Hobart with toddlers and under-5s
This is a gentle, low-cost day in Hobart with toddlers and under-5s. Clarence Aquatic Centre in Montagu Bay is the closest, at 3.3 km from the centre. Little Howrah Beach is 6.4 km out and Fern Tree Park is 7.1 km out. Fern Tree Park and the beach are free, and the pool charges a small entry fee. All three suit kids from about 2.
Play at the park in the morning and swim at the pool before lunch, then end at the beach. Pool hours are shorter on weekends, so check before you go. Bring swimmers, a towel and layers for the park. The listings do not cover pram access, shade or fencing, so check with each venue.
Every stop is a listing on Funtivities, checked against the place's own website. Last reviewed 24 October 2026. Prices and hours can change, so check the listing before you go.
The day at a glance
- Morning: Fern Tree Park
- Late morning: Clarence Aquatic Centre
- Afternoon: Little Howrah Beach
Morning
Start at Fern Tree Park
Fern Tree Park, Fern Tree · Playgrounds & Parks · Ages 2-12 · Free · 4.6 stars (151 reviews)
A City of Hobart park on Huon Road, Fern Tree, with a nature-based playground, barbecue and toilets at an entrance to the Wellington Park walking tracks. It is free, open 24 hours and listed for ages 2 to 12.
Tip: Barbecue and toilets are on site.
Late morning
Swim at Clarence Aquatic Centre
Clarence Aquatic Centre, Montagu Bay · Swimming & Aquatics · Ages 4-17 · From $2 · 4.1 stars (234 reviews)
A YMCA-run pool at 4 Loinah Crescent, Montagu Bay, with term swim lessons from age 4. A supervisor and toddler (5 and under) is $7, and an additional toddler with the same supervisor is $2.70. It is 3.3 km from the centre.
Tip: Open 10am to 3pm on Sunday and 8am to 4pm on Saturday.
Afternoon
Paddle at Little Howrah Beach
Little Howrah Beach, Howrah · Beaches & Rock Pools · Ages 0-17 · Free
A small sheltered beach on the Derwent River, separated from the main Howrah Beach by a small rocky spit. The council says it is sheltered from large ocean swells, though it can be exposed to swells travelling up the river in stormy weather. Family picnics are popular.
Tip: No lifesaver patrol is listed. Dogs are not allowed, and avoid swimming in the Derwent for two days after heavy rain.
Before you go
- Fern Tree Park is open 24 hours and has a nature-based playground, barbecue and toilets.
- Clarence Aquatic Centre: supervisor and toddler (5 and under) $7.
- Little Howrah Beach has no lifesaver patrol listed.
- Avoid swimming in the Derwent for two days after heavy rain.
- The listings do not mention pram access, shade or fencing.
Questions parents ask
What can you do in Hobart with a toddler?
Fern Tree Park has a nature-based playground, Clarence Aquatic Centre has casual swimming for toddlers with a supervisor, and Little Howrah Beach is a small sheltered beach on the Derwent. The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has a children's gallery for ages 0 to 7.
How much does it cost for a toddler to swim in Hobart?
At Clarence Aquatic Centre, a supervisor and toddler (5 and under) is $7, and an additional toddler with the same supervisor is $2.70. Child entry (6 and over) is $7 and adults $9.50. Check the listing for current prices.
Is Little Howrah Beach safe for toddlers?
The council says it is a small sheltered beach, though it can be exposed to swells in stormy weather. No lifesaver patrol is listed, so swim only where lifeguards are on duty and check the beach's official page. Avoid swimming for two days after heavy rain.
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