With summer just around the corner, now is the time to start planning your family’s summer holiday. The warm summer weather and quality family time available over the school holidays makes December an extremely popular travel time; booking your accommodation and attractions now ensures you will be able to get the most out of your holiday. To help you pick the right destination for your family, we’ve put together a list of our top 5 family friendly school holiday destinations.
Adelaide – for the animal enthusiasts
From animal sightseeing on Kangaroo Island to the southern hemisphere’s only giant pandas at the Adelaide zoo, this city is an animal lover’s delight. For more excitement head to the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary which houses a pod of around 30 bottlenose dolphins. For an adventure at your own pace, you can walk along the shoreline while you try to spot the dolphins and read the educational signs along the trail. The Central Market is also a popular destination and offers many free samples and fresh local produce to keep your family happy and healthy. For a welcoming local spot with a great breakfast, head to Paddy’s Lantern.
Gold Coast – for the theme park aficionados
To cool off from the summer heat, make your way to Wet n’ Wild and try one of the many water propelled rides. For the younger family members, Wet n’ Wild Junior is a great area designed just for kids. It includes an interactive play structure and junior versions of the bigger slides. Next head to Movie World and see your favorite movie characters come to life. To see marine life up close and personal, head over to Sea World, home of Nickelodeon land, amazing animal shows and many sea creatures. Next is Dreamworld, Australia’s largest theme park with themed lands and over 40 rides, A trip to the Gold Coast wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Surfers Paradise. Enjoy the beautiful beach, the markets and for a great burger visit Longboards laidback eatery or Brooklyn Depot.
"There are many amazing family summer holiday destinations to choose from. The one that is best for you depends on what interests you and your family."
Tasmania – for those craving some creativity
Tasmania is a place where imaginations soar and dreams come to life. The faerie shop in Hobart’s famous Salamanca Place is a good venue to learn this first hand. See the magical fairy world and meet Moonbeam, the local fairy who lives in the attic. Down the road enjoy a giant game of chess or stop at Norman and Dann for some handmade chocolates. Up north, don’t miss the village of Lower Crackpot and the world’s largest maze complex. Just an hour’s drive from Mantra Charles Hotel, enjoy navigating through mazes and admiring the whimsical mini buildings that surround the hedges.
Port Stephens – for the beach bum
Surrounded by picturesque beaches, Port Stephens combines natural beauty with outdoor adventure. For a scenic walk with panoramic views try the 2 km (total trip) Tomaree Head Summit. Nelson head lighthouse and reserve is another attraction not to miss. After the hike up to the lighthouse you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the ocean and Port Stephens below. To cool down, Fly Point is a great place splash about. The sheltered water makes it a top destination for those wanting to snorkel the hub of activity occurring just below the surface – you may even see some sea horses. End the day with a delicious ice cream at the Marine Ice Creamery, just 600m from the Mantra Aqua.
Great Barrier Reef – For the marine life and coral lovers
One of the seven natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef in the world. Whether you are visiting the outer reef from Airlie Beach or are heading from Cairns or Port Douglas, the Great Barrier Reef provides some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world. The best ways to see the reef is through guided tours and we highly recommend you get your feet wet, quite literally, and try the snorkeling. Enjoy seeing the abundance of tropical fish and colourful corals in their natural habitat while experiencing the temperate water. The Great Barrier Reef offers you something new each time you visit it.
There are many amazing family summer holiday destinations to choose from. The one that is best for your family depends on what interests you. If you aren’t sure which destination to choose, start at the top this summer and work your way through the list or for more information, call Mantra today.