Shark Bay

Shark Bay

by | Jul 27, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Shark Bay

Tasmania

Traveling to Shark Bay as a family is an adventure filled with stunning landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, and unforgettable experiences. This remarkable region, consisting of Denham, Monkey Mia, and Francois Peron National Park, offers a myriad of activities for all ages. Located four hours north of Kalbarri and three and a half hours south of Carnarvon, Shark Bay is a must-visit destination for any family road trip.

Where We Stayed

Our family chose to stay at Shark Bay Caravan Park, one of the three caravan parks in Denham. This location was perfect as it was close to shopping and most attractions. For those with a bigger budget, Monkey Mia, located 30 kilometers up the road, is a fantastic option. Our friends stayed there and had an amazing time. The caravan park in Denham provided us with all the amenities we needed and served as a great base for exploring the area.

Francois Peron National Park and Point Peron

Francois Peron National Park is one of Australia’s most breathtaking national parks, featuring multiple camping spots, lookouts, and a full day of four-wheel driving on soft sand, salt plains, and graded dirt. We took our Triton and had no real trouble navigating the terrain, although driving slowly and playing it smart is essential. The park’s diverse landscapes and stunning views make it a highlight of any visit to Shark Bay.

Little Lagoon

Located just outside of Denham, Little Lagoon is another beautiful spot worth visiting. You can four-wheel drive on both sides of the lagoon, swim, have a BBQ, and try your luck at fishing, as we did (with no success, unfortunately). While powered water vessels are not allowed, kayaking is a popular activity here, offering a peaceful way to explore the lagoon.

Dolphin Feeding at Monkey Mia

One of the highlights of our trip was the dolphin feeding at Monkey Mia. Ella took the boys up for this unique experience, and they thoroughly enjoyed watching the dolphins up close. The morning was filled with excitement and learning, as the staff provided interesting information about the dolphins and their habits.

Shark Bay Aquarium

The Ocean Park Aquarium provided an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family. The guided tours offered by the knowledgeable staff gave us insights into the diverse marine life in the area. We saw sharks, snapper, stingrays, sea snakes, lobsters, and more. The boys were fascinated by the variety of creatures and the interactive displays.

Exploring Denham

In the heart of Denham, we found an amazing playground right on the water, opposite shops and cafes. This was a great spot for the boys to burn off some energy while we enjoyed a coffee and the stunning views. The town’s coastal charm and friendly atmosphere made it a pleasant place to spend time.

Coastal Drive

A scenic drive along the coast took us to Fowlers Bay and Whale Bone Scenic Lookout, a 60-kilometer round trip from Denham. The breathtaking views and serene landscapes made this drive one of the memorable highlights of our trip.

Getting to Shark Bay

Our journey to Shark Bay was one of the longer drives we undertook, requiring a petrol and lunch stop. We chose the Billabong Roadhouse for this break, which provided a welcome rest and a chance to refuel before continuing our adventure.

Traveling to Shark Bay as a family was an unforgettable experience, filled with natural beauty and unique activities. Whether you’re exploring national parks, enjoying marine life, or simply relaxing by the water, Shark Bay offers something for everyone.

Fleurieu Peninsula

Fleurieu Peninsula

by | Jul 26, 2024 | Locations, South Australia

Exploring
Longford

Tasmania

The Fleurieu Peninsula is a magical area, perfect for a family getaway. With raw beaches, national parks, wineries, cute coastal towns, and lots to do, it was easy to spend ten days based in Victor Harbour. Traveling to the Fleurieu Peninsula as a family allowed us to experience the stunning landscapes and diverse activities that this region offers.

Staying at NRMA Victor Harbour Beachfront Holiday Park

We chose the NRMA Victor Harbour Beachfront Holiday Park for our stay on the Fleurieu Peninsula. It had everything you could want as a family and more. The park boasts water slides, a pool, a jumping pillow, a TV room, and plenty of other amenities to keep everyone entertained. The location was perfect, allowing us to explore the peninsula easily.

Exploring Granite Island

One of our first adventures was walking over to Granite Island. It’s an unreal spot, featuring a café and plenty of trails to explore. The island offers beautiful views and a chance to see some local wildlife. The kids enjoyed the walk, and we all loved the fresh air and scenic surroundings.

Fun at Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay is a beautiful, protected beach with a playground and a café. It was an excellent spot for a family day out. The kids had a blast at the playground, and we enjoyed a leisurely coffee while watching them play. The beach itself is perfect for a swim, making it a favorite spot during our trip.

Surfing at Middleton Point

Middleton Point is a classic surf beach, working slightly like a point break. The cold waters were a bit much for Ella, but I managed to catch a few waves in the mornings alongside some brave locals. The beach has a rugged charm, and it was a great place to soak up the local surf culture.

The Scenic Drive to Cape Jervis

The drive from Victor Harbour to Cape Jervis and back was a highlight of our trip. We explored remote and wild beaches, some of which looked incredible for surfing under the right conditions. Cape Jervis is a small town where the ferry departs for Kangaroo Island. We also visited Morgan’s Beach, drove on the beach, played in the dunes, and Ella had a swim. The landscape along this drive is truly breathtaking.

Relaxing in Rapid Bay

Rapid Bay is a beautiful little town we would love to stay in next time. With an unpowered park right on the beach, it’s protected from southerly and westerly winds. The area is ideal for relaxing, swimming, fishing, and boating. It’s a hidden gem on the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Treats in Normanville

A visit to the bakery in Normanville provided us with some very good treats for lunch. The town has a relaxed fishing village vibe, and we enjoyed walking around and soaking in the atmosphere. It’s a quaint stop that added to the charm of our trip.

Enjoying Down the Rabbit Hole Winery and Restaurant

Down the Rabbit Hole Winery and Restaurant was bustling with activity when we visited. Ella tasted some wines, the kids played in the play area, and we had a fantastic time. It’s definitely a spot to add to the return list, with a great ambiance and delicious offerings.

Victor Harbour Essentials

Victor Harbour is a great town, providing opportunities to stock up on supplies, shop at Kmart, get some 4WD gear, and prepare for adventures around South Australia. It served as an excellent base for our travels on the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Traveling to the Fleurieu Peninsula as a family was a delightful experience, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From exploring islands and surf spots to enjoying local treats and scenic drives, the Fleurieu Peninsula has something for everyone.

Adelaide

Adelaide

by | Jul 26, 2024 | Locations, South Australia

Exploring
Adelaide

South Australia

Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia, holds a lot of opportunities for adventure. Traveling to Adelaide as a family promises a blend of beachside relaxation, historical exploration, and urban charm. We stayed for two weeks around Adelaide, splitting our time between different parts of the city and its surroundings.

Week One: Moana Beach Tourist Park

Our first week was spent at the Moana Beach Tourist Park. This park is perfect for families, with its relaxed atmosphere and amenities like two basketball courts for the kids to play on and close beach access. Its proximity to cafes, shops, and restaurants made it a convenient base for exploring the area.

Exploring Moana and Surrounds

The Sugarloaf – This beautiful landmark on Hallett Beach is a must-see. We spent some time exploring this unique rock structure before cooling off with a swim in the ocean. An ice cream and a visit to the nearby playground made it a perfect outing for the kids.

Sellicks Beach – Driving on Sellicks Beach was a thrilling experience. We found a spot to swim and play, enjoying the incredible cliff structures that provided shelter from the wind.

Port Willunga – The Jetty Pylons and the carved-out caves in the cliffs at Port Willunga are steeped in history. It was fascinating to explore these with the kids, imagining the stories behind them.

Brighton Jetty – This jetty offered a mix of fun activities like exploring, fishing, and swimming. With its close proximity to town, we had plenty of food and drink options from nearby cafes and restaurants.

Jubilee Park – An epic playground for kids! We had such a blast at this playground that we came back a few times

Week 2: West Beach

We stayed at the Big 4 at West Beach. This is one of the best caravan parks in Australia. Large sites, heated swimming pool, indoor play room, camp kitchen, great amenities and located on the beach.

We were hear after two weeks in Bali, so our adventure levels were an all time low. We barely left the park as we prepared for our adventure across the Nullarbor.

Navigating Adelaide with a Caravan

Getting around Adelaide with a caravan can be tricky at times. Navigating suburbia required patience and caution, especially with two lanes merging into one with little warning. However, with a bit of planning and careful driving, we managed to get around smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Traveling to Adelaide as a family offered us a wonderful mix of beach days, historical exploration, and urban adventures. Our stay at Moana Beach Tourist Park provided the perfect balance of relaxation and activity, making our family trip to Adelaide truly memorable. Whether you’re driving on scenic beaches, exploring unique rock structures, or enjoying the urban vibe of Brighton Jetty, Adelaide has something for every family member to enjoy.

Lancelin

Lancelin

by | Jul 25, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Lancelin

Western Australia

If you’re traveling with your family around Australia, you need to stay at this hidden gem of a town called Lancelin. Nestled along the coast, Lancelin may be small, but it packs a big wow factor. From thrilling outdoor adventures to family-friendly accommodations, traveling to Lancelin as a family offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation.

Surfing at Back Beach

One of the highlights of our trip was surfing at Back Beach. This fun, open beach boasts crystal clear waters and offers a fantastic spot for both novice and experienced surfers. The beach is easily accessible, with a car park nearby, or you can drive up and over the dunes for an added element of adventure. The kids loved the freedom of the open space, and the waves provided just the right amount of challenge.

Fishing at the Jetty

Fishing enthusiasts in the family will be thrilled with the opportunities at the Lancelin Jetty. Brad caught a massive snapper off the jetty, earning him fifteen minutes of fame around town. We also had luck catching squid, a trumpeter, and a herring. The excitement of reeling in such a variety of fish made for some unforgettable family moments. The jetty is a great spot to relax and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery while waiting for a bite.

Exploring the Dunes

The Lancelin Sand Dunes are nothing short of incredible. We spent an entire day exploring these massive dunes, which offer a range of activities for all ages. You can hire sand boards, ATVs, and motorbikes, or simply drive around in your car. The vastness of the dunes means you have plenty of space to enjoy without worrying too much about other visitors. The kids had a blast racing down the dunes on sand boards, and the thrill of riding an ATV was a highlight for everyone.

Staying at Experience Lancelin Holiday Park

Our stay at Experience Lancelin Holiday Park was fantastic. Located on the south side of town, the park offers beach access, a caravan café, a playroom, an indoor heated swimming pool and spa, and the biggest jumping pillow in Australia. The park also features a great playground for the kids. The large, recently renovated sites and family-friendly facilities made our stay comfortable and enjoyable. The park’s popularity became apparent over the weekend when it filled up quickly, a testament to its appeal and convenient proximity to Perth.

Traveling to Lancelin as a family provides a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and quality time together. Whether you’re surfing at Back Beach, fishing at the jetty, or exploring the vast sand dunes, Lancelin offers something for everyone. Our stay at the Experience Lancelin Holiday Park added to the charm of this hidden gem, making it a must-visit destination for families exploring Australia.

Jurien Bay

Jurien Bay

by | Jul 25, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Jurien Bay

Western Australia

Jurien Bay is a charming fishing seaside village nestled between Perth and Geraldton. This makes it an ideal destination for a family getaway. With its beautiful beaches, abundant marine life, and friendly atmosphere, traveling to Jurien Bay as a family promises a memorable experience filled with adventure and relaxation.

Seals and Fishing Charters

One of the highlights of our trip was embarking on a boat tour to see the playful seals. The kids were thrilled to watch these curious creatures up close, frolicking in the clear blue waters. Fishing charters are also a popular activity in Jurien Bay, offering a chance to catch some of the local fish and enjoy a day out on the ocean. The joy of reeling in a big catch is an experience the whole family can share.

Exploring The Pinnacles

A must-see attraction near Jurien Bay is The Pinnacles, located in Nambung National Park. We decided to take an early morning trip and had the place almost entirely to ourselves. The surreal landscape of limestone pillars rising from the desert floor is unlike anything we’ve encountered in our travels across Australia. It’s a sight that leaves a lasting impression and is well worth the drive from either Jurien Bay or the nearby town of Cervantes.

Dining and Relaxation

Catching up with friends at Kakka Alley Brewing was another highlight of our stay. This local brewery offers delicious pizza and a selection of brews, along with a play area for the kids. The brewery is also rich in the history of Jurien Bay, providing an educational and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal while the kids play nearby.

Family-Friendly Spots

Jurien Bay boasts several family-friendly spots that are worth a visit. The Jetty, with its expansive playground, kept our children entertained for hours. It’s a fantastic place for a picnic or simply to let the kids burn off some energy. We also enjoyed spending time at the Marina, where we tried our luck at fishing. The excitement of catching a fish from the pier was a delightful experience for the kids.

Convenient Accommodation

We stayed at the Jurien Bay Tourist Park, which is conveniently located in the heart of town. The park’s central location meant we were just a short walk away from the local IGA, hardware stores, petrol station, and fishing shop. The staff at the tourist park were incredibly welcoming, and the facilities were top-notch, ensuring we had a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Traveling to Jurien Bay as a family offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and quality time together. From exploring natural wonders like The Pinnacles to enjoying local cuisine and engaging in fun activities, Jurien Bay is a destination that caters to all ages and interests. We left with wonderful memories and a desire to return to this charming seaside village.