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A parent’s guide to the best family accommodation in Brisbane

The whole clan will sleep soundly with our pick of the best family accommodation in Brisbane.

Finding the perfect spot to recharge the family’s batteries after a big day of exploring isn’t easy. I don’t know about you, but my crew need a swimming pool, easy meals, sufficient air conditioning, blackout blinds (or canvas) and more. From hotels with all the creature comforts to activity-crammed holiday parks that just don’t stop, the best family accommodation in Brisbane helps you tick off everything the Queensland capital has to offer before doing it all over again the following day. Here are my top suggestions.

In short

If you only pick one top-notch family accommodation in Brisbane, make it Novotel Brisbane South Bank for its unwavering dedication to helping kids have the time of their lives. Toys in the room and welcome activity packs? Iconic.

Brisbane Holiday Village, Eight Mile Plains

poolside cabanas at Brisbane Holiday Village, Eight Mile Plains
The poolside cabanas offer a soothing respite from the frenzy.

If I’m leaning right into giving the kids exactly what they want on holiday (endless activities, a big pool and hot chips on tap), Brisbane Holiday Village is the ultimate winner. Bonus: It’s located just 20 minutes from the Gold Coast’s theme parks, and offers accommodation styles for every budget. Park your caravan, pitch a tent or bunk down in a cabin before rounding up the gang for free activities such as mini golf, tennis, table tennis, bike riding or swimming in the lagoon-style pool surrounded by plush cabanas. Unpowered camp sites start from about $60 per night and prices climb all the way up to two-bedroom cabins from about $265 per night.

Address: 10 Holmead Rd, Eight Mile Plains

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Voco Brisbane, Brisbane

Another thing I look for when booking family accommodation in Brisbane is the chance to make a saving at mealtime. At Voco Brisbane, kids under the age of 12 eat for free (if parents are dining, too), so it’s another top choice. That means there’s a cheapish option for breakfast, lunch and dinner, or all three if leaving the property just feels too hard (I’ve been there). To dial up their joy further, every child gets a kids’ pack on arrival, complete with snacks and activities, plus there’s a games room with foosball, a rooftop pool, and interconnecting rooms, so they score shut eye while you can binge your favourite show. Standard rooms start from about $241 per night but you’ll obviously need to fork out more for interconnecting options. Parking is also offered on-site and each 24-hour period is priced at $36.

Address: 85-87 North Quay, Brisbane

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Crystalbrook Vincent, Brisbane

a couple inside a family suite at Crystalbrook Vincent, Brisbane
The art-inspired hotel has made sustainability a priority. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Tucked under the Story Bridge at the CBD end of Howard Smith Wharves, the six-storey, five-star Crystalbrook Vincent is my recommendation for a total splash-out. Featuring artworks by Melbourne artist and Archibald Prize People’s Choice Award winner Vincent Fantauzzo throughout, the family accommodation in Brisbane is fitted with Family Rooms complete with a king and a queen bed, a 55-inch flat-screen TV to help you log into your streaming services, blackout blinds, a rainforest shower and a Nespresso coffee machine. Loving the luxury? The Two-Bedroom Luxe Suites throw in private terraces, fully equipped kitchens and easy access to Fiume Rooftop Bar (plus the swimming pool) for expansive views over the Brisbane River and Howard Smith Wharves buzz. Prices for those Family Rooms start from about $446 per night and the Luxe options are pricier. Car parking is available on-site if you book in advance.

Address: 5 Boundary St, Brisbane

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Novotel Brisbane South Bank, South Brisbane

the standard twin bedroom at Novotel Brisbane South Bank, South Brisbane
Settle into the sleek and stylish standard twin at Novotel Brisbane South Bank.

The outstanding South Bank hotel, Novotel Brisbane South Bank, is another reliably awesome holiday spot for kids. With inclusions like a welcome gift per child, an outdoor pool, a ‘Lego Butler’ who delivers Lego kits to your room (upon request), free buffet breakfast for those aged under 16, loanable sporting equipment and guided arts and crafts classes, they’ll be stoked from every angle. Sleep-wise, I’d keep the good times rolling by locking down the interconnecting ‘N’ Family Suite stocked with colouring-in books, games and a little teepee – they’re priced from about $560 per night, but there are cheaper options. Underground parking is offered for $38 per 24-hour period.

Address: 38 Cordelia St, South Brisbane

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W Brisbane, Brisbane

the family suite at W Brisbane, Brisbane
The floor-to-ceiling glass has added a wow factor to W Brisbane. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

There is nothing quiet about what you’ll spy when stepping into W Brisbane, offering you and the kids a punchy palette of bold colour, giant patterns and quirky design.

Check out the ‘Wonderful’ and ‘Spectacular’ rooms that are both fitted with two two-person beds, while the ‘Marvelous’, ‘Fantastic’ and ‘Wow’ are all one-bedroom configurations. Once you’ve dropped your bags, make a beeline for the WET Deck pool area where the kids can cut loose in the covered lap pool before diving into snacky plates from the adjoining bar area (perfect for grown-up poolside cocktails, too, I can confirm). Prices start from about $640 per night and there’s secure underground parking on-site for a fee.

Address: 81 North Quay, Brisbane

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Capri by Fraser Brisbane, Brisbane

Conceived by the award-winning Ministry of Design, Capri by Fraser Brisbane is a slick pick in the heart of the CBD close to Queen Street Mall, the Botanic Gardens and Eagle Street Pier — so the littlies will never tire of proximity activity. Teens will especially love the colourful reception area and indoor swimming pool, while parents will likely appreciate the laundry facilities. Prices start from about $230 per night and parking is offered at $40 per night.

Address: 80 Albert St, Brisbane

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FV Brisbane by Peppers, Fortitude Valley

a close-up of bed at FV Brisbane by Peppers, Fortitude Valley
Bed down at the luxe FV Brisbane by Peppers.

If you love a luxe apartment while on tour, I recommend the super-comfortable FV Brisbane by Peppers which extends the brand’s signature style and service. A choice of one- and two-bedroom apartments in the landmark building in Brisbane’s CBD are fitted with full kitchens, separate lounge and dining spaces and free-flowing wi-fi, but I especially like how this family accommodation in Brisbane facilitates child-minding services (for a fee). Plus, facilities span a yoga studio and gym, private cinema and a heated pool with city skyline views. Prices start from about $356 per night and there’s valet parking available for a fee.

Address: 191 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley

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The Sebel Brisbane, Brisbane

the premium one-bedroom apartment at The Sebel Brisbane, Brisbane
The premium one-bedroom apartment comes with a balcony overlooking central Brisbane.

Right in the heart of the action, The Sebel Brisbane offers two-bedroom apartments with city views, full kitchens, laundry facilities, free wi-fi, separate baths and showers, Nespresso coffee machines, private balconies and LCD TVs. I like this option for kids the most, however, for its spacious level 5 heated outdoor pool with dedicated showers and changing rooms. Plus, there’s a gym up there so squeezing in a holiday workout is a cinch. Prices start from about $580 for those two-bedroom rooms but you can go cheaper with a one-bedroom option. Underground parking is available for a fee.

Address: 95 Charlotte St, Brisbane

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Oaks Brisbane Aurora Suites, Brisbane

With one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments fitted with full kitchens, laundry facilities, free wi-fi and balconies, as well as a 25-metre outdoor pool and gym, families of all sizes can be accommodated at Oaks Brisbane Aurora Suites. Plus, you’re also an easy walk to Queen Street Mall where retail options abound and spoiling the kids is easy. Prices start from about $370 per night and there’s underground parking for $45 per night.

Address: 420 Queen St, Brisbane

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Mercure Brisbane King George Square, Brisbane

With sparkling views of South Bank, Brisbane’s most prolific arts and culture mecca, against the Brisbane River, the Mercure Brisbane King George Square is a haven for families as there’s non-stop entertainment right on your doorstep. Don’t miss the hotel’s Goldfinch Restaurant, offering children’s menus including a daily buffet breakfast where kids under the age of four eat for free. Prices start from about $235 per night and there’s valet parking available for a fee.

Address: Corner Ann and Roma St, Brisbane

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The Westin Brisbane, Brisbane

the Westin Renewal Suite Lounge Room, Brisbane
The signature Westin Suites make you feel at home in the city.

If you’re looking to really spoil the family, The Westin Brisbane’s luxurious inner-city digs are made for you. Home to spacious, family-friendly suites with interconnecting doors, plus signature Westin Suites with separate living rooms, the family accommodation in Brisbane offers seasonal family-friendly package deals that tend to include free kids’ meals, daily buffet breakfast, second room discounts, welcome packs and discounts on valet car parking. The clincher? A swim-up bar, Nautilus Pool & Bar, can be found adjacent to the shimmering blue outdoor pool. Afternoon indulgence, sorted. Prices start from about $540 per night.

Address: 111 Mary St, Brisbane

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Tangalooma Island Resort, Moreton Island

Kookaburra Lodge, Tangalooma Island Resort, Moreton Island
Tangalooma Island Resort is a blend of lush and tropical vibes.

Grab your bucket and spade – it’s time to explore one of the biggest sandcastles you’ve ever seen. Tangalooma Island Resort is located on Moreton Island, the world’s second-largest sand island located roughly 40-kilometres off the Brisbane coast. It’s a wonderful experience for little ones as kids can hand-feed wild dolphins, snorkel amongst shipwrecks, go whale watching, take a sand tobogganing tour or sign up for complimentary activities like archery and mini-golf. Prices start from about $310 per night and you can drive your own 4WD into the resort and park it at various locations.

Address: Tangalooma, Moreton Island

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Mantra South Bank, South Brisbane

Relax on the balcony while your little ones have a nap at Mantra South Bank, a contemporary apartment accommodation located right in the action at South Bank. With the Queensland Museum, Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), the Queensland Maritime Museum and ferry terminals all located less than 10 minutes’ walk away, it’s the ideal spot for energy-plus youngsters with limited stamina. Plus, being able to self-cater keeps costs down. Prices start from about $315 per night and valet parking is available for $50 per night.

Address: 161 Grey St, South Brisbane

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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How to spend three romantic days on Hamilton Island

(Image: Sharyn Cairns)

From barefoot beach walks to moonlit dinners, this three-day Hamilton Island itinerary will have lovebirds swooning.

Few Aussie destinations do romance quite like Hamilton Island. Set in the dreamy Whitsunday Islands, this popular honeymoon destination combines luxury retreats, palm-fringed reefs and spectacular dining with the easy rhythm of tropical living. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary or spontaneous couples’ weekend, here’s how to spend a loved-up three days on Hamilton Island.

Day 1

Morning

A serene ocean-view room overlooking endless blue horizons.
Let picturesque ocean views welcome you the moment you check in. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Nothing kills the holiday buzz faster than waiting at the baggage carousel. Luckily, our arrival couldn’t have been smoother. Staying at the boutique, adults-only Beach Club Hotel means VIP transfers are included, so the moment we land, a staff member greets us and whisks our bags straight from the baggage claim to our room. We don’t have to lift a finger.

Occupying a prime piece of real estate on Catseye Beach, Beach Club is a peaceful retreat just steps from sugar-white sand and a turquoise lagoon. Within 10 minutes of stepping off the plane, we’ve arrived and are switched into holiday mode.

We check into our room, immediately delighted by the sight of several wallabies grazing in the garden just in front of our private terrace. Beyond, picturesque ocean vistas stretch across the horizon. The room’s mini bar is stocked with bespoke sweet treats; the bathroom with premium Aesop amenities that add to the luxury.

After we’ve checked out the resort’s beachside infinity pool – plotting the lounge chairs we’ll no doubt return to later – we head out to explore the island. Families glide by on hire bikes and chirping rainbow lorikeets dot the foliage. We decide to hike up to Passage Peak – one of the most scenic walks on Hamilton Island – which takes about 40 minutes one way and boasts panoramic Whitsundays views that will stick with you for long after you leave.

Afternoon

A romantic beachside lunch as champagne is served.
Recharge with a laid-back lunch at Beach Club Restaurant. (Image: Nikki To)

After working up an appetite, Beach Club Restaurant is the perfect place to snap up a light lunch. Think barramundi, nourish bowls, Wagyu beef burgers, brown butter toasties and Queensland chilli prawns. For those who don’t want to move from their prime perch on the beach or by the pool, there’s also the option to order bites via QR code from the resort’s lounge chairs.

After our fill, we plunge into the hotel’s incredible infinity pool, its surface blending near seamlessly into the blues of Catseye Beach. Quiet and tucked away from the island’s hum, it feels illegal to do anything but relax here.

Evening

A curated flatlay of dishes from Catseye Pool Club.
Celebrate your first evening over beautifully plated coral trout. (Image: Nikki To)

There’s truly nothing more satisfying than a little R&R (rest & robe) time in your hotel room after spending the day in the sun. Fresh from a shower, we watch the ripe tangerine sun slowly dip below the palm-framed horizon from our plush terrace daybed. Two wallabies are still grazing on the grass. It’s a magical setting; I find it hard to believe I am only a few hours away from home.

Come dinnertime, we zip over to nearby Catseye Pool Club, which is a short buggy ride from the hotel or a five-minute walk. A chic new haunt from Sydney-based pair Josh and Julie Niland, the restaurant is all about reconnecting over flavour-rich share plates using high-quality Aussie ingredients.

We sit in a corner overlooking Catseye Beach – arguably the best seat in the house – with mini table lamps casting a soft glow about the contemporary indoor-outdoor setting. What comes next is pure delight; grilled prawns served with tumeric and lemongrass marinade, macadamia satay sauce and a Thai-leaning sour green mango salad. Then, elegantly plated coral trout served with kasundi and zucchini. We savour it all slowly, the conversation flowing easily between bites and sips while the moonlight transforms the ocean into molten silver.

Day 2

Morning

An 18-hole golf course set against sweeping ocean views.
Tee off side by side against a backdrop of sweeping ocean views. (Image: Andrea Francolini)

A la carte breakfast is complimentary for guests of Beach Club, and we take full advantage of the fact. Barista-quality coffee and pressed juice – today it’s carrot, melon, orange and pineapple – arrive alongside pastries baked fresh this morning. For the larger meal, I treat myself to the buttermilk pancakes with praline butter.

If you prefer an active start to the morning rather than lying in, you’ll find plenty of options. Perhaps tee off at the 18-hole golf course, where the views are as much of a drawcard as the sport itself. Designed by five-time British Open winner Peter Thomson, the course is integrated into the ridged landscape of Dent Island.

Afternoon

Artfully paired wines and bites from the Talk & Taste experience.
Uncover new favourite wines together. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

For wine-curious couples, Beach Club’s new Talk & Taste experience is a must. Held several times a week for up to eight guests, it’s an intimate tasting of Aussie drops paired with curated bites – all guided by Bommie Assistant Manager and wine enthusiast Courtenay Morgan-Fletcher.

We opt for the white wine and seafood option, enjoying pours from Eden Valley to Launceston while Courtenay shares her knowledge and passion for the intricacies of wine making.

Later, we drive our golf buggy up to One Tree Hill. This is one of the most popular spots on the island for sunset, but we chose to come a little earlier so we have more space to ourselves. We enjoy afternoon wine and cheese, admiring the 360-degree views of the island and its impossibly blue waters.

Evening

The moody, atmospheric interiors of Bommie Deck.
Dress up for a romantic evening at Bommie Restaurant. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Since we are, after all, on holiday, we continue the tipples at Bommie Deck. Suspended above Hamilton Island’s marina, this architectural monument is a fabulous place for a sunset spritz.

Just a few steps inside is Bommie Restaurant, the contemporary Australian fine dining establishment headed by chef Ryan Locke. Of anywhere on the island, this is the place to frock up and celebrate a special occasion – especially if theatrical culinary experiences take your fancy. The tasting set menu is a whirlwind of native Australian flavours and creative plating – with highlights including the cured venison wrapped in wattle seed seasoning. For dessert, a clever take on white chocolate and lemonade ends the night on a high.

Day 3

Morning

A couple gliding across calm waters on SUP boards together.
Ease into the morning with a paddleboarding adventure. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Another low-key morning means another blissful breakfast at Beach Club. This time, it’s smashed avo toast topped with Persian fetta, dukkah and poached eggs – a deliciously fueling start to the day.

The weather today is perfect for a paddle, so we walk straight from our room onto the sand of Catseye Beach to pick up some SUP boards. Guests of Beach Club receive complimentary non-motorised water sports equipment, spanning everything from mini catamarans to snorkel gear and kayaks. Finding our balance on the boards is a fun challenge at first, but before long, we’re gliding across the glassy water like naturals.

Afternoon

A helicopter soaring above the iconic Heart Reef.
Add the ultimate highlight with a Heart Reef flight together. (Image: Hamilton Island)

No couples’ retreat is complete without a touch of pampering. Located in the resort area, Spa Wumurdaylin offers everything from body wraps and facials to de-stress massages using natural Australian products. The Soul Temple treatment begins with a heavenly feeling sugar scrub, followed by a Vichy vertical shower and underwater massage. I leave in a daze.

If you prefer adventure to relaxation, there is an abundance of day trips from Hamilton Island, from snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef to Whitsundays helicopter tours – all of which make for unforgettable experiences that will bring you and your partner closer.

Evening

A couple standing at qualia, gazing out over the endless ocean horizon.
Close your journey over a beautiful dinner by the sea. (Image: Sharyn Cains)

Enjoy an elevated evening at qualia’s tranquil Pebble Beach restaurant, where a private beach setting complements the thoughtful, seasonal menu. Or perhaps continue relaxing at Beach Club, feasting on roast lamb and seafood at the poolside restaurant or soaking in ocean views from your room with in-house room delivery. And don’t forget the champagne – a weekend of love, fun and restoration is worth toasting.

Getting there

Hamilton Island has its own airport called the Great Barrier Reef Airport, which makes it fuss-free to get to. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. This means you’ll spend less time travelling and more time enjoying each other’s company.

Visit hamitlonisland.com.au for more couples’ retreat ideas.