Where to go and what to do in Queensland over the school holidays.
Taking some time off work to spend with the kids during these school holidays?
A family trip around Queensland is a great call as the weather is still warm, averaging 30℃, so there will be plenty of days for fun in the sun. Queensland offers a range of destinations that are family friendly and packed full of activities and experiences, including the Gold Coast, Fraser Coast and the Whitsundays.
These destinations are definite holiday contenders.
Family Holiday Destinations in Queensland
Six of the best family friendly holiday destinations in Queensland and what you can get up to while you’re there.
1. Gold Coast
A hub of family activity, the Gold Coast offers kilometres of family friendly beaches and more than a handful of theme and water parks to keep the kids entertained. Beyond the Gold Coast, you can also explore the Hinterland which includes Lamington and Springbrook National Parks.
Perfect for: Beach bums and thrill seekers
What to do
Where to stay
2. Brisbane
A cultural melting pot, Brisbane is the gateway to unique island destinations like Moreton Bay and Stradbroke island. Compared to other Queensland destinations, staying in the city to explore its motley of museums and districts can be a more budget-friendly option that choosing to go beachside at a more touristy location.
Perfect for: City break holidays
What to do
Where to stay
3. Fraser Coast
The Fraser Coast offers an adventurous and picturesque holiday break. A must on the list is the World Heritage-listed Fraser Island. Other attractions include Lake Wabby, Mudlo National Park, Burrum Coast National Park and Jimna State Forest. This is definitely one for more active families and family holidays.
Perfect for: Eco-tourism and active holidays
What to do
Where to stay
4. The Whitsundays
With 74 islands to explore, The Whitsundays is a seemingly endless paradise for families to enjoy. Eight of the islands contain resorts and many offer watersports and sailing tours, making access to the network of islands easy.
Perfect for: Sailing trips and beach holidaymakers
What to do
Where to stay
5. Tropical North
A staple on any Queensland visitor’s list, the Tropical North includes iconic destinations such as The Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Officially it encompasses the area between Northern Queensland (Townsville) and Far North Queensland (Cape York Peninsula) and includes Magnetic, Orpheus, Dunk and Lizard Islands.
Perfect for: Photo ops and once-in-a-lifetime experiences
What to do
Where to stay
6. Sunshine Coast
Similar to the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast offers family fun amidst a backdrop of pristine beaches. On top of its hundreds of kilometres of beaches, its other major natural attraction is the Blackall Ranges. For activities, kids can visit Australia Zoo, Underwater World, the Big Pineapple and Aussie World.
Perfect for: Relaxing beach breaks and close animal encounters.
What to do
Where to stay
Looking for other family parks? Check out Turu for more family friendly accommodation.
Family Holiday Queensland Islands
These Queensland islands are the ideal playgrounds for families. They offer calm waters, watersports, family friendly accommodations and adventure activities that little ones will love.
Hamilton Island: This luxurious island paradise is a favourite for holidaymakers of every kind. For families it offers plenty of nautical adventures and golfing opportunities and dedicated family adventure packages are often available throughout the year.
Fraser Island: As the world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island features a terrain unlike any other. You can four-wheel-drive across the sands, go birdwatching and explore the forestscape.
South Molle Island: When visiting the Whitsundays, South Molle Island is a paradise among many. The resort offers a “kids club” where little ones can socialise with other children while having close and educational encounters with native flora and fauna.
Daydream Island: Searching for a family friendly island in the Whitsundays? Daydream is a haven for them with water activities such as fish feeding and land activities including an outdoor cinema to keep them amused.
Heron Island: Heading to the Great Barrier Reef? Heron Island should be on your to-visit list. It features 20+ dive sites and its waters are brimming with all manner of aquatic life including rays, reef sharks, turtles and colourful corals.
Orpheus Island: Within close reach of Townsville, Orpheus Island is a gateway onto the Great Barrier Reef and offers activities such as snorkelling. It neighbours Fantome Island, an explorable island that is the site of a previous leper colony.
Top Queensland Theme Park Family Holiday Deals
Pre-purchase tickets to Queensland’s theme parks before you leave home.
