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Australia is a land of diverse landscapes, making it an ideal destination for family getaways. From beaches to cultural treasures, the country offers many options for families seeking memorable holidays. Here are some of the top family holiday destinations in Australia, each catering to travellers of all ages.
Australia's capital city, Canberra, offers an ideal escape for culture enthusiasts of all ages with its top-notch museums, kid-friendly experiences, and good food. Its small size and natural surroundings make it easy for families to explore cultural sites and enjoy outdoor activities on the same day. You can try hot air ballooning, bike on scenic trails, or engage in various Lake Burley Griffin activities.
Queensland's Gold Coast is often called the top destination in Australia for family beach vacations. You'll discover a wide range of activities for kids, including dining, culture, adventures, and nature experiences, all alongside 57 kilometres (35 miles) of sandy beaches. You can explore Australia's most extensive collection of theme parks, encounter native animals at a wildlife sanctuary, and venture into the Gold Coast hinterland with its World Heritage-listed rainforests. While Surfers Paradise is the most famous area, there are twelve other beach villages to visit. If you are seeking a lively beach culture, the Gold Coast offers numerous opportunities for families to enjoy quality time together in various ways.
Tasmania offers a combination of dramatic wilderness and a thriving food scene. However, for families, it's the island's small size that makes it an excellent vacation choice. You can explore Hobart with your family or set out in a campervan to uncover the remote areas in western Tasmania.
Your journey will lead you to Tasmania's Wilderness World Heritage region, where you can explore hiking trails, observe wildlife, and gaze at the starry sky. When you've had your fill of walking, you can switch to a dune buggy ATV adventure, enjoy the landscape from a historic train, embark on a boat cruise, or take on a rafting experience.
Begin your journey at the Esplanade, where you can play in the Cairns Lagoon and then explore the surrounding areas. It's best to have a car and a flexible plan, as there's much to see between Cairns, Kuranda, and Port Douglas. You can observe crocodiles and cassowaries in the Daintree Rainforest one day and go snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef the next. Kids can enjoy the excitement and action in Cairns, while parents can appreciate the natural wonders on display.
Rottnest Island is easily accessible from Perth, just a 25-minute ferry ride from Victoria Quay. Despite its accessibility, it's known for its secluded atmosphere, white sandy beaches, and various lodging options, making it a favourable family destination in Western Australia.
Upon arrival, follow the local practice and rent bicycles. Rottnest Island is a car-free zone, offering a safe environment for young children to ride bikes, and older kids can explore the island's 63 beaches independently. The island is also home to the quokka, one of Australia's adorable animals. It can be spotted throughout the island, with the best viewing times in the late afternoon.
Located off the coast of South Australia, Kangaroo Island is a natural playground with local food, beautiful scenery, and easy access to nature. It's an ideal destination for families, where you'll likely encounter more kangaroos than cars.
You can take leisurely walks along the beaches where sea lions rest or join guided tours to swim with wild dolphins. Kids can explore rock formations sculpted by wind and sea or slide down the dunes of Little Sahara using a sledge or sandboard. For a more relaxed experience, you can visit a lavender or honey farm to sample some of the island's culinary offerings.
Kakadu National Park, a World Heritage site, is about half the size of Switzerland and offers a vast and stunning landscape. It provides well-developed facilities, accommodations, and experiences for families to explore this Northern Territory gem easily. It's a three-hour drive from Darwin to Kakadu, where you can observe wildlife, discover natural pools, and learn about Aboriginal culture from the Bininj/Mungguy people, the traditional custodians of the land.
You can view ancient rock art galleries dating back up to 20,000 years, gain knowledge about bush food, and try your hand at spear-throwing. A Yellow Water sunset cruise is a must to spot birds, buffalo, and crocodiles.
Getting There
You can reach Australia from India by air, with multiple flights departing from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai to Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane. Direct flights typically take around 12-14 hours, with various airlines offering connections and stopovers. Ensure you have a valid passport, obtain an Australian tourist or travel visa, and comply with entry requirements.
Be A Responsible Traveller
To travel sustainably in Australia, opt for public transport or eco-friendly car rentals. Explore cities on foot or by bike. Choose eco-certified accommodations and support local businesses that prioritise sustainability. Minimise waste by using reusable items and avoiding single-use plastics. Respect nature by following marked trails, refraining from littering, and conserving water.
