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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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Tropical islands, good food & world-class shows: Your eventful guide to a holiday in Townsville

    Lee Mylne Lee Mylne
    Townsville is buzzing as the events capital of North Queensland, with a host of festivals, international sporting and arts events on offer.

    Perched between the Coral Sea, the towering pink monolith of Castle Hill, and fringed by ancient rainforest ranges, Townsville North Queensland is a genuine tropical playground.

    Here, find postcard-worthy landscapes all the way from nearby Magnetic Island to inland swimming holes and waterfalls – all dotted with an array of endemic wildlife. Get the heart racing with adrenaline water sports. Soak in a world-class arts scene. And take advantage of a culinary offering that punches well above its weight.

    And, then there’s the fact that Townsville has fast become the destination to an outstanding line-up of events – from live music to top-level sporting contests.

    Whether you have a weekend or weeks, there’s plenty here to fill your tropical getaway.

    Day 1: An eventful day

    Morning

    The Strand in townsville
    Explore The Strand.

    Daily flights offer easy connectivity from all capital cities to Townsville Airport, and within 10 minutes’ drive, you’re in the city centre. Start your stay by recharging with breakfast or coffee at the city’s newest spot, Botaniq Cafe, on the ground floor of the award-winning Bridgewater restaurant on the banks of Ross Creek.

    Start exploring on a breezy walk along the 2.5-kilometre foreshore of The Strand. Here, a waterfront path stretches all the way to the headland of Jezzine Barracks parklands. Admire more than 35 sculptures and artworks, as well as stunning views from the top of the park. Further along, Queens Gardens, established in 1870, offers a cool retreat and is Townsville’s oldest botanic garden.

    Stroll Gregory Street, off The Strand, for boutiques, homeware stores, cafes and restaurants, or follow a self-guided street art walking trail through the city centre, stopping to admire colourful works by big-name artists including Queenslander Fintan Magee.

    Afternoon

    concert in front of castle hill townsville events
    Time your trip for one of many Townsville events.

    For a casual lunch, stop in at Balabite for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired street food. Build your own pita with a choice of fillings, before enjoying a relaxing afternoon in preparation for one of Townsville’s big events.

    Whether it’s a concert from a big-name international band – think Foo Fighters or Guns ‘n’ Roses – or a night cheering on the Wallabies in the Rugby World Cup, there’s plenty to entertain you.

    Time your visit for events like the Townsville Folk Festival (June 12-14), Supercars Townsville 500 (July 10-12), Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week (August 27-September 2), North Australian Festival of Arts (September 25 – October 11) or see the Wallabies in the Rugby World Cup (coming in 2027).

    Day 2: Island dreaming

    Morning

    Pilgrim Sailing magnetic island
    Take a lunchtime sailing trip with Pilgrim Sailing.

    Fuel up with breakfast at Cbar on The Strand, looking out to your destination for the day: Magnetic Island (or ‘Maggie’ to the locals). Catch a quick ferry to spend the day exploring walking trails through national park, choosing from 23 beaches and trying a hand at the island’s water sports.

    The Forts Walk is the best place to see wild koalas in Australia, and you’re likely to find friendly wallabies at the Nelly or Geoffrey Bay headlands. Try guided snorkelling with Aquascene Magnetic Island or Pleasure Divers, or take a land-based tour with MI Ride Discovery Tours to the secluded west coast of the island.

    Pilgrim Magnetic Island offers four-hour lunchtime sailing trips aboard a 58-foot luxury yacht, dropping in to some of Magnetic Island’s remote bays for snorkelling or swimming and including gourmet grazing platters, drinks and ocean views.

    Afternoon

    picnic bay on magnetic island
    Head to Picnic Bay for delicious dining.

    Refuel after a morning of adventure. Seasalt Arcade at Picnic Bay has several good options. Savour craft brews and Latin tapas at Maggie Island Brewery, opt for bagels and light bites at Lava Lava cafe or fine dining at Restaurant Elsie.

    Now, it’s time to choose your own adventure. Stay the whole day on Maggie, or return to Townsville, where there’s plenty more to discover.

    Head to The Docks at Flinders Street Wharves for lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the beach or join Poseidon Adventures for water sport adventures.

    Evening

    Ardo's Rooftop townsville
    End your day watching the sunset from Ardo’s Rooftop.

    However your day looked, end it with cocktails and canapes at Townsville’s Ardo Rooftop. Find something more substantial at the hotel’s elegant but casual Chef-hatted Japanese restaurant Terasu, where each dish is a work of art.

    Day 3: Natural delights

    Morning

    couple holiding hands at the top of castle hill in townsville
    Join the locals for an early walk to the peak of Castle Hill. (Credit: My Colourful World)

    Join the local early morning pilgrimage to hike up Castle Hill for the best 360-degree views in town, before heading to breakfast at Spirited Goat for gourmet treats and locally brewed coffee.

    A trip to Townsville wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the outer Great Barrier Reef. For those with time, Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive runs full-day trips to the Museum of Underwater Art for snorkellers and divers to admire the reef’s stunning collection of submerged sculptures on John Brewer Reef, about two hours by boat from Townsville.

    Afternoon

    Shorehouse restaurant townsville
    Stop into the award-winning Shorehouse.

    Round off your Townsville getaway with lunch at Shorehouse, awarded Best Restaurant in the North Queensland People’s Choice Awards every year since 2023. Dine on the deck to catch the breeze and sample modern Asian cuisine as you watch the world go.

    Keen for something more to extend your stay? There are always more adventures –new, familiar and with a twist – in the events capital of the North.

    Plan your eventful visit to Townsville North Queensland at townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au.