50 must-do experiences for families in Australia

Australia’s natural wonders aren’t just beautiful—they’re playgrounds for curious kids and adventure-seeking families. From reef snorkelling to ancient rock art, these unforgettable destinations connect you with the land, sea, and sky.

1️⃣ Great Barrier Reef, QLD – Snorkel vibrant coral gardens, dive among marine life, or glide across the water on a glass-bottom boat. Stretching over 2,300km, the Great Barrier Reef is vast and diverse, offering unique ways to explore from Cairns, Port Douglas, and even the Southern Great Barrier Reef—just 4 hours north of Brisbane. This more accessible section makes a perfect starting point for young explorers and first-time reef visits.

2️⃣ Uluru, NT – Witness the shifting colours of Uluru at sunrise or sunset and learn the ancient stories of Anangu culture on guided walks. Time your visit with Parrtjima – A Festival of Light for a breathtaking celebration of Aboriginal art and storytelling under the desert sky.

3️⃣ The Twelve Apostles, VIC – Cruise the scenic Great Ocean Road and marvel at these towering limestone stacks. Extend your road trip inland to the Grampians National Park, where families can canoe, abseil, spot kangaroos, and discover Indigenous rock art.

4️⃣ Cradle Mountain, TAS – Lace up your boots and hit family-friendly trails to alpine lakes and waterfalls. Keep your eyes peeled for wombats grazing along the boardwalks, a guaranteed highlight for little wildlife lovers.

5️⃣ Daintree Rainforest, QLD – Walk under ancient canopies in the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. Take a wildlife river cruise to spot crocodiles—or for families ready to turn up the fun, try river drift snorkelling or rafting through pristine jungle waterways.

6️⃣ Ningaloo Reef, WA – One for the bucket list! Swim alongside gentle whale sharks (March–August), snorkel turquoise lagoons, and explore vibrant coral reefs right from the shore at Coral Bay or Exmouth.

7️⃣ The Pinnacles, WA – Explore the otherworldly landscape of Nambung National Park, where thousands of limestone pillars rise from the desert. A short drive from Perth makes this an easy day trip with older kids fascinated by natural wonders.

8️⃣ Kakadu National Park, NT – Discover cascading waterfalls, ancient Aboriginal rock art, and saltwater crocodiles in Australia’s largest national park. Families can hike, swim in natural plunge pools, and spot wildlife in their natural habitats.

9️⃣ Wineglass Bay, TAS – A gentle but rewarding family hike brings you to one of Australia’s most photographed beaches. The view from the lookout is stunning, and if you’re up for more adventure, kayak the bay for a unique perspective.

🔟 Blue Mountains, NSW – Ride the Scenic Railway (the world’s steepest passenger train), explore Jenolan Caves, and hike through eucalyptus forests filled with waterfalls and dramatic cliffs. Don’t miss the Three Sisters at sunset!

✨ BONUS NATURAL WONDER:

🦕 Dinosaur Trail, Outback QLD – Take a prehistoric road trip through Winton, Richmond, and Hughenden along Queensland’s Dinosaur Trail. Visit fossil museums, dig sites, and even walk in real dinosaur footprints at Lark Quarry. An unforgettable journey into Australia’s ancient past—perfect for dinosaur-obsessed kids!

OR

🕳️ Explore the Caves of WA – Swap dinosaur bones for limestone caves in WA’s southwest. At Jewel Cave, Lake Cave, and Mammoth Cave near Margaret River, families can descend into spectacular underground worlds filled with stalactites and prehistoric fossils.

👉 MAKE IT EXTRA: Planning a trip around a family birthday? Surprise your explorer with a unique experience—whether it’s a guided night walk, a wildlife encounter, or a special dinner under the stars to celebrate their big day!

12. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, QLD – Cuddle a koala and feed kangaroos.

13. Phillip Island Penguin Parade, VIC – Watch little penguins waddle home at sunset.

👉 MAKE IT EXTRA: Book a behind-the-scenes tour for a more immersive experience!