A holiday is the most important time of the year for any family, so you want to make sure you choose somewhere that’s exciting, memorable and nonstop fun for everyone. Once you know which country you want to visit, you still need to find the area that will best cater to you and your little ones. You want to ensure that there is family-friendly accommodation and restaurants as well as activities that both kids and adults will enjoy plus beaches that are suitable for youngsters.
If you’re racking your brain trying to think of somewhere that ticks all those boxes, look no further. We’ve come up with six of Australia’s top family-friendly holiday destinations, so all you need to do is pick which one suits you and your gang the most, click here for flight deals and start planning your ultimate family adventure.
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Coffs Harbour
Situated just over halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, Coffs Harbour is a popular choice for family holidays in the state of New South Wales. A coastal city famous for its beautiful beaches, you’ll never be short of things to do that’ll keep the whole family entertained.
This harbour has well known and rich wildlife. Whether it’s a day spent soaking up the sun and splashing among the waves on the coast, seeing the sea life at the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park or seeking out the best thrills at The Big Banana Fun Park, it’s sure to be an unforgettable getaway for all.
Sydney
There’s far more to Sydney than a regular city break destination, with plenty going on for kids of all ages to enjoy. Within the city itself, your little ones will be impressed by the iconic sights around Sydney Harbour, such as the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge – the more adventurous among you can even embark on the Bridge Climb.
Both kids and adults will be in awe as they walk to the top and take in the breathtaking views. It’ll give you a whole new perspective of Australia’s most famous landmark as you look down on it and you’ll get some great family photos from up here too. A visit to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is a must, too. Then, for the ultimate days out, Bondi Beach and the stunning Blue Mountains are both within easy reach.
Kangaroo Island
For a holiday experience unlike any other, plan a family escape to the wild with a trip to Kangaroo Island. Just a short flight from Adelaide or a fun ferry ride from Cape Jervis, a holiday here is perfect for families who love a taste of the great outdoors and the opportunity to enjoy up-close encounters with some of Australia’s most loved wildlife.
Take a guided walk along Seal Bay and see the sleepy sea lions, climb the Remarkable Rocks at Flinders Chase National Park and keep your eyes peeled for the island’s resident kanagroos, koalas and wallabies. As the name would suggest, the country’s third-largest island is one of the best places in Australia to see roos. A third of the island is a national park but you can see these magnificent creatures roaming freely too. Whenever you visit you’ll be able to spot them while discovering one of the most untouched parts of the country.
Gold Coast
If your kids love nothing more than adrenaline-pumping thrills and white-knuckle rides, then a holiday to Queensland’s glistening Gold Coast should be high up on your bucket list. Not only is it home to arguably one of the best stretches of shoreline in the country, but it’s also where you’ll find some of the top theme parks too.
Make a splash at the incredible Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast, take on the dizzying rides of Dreamworld and experience the magic of Warner Bros. Movie World. Would your kids love to learn to surf? Bondi Beach is the best place in Australia to ride the waves. Book a lesson for beginners and they’ll be standing up on the board in no time. This is also the perfect place to see whales. If you are here between June and October, when they migrate towards Queensland, make sure you join a trip because you are guaranteed to see them.
Cairns
Visiting the Great Barrier Reef is a rite of passage for anyone in Australia, so take your kids on the ultimate Oz adventure to Far Northern Queensland and let them see the world’s largest living organism for themselves. Join a trip, jump in and explore the vibrant coral and colorful fish that dart among it.
Look out for the ‘Great Eight’ – whales, turtles, giant clams, potato cod, Maori wrasse, manta rays, sharks and clownish. This bucket list experience will create memories that last a lifetime. When you’re not snorkeling among the coral on an epic boat trip, you can visit the fascinating Cairns Botanic Gardens, take a ride on the Kuranda Scenic Railway or cool off at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon.
Melbourne
This coastal city offers the best of both worlds, bustling city life as well as golden sandy beaches to relax on and build sandcastles with the kids. But, that’s not all. A short distance away is Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park – your little one will love the opportunity to feed kangaroos and wallabies as well as coming face to face with koalas and dingoes.
Every 30 minutes you can enjoy the keeper shows and presentations. You can also head here at night for a tour after the sun has gone down, when it is extra magical. If you are a family of animal lovers then don’t miss SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium – as well as looking at the sea creatures, the brave among you have the opportunity to dive with sharks.
So, where will it be? You’ve hopefully now got some great ideas for where to take the little ones on your next big holiday together. In fact, let’s face it, with so many great family-friendly holiday destinations in Australia, you’re probably set for the next few years.