doesn’t get the heart pumping as much as a session at Margaret River main break. Or actually… maybe it does.
Enjoy, Mum and Dad!
