The best things to do in Australia for families aren’t just attractions on a map. They’re the moments you’ll be talking about at birthday dinners and holiday gatherings for years to come. Australia is massive, wildly diverse, and filled with the kind of landscapes that make kids look up from their screens and say, “Whoa… are we really here?” As a travel advisor who helps families turn big dreams into even bigger memories, I always tell my clients this… You don’t have to see all of Australia to fall in love with it. You just need the right slice of it. Chosen with your family in mind.

That’s the beauty of planning an Australia family vacation. Each state is like its own world, with unique wildlife, adventures, beaches, and stories waiting for your kids to discover. And when you know how to map them out thoughtfully (hi, that’s where I come in!), you can build an itinerary that hits the highlights without feeling rushed.

So, let’s explore some of my favorite family friendly things to do in Australia. Experiences that spark curiosity, invite adventure, and give your family permission to play again. Australia does family travel exceptionally well. By the time you return home, you may just question why kangaroos don’t roam your own neighborhood.

The Best Things to Do in Australia for Families

New South Wales: Sun, Surf, City Views, and a Little Adventure Magic

New South Wales is where many families fall head-over-sandals for Australia. And it’s easy to see why. Sydney alone feels like a giant playground where skyscrapers meet surf culture. If your family loves big cities with bigger adventures, this state will set the tone for the rest of your Australia family travel experience.

Bondi Beach & the Bondi Icebergs Pool

Picture your family stepping onto Bondi Beach for the first time. The salty breeze. The surfers carving waves like it’s no big deal. The kids immediately kicking off their shoes because sand apparently calls to children the way chocolate calls to adults.

Bondi is iconic for a reason. But what many families treasure most is the Bondi Icebergs Ocean Pool. It lets you swim in calm, crystalline water while still watching the Pacific flex its muscles just beyond the pool wall.

It’s the perfect compromise for kids (or adults) who want the ocean vibes without actual ocean creatures brushing past their ankles.

Skiing in the Snowy Mountains – One of the Best Things to Do in Australia

If your crew is more snow bunny than beach bum, don’t skip ski season in the Snowy Mountains. It’s the kind of surprise that makes kids say, “Wait… Australia has snow?”

Gentle slopes, wide-open terrain, and gorgeous alpine panoramas make this a fun and approachable place for families. Just don’t expect Rocky Mountain powder. Think of it as winter fun with a sunny Aussie attitude.

Ferry Rides from Circular Quay

Some days deserve to be slow. And nothing says “vacation pace” quite like hopping on a ferry from Circular Quay and watching Sydney shimmer from the water. Whether you’re cruising toward Manly or simply taking the scenic long way around, ferries are a stress-free way to sightsee. No complaining from the backseat required.

Bushwalking in the Blue Mountains

When the city energy gets a little too energetic, escape to the Blue Mountains. Misty valleys, endless eucalyptus trees, and trails that make even teenagers want to put down their phones. Nature just does that.

Some of my favorite family-friendly tracks include:

• The Great Round Walk – easy, scenic, and great for little legs.

• Cliff Top Walking Track – dramatic views without the drama.

• National Pass – a waterfall lover’s dream.

And for adventurous families?

The Six Foot Track.

It’s multi-day, memorable, and guaranteed to become a family legend. (“Remember that time we…” will become a household phrase.)

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb – One of the Exhilarating Best Things to Do in Australia

This one is a showstopper. Families who climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge walk away with a whole new perspective. Literally.

The panoramic views are unreal. And the shared thrill of standing above one of the world’s most famous harbors is something your kids will brag about long after you’re home.

More Family Favorites in New South Wales

If your itinerary allows, try sprinkling in a few more gems:

• Walking the powdery white sands of Hyams Beach

• Whale watching along the coast

• Surf lessons in Byron Bay

• Splash-filled fun at Jamberoo Action Park

• A close-up encounter with the dolphins at the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park

• A whimsical train ride at Macadamia Castle

• Limestone wonders inside the Jenolan Caves

New South Wales is where many families realize they’ve fallen in love with Australia without even trying. And trust me… This is just the beginning.

Check out my travel guide to Australia before beginning to plan your family vacation. 

Queensland: Reef Days, Rainforest Secrets, and Wildlife Wonders

If New South Wales is where your family falls for Australia, Queensland is where the love story goes full “happily ever after.” This state feels like a highlight reel of everything kids (and let’s be honest—parents, too) dream about when they picture an Australia family vacation. Coral reefs bursting with color, ancient rainforests, cuddly creatures, caves, and sky-high viewpoints that make you feel wonderfully small.

The Great Barrier Reef: A Natural Wonder Your Family Will Never Forget

Seeing the Great Barrier Reef for the first time is one of those “core memory” moments. Kids suddenly get quiet, the good kind of quiet, because they’re too busy staring into an underwater world that doesn’t feel real.

You can:

• Snorkel alongside clownfish and sea turtles

• Swim in turquoise water so clear it looks photoshopped

• Or stay dry and glide above the coral gardens on a glass-bottom boat

For families, this is storytelling gold. Long after your trip ends, someone at the dinner table will bring up “that time we saw the giant turtle…”

Australia Zoo: Wildlife Encounters the Kids Will Talk About for Years

If your kids grew up watching Steve Irwin, this place will feel like a pilgrimage. Australia Zoo is one of the most beloved family friendly things to do in Australia because it makes wildlife encounters feel personal and meaningful. Not rushed or gimmicky.

Expect:

• Crocodile shows that make your heart skip

• Lush natural habitats

• A day packed with “Mom, look at this!” moments

Pro tip: Plan a full day here. Trust me. No one will want to leave early.

Caves, Canyons & Australian Outback Mystique

Families with curious, adventurous kids will love Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park. More than 500 caves hide underneath this rugged landscape. And exploring them feels like stepping into a prehistoric world.

My favorites include:

• Wullumba Cave – beautiful formations

• Mungana Cave – perfect for families who want that “wow” moment

If caves aren’t your thing, head to Carnarvon Gorge National Park instead. This is where boardwalks, creeks, and towering sandstone walls turn a simple hike into an unforgettable adventure.

More Family Adventures in Queensland

Because Queensland likes to overachieve, here are even more highlights worth adding to your Australia family itinerary:

• Riding over Big Red, the legendary Simpson Desert dune

• Panoramic city views from the SkyPoint Observation Deck

• Prehistoric fun at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs

• The magical Capricorn Caves

• Scuba diving or snorkeling at the Tangalooma Wrecks

• The charming Kuranda Scenic Railway

• The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding above ancient treetops

Queensland is one of those destinations where families feel like each day could be its own vacation. And once your kids meet their first wallaby or snorkel over their first giant clam, you’ll understand why so many families tell me this is their favorite part of Australia.

Check out your transportation options during a family vacation in Australia. 

South Australia: Wildlife Moments, Outback Roads, and Time-Travel Adventures

South Australia is where families discover that adventure doesn’t always mean going fast. It often means slowing down just enough to notice the magic around you. This part of the country blends rugged outback landscapes with charming historic towns, wildlife encounters, and coastline views that make you swear you’ve stepped inside a painting.

It’s a beautiful balance of “wow” moments and quiet, meaningful ones. Perfect for families who love variety.

4WD Adventures Through the Flinders Ranges – One of the Best Adventurous Things to Do in Australia

Imagine loading the family into a 4WD vehicle and rumbling across ancient landscapes older than the dinosaurs. The Flinders Ranges feel like nature’s storybook. Deep red ridges, wide desert plains, and wildlife that hops by as if they’re just checking on the neighbors.

Along the way, stop at:

• Razorback Lookout – cinematic views that make cameras very happy

• Station Hill – great for kids who love climbing rocks

• Wilpena Pound – one of the most dramatic landscapes in Australia

This is the kind of adventure where everyone ends the day dusty, smiling, and very ready for a hearty pub lunch. Luckily, small country pubs pop up exactly when you need them most.

Gorge Wildlife Park: Koalas, Crocs & Meerkat Mischief

If your kids have ever begged to cuddle a koala, this is the place to make it happen. Gorge Wildlife Park offers the kind of up-close encounters that turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary one.

Expect:

• Koala cuddles (yes, really!)

• Crocodiles lurking just close enough to raise your heart rate

• Meerkats begging for snacks like tiny, furry comedians

There’s even a reptile encounter for the brave ones. Perfect for kids who insist snakes are “actually very cute.”

Riding the Historic Cockle Train

If your family loves history or just loves trains that chug along past ocean views, the Cockle Train is a must. Dating back to 1887, this cheerful railway winds along the Fleurieu Peninsula with sparkling coastline on one side and rolling countryside on the other.

It’s peaceful. It’s nostalgic. And it’s the kind of ride where kids press their noses to the window while adults enjoy the rare moment of sitting still.

If trains aren’t your family’s thing, try the Horse Drawn Tram instead. It carries you over the causeway to Granite Island, where dolphins often play offshore and little explorers love hopping around the boulders.

More Family Favorites in South Australia

Round out your Australia family travel itinerary with a few more gems:

• Wandering the serene Adelaide Botanic Gardens

• Touring Haigh’s Chocolates (a family favorite for obvious reasons)

• Snacking your way through the Adelaide Central Markets

• Hiking to waterfalls at Morialta Conservation Park

• Watching dolphins glide through the Whyalla Marina

• Catching a perfect sunset at Hummock Hill

• Exploring Kangaroo Island, a paradise for wildlife lovers

South Australia has a beautiful way of surprising families. One minute you’re admiring wild coastline. The next, you’re sharing a moment with a koala or watching a fiery sunset melt into the sea.

These are the experiences that stay with kids, and parents, long after you fly home.

Tasmania: Whimsical Villages, Wild Landscapes, and Pure Family Fun

Tasmania feels like it was designed by someone who really, truly understands family travel. It’s playful, it’s scenic, and it’s just the right amount of quirky. Plus, every corner seems to invite families to explore, laugh, and slow down together.

If your Australia family vacation includes time here, expect wide-eyed kids, lots of giggles, and a whole lot of “Can we come back someday?”

Tasmazia: A Miniature Village With Maximum Charm

If there’s one place guaranteed to delight your kids (and maybe awaken your own inner child), it’s Tasmazia. Nestled in the beautiful Cradle Mountain region, this adorable miniature village lets kids feel like giants as they wander through tiny homes, playful scenes, and whimsical streets.

The real stars here though?

Eight incredible mazes, each one more creative than the last.

The Yellow Brick Road Maze is a fan favorite. Kids race through it like they’re starring in their own adventure film. Parents attempt to keep up without admitting they’re a little lost too.

It’s joyful. It’s quirky. And it’s one of the best family friendly things to do in Australia if you want a break from the usual beach-and-wildlife routine.

Doo Town: Where Every House Name Starts With “Doo” – One of the Unique Best Things to Do in Australia

Nothing bonds a family quite like laughing together, and Doo Town delivers plenty of that. Back in the 1930s, one resident named his shack “Doo I.”

The idea took off, and soon the neighborhood was filled with homes cheekily called:

• Toucan Doo

• Dr. Doolittle

• Doo Drop In

• Make Doo

Kids love spotting the funniest names (and adults secretly love it too). Bring a camera. You’re going to want proof of these gems.

West Coast Wilderness Railway: A Real-Life Hogwarts Express Moment

If your kids have ever wished they could board the Hogwarts Express, this is as close as it gets outside of Scotland. The West Coast Wilderness Railway winds through Tasmania’s rainforest, past rushing rivers, and over old bridges that make every child press their face to the window.

You can choose a half-day or full-day ride depending on your itinerary, but either way, this experience feels like stepping back in time. Trains, history, scenery. Everyone wins.

More Family Adventures in Tasmania

Round out your visit with a few unforgettable extras:

• Taking a selfie with a penguin at Penguin Point

• Spotting a Tasmanian devil at night or visiting them at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

• Hiking around Mount Wellington for sweeping Hobart views

• Walking among the treetops on the Tahune AirWalk

• Exploring the stunning Hastings Caves

• Relaxing in the warm waters of the Hastings Thermal Springs

• Cruising the Pieman River to see the famous Gumboot Tree

Tasmania has a way of sneaking into families’ hearts. It’s whimsical, wild, and wonderfully different. One of those destinations where the unexpected becomes the highlight of the whole trip.

Victoria: Penguins, Gold Rush Tales, and Theme Park Thrills

Victoria is where family adventures take on a cinematic feel. Think adorable penguins waddling ashore at sunset. Old-fashioned gold towns where kids can strike it rich (or at least try to). And theme parks that bring out the joyful screams you didn’t realize your family still had in them.

This state blends wildlife, history, and pure fun in a way that keeps every day feeling fresh.

Phillip Island: Home of the Famous Penguin Parade

Just an hour from Melbourne, Phillip Island is one of the best places to visit in Australia for families who love wildlife encounters that feel magical rather than manufactured. The island is home to more than 40 species of animals. But the real celebrities are the little penguins.

Every evening, as the sun dips and the sky softens, the penguins emerge from the sea and waddle across the sand in what’s known as the Penguin Parade. Families who upgrade to the VIP viewing platform can look beneath the walkway to see these adorable birds shuffle right underneath their feet.

Kids squeal. Parents melt. Cameras overheat.

It’s pure joy. One of the most unforgettable moments of any Australia family vacation.

Sovereign Hill: A Step Into Australia’s Gold Rush

If your kids have ever dreamed of discovering treasure, Sovereign Hill will be their new favorite place. This living history museum transports families back to the 1850s with dusty streets, costumed characters, and hands-on experiences that make learning feel like play.

Family favorites include:

• Panning for gold (and yes, sometimes you can actually find some!)

• Touring the underground gold mine

• Riding in a horse-drawn carriage

• Watching blacksmiths, candle makers, and tradespeople at work

It’s immersive, educational, and wonderfully interactive. Your kids won’t even realize they’re learning.

Gumbuya World: Where Adventure Meets Wildlife

You really can’t visit Australia without hitting at least one theme park, and in Victoria, Gumbuya World is a family favorite.

Here, you can:

• Hold on tight on thrilling rides

• Zip down waterslides that go faster than you think

• Feed kangaroos in the fauna reserve

• Wander through lush gardens full of native wildlife

It’s the kind of place where everyone feels like a kid again. And where families genuinely play together.

More Family Favorites in Victoria

To round out your time in this fun-filled region, consider adding:

• A medieval day of fun at Kryal Castle

• An open-range safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo

• A breezy coastline ride aboard the Portland Cable Trams

Victoria is a beautiful blend of imagination, education, and thrill. And it offers something meaningful for every age group. From penguins to prospecting, it’s a state that leaves families smiling long after they return home.

Check out this sample itinerary of a 15-day family vacation in Australia and New Zealand. 

Western Australia: Wild Beauty, Hidden Caves, and the Coolest Creatures You’ll Ever Meet

Western Australia feels like a world of its own. Raw, spacious, sun-drenched, and full of surprises that make families stop mid-sentence and say, “Wait… this is real?” If your Australia family travel plans include this side of the country, get ready for turquoise waters, ancient gorges, adorable quokkas, and landscapes that feel untouched by time.

Yanchep National Park: Koalas and Crystal Caves

Just outside Perth, Yanchep National Park is a gentle, welcoming introduction to Western Australia’s wild side. While the park is home to more than 400 caves, only Crystal Cave is open to the public. And let me tell you, it’s worth the visit.

A guided tour brings the cavern to life with stories, geology, and shimmering formations your kids will swear look like treasure. After emerging back into the sunshine, make time for a peaceful walk along the Koala Boardwalk.

It’s one of the easiest places in the region to spot koalas snoozing in eucalyptus trees. An instant family favorite.

Karijini National Park: Outback Adventure at Its Best

This is the Australia people daydream about. Deep red gorges, waterfalls tucked into secret pockets of rock, and natural pools so inviting you’ll want to leap in fully clothed.

In Karijini National Park, your family can:

• Hike through stunning chasms

• Stand at Oxer Lookout, a viewpoint so dramatic it’s almost overwhelming

• Swim at Fern Pool, a calm oasis beneath a gentle waterfall

And here’s the parental bonus… No crocodiles in the water. It’s safe, refreshing, and absolutely unforgettable.

Whale Sharks, Humpbacks & Ocean Adventures

Western Australia offers some of the most incredible marine encounters on the planet.

Families can:

• Take a whale-watching cruise

• Swim with whale sharks—the gentle giants of the sea

• Snorkel or swim near migrating humpback whales

These experiences are emotional, humbling, and often life changing. Watching a whale shark glide past you is a moment families talk about for decades.

More Family Favorites in Western Australia

Because this region is packed with surprises, here are a few more treasures to add to your Australia family itinerary:

• Hunting for dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point

• Meeting the famously photogenic quokkas on Rottnest Island

• Gathering shells on the white sands of Shell Beach in Shark Bay

Western Australia is rugged and magical in equal measure. Families who venture here fall in love with its spirit. Wild, warm, and wonderfully unpredictable.

Creating Your Family’s Perfect Australian Adventure

By now, you’ve probably realized something… The best things to do in Australia for families aren’t just activities. They’re invitations. Invitations to explore together, laugh together, learn together, and see the world with fresh eyes.

From penguins waddling across moonlit sand to snorkeling over coral gardens and wandering through maze-filled villages, Australia gives families permission to embrace adventure in all its forms.

Every moment becomes part of your family’s shared history. The kind you’ll pull out during holidays, birthdays, and “remember when…” evenings at home.

But here’s the truth most travelers don’t realize… Australia is big. Big enough that planning the right itinerary, one that blends excitement with rest, kid-friendly discoveries with grown-up joy, makes all the difference. You don’t need to see everything. You just need the trip that fits your family.

That’s where I come in.

As a travel advisor who specializes in creating meaningful family experiences, I help you sort through the noise, design the right pace, and choose the experiences that will actually matter to your kids. Not just the ones that look good on Instagram. With thoughtful planning, expert guidance, and a little Aussie-style fun, your family can enjoy a vacation that feels effortless, enriching, and absolutely unforgettable.

When you’re ready to start crafting your Australia family vacation, I’d love to help you build an itinerary filled with adventure, connection, and those magical moments you can’t plan alone.

Let’s turn your dream family trip to Australia into a journey you’ll treasure forever.

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