Australia - Pitstops for Kids

Fun places to visit with your family around Australia

March 21, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Traveling with your kids and making memories as a family is essential. It not only gives you something to look back on when your kids are older, but it also strengthens your bond as a family.

And while you look for places to go, choose to visit the smallest continent in the world: Australia. It has everything you could ever ask for in a family vacation: it’s educational, it has beaches, and it’s downright awesome! Now that you’ve chosen to go to this fantastic land, here are a few itinerary tips for when you go with your kids in tow:

Sydney

One of the first places to stop by in Australia is of course Sydney. There are plenty of family-friendly activities for you and your family to try. Some of these include the coastal walk from Bondi Beach to Congee, family surf lessons where everyone can participate, and of course, climbing over the Harbor Bridge.

The city also has a great public transport system, so you shouldn’t find it too hard to get to places you need to go. What’s more, there are a variety of restaurants and museums to check out.

Blue Mountains

Located two hours from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers an experience unlike any other. Take a ride on the Scenic Railway, also known as the world’s steepest incline railway or the Scenic Skyway, which is a glass-bottom sky tram that can raise you up and give you the best way to see everything the Blue Mountains have to offer. From here, you can see the Three Sisters, Wentworth Falls as well as Jamison Valley. If you have enough time, you can take the family to see the Jenolan Caves.

Uluru

One of the most famous attractions of the Northern Territory, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a must visit place for anyone who wishes to see this most talked about landmark. The Uluru is best viewed at sunset or sunrise, where it is said to change colors as the light hits it just right.

While waiting for the Golden Hour, you can take this time to go on other adventures in the area including camel back riding.

Great Barrier Reef

Getting to see the Great Barrier Reef in all of its…. Greatness requires time and patience. That is because the Whitsunday Islands are only accessible through infrequent flights and boat launches. But when you arrive at one of the few resorts on the island, you will see that it was all worth it. Here, you can check out the sandy white beaches as well as proximity to the reef that will allow you to get close and personal with it.

A helpful tip for those who want to fly to the islands: Book window seats to catch a first glimpse of the reef. They will make for great photos to remember your trip.

Daintree Rainforest

While you’re out there checking off World Heritage Sites off your “To-Go” list, then might as well stop by Daintree Rainforest. Located within Daintree National Park, Daintree Rainforest is the oldest known rainforest on the planet.

While here, you can check out the Daintree Discovery Centre where you can learn all about the region. A great way to give your kids a quick history lesson without being too dull. Next, you can wander through the forest through elevated boardwalks and marvel at the plant and wildlife that live there. Other fun activities you can try out as a family include zip line tours for thrill seekers and horseback rides.

When it comes to family, more often than not, the journey is what matters most. Learn more about each member of your family all while enjoying everything the great country of Australia has to offer.

Going on a trip requires you to take on a long drive. And sometimes, your family car just isn’t up for the task. If that’s the case, then you should look into finding a mid-size car rental to ease your worries and ensure that your family is safe on the road.

Australia with kids: Night Fire at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

September 18, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

The following is a guest post from reader Heather Hoeffling.

While in Cairns, Australia, looking for something “different” for dinner and a way to learn about Aboriginal culture, our family of four (including two boys, age 12 and 16) decided to try Night Fire (think Hawaiian luau) at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Our evening began with getting our faces painted in an art gallery by members of the Bama tribe, indigenous people of the rainforest, in traditional warrior paint and costumes.

We then moved through four more locations around the gallery complex. Three of the locations are outdoors, so if you go in August, like us, wear a jacket. We followed torch-carrying warriors to a fire pit where appetizers were served, emu or kangaroo on crackers served with sparking wine or fruit juices. The food was all very good (and I was glad we tried them because dinner wasn’t served until 8:30). Aboriginal stories, music, and traditional dances were performed around the fire. We followed dancers and musicians by torch light to the next location. This location turned out to be a dance theater, where guests were encouraged to participate or just enjoy the performances. Didgeridoo demonstrations, dance lessons, fire making lessons, and more tribal stories were all part of the next two locations. At each location, we were also taught words or songs from the Bama tribe.

The last location was a dining room, with a stage for more entertainment, which is where the buffet was set up. Many different salads and breads accompanied choices of prawns, roasted lamb, crocodile, kangaroo, pork, fish, and chicken. Roasted pumpkin, other vegetables, a few Asian dishes, and a variety of desserts were all available. The food was good and my family of picky eaters all found things they liked. A full bar was available, but drinks beyond water, tea, coffee, and juice were extra.

Don’t rush out through the obligatory gift shop at the end of the evening, as performers move back outside to answer questions and pose for pictures with guests. All in all, we felt this was a great experience for the whole family.

If you go:

Reservations aren’t required, but highly recommended. Remember seasonally-appropriate clothing, as many of the activities are outside. The cultural park is open during the day as well, for families who’d prefer to tour the sites without the dinner experience. This may appeal to families with younger kids. Shuttle transfers are available from local lodging as well.

Cost:

Adult- $123.00

Child- $75.00

Family-$321.00

Location:

Caravonica, Australia: Find directions from Cairns here.

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Where to find the best outdoor adventure activities in New Zealand

August 25, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

The unparalleled beauty of New Zealand’s outdoors beckons thousands of tourists ready to experience the most adventurous and exciting activities in this island country year after year. New Zealand’s virtually unspoiled natural expanses make it one of the greatest places in the world to enjoy the very best outdoor activities. A combination of mountains, rainforests, fjords, and the magnificent beaches of this gorgeous country provide abundant opportunities for wild outdoor adventures. There are plenty of New Zealand North Island tours as well as South Island exploring to fill your travels with. Below are five of the best outdoor adventure activities in New Zealand and where to find them!

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

New Zealand’s glowworm caves are quite a sight to behold, by displaying a fantastic light show in the Glowworm Grotto. If you traipse through the underground Waitomo River, you can get to the Glowworm Grotto where you will witness the magic of a thousand glowworms lighting the way forward for boat riders. The glowworm cave dates back to 120 years and forms an important part of New Zealand’s cultural history. You can also try out some more adventurous tours of the cave that include rock climbing, tunneling, abseiling, and cliff jumping!

Mills Reef Helicopter Wine Tasting

Go on a spectacular wine tasting journey to Mills Reef at Tauranga via a helicopter ride that offers stunning views of Tauranga Harbour and the Kaimai Ranges. Mills Reef Restaurant is highly acclaimed for excellent food and some delectable wines. On the helicopter ride, you can enjoy views of the surrounding beaches and Mount Maunganui.

Dolphin Cruise

If you take the Dolphin Cruise at the Bay of Islands, you will enjoy some gorgeous and diverse marine life. You’ll spot bottlenose dolphins and whales if you watch carefully enough! There’s also opportunity for swimming with dolphins if the conditions are right. Bay of Islands has many beautiful islands in its vicinity, many of which you can visit and relax on their beaches.

Cathedral Cove Boat Tour

Cathedral Cove is rich in marine life, mind-blowing sea caves, beaches, and islands. There are fun activities you can do here like swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, bird watching, and many more. Cathedral Cove is home to beautiful sea birds like the Gannet and the Blue Penguin. You can also take boat trips, go diving, or pay a visit to the Mercury Bay Vineyard.

Hot Water Beach

The Hot Water Beach at Mercury Bay has natural hot springs coming from an underground river of hot water. Along with the soothing hot water, you can surf as well as visit the beachside cafes and galleries. The beach is lined with the Pohutukawa Cliffs on either side, offering some breathtaking views.

Destinations in Sydney to visit with your kids

May 17, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Lots of people say that as parents, you should always try to make time for yourself. Go to places alone, recharge, and experience new things without the kids by your side. But there will always be that nagging feeling, making you feel guilty that you should’ve have brought the kids with you as you see such view you are looking at, or this street performance. Simply because you just miss them everyday.

Fun destinations in Sydney to visit with your kids

So a trip with the family should always be in the to-do list! The only question is, where would be the next stop? Well, Sydney is one of the best places to go to when you are traveling with kids. It is a city jampacked with different kinds of places to go to — from museums to beaches, children with different interests will always have something to do. Not to mention, it offers some of the best food destinations and top-notch hotels like The Star accommodation in Sydney, so you will never hunt for anywhere else.

To help you build your Sydney itinerary, here are places you can go to with your kids during your trip.

Wild Life Sydney

Australia has always been known for its ravishing wild life where animals roam freely and well taking care of in a way some cities would not. Wild Life Sydney has an indoor zoo called Wild Life World that houses Australia’s native animals like snakes, kangaroos, spiders, emus, and koalas. You will also find a butterfly garden that lets you approach these insects. There is also a rooftop koala encounter that lets you get up close to them so you can take a picture.

Balmoral Beach

Another Australian experience you should not skip is going to any of their beaches. The Balmoral Beach on the North Shore of Sydney is a very popular destination for both locals and tourists. It has the best view of the clear ocean and offers lots of activities that both you and your kids will enjoy. There’s a footbridge you can cross to see the breathtaking views of the harbour.

Madame Tussauds

Looking at figures of iconic people in history and pop culture is a good art and culture lesson your family can have by visiting Madame Tussauds. This is an exciting way to show your kids the people who have been pivotal in history and celebrities they do not recognise yet. Aside from the educational side, visiting Madame Tussauds is also a unique way for them to appreciate talent and art. Despite being a popular destination around the world, not a lot of people have been in any of the Tussauds museums, and including it in your itinerary means your kids can take part in something completely exciting and extraordinary.

Grounds Keeper Cafe

You can cap off a fun day with a couple of burgers at Grounds Keeper Cafe in Ryde Park. They have an extensive menu of food your kids will love munching like chicken tenderloins and cheese burgers. But one of the things that make it such a popular place to go is its location. It’s strategically located in the middle of the park where a playground can be found.

Sydney is truly one of the most breathtaking places in the world. Traveling here with your family will be awesome, and with an itinerary like this, you and your kids will definitely have an amazing time touring around Sydney.

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Things to do on the Great Barrier Reef with kids

July 6, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

The Great Barrier Reef is a magical place to visit. Most parents wouldn’t think that it is safe to tour Australia’s natural wonder with kids, but there are actually quite a few things you can do. Introducing them at a young age helps them learn about the biodiversity and the beauty first hand. There are over 6,600 species of flora and fauna that live in the Great Barrier Reef; this includes 1,500 species of fish, 400 kinds of coral, and 4,000 species of mollusks. In this article, we will cover the different things you can do with your kids on holiday on the Great Barrier Reef.

Glass Bottom Boat Rides

You can charter a glass bottom boat ride from most port cities in Queensland adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef. The clear glass allows you and your children to see the marine life, the brightly coloured fish and the magnificent corals without getting wet or even needing to know how to swim. Safely peer down into the clear blue waters and introduce your children to a whole new world they will come to love and respect.

Island Excursions

There are many different islands among the Great Barrier Reef that make for a great holiday with the kids. You can hire a Budget rent a car easily, and be on your way to one of the islands. Each of the islands boast several white sand beaches just waiting for sand castles. Some islands have accommodations so that you can stay on the island and get to experience so much of the Great Barrier Reef right from the island. The shallow beaches allow little ones to get their feet wet and experience the Coral Sea without getting in too deep. Whatever your tastes and budget is, there are island accommodations for you. If you thought staying on a Great Barrier Reef island was out of reach for a modest single parent budget, think again. All types of accommodations are available from budget camping tents, cabins, cottages, lodges, and luxury resorts. Here are some specific kid friendly island activities:

If you are looking for kid-friendly fun while on the island, check out Hamilton Island where you can plan to go bowling, take art classes, go-kart racing, mini golf, quad bikes and more.
From September to March you can see the Loggerhead and Green sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs and then the babies hatch and make their way back into the water. This is an excellent phenomenon to see with your kids.
On Daydream Island (located in the Whitsunday Islands) the resort there has an amazing living reef that runs through it. The Living Reef is one of the largest man-made living coral reef lagoons in the whole world. Children get to experience a piece of the Great Barrier Reef in the shallow lagoon without the dangers of open water. There are more than 140 species of marine fish and 83 species of coral in the Living Reef. Guests of the resort can wade through the waters, explore, touch, and learn about the marine life swimming through it. There are daily educational seminars and feeding sessions to help educate everyone about the reef, its inhabitants, and the importance of conservation.
Low Isles is a small cay just off the coast of Port Douglas. It is easy to get to but access is limited; so if you plan ahead of time, you can be a part of a limited tour that is perfect for you and your kids. There is a lighthouse on the island and a shallow, sheltered lagoon in the bay that is perfect for swimming.

Kid Friendly Activities in Port Cities

Up and down the Queensland coast along the Great Barrier Reef are a series of major port cities: Cairns, Port Douglas, Townsville, Mackay, and Rockhampton. Each port city allows for easy access to destinations and charters on the Great Barrier Reef.

Things to Do in Cairns:

Cairns Zoo
Mossman Gorge
Kuranda Rainforest
Barron Gorge National Park

Things to Do in Port Douglas:

Daintree Rainforest
The Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary
Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures

Things to Do in Townsville:

The Strand Water Park
The Rockpool
Museum of Tropical Queensland
Reef HQ Aquarium
Billabong Sanctuary

Photo credit: Flickr/SummerDay, Flickr/RobertLinsdell, Flickr/PaulTooGood

The family guide to Australia’s East Coast

June 9, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

The Australian East Coast is vast and diverse, with something to offer for every member of the family, even the moody teenager. From Melbourne to Cape Tribulation, from Sydney to Cairns, the east coast is packed with exciting holiday destinations for the whole family. The best and most fun way to discover all there is on offer is by taking a road trip. This is the family guide to Australia’s east coast:

The big cities

Ask most people doing an Australian East Coast trip and they are bound to tell you they are visiting the three east coast capital cities: Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. All unique and beautiful in their own way, these three cities are well worth the visit.

Take Brisbane, the smallest of the three. What Brisbane loses in size, it makes up for in charm. The pride and joy of the Sunshine State, Brisbane has plenty on offer for young and old families. Whether you’re taking a dip at Southbank, or doing some shopping in trendy West End, Brisbane will not disappoint.

Next on the list is family favourite, Sydney. Australia’s largest city features tourist attractions including the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, and much more.

Then there´s Sydney´s eternal rival, Melbourne, it’s not just for hipsters! Melbourne has plenty on offer for families too! From spending the day at St. Kilda’s Luna Park, to strolling through the array of world-renowned art galleries and museums, there is always plenty to do in Melbourne. It is also extremely easy and cheap for the whole family to catch trams around the city.

Coast

Any Australian East Coast trip is guaranteed to involve lots of beach time. So which beaches are the best? Starting from the top, there’s the pristine resort town of Airlie Beach. Here you’ll have the chance to take the kids sailing, swimming, or just relax by the pool at your resort! Close by are the Whitsunday Islands. The Whitsundays provide the perfect opportunity for you to set sail on one of the many yacht tours that sail through the breathtaking group of islands, allowing you to spend a few days scuba diving and soaking up the sun.

Around Brisbane, you and the family will have plenty of opportunities to hit the surf. Take a ferry to Fraser Island and camp out in comfort, with excellent facilities at hand. Drive along the beach, throw some snags on the BBQ, go fishing, or take a dip in Lake McKenzie. Or, perhaps you’d prefer the Gold Coast? The Gold Coast, just an hour drive from Brisbane, is home to fantastic surfing and swimming beaches, as well as a handful of amusement parks that the kids are sure to love.

For a more relaxed vibe, drive down the coast to Byron Bay and take a yoga lesson, go sea kayaking, or simply relax with some fish and chips on the beach. Northern NSW and Sydney also have some excellent spots for surfing, or just enjoying the view.

What else?

So, now we’ve covered the big cities and the fantastic beaches of the Australian East Coast. But, that’s not all there is! Don’t forget the gorgeous country towns, valleys, and outback destinations scattered along the coast! For example, just outside Sydney you will find a charming little town called ‘Nundle’. Taking the family to Nundle Sheep Station for the night, you’ll have the opportunity to experience a shearing demonstration and learn about sheep farming from an expert shearer. You can even stay the night in the shearer’s quarters. Not far away, you can taste the wine of the Hunter Valley. For the kids, take a drive to Bingara, here you can try gold panning at a historic gold mine, go horseback riding, or take a swim in the local waterhole.

These are just a few of the highlights of the Australian East Coast. With hundreds of destinations and a million ways to do it, you’re sure to find an Australian East Coast holiday that will satisfy the whole family. So what are you waiting for? Book your flights and start planning for the road trip of a lifetime.

Photo credit: Cory Leopold, Jodie Wilson and Ari Bakker.