The best family-friendly destinations in Australia for every child

For animal-loving babies and toddlers 

Does your little one’s idea of a good time involve clapping at animals and toddling around wide, open spaces? With stroller-friendly attractions, interactive wildlife experiences, and scenic strolls, Sydney makes travelling with babies and toddlers a walk in the park – literally. Plus, landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge make for a stunning backdrop for family photos, while the sprawling Royal Botanic Garden offers plenty of green spaces for them to explore.

Things to do: One of the top family-friendly attractions is Taronga Zoo, where kids can get up close with kangaroos, koalas, and exotic birds. The zoo's layout is perfect for little legs, and there are plenty of shaded areas to rest. Another must-see is SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, where the whole family can marvel at the colourful underwater world, from gentle sea turtles to playful penguins. For a nature-filled escape just outside the city, Blue Mountains Scenic World offers a stress-free adventure with its scenic railway, cableway, and skyway – giving families a chance to soak in the incredible mountain scenery without the need for strenuous hiking.

For thrill-seeking tweens and teens 

If your kids think family holidays are synonymous with ‘yawn,’ Gold Coast and Brisbane will quickly prove them wrong. This is the region where the fun comes at full throttle and boredom doesn’t stand a chance. The Gold Coast, often called Australia’s theme park capital, boasts high-speed rollercoasters, epic water slides, and a surf-ready beach straight out of a postcard. Meanwhile, Brisbane is Queensland’s laid-back riverside city, known for its cultural hotspots.

Things to do: Kick off things with thrills and spills at Warner Bros. Movie World and Sea World, where high-speed rollercoasters steal the show. Then make a splash down the water slides at Wet‘n’Wild. For a change of pace, head to Paradise Country for an authentic farm experience. You can even book all four experiences for the price of one with KKday here. 

Take your adventure to new heights at SkyPoint Observatory at Gold Coast, where you can get a bird's eye view of the cityscape, hinterland, and sparkling coastline from the top of the Q1 building. If that's not enough to get your heart racing, you can attempt one of three bridge climbs in the world: Story Bridge at Brisbane. For something further out, hop aboard the Tangalooma Desert Safari Day Cruise to Moreton Island, the third largest sand island in the world where you can zoom down dunes on a toboggan and get up close with wild dolphins.

For curious young explorers 

As your little ones get older, you’ll likely hear ‘why?’ more than you ever thought possible – and Melbourne is the perfect city to fuel their curiosity. From hopping aboard a historic steam train to spotting wildlife in unexpected places, this city is full of fascinating adventures. The landmarks here are as iconic as they come: the striking Flinders Street Station, the world-famous laneways brimming with street art, and the winding Yarra River that cuts through the heart of the city. Plus, a short road trip from the city will take you along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes.

Things to do: Take a ride on the historic Puffing Billy Railway, where young explorers can experience a steam train journey through the Dandenong Ranges. Or the Werribee Open Range Zoo for an African safari without leaving Australia. But wait, why not expand the adventure with a visit to Melbourne Museum for fascinating exhibits or delve into the wonders of science at ScienceWorks? These spots are perfect for curious minds eager to discover more.

For outdoor-loving families 

Prefer hiking boots over hotel slippers? Perth is calling. Surrounded by wondrous landscapes, the city is the gateway to some of Australia’s most incredible outdoor adventures from spotting quokkas, swimming with dolphins and hopping across islands, Perth is the ultimate destination for families who love the great outdoors. You can even go bush without leaving the city by exploring Kings Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world.

Things to do: One of the best ways to experience Perth’s natural beauty is by visiting Busselton Jetty, the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, where families can take a scenic walk or ride a train to the end. For an island adventure, hop on the Sealink Rottnest Island Ferry and visit the home of the famous quokkas, tiny marsupials that will make you go ‘awww’.

But if you really want to be one with nature, explore the stunning Pinnacles Desert, Yanchep and Swan Valley during the day and marvel at its surreal limestone formations with the Western Australia Day Tour. Alternatively, you can join in the Pinnacle Sunset and Stargazing Tour for a cosmic journey under the stars.

Ready to explore Australia with your family? Let's make it happen with KKday. Check out more exclusive deals here.