The best experiences for young and old
Australia is the perfect destination for families: wild animals, vast beaches, exciting nature and many offers that are specially tailored to children. The country offers a whole host of child-friendly experiences for young and old alike.
In this article you will find:
- Directly bookable tours via our store – personally selected & suitable for families
- the best excursion ideas for families
- Tips for animal experiences, beach days & nature adventures
Animals up close – unforgettable encounters for children
Children love animals and Australia has plenty of them. Whether koalas, dolphins or even little penguins.
Phillip Island day tour
This tour is a must for families in Victoria.
You will first visit a wildlife park with koalas, kangaroos, dingoes and more. Then it’s on to the famous penguin parade, where you can watch the little penguins at sunset.
Wild Dolphin Swim (Perth)
With older children, you can snorkel with wild dolphins in Perth, relax on the surface and enjoy the underwater spectacle.
A real highlight for families looking for special encounters in the wild.
Penguin Island Cruise (WA)
On this glass-bottom boat tour, you might be lucky enough to spot dolphins, sea lions, pelicans and, of course, penguins. A real hit with little explorers!
Nature & exercise – ideal for active families
Australia offers fantastic nature and many places are also easy to visit with children.
Blue Mountains & Wildlife Park
A great mix of short hike, waterfalls, viewpoints and wildlife park. The perfect tour for families from Sydney.
Port Stephens & Dolphin Watching
Sandboarding on high dunes, dolphin watching on a boat, swimming fun on the beach. All in one day trip from Sydney.
Kuranda Day Tour – Experience rainforest & retro train
Soar over the rainforest on the Skyrail, explore the charming village of Kuranda and return on the nostalgic train. An all-round successful family experience from Cairns.
Book your Kuranda Day Tour now
Are there easy hikes for children?
Australia offers countless “bushwalks” that are also doable for little adventurers:
- Kings Canyon Rim Walk (NT) – not short, but doable with older kids & totally spectacular
- Blue Mountains (NSW) – e.g. the Three Sisters Walk (only 800 m)
- Grampians National Park (VIC) – short trails with waterfalls and kangaroos
Family-friendly beaches & lagoons
Where is it safe to swim with children?
Many beaches in Australia are guarded by Surf Life Saving. Lagoons and sheltered bays are particularly ideal for families with small children, as they are shallow, quiet and safe.
Our favorites:
- Cairns Esplanade Lagoon – free, shady & in the middle of the city
- Noosa Main Beach (QLD) – flat, calm waves & guarded
- Greens Pool (WA) – natural, wave-free ocean pool near Denmark
Tip: Watch out for jellyfish times in the tropics (e.g. Queensland).
Taking the ferry to family-friendly islands?
Which islands are worth visiting with children?
- Rottnest Island (WA) – car-free, with quokkas and family-friendly bike tours
- Magnetic Island (QLD) – short ferry ride from Townsville, can be explored by bus or rental car
- Bruny Island (TAS) – pure nature + local specialties = parents happy, kids happy
Conclusion: Australia with children
Australia is a dream destination for families. The mix of nature, animals, action and safety makes it perfect for little explorers.
All the excursions presented here have been carefully selected by us. You can book them directly in our store.
Extra tip: Traveling with a camper?
Many of these excursions can be perfectly combined with a camper trip.
If you are still looking for the right vehicle, we will be happy to help you:
