Let’s be honest. When thinking of “family friendly” holiday destinations in Australia, do your eyes glaze over and brain fog start to set in? “Family friendly” often means “kid friendly”. Overcrowded holiday parks and amusement rides that remind you what was on the breakfast menu, may be music to the kids’ ears, but they don’t tick too many boxes for my ideal family holiday. Australia boasts some of the most pristine beaches, outback experiences, jaw-dropping cityscapes, stunning rainforests and national parks in the world. Our weather is generally on the sensational side and the food is, well, great.
It’s a tough ask though for a holiday destination to keep everyone in the family happy, but here are 10 destinations in Australia that get it right, for everyone, not just the kids.
1. Port Douglas
With a host of self-contained apartments and accommodation within walking distance to the main centre, you are spoilt for choice in the thriving coastal town of Port Douglas. Access the Great Barrier Reef or take a day adventure on the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cable. Don’t miss UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest. Activities are in abundance. But don’t forget to relax too. Port Douglas has superb beaches, quality restaurants and cafes. Check out the “What’s on” if visiting in school holidays.
More things to do with Kids in Port Douglas, QLD
2. Canberra
The nation’s capital has shrugged off its dull and sterile reputation and come out shining as a family-friendly holiday location. Experiences are in abundance. Try the National Capital Exhibition, the Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia and Questacon. All have exhibits geared to the kids, but sssshhh, don’t tell them, they will be having so much fun they won’t even know it's educational. Check out Canberra’s bustling events calendar and natural attractions like Red Hill and Lake Burley Griffin. Seek out some of the restaurants and cafes that are giving Canberra a fresh reputation as a foodie’s destination. Self-catered accommodation, that you'll find on Search and Stay, is perfect for family holidaying with plenty on offer in central Canberra.
More things to do with Kids in Canberra, ACT
3. Broome
You may have heard of camel riding on iconic Cable Beach but did you know Broome is the dinosaur capital of Australia? The kids will love dino footprint spotting at low tide at Gantheaume Point. Take in the sunset “Staircase to the Moon” at Roebuck Bay, walk the pristine beaches or pull up a deck chair at the outdoor cinema. Holiday homes for families are both in and around Broome. Giving families the space and flexibility they need for less stress and more relaxing. April to September, during the dry season is the best time to visit with kids.
More things to do with kids in Broom, WA.
4. Darwin
Head to the tropics for a family holiday you won’t want to leave. This melting pot of people and cultures is unique and laid back. Get up close and personal with a croc, wander iconic Mindil Beach Markets or cool off in the wave lagoon. Take a day trip to Litchfield National Park, a wetland cruise at Mary River National Park or a jumping croc cruise on the Adelaide River (don’t worry they prefer chicken to kids). Tourism Top End have put together some suggested itineraries to make decision making easy. Try the Esplanade or Waterfront areas for great family accommodation options. The best time of year for families is during the dry season.
More things to do with kids in Darwin, NT.
5. Coffs Coast
More than the Big Banana, Coffs Harbour and surrounds is popular for good reason. Pristine beaches, world heritage rainforest at nearby Dorrigo, the vibrant township of Bellingen and the picturesque Coffs Hinterland have something for all the family. The Coffs Coast website will give you lots of ideas and inspiration. Holiday accommodation for families that you'll find on Search and Stay fis great value on the Coffs Coast. Try the northern beaches area or Sawtell for that real beach holiday feel.
More things to do with kids in Coffs Harbour, NSW.
6. Melbourne
Interactive museums, outdoor adventures, wildlife parks, kid’s festivals, alleyways to explore and sport that takes the word ‘fanatic’ to a whole new level. City exploring is fun in Melbourne. Easy to navigate, the public transport is simple. Use the free trams to hop on and off within the city centre. Sit the kids down to plan this one, there is so much to choose from. Try Melbourne’s neighbourhoods for accommodation like St Kilda, Carlton, Collingwood or Fitzroy. The suburb communities have all you need close by and family accommodation is affordable.
More things to do with kids in Melbourne, VIC.
7. Barossa Valley
The Barossa has cleverly combined this wine lover’s paradise with family-friendly activities. It’s a win-win for the whole family. From treasure hunts and cricket pitches to family croquet and toy boxes. You will feel more than comfortable wine tasting and food trailing while the kids are having fun. Family holiday homes are scattered throughout the valley ranging from rustic cottages to indulgent family guest houses.
More things to do with kids in Barossa, SA.
8. Tasmania
No “how long till we get there?” questions in Tassie. There is so much to see and do, it doesn’t take long to get from one place to the next. Launceston to Hobart is popular for families. Keep them active exploring nature – bikes, kayaks and (short) hikes. Soak up the history and indulge in the food. The paddock to plate experiences are yum! Tassie’s weather is changeable, so go prepared. Holiday houses and apartments are great options in Hobart, Launceston and along the east coast.
More things to do with kids in Tasmania.
9. Jindabyne
This winter playground for snow lovers is a great family holiday destination in the warmer months too. While the kids will love the snow after it’s melted take in Kosciuszko National Park and surrounds by foot, horse or bike. ‘Jindy’ has affordable family holiday homes all year round for the thrill-seekers and nature lovers among us.
More things to do with kids in Kosciuszko.
10. Gold Coast
OK, I know I said amusement rides don’t do it for me, BUT the Gold Coast has still got it when it comes to family-friendly holidays. Yes, the theme parks (Seaworld, Movie World, Wet & Wild, Dreamworld) are geared more to the kids, but hey, sometimes you have to unleash that inner kid and go for it! With quality apartment accommodation bookable on Search and Stay all along the Gold Coast, you will feel a little bit spoilt too!
More things to do with kids in the Gold Coast.
Family holidays are about connecting, making memories, sharing experiences and getting away from the everyday. These top 10 understand that family members have different interests and needs. And they all offer accommodation, that at the end of the day leaves the family relaxed, rested and ready to take on the next adventure. You'll find all the family holiday home options you could possibly want at Search and Stay. Just take your pick from these and many other family-friendly destinations. Click here for more Family friendly holidays.