Australia offers travellers a combination of world famous beaches, superb natural landscapes and unique wildlife. It is practically built for family travel. Children of all ages and parents that are young at heart are sure to find a fun-filled holiday in one of Australia’s must-see destinations.
Mr Dean Van Es from Fast Cover said “family travel has become increasingly popular over the past few years. Every state offers quite different sites and experiences.”
It’s just a matter of choosing which kid-friendly hotspot you will go to next.
- Sydney Harbour
Named the number one family-friendly destination by Lonely Planet in July, Sydney Harbour is abuzz with activities for families. Manly is a beautiful beach spot which can be reached by a 30 minute ferry journey. The slight rocking of the ferry and sailing past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge is an exciting activity in itself. Cockatoo Island and Fort Denison are also great destinations where you can enjoy learning more about Sydney’s history. Darling Harbour offers a range of activities, from the Australian Maritime Museum, Sydney Sea Life Aquarium and Wild Life Sydney Zoo. You can access Taronga Zoo and Luna Park which both sit on the harbours foreshore by ferry. The harbour is a hub of activities for children of any age. - The Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland is renowned for its beautiful wildlife. A short boat ride will lead you to beautiful snorkelling locations filled with colourful coral and fish. Some boats have glass bottoms so that you can view the reef while remaining dry. Because the Great Barrier Reef is a tourist hot-spot, there are numerous resorts catering to families. - Ningaloo Reef
It is tempting to stay and explore Ningaloo reef’s 300 kilometres of coastline for weeks. The world heritage listed site is breathtaking and provides a taste of the road less travelled for families. You can snorkel on the reef straight from the shoreline. There is an abundance of wildlife, with over 500 species of tropical fish and peaceful whale sharks which you can snorkel and dive with. Many tour operators take groups on glass bottom boats to the outer reef for snorkelling and viewing coral. There are a range of accommodation options, from rustic campsites to private house stays.
- Kangaroo Island
A ferry ride from Adelaide will take you to Kangaroo Island, a destination filled with family friendly activities. This includes the Seal Bay Conservation Park, the Flinders Chase National Park, sand dunes, beautiful beaches, honey farms, fishing and wildlife parks. A perfect destination for a fun-packed weekend. - Tasmania
While the renowned fresh food and wines will entice any adult, Tasmania’s wilderness will excite travellers of all ages. Whether you go camping in Freycinet National Park, kayak in Coles Bay, try the Tahune Forest AirWalk or explore Hobart, Launceston or Port Arthur you are sure to find something to amuse the whole family. Then, there is Hobart’s Cadbury Factory where kids can get their chocolate fix.
- Gold Coast Theme Parks
If you have the money to spend, the Gold Coast has four giant theme parks to thrill any kid. Dreamworld, Movie World, Wet’n’Wild, SeaWorld and WhiteWater World. With a VIP Pass you can visit them all. Spend a week or two tiring yourself out on enormous water slides and rollercoasters.
- Victoria’s Ski Resorts
Victoria’s Mt Buller, Falls Creek and Mt Hotham have runs to suit all levels of skiers and snowboarders, including those that haven’t been on the slopes before! Falls Creeks offers fast lifts, the ability to ski in and out of accommodation and free shuttle buses that make it easy to travel throughout the village. Mt Hotham has more steep runs and fine dining options, while Mt Buller is the closest to Melbourne. It’s really a matter of deciding which is best for you!
- Rottnest Island
- Fraser Island
Fraser Island has over 184,000 hectares of fresh-water lakes and creeks, rainforest and wilderness where you can swim, walk and drive. 4WD fans will enjoy the variety of trails to explore. The Kingfisher Bay waters are calm and safe for children to play in. You can also enjoy the water by canoe, a whale watching cruise or catamaran. Enjoy getting back to nature and seeing diverse wildlife. - Northern Territory
A journey to the outback in the Northern Territory offers kids and adults an opportunity to learn more about Australia, desert wildlife and cultural history. Alice Springs is an ideal base from which you can drive and explore the region. Or you can book a package tour and be introduced to the wildlife.
A perfect location for a break with pristine beaches and wildlife to explore. There are about 63 white sandy beaches and 20 bays. Cars aren’t allowed, instead most travellers enjoy seeing the island by bike or on foot. Rottnest Island is a little island break away from the buzz of city life.
There are many destinations across Australia offering families’ chances to relax, have an adventure, experience nature and learn. Where will you travel with your family?
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