Coral Bay

Coral Bay

by | Oct 1, 2024 | Western Australia

Exploring
Coral Bay

Western Australia

Coral Bay is a tourist gold mine. I think there would be 200 locals and 2000 tourists at one time, and with a new caravan park being built, this will only expand. Traveling to Coral Bay as a family is worthwhile, even if the cost seems high.

Things to do in Coral Bay.

For those with a 4wd there are two main spots to explore. 5 Fingers Reef is an exceptional snorkeling, swimming and fishing spot and a lot of fun driving to. There is probably one section on the return that is a bit tricky, but if Brad can manage it, most people can. You can go abit further south to Turtle Rock, but there wasn’t much there apart from a lot of fun 4wding.

Oyster Bridge and the Lagoon are north of Coral Bay and are a bit tougher of a drive. There are multiple sections we had to have multiple attempts on BUT it was well worth it in the end. Both spots have amazing snorkeling and swimming (no fishing) and are worth doing a full day at.

There is so much on offer if your wallet is full and your up for adventure. Boat tours, diving, snorkeling, glass bottom boats, ATV’s and more.

Getting to Coral Bay.

This is an easy drive from both directions, with a turn off the highway and easy drive into town.

Things to know.

Coral Bay is expensive. The fuel is expensive. Groceries are more expensive than Exmouth (no idea why). So budget accordingly. Once your there though, you may never want to leave. So if your driving from Carnavon or Exmouth, stock up.

The bakery is a treasure. Good food. Decent coffee. The local pizza place does great pizza too.

Traveling to Coral Bay as a family was one on the spots list we had to tick. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

Exmouth

Exmouth

by | Aug 13, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Exmouth

Western Australia

Exmouth, Western Australia, is a hidden gem for nature lovers and families alike. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary marine life, it offers an unparalleled experience for those traveling to Exmouth as a family. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking to unwind amidst nature, Exmouth has something for everyone.

Where We Stayed

During our time in Exmouth, we had the pleasure of staying in various locations that perfectly suited our family’s needs. We began our journey by settling into a spot just south of Exmouth on the East side, recommended by a friend of a friend. This location became our home for the first week and the final three weeks of our trip. It offered a peaceful retreat close enough to the town while still allowing us to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Off Grid Adventures

For a more adventurous experience, we also spent six nights at Osprey and five nights at Mesa campgrounds within the Cape Range National Park. These off-grid sites were a dream come true for snorkelling enthusiasts. We swam with turtles, explored vibrant coral reefs, and enjoyed fishing and easy access to boat and diving tours. The proximity to these activities made our stay truly unforgettable.

Things to Do in Exmouth

Exmouth offers an abundance of activities, from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to canyon hikes that reveal stunning vistas. Families will love the diversity of experiences available, with something for every budget. While Exmouth is known for its premium-priced activities and accommodations, there are still plenty of affordable options for those looking to enjoy this spectacular destination without breaking the bank.

The town itself is RV-friendly, with ample dump points and a convenient water filling station (just 5c per litre). However, due to its remote location, be prepared to pay a premium for essentials like petrol and groceries. Despite this, we found a gem in the Whalebone Brewery, where we enjoyed incredible food, great drinks, and surprisingly reasonable prices—a welcome break from the typical high costs in the area.

Getting around Exmouth

Getting around Exmouth is a breeze, thanks to its small-town layout designed with tourists in mind. Towing a caravan or maneuvering an RV here is far easier compared to similar tourist hotspots on the East Coast.

Traveling to Exmouth as a family is an experience like no other. With its unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and family-friendly amenities, it’s a destination that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Streaky Bay

Streaky Bay

by | Jul 31, 2024 | Locations, South Australia

Exploring
Longford

Tasmania

Streaky Bay, a picturesque coastal town located in the southwest of South Australia, offers a delightful escape for families seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. With its charming cafés and essential services like IGA and FoodWorks, Streaky Bay is not only perfect for a family holiday but also a great spot to stock up on supplies before heading across the Nullarbor. Here’s a glimpse into our family adventure while traveling to Streaky Bay as a family.

A Stay at Discovery Park

Our home base in Streaky Bay was the Discovery Park, perfectly situated right on the beach. This location made it ideal for swimming and fishing, allowing us to make the most of the beautiful coastal setting. The park itself was very family-friendly, featuring a small park, a playroom, and a kids’ room that kept our children entertained. For more fun, there was a larger playground within walking distance, ensuring plenty of activities to keep the little ones busy.

Exploring the Rugged Coastline

One of the highlights of our trip was exploring the rugged coastline surrounding Streaky Bay. We started with a visit to the Whistling Rocks, a fascinating natural phenomenon where the ocean waves create a whistling sound as they push through the rocks. Nearby, Hally’s Beach offered a serene spot to enjoy the stunning views and relax on the sand. We also ventured to Tractor Beach and Yanerbie, both offering breathtaking landscapes and unique coastal experiences.

Adventures in the Sand Dunes

South of Streaky Bay, we discovered the impressive sand dunes, a geographical standout in the region. These towering dunes provided endless fun for the whole family. We spent hours climbing, sliding, and simply marveling at the vast sandy landscape. It was an unforgettable adventure that added a touch of excitement to our coastal holiday.

A Unique Experience at Perlubie Beach

Our exploration didn’t stop there. We headed north to Perlubie Beach, a unique destination where we could camp right at the water’s edge. The pristine beach and tranquil waters created a perfect setting for a family picnic and a day of relaxation. The novelty of camping so close to the shoreline was a highlight of our trip, making it a memorable experience for everyone.

Traveling to Streaky Bay as a family was a truly enriching experience. The combination of stunning natural beauty, family-friendly accommodations, and a variety of activities made it an ideal destination for us. Whether it was playing on the beach, exploring the rugged coastline, or enjoying the unique charm of Perlubie Beach, Streaky Bay provided countless opportunities for making lasting memories. For any family looking for a coastal getaway filled with adventure and relaxation, Streaky Bay is a perfect choice.

Bay Of Fires

Bay Of Fires

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Bay of Fires

Tasmania

Traveling to the Bay of Fires as a family offers a truly unforgettable experience. Immersing you in one of Australia’s premier nature regions. With exceptional beaches, river systems, forests, waterfalls, and mountains, this area is a haven for nature lovers. We stayed at the Tasman Caravan Park in St Helens, which proved to be a fantastic base for all our adventures in the region.

Discovering The Gardens

Our journey began with a visit to The Gardens, the northernmost part of the Bay of Fires. This remote wilderness meets a stunning coastline, offering pristine beaches and captivating walks. The untouched beauty of this area made it a highlight of our trip, and we highly recommend spending time exploring its natural wonders.

Beach Bliss at Binalong Bay

Next, we headed to Binalong Bay, a charming small town with unreal beaches perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters and white sandy shores provided a picturesque setting for a family day out. The kids loved splashing in the waves, and we enjoyed the serene ambiance of this coastal gem.

The Fascinating Little Blue Lake

Located at South Mount Cameron, Little Blue Lake is a geological marvel worth visiting. The lake’s hyper blue color is due to abnormal mineral levels, creating a mesmerizing sight. Although swimming is not advised, the fun walk around half the lake provided plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at its unique beauty.

Mountain Biking in Derby

For a change of pace, we visited Derby, a small town dedicated to mountain biking. With several world-class trails, driving into town felt like stepping into a mountain biking movie. We also indulged in a visit to the floating sauna, a truly exceptional and unique experience that left us refreshed and rejuvenated.

Culinary Delights and Natural Wonders

No trip to the Bay of Fires is complete without a visit to the Pub in the Paddock and Pyengana Dairy Company. The pub, one of Australia’s oldest, served exceptional food, and the dairy company offered live cow milking presentations and some of the most incredible ice cream we’ve ever tasted. Just up the road, St Columba Falls, one of Tasmania’s premier waterfalls, provided a spectacular sight. Ella found a small water hole near the falls for a refreshing dip.

Surfing and Sand Dunes

Beerbarrel Beach was a great spot for a surf, and Ella caught a couple of waves in the afternoon. However, be mindful of the tricky currents. We also visited Peron Dunes, an exceptional spot for the kids to slide down on bodyboards and have fun running around the massive dune system right on the beach.

Surf Village Vibes at Beaumaris Beach

Our adventure continued to Beaumaris Beach, a little surf village where we spent fun mornings chatting with locals and watching surfers. The open beach, with its left break off a small headland, provided an exciting surfing experience.

Navigating St Mary’s Pass

On our way to St Helens, we drove through St Mary’s and down St Mary’s Pass. After our experience with Bulli Pass, we were initially apprehensive, but we found this pass manageable if you take your time. Set your brakes right and enjoy the scenic drive without too much fret.

Traveling to the Bay of Fires as a family was a remarkable experience filled with adventure, natural beauty, and memorable moments. We can’t wait to return and explore even more of this incredible region.

Robe

Robe

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Locations, South Australia

Exploring
Robe

South Australia

Robe, situated as the primary town on the Limestone Coast, is an attractive destination for families traveling for a few key reasons. With its charming small-town atmosphere, Robe offers some of the best bakeries, cafes, and serene beaches. The town’s population more than quadruples during holiday periods due to its allure of peaceful living, so it’s best to head to Robe outside of school holidays for a more relaxed experience. We have made traveling to Robe as a family a little easier with the below suggestions.

Staying at Sea Vu Caravan Park

When it comes to accommodation, Robe has several caravan parks to choose from. We opted for Sea Vu Caravan Park, which provided us with easy walking access to shops, the beach, and the main playground in town. The convenience of this location made our stay enjoyable and stress-free, allowing us to explore the area without the need for extensive driving.

Beach Adventures and 4WD Fun

If you have a 4WD, heading down to Long Beach for some beach driving is a must. The beach was remarkably calm during our visit, making it perfect for swimming and surfing. The thrill of driving on the sand added an adventurous twist to our beach day.

Robe’s rugged coastline is dotted with intriguing features like the Obelisk and the lighthouse. These landmarks are perfect for a family exploration, providing both historical context and stunning views. For an added dose of adventure, 4WD down Evans Creek Road to navigate the dunes and check out the Southern beaches of Robe.

Savoring Local Flavors

No trip to Robe is complete without a visit to the local bakery, which has been running since 1884. Grabbing a pie here is not just a treat but a way to support a piece of Robe’s history. The bakery’s offerings are a testament to the town’s enduring charm and culinary tradition.

Navigating the Roads

The drive to Robe from Mt Gambier, and when leaving to head west, requires some caution. The roads are tight, which made us a little apprehensive at first. However, they aren’t too busy, which is a relief. It’s important to stay alert, especially since we almost had an encounter with a moose on our way from Robe.

Traveling to Robe as a family was an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and delightful discoveries. From the charming Sea Vu Caravan Park to the thrilling beach drives and historic landmarks, Robe offers a perfect blend of activities that cater to all ages. As you plan your visit, remember to savor the local flavors and stay cautious on the roads, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.