Devonport Playground

Why we love Devonport Playground

If I had to pick just one playground on the North Shore to recommend to someone visiting for the first time, Devonport Playground would be right at the top of the list. It has everything: a large, well-equipped play area, an open park, direct beach access, and surroundings that make you want to linger long after the kids are done playing.

Play gear and sand

The playground itself is impressively varied. There are rope ladders, wobbly bridges, and sand areas that keep older kids thoroughly occupied, and a dedicated toddler section that's particularly well set up, with its own sand area that the little ones absolutely love. If you're anything like me and quietly dread the post-playground sand cleanup in the car, you'll be pleased to know there's a rinse and changing area right next to the playground, so you can sort the kids out before anyone sets foot in the vehicle. It's a genuinely thoughtful detail that makes a real difference.

Beach next door

And when the kids are ready for a change of scene, the beach is literally steps away. That seamless transition from playground to beach is one of the things that makes this spot so hard to beat. The space is vast, which is probably why it rarely feels overcrowded despite being a popular destination — there's simply enough room for everyone to spread out comfortably.

Nearby amenities

The surrounding area is half the appeal. You're within easy walking distance of cafés, restaurants, ice cream shops, and even a second-hand bookstore for the grown-ups. Devonport Library is also nearby, with books and small play items for toddlers, plus proper restroom facilities, which is always a bonus. An outing here can stretch into a full half-day without anyone getting bored.

Parking tips

Parking is the one area that requires a bit of planning, particularly on weekends. There's no single dedicated car park, but there are good options if you know where to look: street parking is widely available in the area and is often free for 2–3 hours, and the ferry terminal right next door has both free and paid parking spaces. In a pinch, the New World supermarket nearby is another option — pick up something while you're there and the parking sorts itself out. Not exactly official advice, but it works.

Crowd and safety

Crowd level sits at moderate and safety is rated very safe, which tracks with our experience. It feels lively without feeling chaotic, and the layout of the space means kids are easy to keep an eye on. All up, Devonport Playground is about as complete a family outing as you'll find in the area. One of our personal favourites, and one we keep coming back to.

Quick update: As of 30 April 2026, the third level of the iconic lighthouse-shaped tower has been closed off. Previously, children could climb to the top and use the talk tubes to communicate with their friends on the ground floor, but this is no longer possible. The access to the third floor was restricted on 30 April 2026, most likely due to safety concerns.