Activities for kids on the North Shore
Wondering what to do with kids on Sydney’s North Shore? The North Shore is packed with family-friendly activities that don’t require long drives or big budgets.
So, whether you’re looking for something to do during the week, this weekend, or in the school holidays… here are some of the best activities for kids on Sydney’s North Shore that keep locals coming back.
Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo in Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088.
Best for: Ages 2 to 12+, animal and nature lovers
Area: Mosman
Time needed: Half day to full day
Visit Taronga Zoo here (buy tickets online and save up to 20%).
With its iconic views of the city and Sydney’s spectacular harbour, Taronga Zoo is a unique place, and its the perfect weekend or school holiday activity for the kids.
Kids can:
Watch keeper talks and animal feeds
Walk through immersive exhibits like Tiger Trek
Visit the farmyard animals (great for younger kids)
Ride the Sky Safari cable car (when operating)
Why parents love it:
Toilets, cafés and shaded rest areas are everywhere
Pram-friendly paths
Easy to combine with a picnic at the nearby parks and beaches (we recommend Sirius Cove Reserve)
Balmoral Beach and Playground
Balmoral Beach, Mosman NSW 2088.
Best for: Toddlers to primary school-aged kids
Area: Mosman
Time needed: 2 to 4 hours (or full day)
Balmoral Beach and its surrounding parks, grassy areas, cafes, restaurants and playgrounds make this spot one of the most reliable places if you’re looking for free things to do in Mosman with your kids.
Kids can:
Swim safely in the calm, shallow water
Build sandcastles
Play at the Balmoral playground behind the beach (on the right side)
Play a ball game, run around, or cycle at Balmoral Oval
Ride scooters or walk along the promenade
Why parents love it:
Calm, safe water with no waves
Plenty of toilets, baby change rooms and cafés nearby
Shaded grass areas for picnics
Maccallum Seawater Pool
Maccallum Seawater Pool, Milson Rd, Cremorne Point NSW 2090. Image is only a representation.
Best for: Confident swimmers, primary school kids, teens
Area: Cremorne Point (Lower North Shore)
Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Maccallum Seawater Pool is a beautiful harbour-side pool on Cremorne Point. It’s a great option for families wanting a swim without the waves.
Kids can:
Swim in calm, protected seawater
Practice swimming in a quieter environment
Float and play safely within the enclosed pool
Watch the ferries and boats pass by Sydney Harbour
Explore the nature and views of Cremorne Reserve (before or after a swim)
Why parents love it:
No waves or strong currents
Fully enclosed pool area
Typically less crowded than popular beaches (especially on a weekday)
Beautiful harbour views
Easy to combine with a walk (to get some exercise) or a chill picnic at Cremorne Point
Luna Park
Luna Park in Sydney, Milsons Point NSW 2061.
Best for: Toddlers, primary school kids, teens
Area: Milsons Point (Lower North Shore)
Time needed: 2 to 4 hours (or longer for older kids)
Visit Luna Park here.
Luna Park is one of the most iconic activities for kids on Sydney’s North Shore, with harbour views, classic rides and a fun carnival atmosphere that kids are almost guaranteed to love.
Kids can:
Go on classic carnival rides like the Carousel and Ferris Wheel
Enjoy thrill rides such as the Wild Mouse and Dodgem Cars (for older kids)
Play sideshow games and win prizes
Eat fairy floss, popcorn and ice cream (while parents enjoy the harbour view)
Walk along the harbour foreshore and watch the many ferries and boats drift by
Take photos under the iconic Luna Park entrance
Why parents love it:
Flat paths for prams
Easy access to toilets and food
Clear ride height rules and safety
Lots of places to stop and rest
Vitaland Kids Cafe St Leonards
Vitaland Kids Cafe at 500 Pacific Hwy, St Leonards NSW 2065. Image is only a representation.
Best for: Toddlers and preschoolers (ages 0 - 6)
Area: St Leonards (Lower North Shore)
Time needed: 1.5 to 3 hours
Visit the kids cafe here.
This kids cafe is one of the easiest indoor activities for young kids on the North Shore, especially on rainy days, with younger kids, or when you want a more contained, stress-free family outing.
It’s an indoor play space combined with a café, designed so kids can play freely while parents relax nearby.
Kids can:
Play on indoor climbing structures and soft play equipment
Slide, crawl and explore age-appropriate play zones
Enjoy awesome ball pits and imaginative play areas
Have fun with the small indoor toys
Socialise with other kids in a safe, enclosed environment
Why parents love it:
Fully enclosed and secure play space
Great for rainy days or hot afternoons
On-site café with coffee, snacks and kids’ meals
Comfortable seating with clear views of the play areas
Easy access to toilets and baby change facilities
