11 Nostalgic Summer Holidays To Relive Your Childhood

Summer holidays never lose their charm, but there’s something especially magical about viewing your family trip through the lens of childhood.

As adults, certain smells, sounds, activities and even temperatures can take us right back to the nostalgia of our childhood summer holidays – so imagine how refreshing a trip to our old favourites would be when we’re old enough to be planning the itinerary.

We asked around the Australian Traveller office to see which places ignited our childhood excitement.

1. Townsville, QLD

Alma Bay sunrise, Magnetic Island — Enjoy the animals, flora and serenity of Magnetic Island, no matter how old you are. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Nothing says ‘family road trip’ like arriving in Townsville. With a family who lived in a small town two hours further north, Townsville served as the gateway to a tropical north adventure.

High humidity, slapping on copious layers of sunscreen and the scent of ocean mixed with cane fields in the air takes me right back to being a 10-year-old taking a ferry ride out to Magnetic Island and jumping on an inflatable tyre being pulled by a small boat and snorkelling and diving, before continuing the trek to Ingham and my Grandparents’ cane farm.

The best change to happen in Townsville since childhood is that it now has a booming foodie scene. Fish and chips were always a good bet, but now cute cafes covered in street art and high-end restaurants take tastebuds to a whole new level.

2. Palm Beach, NSW

Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk, Palm Beach — Take the Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk for the best views of Palm Beach. (Image: DNSW)

Sydneysiders are very familiar with Palm Beach, heading out there to surf (or learn how to) or take their kids for a swim in the southern end at Cabbage Tree Boat Harbour or in the iconic rock pool.

Add to that the nearby cafes and corner stores for essential ice cream treats and hot chips for lunch, plus a fairly easy walk Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk for awesome views of the coastline: it’s the perfect day out from your childhood that still leaves you happy, sandy and satisfied as a grown up.

3. Rottnest Island, WA

quokkas on Rottnest Island — Release your inner child with the quokkas of Rottnest Island. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Rottnest Island is a Western Australian gem that never loses its charm. As the perfect day trip to take the kids on (or a great place to spend a few days more) the pure thrill of getting up close and personal with those smiling quokkas is especially thrilling as a child.

Add to that pristine beaches for swimming, snorkelling or diving, a rich Indigenous history and tours to help you understand it, ice cream, not to mention the ferry ride over from the mainland, and you have a trip with plenty of things to do (although no judgement if you spend the whole time lazing on the white-sand beaches) that hits right in the childhood.

4. Hunter Valley, NSW

Tinklers Wine, Pokolbin — Take your bike through the wineries, now you’re old enough to do it. (Image: Destination NSW)

While the Hunter Valley is one trip that could be claimed to only get better once you become of drinking age, there’s nothing like remembering the wholesome thrill of riding a bike through the beautiful countryside along Hermitage Way Cycleway as a kid.

Not to mention other kid-friendly attractions, like the botanic gardens, Hunter Valley Zoo and more than one chocolate shop. Of course, it only gets better going back once you can join a winery tour.

But if you get sick of soaking in the beauty at ground level (impossible), then you’re in the perfect spot for an iconic hot air balloon ride to get a load of vineyards from a bird’s eye view.

5. Portland, Vic

Portland Marina, Victoria — Walk out to The Corkscrew, munch on salted peanuts or just enjoy the serenity of the marina.

This Victorian beach town is the perfect getaway, which is probably why a lot of us have fond childhood memories of the place. Despite its beauty, Portland remains something of an uncovered gem along the famous Great Ocean Road, making it a more relaxed stop for families.

It honestly has it all, whether you want to stick to the (mostly) free entertainment of walking out to the locally famous Corkscrew Observatory , walking along the beach munching on salted peanuts from the local store or soaking in the beauty of the marina.

For those seeking more adventure, you can hire kayaks and get out on the water, or explore the BMX Track in Alexander Park. A range of museums – from maritime history to World War Two to model trains – means you can learn something while still enjoying yourself.

6. Yamba, NSW

Il Delfino Yamba — Relax and enjoy the beautiful sleepy town of Yamba at Il Delfino. (Image: Elise Hassey)

It’s impossible not to feel relaxed in the New South Wales surf town of Yamba. Here, it’s all about the beach life, that is, slowing down and chilling out.

It’s a great spot for families thanks to many activities and accommodation options for any budget – from beachfront camping spots to high-end luxury hotels. The beach, movie theatre and farmers’ markets always provide just enough entertainment to keep everyone happy, without ever adding the hassle of running from activity to activity.

Revisiting as an adult means that you’re also able to take advantage of the increasing number of foodie delights on offer. It might be a relaxed place, but Yamba does not sleep on culinary delights, with plenty of restaurants, distilleries and craft breweries to keep your tastebuds very happy.

7. Port Stephens, NSW

Stockton Sand Dunes, Port Stephens — From quad-bikes over the Stockton Sand Dunes to endless stunning beaches, Port Stephens is the perfect spot for nostalgia. (Image: Destination NSW)

A beachside holiday is a solid family holiday win. So when there are multiple beaches – each more stunning than the next – you really can’t go wrong.

Port Stephens is also a haven of cute cafes and tasty restaurants, plus nearly every beach has its own top-notch fish and chip shop, and really who could complain about sun, sand and full bellies?

When it comes to wildlife, Port Stephens really has it all. From whale watching, to actually swimming with wild dolphins, to some of the best free diving spots in New South Wales. Then there’s the pure joy of jumping on a quad bike and joining a tour around the stunning 32-kilometre-long Stockton Sand Dunes – the largest moving dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. The list of things to do here is endless.

8. Gold Coast, Qld

Warner Bros. Movie World, Gold Coast — Let a trip to Movie World take you right back to childhood. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Heading to the Gold Coast and getting a family Theme Parks Pass was never dull. While one could debate for hours over which major three Goldie theme parks were the best, nothing says ‘childhood joy’ like Movie World .

Between rides and shaking hands with iconic movie characters, Gold Coast beaches would be calling. This was a family holiday for those who like plenty of things to do so they can keep moving; and who like a touch of glitz and shopping with their beach vacation.

After a swim, surf or snorkel, while away the afternoon at the famous Harbour Town shopping centre or find one of many markets. And if you could find yourself a carved wooden dolphin necklace while you were at, all the better.

9. Gongolgon, NSW

Camp along the Bogan River for country serenity and family bonding. (Image: Destination NSW)

For a truly outback family adventure, Gongolgon is the road trip to set out on. An eight-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney, or almost two hours from Bourke, this red-dirt country town has serenity, river activities, wildlife and more to make a kid’s dream come true. Not to mention the drive includes a stop at Nyngan, home of the ‘Big Bogan‘, which is always a fun family tale to tell.

Set up camp by the Bogan River then get out on the water. Bring your own tinnie and set out for a day on the river.

For land activities, wait until the sun goes down and whip out the torch to play spotlight with the area’s nocturnal animals or, during daylight hours, get out the motorbikes and zoom around the dirt trails.

10. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, NSW

West Head Beach, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park — Find secluded beaches, rivers and hiking trails in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park really is a natural wonderland. The fact that it’s also an easy one-hour drive from the centre of Sydney, it’s also the perfect day trip (or weekender, if you love family bonding over a campfire in the Basin campground).

This is a place for some of the best bushwalks in Sydney, many of which end in secluded beaches or water holes so you can cool off before you head back. For those who love watersports, pull out the kayak, SUP board or swimmers and get out on the Pittwater estuary.

11. Nowra

Challenge yourself to Trees Adventure in Nowra Park. (Image: Dee Kramer)

Set beside the Shoalhaven River, Nowra has just about everything you need for a family getaway, whether you’re into relaxing by the hotel pool, getting out on the river or adding a little adventure to your trip.

No matter what age you are, renting a kayak or blowing up a pool inflatable to float along the gentle currents of the Shoalhaven provides endless hours of entertainment. There’s also nothing like using up your excess energy climbing through the ropes course at Treetops Adventure in Nowra Park . Then there’s Shoalhaven Zoo and the Fleet Air Museum , so all kid interests are covered.

The Mornington Peninsula blends vineyards, galleries, golf and delicious finds for an unforgettable getaway that indulges all penchants.

Just over an hour from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula blends coast and country in a way that feels effortlessly indulgent. It’s a region where vineyard views meet acclaimed dining, art and culture is never far from the sea, and where hot springs bubble alongside rolling fairways. Whether your escape is a long lunch, an immersive art trail or a round of golf, the Mornington Peninsula has an itinerary to match. And there’s always a glass of good local pinot waiting for you at the end of the day.

A creative trail through the Peninsula

The Mornington Peninsula is a haven for artists and creatives. Its coastal views and rolling landscapes have long been a source of inspiration. Stay at the historical InterContinental Sorrento , a grand hotel established in 1875, recently renovated to blend heritage charm with contemporary elegance. With curated art lining the hotel’s corridors and rooms, you could spend hours simply wandering the halls, studying the walls.

Pt Leo Estate outdoor gallery — Wander around Pt. Leo Estate’s outdoor gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria/Jesse Hisco)

If looking for an outdoor gallery with sea views, head to Pt. Leo Estate , a landscaped vineyard home to a sculpture park featuring more than 70 large-scale works by both local and international artists, all easily accessible by connecting paths. After strolling through the vineyards, there are three dining options: fine dining at Laura, a relaxed meal at Pt. Leo Restaurant or a vino at the Wine Terrace. For something more hands-on, sign up for the Sip & Sketch experience. And if you book directly into the elegant Lancemore at Lindenderry Red Hill , you’ll enjoy free access to the sculpture park.

food at Pt Estate — Pt Leo Estate boasts three elegant dining venues. (Image: Visit Victoria/Two Palms/Arianna Harry)

For those who like their art framed by rolling hills, vines and wetlands, Montalto is the place. More than 30 sculptures are dotted throughout the property. The vineyard offers a formal restaurant and casual tables among the seasonal produce in a setting that feels like Mr. McGregor’s Garden from Peter Rabbit. And there’s always the option to picnic on the lawn.

Montalto Vineyard is an idyllic setting for afternoon wining and dining. (Image: Visit Victoria/Robyn Lea)

The Sorrento-Portsea Artists Trail offers a self-guided walk along bush paths and sea cliffs to see the same landscapes that once inspired brushstrokes of some of Australia’s most famous artists. Along the way, interpretive signs share insights into the area’s artistic past. And, if the peninsula’s weather turns a little wild, the region is brimming with galleries, particularly around Flinders, Sorrento and Red Hill. Artisan studios are open by appointment.

A feast for food and wine lovers

With more than 200 vineyards, around 60 wineries and cellar doors, plus an abundance of breweries, distilleries, orchards and family-run farms spanning generations, the Mornington Peninsula is a playground for food and wine enthusiasts.

The perfect base for a culinary inclined trip is Cassis Red Hill , where luxury accommodation is tucked between grape vines and olive trees. A quiet nod to the fishing village of Cassis in the south of France, this retreat is all about contemporary elegance – crisp linen, sunlit interiors and a private mineral plunge pool.

Then, for a stand-out lunch, Green Olive at Red Hill offers a delicious way to enjoy the region. Graze on generous tasting plates with house-made relishes, lamb sausages, local cheese and just-picked garden produce. Pair it with a wine flight or order a picnic hamper to enjoy among the olive grove; there’s a picnic option for your dog, too. And for a playful twist, Green Olive is home to what is believed to be Australia’s only pickleball court set within a vineyard or orchard.

Amid the many wineries with open cellar doors, Main Ridge Dairy offers a delicious detour – a goat dairy where you can sample handcrafted cheeses and even meet the resident goats. For a more refined experience, Paringa Estate is one of the peninsula’s most awarded wineries, offering fine dining with sweeping vineyard views and a menu crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

If you’re looking to step outdoors before a lingering lunch, during winter Flinders Truffles offer the chance to join their clever dogs and search for the black gold under oak trees. For an authentic taste of the region, time your visit with one of the Peninsula’s vibrant farmers’ markets.

From golf days to spa stays

Kingswood CountryGolf Club — Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its champion courses, the Peninsula is a dream destination not only for those who love to tee off but for those who enjoy the post-golf wind down. Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club draws keen golfers from around the world, while Peppers Moonah Links Resort is a course that has hosted both a PGA tournament and two Australian Opens. For a true test of skill, The Dunes Golf Links is one of Australia’s top public courses. Each golf course offers accommodation, and staying onsite means maximum convenience, especially at The Dunes, where premium rooms have you sleeping right next to the fairway. Off-course indulgence is close at hand, too.

Alba Thermal Springs& Spa — Soaking at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs are just next door, where thermal waters drawn from geothermal mineral springs deep underground provide the ultimate recovery after a day of perfecting your swing. These award-winning wellness sanctuaries offer everything from bathing pools to private plunges and spa treatments.

After sinking the last ball, and the 19th hole beckons, the Peninsula serves up just as many dining options as it does golf courses. Just minutes away and right on the beach, Jetty Road Brewery  is a laid-back spot perfect for a round of beers and typical pub fare. For something a little elevated, book a table at Epicurean . Here, a glass of local red pairs beautifully with handmade pastas and woodfired pizza, all served in a historical coolstore and packing shed dating back more than a century.

11 nostalgic summer holidays to relive your childhood