Australia is an amazing destination the whole family can enjoy. It has a lot of outdoor attractions, fascinating wildlife, a long and complex history and wonderful sunny beaches. Aside from that, the country is huge and traveling through it is an experience in itself. Plan out your road trip and organize stops to accommodate the needs of each family member and you’ll have the time of your life.
Here are some places you should visit in Australia with your kids:
Great Ocean Road
Great Ocean Road is famous around the world as one of the best road trips you could take. It begins a bit outside Melbourne and goes to Warrnambool (which is about 250 km away). In that space, you could basically see Australia in all its glory including waterfalls, hiking, coastal scenery and wildlife. The high point of the trip is usually Port Campbell National Park when you can see The 12 Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks just off the shore of the park. Currently, there are 8 rocks left (the 9th collapsed in 2005). While you’re there, make sure you try the local seafood products (beef is also good if you’re not into seafood).
Touring Tasmania
Tasmania is actually pretty compact, but it’s rich in both history and accessible wilderness. This makes it a great destination for family vacation on wheels. For those want a more peaceful vacation there are a few museums in this area. You can also stop and go sea-kayaking around Coles Bay or scale the treetops at the Tahune Forest AirWalk. The walk itself takes little over an hour so it can be a bit overwhelming for kids under ten. Nevertheless, it’s beautiful and peaceful up there. You can get a sense of the scale of the place and when it’s calm just enjoy and look at the birds and the trees. This area is also famous for its oyster restaurants.
Port Douglas
It’s a hip and surprisingly laid back resort near the World Heritage Rainforest. According to Port Douglas tripadvisor authority as it’s a meant for family vacations. The accommodations are created to keep the kids engaged while the parents chill by the pool. The Great Barrier Reef is also nearby and that’s why you shouldn’t miss it. Most of the activities on the Reef (like snorkeling) are included in the price of a boat ticket, so it won’t weigh too hard on your wallet. Afterward, you can take a river cruise and see the wildlife first hand. Port Douglas has fine international cuisine, with a lot of Mediterranean influences.
Red Centre Way
There are faster ways to get to Alice Springs than this, but Red Centre Way has the most beautiful scenery. It’s filled with camping and hiking trails, canyons, camping trails and overall gorgeous landscapes. Uluru sandstone is considered to be the highlight of this trip. Located 450 km from the closest town, it’s a home to indigenous people called the Anangu. Wander off-course and explore the desert and enjoy all the wildlife and calming silence it can offer. It’s best to prepare snacks before you start the hike.
Ten Trip Tips
All of these road trips are fun and exciting, but bringing kids along can make it infinitely more stressful. Here’s what you should have in mind:
1. Bring enough water; it’s easy to dehydrate in the desert.
2. Don’t forget extra layers; it gets cold at night, especially in a desert.
3. Have extra wet wipes; you’re going to need them.
4. Pack an extra first aid kit; better safe than sorry.
5. Talk to a doctor and get all your shots before the trip.
6. Make sure you have a reliable car insurance.
7. Bring enough sunblock and don’t forget to apply it.
8. It’s OK to take breaks, even between designated stops; don’t drive tired.
9. Bring something to keep the kids occupied during the ride (audiobooks, games, etc.).
10. Have fun!
Road trips are a great way for families to bond and experience the country they’re in together. Australia especially has a lot to offer for those interested in family tourism. Find your destination and enjoy yourselves.
