Family-Friendly Australia: Activities and Destinations for Kids
One of the best countries on the planet for kids is Australia.
It serves up a diverse range of experiences, appealing to everyone from the youngest to the oldest member of your family.
From the northern tropics to the southern coastlines, this vast island is bursting with kid-tastic activities paired with a refreshing dose of adult relaxation. Whichever way you spin in Australia, you’ll hit the family travel jackpot.
What Makes Australia Good for Kids?
Many of the best experiences for families in Australia are free; sharing the beach with kangaroos, for example, costs nothing more than a sand shovel.
Australians love kids and are genuinely welcoming. They’ll want to know where you come from, point you to the closest playground (even the smallest of country towns will have one), and there’s always a clean restroom easily found at train stations, parks, and restaurants.
When it comes to dining, Australia is renowned for its kid-friendly cuisine. It’s ground-zero for smashed avocado on toast, which you can elevate with some chili flakes. Even isolated areas aren’t devoid of options for picky eaters, as families will discover the crowd-pleasing sausage roll. Wherever you are, there’s also always a pub; in Australia, these venues welcome families with open arms, some complete with dedicated playgrounds, reflecting Australia’s relaxed approach to parenting.
It’s a safe country; however, dangers do exist—not just snakes and spiders. One issue is the potential for boredom during long flights to Australia or while attempting long domestic distances in one go. Also, Australia is not the cheap haven it once was. Budget for your must-do experiences accordingly.
Best Places to Travel in Australia with Kids
Mini wildlife warriors will love Queensland’s lush Sunshine Coast, where they can see slithering, swooping, and jaw-snapping animals at Australia Zoo. Meanwhile, parents might appreciate the craft breweries, many of which have on-site playgrounds or even petting zoos. Budding paleontologists will enjoy South Australia’s Naracoorte Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s top fossil sites. Furthermore, Queensland’s Gold Coast is a favorite with Aussie families, offering amusement and water parks, sandy beaches, and rainforest retreats nearby.
For future marine biologists, diving into the waters on Western Australia’s Coral Coast enables swimming alongside manta rays and whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef.
The Best Things to Do in Australia with Kids
Imagine lying on a pontoon boat, listening to your kids squeal through snorkels at underwater coral on the Great Barrier Reef, counting stars through the opening of an outback desert tent, splashing beneath a tropical waterfall, or walking hand-in-hand through world-class museums. This is just the start.
Best Things to Do in Australia with Babies and Toddlers
Visit One of Australia’s 12,000 Beaches
Beaches provide inbuilt entertainment, with splashing water and soft sand for little ones. Popular stretches often feature barbecues, water fountains, public restrooms, and on-duty lifeguards. Australia boasts over 12,000 beaches spread along its extensive coastline, resulting in incredible diversity.
Standouts include the red cliffs at Maslin Beach in South Australia and the car-free Rottnest Island in Western Australia, where renting a bike is possible. Unique ocean pools also offer safe swimming options away from rough currents. In areas unsafe for swimming, resort-like public pools with ocean views provide family-friendly alternatives.
Visit Australia’s Quirky “Big Things”
Australia is home to over 150 impressive “Big Things,” ideal for unique photo opportunities that also come with adjoining fun parks geared towards younger kids.
Best Things to Do in Australia with Kids Aged 4 to 11
Learn About Australia’s Indigenous People
Participate in culture-rich experiences through Dreamtime storytelling or engaging with local artists while learning about traditional crafts. Opportunities abound for your family to engage with Australia’s ancient and living Indigenous cultures.
Go Wild with Wildlife
Wildlife encounters are unforgettable experiences, especially for curious kids. Australia offers numerous opportunities to see native species in their habitats from zoos to outdoor parks where you can find animals in the wild.
Take Advantage of Australia’s Top-notch Museums and Science Centers
Visiting Australia’s numerous world-class museums and science centers can be both educational and enjoyable for children. Many museums offer free admission for kids, ensuring a delightful learning experience while traveling.
Best Things to Do in Australia with Tweens and Teenagers
Catch Waves in an Insta-Friendly Surf Town
Surf towns like Byron Bay and Noosa are appealing destinations for teenagers, offering stunning beaches where they can take surf lessons and enjoy the coastal lifestyle.
Take the Family on a Hike
Exploring one of Australia’s many multi-day trails or tackling one-day hikes through breathtaking landscapes can be exhilarating for older kids. Hiking not only provides adventure but also encourages family bonding through shared experiences.
Planning Tips for Traveling in Australia with Kids
Ensure to pack sunscreen—preferably reef-friendly—hats, and long-sleeved clothing for protection against the strong Australian sun. Consider renting a beach shelter for longer days at the beach. For casual dining, look for local clubs that offer budget-friendly meals in scenic locations, ensuring a pleasurable experience without breaking the bank.
Outside major cities, pharmacies typically close early, which is important to note for any essential supplies. In urban areas, public transportation is generally stroller-friendly, but using a baby carrier for more adventurous outings is advisable.
