Looking for fun things to do with Dad this Father's Day? From fishing and boating to beach days, park cook-ups and camping trips, we've rounded up a few cracking ways to make Father's Day 2026 one to remember.
Father's Day is the perfect excuse to round up the family, head outside and spend some quality time with the dads and father figures who do so much for us.
While a new fishing rod, camp chair or shiny bit of boating gear will always go down a treat, sometimes the best Father's Day gift is simply planning a day filled with the things Dad loves most. That might mean launching the boat before sunrise, firing up the barbie at the park or heading down the beach for some sun, surf and sand action.
There's no right or wrong way to celebrate Father's Day. The main thing is getting everyone together and giving Dad the chance to enjoy some proper BCFing fun. To help get the plans rolling, here are a few outdoor Father's Day ideas the whole family can get around.
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Spend Father's Day on the Boat
For plenty of Aussie dads, the perfect Father's Day begins at the boat ramp. Whether he's the mad-keen fisho type, with more lures than a tackle shop and a fishing rod practically glued to his hand, or he'd rather cruise the waterways looking for a quiet spot to pull up for lunch. Then there are the dads who like things a little faster, with a ski rope, kneeboard or tow tube ready to go.
Whatever floats his boat, a family day on the water is a ripper way to celebrate. Pack the cooler, load up the fishing gear and make sure all the boating safety essentials are sorted before heading off. Just remember, it's Father's Day, so Dad gets first cast, the best seat in the house and absolutely no criticism of his boat-ramp reversing.
Plan a Father's Day Beach Trip
Heading to the beach for a little sun, surf and sand is the quintessential Aussie pastime, but it also makes a ripper location for Father's Day celebrations. From coast to coast we're lucky enough to have drop dead gorgeous beaches coming out of our ears, with plenty of things to see and do for the whole fam.
Pull out the surf rods and chase a few fish from the sand, take to the surf on an inflatable stand-up paddleboard, or explore an underwater world with snorkel set in tow.
For something a little more laid-back, set up the beach shelter, unfold the chairs and enjoy a relaxing lunch beside the water. A beach trolley can make getting everything from the car to the sand a whole lot easier, especially once you add a gazebo, cooler, towels, toys and enough snacks to feed a small footy team.
Families with access to suitable beach-driving areas could also plan a four-wheel drive adventure. Check the local rules and permit requirements, watch the tides and make sure the vehicle is carrying suitable recovery gear before hitting the sand.
Whether Dad wants to catch a fish, catch a wave or catch a few hours of peace and quiet, a Father's Day beach trip has all bases covered.
Fire Up a Father's Day BBQ at the Park
You don't have to travel far to give Dad a top-notch day. A local park, a few family members and a barbecue cookup can be the recipe for a seriously good Father's Day.
Find a spot with plenty of room for the kids to run around, pack a footy or cricket set and let the games begin. Once everyone has worked up an appetite, fire up the barbie and get stuck into Dad's favourite feed.
A portable BBQ or stove can be handy when there aren't any public facilities available, but always check the local rules and fire restrictions before cooking. You'll also want a cooler packed with drinks, plenty of ice and a few easy snacks to keep everyone going throughout the day.
Most importantly, bring a comfortable camping chair for Dad. After lunch, he can kick back, supervise the dodgy cricket appeals and pretend he isn't drifting off for an afternoon nap.
Simple Father's Day ideas are often the best, and a park BBQ gives the whole family a chance to relax, share a feed and spend time together without needing a massive game plan.
Take Dad Camping for Father's Day
For dads who are happiest with a campsite booked and the car packed, a Father's Day camping trip could be the ultimate present.
You could hitch up the caravan and head bush, book a powered site at a family-friendly campground or keep things simple with a tent at a favourite local spot. Even a quick overnight getaway can feel like a proper escape once the devices are put away and the firepit is put to work.
Camping with Dad provides plenty of chances to make memories. Spend the afternoon exploring walking tracks, wet a line in a nearby river, cook dinner over the fire or simply sit back and watch the flames do their thing.
There's also something special about seeing Dad enter full camp mode. One minute he's carefully levelling the caravan, the next he's explaining why his particular method of lighting the fire is clearly superior to everyone else's.
Before heading off, check that the camping gear is complete and suited to the forecast. A comfortable sleep setup, warm clothing, lighting, cooking equipment and shelter can make the difference between an unforgettable family getaway and a very long night listening to Dad complain about the cold.
Make This Father's Day One to Remember
The best Father's Day plans don't have to be complicated. It's all about spending time together and choosing an activity that suits your old boy.
Whether you're boating, fishing, camping, heading to the beach or cooking up a feast at the park, getting outdoors is a cracking way to make the day feel extra special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Father's Day gifts for dads who love the outdoors?
Choose something that matches how Dad spends his weekends. Fishing tackle, camping furniture, portable cooking gear, boating accessories and outdoor clothing are all practical Father's Day gift ideas he can use on his next adventure.
What can you do for Father's Day when Dad already has everything?
Plan an experience instead of buying more gear. Organise a fishing session, book a campsite, cook his favourite outdoor feed or revisit a spot that means something to the family. Quality time is pretty hard to beat.
What are some budget-friendly outdoor Father's Day ideas?
Keep things simple with a picnic, backyard cook-up, local fishing trip or walk through a nearby national park. Pack food from home, choose a free location and build the day around spending time together rather than spending big.
What are good Father's Day activities for the whole family?
Look for an activity that can be adjusted for different ages and abilities. Easy walking tracks, accessible fishing platforms, calm beaches, picnic areas and family-friendly campgrounds give everyone a chance to join the BCFing fun.
How far in advance should you plan a Father's Day camping trip?
Popular campgrounds can fill quickly, especially over a sunny spring weekend. Book early where possible, then check the weather forecast, fire restrictions, park alerts and campsite facilities closer to the trip before packing the car.
About the author
BCFing Experts
The BCFing Experts have done more than their fair share of boating, camping, fishing, hiking, four-wheel driving and much much more! Whether you're tackling tough tracks in Tassie or chasing big barra up North, the BCFing Experts have the know-how to make your next outdoor adventure a pearler
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