The best summer family holidays in Australia

Jennifer EnnionBy Jennifer Ennion
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Rewrite the stars by ending 2024 on a summer holiday high.

There are plenty of epic places to whisk the kids away to for a memorable time these summer holidays. Here are some of our faves.

NSW | ACT | Vic | Tas | WA | NT | Qld

Gerringong, NSW

Paddle sessions, sandcastle building, surf shops, cool cafes and beach houses make Gerringong, on the NSW South Coast, the perfect antidote to an intense year. Whether you want to surf, paddleboard or enjoy a daily scoop of ice cream, this tourist town is a chilled-out option for coast-loving families.

Gerringong on the South Coast
Gerringong on the South Coast is the perfect family escape. (Image: James Horan/Destination NSW)

Pop over the hill into Gerroa to check out Seven Mile Beach, where there’s plenty of space and gentle waves. For a great seafood feast in a family-friendly location, dine at Gerroa Boat Fisherman’s Club . The Deli Cafe back in Gerringong also does a top healthy breakfast, after which you can hire a surfboard from Natural Necessity Surf Shop a few doors up.

Surf at Seven Mile Beach in Gerroa
Surf at Seven Mile Beach in Gerroa nearby. (Image: Destination NSW)

Why you’ll love it…

Camping is popular but we suggest you book one of the state’s newest boutique properties, SOUL of Gerringong . The luxury accommodation has two properties available to book: the SOUL Farmhouse and the SOUL Cottage. The former sleeps 14 people and features a pool, indoor and outdoor stone fireplaces, an outdoor deck with dining and a lounge. The cottage boasts a full kitchen, an indoor fireplace and a spacious outdoor entertaining area with a firepit. Parents will love the pared-back coastal styling, too.

Canberra, ACT

The nation’s capital might not be the obvious choice for a summer family fling, but it deserves to be, with a tonne of activities for kids of all ages. First up is a visit to the National Arboretum Canberra’s POD Playground , a fantastical world where children are encouraged to climb through giant acorns connected by rope tunnels.

National Arboretum Canberra
Visit the National Arboretum Canberra’s POD Playground.

Hotels are aplenty but if you want to wow the family stay at Jamala Wildlife Lodge , where you can sleep a few metres from lions, tigers or a sun bear. The Lodge is at the National Zoo & Aquarium and helps fund a program that breeds animals facing extinction.

Jamala Wildlife Lodge
Bed down at Jamala Wildlife Lodge.

Why you’ll love it…

There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Along with the POD Playground, visit Canberra Reptile Zoo , National Dinosaur Museum , Power Kart Raceway , and long-time favourite Questacon .

The Great Ocean Road, Vic

If there’s one state that needs our tourism dollars this summer it’s Victoria, with small businesses reeling from lockdown. The usually packed Great Ocean Road has been hit hard, with the managers of Cape Otway Lightstation announcing plans to close the attraction by March 2021 unless it receives further financial support.

Drive the Great Ocean Road to support the Cape Otway Lightstation
Drive the Great Ocean Road to support the Cape Otway Lightstation. (Image: Jennifer Ennion)

Hire a car or RV in Melbourne and hit the Great Ocean Road, stopping in Aireys Inlet, Lorne and at Cape Otway Lightstation ,  access to the lighthouse is currently closed but you can still walk around the heritage buildings and stop by the Second World War radar bunker as well as dine at the cafe. Be sure to buy a souvenir or two from the lovely gift shop as well. Stay at Alkina Lodge , a stunning Wattle Hill property designed with sustainability in mind.

Why you’ll love it…

You’ll experience one of Australia’s most beautiful stretches of coastline (including the Twelve Apostles) and surf at some of the famous breaks.

Bay of Fires, Tas

Summer is the best time to visit Tasmania if you fancy a dip in the sea. Although you’re spoilt for choice with empty beaches, rugged wilderness and majestic mountains, we recommend you make a beeline to the Bay of Fires on Tassie’s East Coast. It’s a must-see destination, with pristine beaches dotted with boulders dressed in orange lichen.

Bay of Fires
Make a beeline for the Bay of Fires in summer on the East Coast of Tasmania. (Image: Jennifer Ennion)

Days are spent beachcombing, swimming and fishing, and the conservation area is best enjoyed while sleeping in a tent or a motorhome. If you love the idea of camping but don’t have the gear or seek something slightly sturdier, check out Bay of Fires Eco Hut . It’s a small, off-grid “shack" where you can introduce the kids to a simpler way of living – perfect for the ethical traveller.

Why you’ll love it…

The Bay of Fires is the very best of a back-to-basics family holiday, where days are spent exploring nature and nights are enjoyed around campfires or a games table.

The Bay of Fires is the very best of a back-to-basics family holiday. (Image: Lachlan Ennion)

Margaret River, WA

We all know some of Australia’s best grapes are grown in the Margaret River region. But did you know there’s a Giniversity and gastro pubs, too? Margs, as the locals call it, has adult offerings down pat, plus plenty of options for kids. Teens will enjoy checking out the surf shops, hitting up the impressive local skate park and tasting their way around Margaret River Farmers’ Market (every Saturday). Toddlers will love the Rotary Park playground near the town centre, and the fabulous timber playground beside Yallingup Beach. Our pick of the world-renowned beaches is Yallingup, with its calm rock pools for little kids, open water for swimmers and reef break for surfers. When it comes to bedding down, don’t go past Smiths Beach Resort, where there are beach shacks, villas and houses to suit different budgets, plus an Insta-worthy infinity pool (and wading pool). The ocean is also across the road.

Smiths Beach Resort
Choose from beach shacks, villas and houses to suit different budgets at Smiths Beach Resort. (Image: Jennifer Ennion)

Why you’ll love it…

Injidup natural spa (not the day spa) is a fun find. It’s a water hole where waves wash over rocks and douse you in sea foam. Keep an eye on the tide and pick a time that suits your family’s confidence when swimming in the ocean.

Swim at Injidup natural spa
Swim at Injidup natural spa. (Image: Jennifer Ennion)

Darwin, NT

It’s going to be muggy but one thing Darwin does better than any other Australian city is provide plenty of man-made spots to cool down. Base yourself at Darwin Waterfront, where you’ll find several cafes and restaurants, a shaded playground, a sandy netted harbour beach, plenty of picnic spots and – the ultimate attraction – a wave pool.

Darwin Wave Lagoon
Darwin Wave Lagoon is a popular spot for families. (Image: Jennifer Ennion)

The Wave Lagoon is awesome fun and suitable for all ages, with shallow splash pools for tiny people, inner tubes for floating and sun lounges to flop on. Two free spots to cool down at are Leanyer Recreation Park and Palmerston Water Park .

Leanyer Recreation Park
Leanyer Recreation Park is a free spot to swim in Darwin. (Image: Jennifer Ennion)

You can stay at the waterfront but family rooms are limited, so our pick is Hilton Garden Inn Darwin , which has rooms and suites that sleep up to four people, a great outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant.

Why you’ll love it…

It’s only an hour’s drive from Litchfield National Park, which is worth a day trip. Check for closures during the wet season (between October and April) and keep crocodiles front of mind when finding refreshing swimming holes to cool off in.

Litchfield National Park
Litchfield National Park (Image: Sarah Mackie)

Gold Coast Hinterland, Qld

The theme parks on the Gold Coast are perennially popular with families. But for those who prefer the bush to the beach, the Gold Coast Hinterland offers a great alternative, too. Challenge your tweens to a turn on the 180-metre zipline at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat , before joining a ranger on a wildlife encounter or setting out on a self-guided bushwalk to a waterfall and hidden swimming hole. The retreat, in Lamington National Park, has plenty of room options, plus camping.

O'Reilly's Tree Top Walk
Older kids will love O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk, in Lamington National Park. (Image: Tourism & Events-Queensland)

Why you’ll love it…

You won’t be short on activities in the hinterland. Another fun family outing is an excursion to Thunderbird Park on Tamborine Mountain where you can fossick for thundereggs (nodule-like rock treasures) and give the kids a hands-on geography lesson.

Jennifer Ennion
Jennifer Ennion is a freelance travel and ski journalist who loves encouraging people to spend more time outdoors. From snorkelling with belugas in sub-Arctic Canada to hiking the Himalayas, Jennifer is constantly searching for stories that inspire readers to push their boundaries.
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Two immersive art experiences are coming to this Vic town in spring

    Gemma KaczerepaBy Gemma Kaczerepa
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    In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.

    No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.

    This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.

    The events

    Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.

    Ballarat International Foto Biennale

    Ballarat International Foto Biennale, events in Ballarat
    Discover powerful stories through the lens at Ballarat International Foto Biennale. (Image: Astrid Mulder)

    Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.

    This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.

    Sunnyside

    The colourful entrance to Sunnyside, one of the newest highlights of Events in Ballarat.
    Explore 17 days of bold art at Sunnyside. (Image: Nice To Meet You Again, Morag Myerscough 2023. Photographer: Gareth Gardner)

    Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.

    Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.

    While you’re there

    Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.

    Where to eat

    Vibrant Latin American dishes at Pancho, adding flavour to Events in Ballarat.
    Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)

    For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.

    At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .

    In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).

    Where to drink

    Food and wine tastings at Blue Pyrenees Estate, a refined experience beyond Events in Ballarat.
    Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.

    Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, including Grainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.

    You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.

    What to see

    A koala eating eucalyptus leaves at Ballarat Wildlife Park.
    Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.

    Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.

    Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.

    Where to stay

    An elegant suite at Hotel Vera, offering boutique comfort.
    Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.

    For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.

    If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.

    Getting there

    aerial of hop lane in ballarat
    Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)

    One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.

    Start planning your stay at visitballarat.com.au.