The best summer family holidays in Australia

Jennifer Ennion 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.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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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)

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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.

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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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The ultimate spring and summer guide to Melbourne

    Australian Traveller Australian Traveller
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    There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

    The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

    If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

    Where to stay

    The Westin Melbourne

    couple inside their room at the westin melbourne
    View the city from above in your suite.

    Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

    Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

    Where to eat and drink

    1. Allegro

    Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

    The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

    2. Lobby Lounge

    the westin melbourne lobby lounge
    Step into the Lobby Lounge.

    Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge.

    The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

    For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea. You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

    3. Other places to dine

    diners at supernormal melbourne
    There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet, the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

    Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

    Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

    While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

    Things to do

    1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

    a bridge across yarra river
    Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

    A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

    2. Browse the boutique galleries

    two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria
    See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery, Arc One Gallery, Outre Gallery, Caves Gallery, Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary, allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

    If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria. The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

    3. Catch some live music

    live music at the cherry bar in melbourne
    Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

    Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement, Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar, or larger ones, such as The Toff, Forum and Palais Theatre, for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

    4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

    three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground
    Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

    Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

    5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

    the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre
    Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

    Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

    Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

    Best Summer Family Holidays In Australia