Family Holiday Destinations in Australia

The Great Ocean Road region boasts some of the best family holidays in Australia. Whether it be a holiday focusing on big nature, outdoor activities, arts and culture, indigenous or settler history, amazing food, or even shopping and spas, the region has it all. Plus the region also boasts a plethora of exciting and educational things to see and do across a variety of destinations.

What are the Best Family Holiday Destination?

Three of the most popular family holiday destinations in Australia include:

1. Lorne — a popular destination for so long that there are some families with over three generations who hold treasured childhood memories of this seaside town. It offers easy access to both marine and hinterland natural attractions (such as Erskine Falls) as well as activities like mini-golf, trampolines, a ropes course, a cinema and more. It also offers spa treatments and fine dining options.
2. Apollo Bay — a great spot to give the family access to nature’s playground whether it be water sports like swimming (including toddler-friendly beaches), surfing, fishing, diving, boating and more. It’s also within an easy drive of the Otways for hiking, bushwalking and riding a zipline through the treetops. Not to mention the abundance of fresh local seafood at hand.
3. Warrnambool — a hub that offers all of the convenience of a regional city, with a relaxed country-town atmosphere alongside the beauty of the ocean. Activities for kids include Tower Hill for both wildlife encounters and the geological-curious, farm-stay options, trail rides, galleries markets and more.

Best Teenage Holiday Destinations in Australia

Local experts say teenagers love adventures in the Great Otway National Park, including the thrilling Otway Fly Treetop zipline and selfies beneath Instagramable waterfalls.

Read our suggested itineraries, depending on how long you can stay. With a huge range of outdoor activities for teenagers to choose from — including surfing, horse-riding and more.

Best Family Holidays with Toddlers in Australia

As a family destination for over 100 years, the Great Ocean Road has dozens of options for toddlers. Locals often recommend Portland because it offers ‘sun, surf and plenty of opportunities for adventure, plus a balancing dose of art and history. Thanks to Portland’s regional-hub resources — including an arts centre and library — it is also a great spot for toddlers in the cooler months.

Family Friendly Attractions on The Great Ocean Road

Check out our extensive list of family activities along the Great Ocean Road. Filter your options based on interesting categories, such as wildlife parks and entertainment venues. And filter by location, depending on your journey throughout the Great Ocean Road region.

One popular activity for family-friendly holidays in Victoria is the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village. It offers all the magic of understanding history through a step-back-in-time experience along with the option to watch dazzling light and sound shows.

Another great activity is to take in the spectacular views at the Cape Otway Lightstation while appreciating and understanding more about indigenous Australian history. At the Light Station’s Aboriginal Cultural Site visitors can enjoy bush tucker, spear throwing, painting and stories from local guides.

Or, explore the full list of holiday destinations by browsing all the towns and villages along the Great Ocean Road.

Find Other Holiday Recommendations and Deals

For more on the best family holidays in Australia, check out our GrEAT Ocean Road Trip Series. Don’t forget to also take a look at the latest Deals which are updated regularly.

Check out our Where to Stay and What to See and Do pages for more information.

For expert advice from friendly, knowledgeable locals, talk to any of the Visitor Information Centres located across the region.