Published on
December 6, 2025
Lavender Estate in Yanchep, just a short drive from Perth, is one of Western Australia’s most scenic and family-friendly destinations. It is the region’s largest lavender farm, providing an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The estate spans 26 acres and features 44 rows of lavender that stretch 300 metres, making it a welcoming sight for visitors of all ages.
When you arrive at Lavender Estate, the first thing you notice is the relaxing fragrance of lavender in the air. This serene environment is ideal for families who want to connect with nature, enjoy outdoor spaces, and benefit from the lavender plants’ soothing properties. The vast lavender fields invite visitors to wander through their rows, enjoying the gentle sway of the plants in the breeze, as well as ample opportunities for beautiful family photos.
The estate is more than just lavender; it offers a complete family experience. There is a lovely café where visitors can unwind and enjoy a variety of lavender-infused treats, including scones, tea, and ice cream. The café’s tranquil atmosphere allows families to relax after a leisurely stroll through the fields, making it an ideal location for a meal or snack.
Lavender Estate provides a large lawn and a children’s play area. While parents enjoy the picturesque surroundings, their children can play freely in a safe and open environment. The family-friendly environment allows visitors of all ages to enjoy the lavender experience.
Lavender Estate also has a boutique gift shop where visitors can purchase lavender products ranging from essential oils and skincare to teas and culinary herbs. These items allow visitors to take home a piece of the farm’s tranquilly, making it an ideal destination for souvenirs.
The fields are most vibrant during the peak lavender blooming season, which lasts from December to February, attracting visitors from all over. The purple hues that cover the estate at this time create an almost magical atmosphere, making it a must-see for anyone in the area looking for a relaxing and memorable family outing.
Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre: Wildlife Adventure for Families
While Lavender Estate offers a peaceful retreat, Perth’s wildlife trails, such as the Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre, provide an exciting and educational experience for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Located about 45 minutes from Perth, the Kaarakin Centre is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of endangered black cockatoos.
Kaarakin is situated in the heart of Banyowla Regional Park, a natural reserve that spans over 400 hectares of bushland. It is home to a diverse range of native species, including kangaroos, emus, dingoes, and various birds, making it an ideal destination for families with children who are eager to see wildlife up close.
One of the key attractions at Kaarakin is the opportunity to see and interact with the iconic black cockatoos. These large, striking birds are a symbol of the region, but they have been threatened by habitat destruction and illegal trapping. Visitors to Kaarakin are not only able to view these magnificent creatures up close, but they can also participate in feeding sessions, where they are given the chance to feed the birds, watch their unique behaviour, and learn about their endangered status.
In addition to the cockatoos, the conservation centre features other native Australian animals, including kangaroos, emus, and dingoes. Families can take a guided tour of the centre, where they will learn about wildlife conservation efforts and the importance of preserving these species for future generations. The tours are educational and engaging, making them perfect for children, who are often fascinated by the animals and their natural behaviours.
The tours also include a scenic 3-kilometre hike through Banyowla Regional Park, where visitors can enjoy the peaceful bushland, observe local flora and fauna, and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscapes. The trail is gentle, making it accessible for families with young children, and provides a great opportunity to connect with the natural beauty of Western Australia.
At Kaarakin, visitors can also gain insight into the ongoing efforts to rehabilitate and release injured and orphaned animals. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales goes directly towards supporting these vital conservation programmes, so every visit contributes to the protection of the region’s wildlife. This connection between visitors and the centre’s work makes the experience not only enjoyable but meaningful.
A Perfect Family Itinerary: Lavender Fields and Wildlife Encounters
For families planning a getaway to Perth, a combination of lavender farm visits and wildlife experiences offers a balanced and enriching itinerary. Here’s how a family-friendly trip could be structured over two days:
Day 1 – Lavender Estate and its Charm:
Start the day with a visit to Lavender Estate, where the entire family can enjoy the calm beauty of the lavender fields. Take a leisurely walk through the rows of lavender, watch the distillation process, and relax in the café while enjoying lavender-flavoured treats. The children can play in the designated play area, and parents can unwind amidst the serene surroundings. After a few hours, head to the gift shop for a special lavender souvenir to remember the day.
Day 2 – Kaarakin Wildlife Adventure:
On the second day, head to the Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre for a wildlife-filled adventure. Join a guided tour of the centre, interact with the cockatoos, and watch the kangaroos and emus in their natural habitat. Enjoy the easy bushwalk through Banyowla Regional Park, where the family can explore the local flora and fauna. The tour will be both educational and fun, providing valuable insights into wildlife conservation efforts and the importance of protecting Australia’s unique species.
For those with more time, Perth’s other parks and nature reserves, such as Yellagonga Regional Park or Herdsman Lake, provide further opportunities for birdwatching and nature walks. These spots offer a more relaxed pace, perfect for winding down after two days of adventure.
Why These Attractions are Perfect for Families
Lavender Estate and Kaarakin offer something special for every member of the family. The lavender farm provides a calm and beautiful environment that is ideal for younger children to explore freely, while the wildlife conservation centre offers engaging and educational experiences for older kids and adults. Both locations are easily accessible from Perth, making them perfect for a quick getaway without the stress of long drives.
Moreover, these destinations allow families to reconnect with nature in an educational and entertaining way. At Lavender Estate, the emphasis is on relaxation and sensory enjoyment, while at Kaarakin, the focus is on learning about conservation and endangered species. Together, they offer a well-rounded, memorable experience for families visiting Perth.
Embrace Perth’s Family-Friendly Nature Escapes
Perth may be known for its vibrant city life, but the surrounding natural attractions, such as the Lavender Estate and the Kaarakin Conservation Centre, provide a welcome contrast. These destinations offer the perfect combination of relaxation, wildlife encounters, and educational opportunities, making them ideal for family vacations.
Families looking for a mix of nature, wildlife, and peaceful escapes will find that Perth’s lavender fields and wildlife trails are among the best hidden gems in Western Australia. Whether it’s the sweet aroma of lavender or the excitement of spotting native wildlife, these experiences are sure to leave a lasting impression on families of all ages.
