Where to go and what to do in Queensland over the school holidays.
Taking some time off work to spend with the kids during these school holidays? A family trip around Queensland is a great call as the weather is still warm, averaging 30℃, so there will be plenty of days for fun in the sun.
Queensland offers a range of destinations that are family friendly and packed full of activities and experiences, including the Gold Coast, Fraser Coast and the Whitsundays. These destinations are definite holiday contenders.
Family Holiday Destinations in Queensland
Six of the best family friendly holiday destinations in Queensland and what you can get up to while you’re there.
1. Gold Coast
A hub of family activity, the Gold Coast offers kilometres of family friendly beaches and more than a handful of theme and water parks to keep the kids entertained. Beyond the Gold Coast, you can also explore the Hinterland which includes Lamington and Springbrook National Parks.
Perfect for: Beach bums and thrill seekers
Springbrook & Tamborine Rainforest Tour
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Gold Coast Beaches, Glow Worms and Rainforest Tou...
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North Stradbroke Island - Day in Paradise Tour
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2. Brisbane
A cultural melting pot, Brisbane is the gateway to unique island destinations like Moreton Bay and Stradbroke island. Compared to other Queensland destinations, staying in the city to explore its motley of museums and districts can be a more budget-friendly option that choosing to go beachside at a more touristy location.
Perfect for: City break holidays
Family Drive Pack - 2 adults & 3 kids - Ipswich
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North Stradbroke Island - Day in Paradise Tour
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Whale Watching Tour "North Stradbroke Island"
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3. Fraser Coast
The Fraser Coast offers an adventurous and picturesque holiday break. A must on the list is the World Heritage-listed Fraser Island. Other attractions include Lake Wabby, Mudlo National Park, Burrum Coast National Park and Jimma State Forest. This is definitely one for more active families and family holidays.
Perfect for: Eco-tourism and active holidays
Fraser Island Group Getaway - 4 Days
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Fraser Island Spot a Dingo - 1 Day
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Mini Fraser Island and Whales Package
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4. The Whitsundays
With 74 islands to explore, The Whitsundays is a seemingly endless paradise for families to enjoy. Eight of the islands contain resorts and many offer watersports and sailing tours, making access to the network of islands easy.
Perfect for: Sailing trips and beach holidaymakers
Whitsunday Islands Hopper Pass
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Mini 4WD Half Day Action Tour
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Whitsundays Sail and Snorkel at Blue Pearl Bay an...
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5. Tropical North
A staple on any Queensland visitor’s list, the Tropical North includes iconic destinations such as The Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Officially it encompasses the area between Northern Queensland (Townsville) and Far North Queensland (Cape York Peninsula) and includes Magnetic, Orpheus, Dunk and Lizard Islands.
Perfect for: Photo ops and once-in-a-lifetime experiences
Create your own personalised tour of Tropical Nor...
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2 Day 1 Night Great Barrier Reef Liveabord Tour
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Great Barrier Reef 1 hour Scenic Flight
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6. Sunshine Coast
Similar to the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast offers family fun amidst a backdrop of pristine beaches. On top of its hundreds of kilometres of beaches, its other major natural attraction is the Blackall Ranges. For activities, kids can visit Australia Zoo, Underwater World, the Big Pineapple and Aussie World.
Perfect for: Relaxing beach breaks and close animal encounters.
Sunshine Coast Jetski Epic
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Sunshine Coast Scenic Flight
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Australia Zoo and Sunshine Coast Day Trip from Br...
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Family Holiday Queensland Islands
These Queensland islands are the ideal playgrounds for families. They offer calm waters, watersports, family friendly accommodations and adventure activities that little ones will love.
Hamilton Island: This luxurious island paradise is a favourite for holidaymakers of every kind. For families it offers plenty of nautical adventures and golfing opportunities and dedicated family adventure packages are often available throughout the year.
Fraser Island: As the world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island features a terrain unlike any other. You can four-wheel-drive across the sands, go birdwatching and explore the forestscape.
South Molle Island: When visiting the Whitsundays, South Molle Island is a paradise among many. The resort offers a “kids club” where little ones can socialise with other children while having close and educational encounters with native flora and fauna.
Daydream Island: Searching for a family friendly island in the Whitsundays? Daydream is a haven for them with water activities such as fish feeding and land activities including an outdoor cinema to keep them amused.
Heron Island: Heading to the Great Barrier Reef? Heron Island should be on your to-visit list. It features 20+ dive sites and its waters are brimming with all manner of aquatic life including rays, reef sharks, turtles and colourful corals.
Orpheus Island: Within close reach of Townsville, Orpheus Island is a gateway onto the Great Barrier Reef and offers activities such as snorkelling. It neighbours Fantome Island, an explorable island that is the site of a previous leper colony.
Family Holiday Parks
Road tripping it around Queensland? You’re not alone. To accommodate, Queensland teems with family-friendly holiday parks to help you rest and recoup safely for the next day ahead. Here are a few we recommend in each favourite destination.
Gold Coast: Main Beach Tourist Park
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Brisbane: Burleigh Beach Tourist Park
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Fraser Coast: Australiana Holiday Park
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Whitsundays: Townsville Bush Oasis Caravan Park
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Sunshine Coast: Lake Monduran Holiday Parks
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Tropical North Queensland: Koala Daintree Resort
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Looking for other family parks? Check out Turu for more family friendly accommodation.
Top Queensland Theme Park Family Holiday Deals
Pre-purchase tickets to Queensland’s theme parks before you leave home.
Dreamworld and WhiteWater World Gold Coast - World Pass
Get access to Dreamworld and WhiteWater World on the Gold Coast from $94.99.
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Pre-purchase a Gold Coast & Brisbane or Cairns iVenture card
Get entry into the best attractions and activities in Gold Coast, Brisbane and Cairns with an iVenture attractions card.
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Last verified 18 Mar 2016
2-Day Wild Pass to the Australia Zoo
Pre-purchase a 2-day wild pass to Australia Zoo and see and meet thousands of animals.
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Last verified 18 Mar 2016
Family Holiday Queensland Packages and Deals
Save on last-minute stays
Snag a last-minute stay on Hamilton Island for less.
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Last verified 29 Feb 2016
Gold Coast Hinterland Package from $399
Book a packged holiday to the Gold Coast Hinterland. Package includes a private rainforest escape with daily breakfast and drink at Binna Burra Lodge.
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Last verified 7 Mar 2016
Deal expires 31 Jul 2016 11:59pm
Gold Coast: Flights + 7-night stay from $369
Fly to the Gold Coast and stay 7 nights with Ignite Travel Group from $369pp.
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Last verified 7 Mar 2016
Deal expires 21 Mar 2016 10:59pm