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.

Bicheno

Bicheno

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Bicheno

Tasmania

Traveling to Bicheno as a family is an experience filled with seaside charm, outdoor adventure, and memorable moments. This stunning seaside village offers excellent fishing, good surf, and plenty of activities for all ages. We stayed at the Bicheno Holiday Park, one of the best parks we’ve encountered on our travels, as it didn’t charge extra for showers. The large sites were conveniently close to town and the beach, making it easy to explore everything Bicheno has to offer.

Exploring Douglas-Apsley National Park

Our adventure began with a visit to Douglas-Apsley National Park. The 20-minute walk to the large freshwater swimming hole was well worth it. We spent a wonderful day exploring and swimming with the kids, who loved the refreshing water and the natural surroundings. The park’s beauty and tranquility made it a perfect spot for a family outing.

Surfing at Redbill Beach

Next, we headed to Redbill Beach, a cute, small beach that offered excellent surfing conditions. For a few days, the beach worked as a point break with a low and slow right, perfect for our surfing sessions. The gentle waves provided a fun and safe environment for everyone, making it a highlight of our stay in Bicheno.

Dining at the Lobster Shack

No trip to Bicheno would be complete without a visit to the Lobster Shack. The boys were thrilled to taste crab, calamari, lobster, and fish. The seafood feast was a hit, and the amazing ice cream we had for dessert was the perfect way to finish off our meal. The Lobster Shack’s delicious offerings and friendly atmosphere made it a must-visit spot.

Bicheno’s Glass Bottom Boat Tour

One of the most exciting activities we enjoyed was Bicheno’s Glass Bottom Boat tour. The one-hour trip on the water allowed us to see a variety of marine life, including fish, stingrays, and a seal colony. The kids were fascinated by the underwater views and had a fantastic time spotting different creatures.

Visiting the Bicheno Blowhole

We also took a small and fun walk to the Bicheno Blowhole. Watching the powerful bursts of water shooting up through the rocks was both thrilling and mesmerizing. It was a simple yet captivating natural attraction that everyone enjoyed.

Easy Drive from the Bay of Fires

Getting to Bicheno from the Bay of Fires was an easy drive down the highway. The smooth journey allowed us to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way.

Traveling to Bicheno as a family was an adventure filled with fun, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. From exploring national parks and surfing pristine beaches to indulging in delicious seafood and discovering marine life, Bicheno offers something for everyone. We can’t wait to return and create even more memories in this beautiful seaside village.

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.

Boat Harbour

Boat Harbour

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Boat Harbour

Tasmania

Boat Harbour is one of the most incredible beaches, not just in Tasmania but in all of Australia. Nestled down a steep hill, this hidden gem offers a slice of paradise. This contrasts the usual rocky, uneven coastline typical of Northern Tasmania. Traveling to Boat Harbour as a family promises a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery.

The Hidden Gem of Tasmania’s North

Unlike much of the Northern Tasmanian coastline, which can be rugged and less inviting, Boat Harbour stands out with its pristine sands and clear waters. The small town of Boat Harbour is tucked away, providing a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While you’ll need to do your grocery shopping down the road at Burnie, once you’re settled in, you might find it hard to leave this coastal haven.

Activities and Adventures

Boat Harbour isn’t just about stunning views; it also offers a range of activities to keep the whole family entertained. We enjoyed mostly flat, beautiful days perfect for snorkeling and fishing. However, the area is also known for its surf, with waves rolling in when conditions are right.

The beach features a great café and a playground, providing a perfect spot for a relaxing day out. For those seeking more adventure, a trip to Sisters Beach offers more exploration opportunities. If you visit during the right time of year, the Tulip Farm at Table Cape, about 20 minutes east of Boat Harbour, is a must-see with its vibrant blooms.

Staying at Boat Harbour Beach Holiday Park

Our stay at the Boat Harbour Beach Holiday Park was a highlight of our trip. Although getting onto our site required some tricky driving and reversing our caravan up a hill. The stunning views made it all worthwhile. For those less inclined towards such challenges, easier sites are available. The park’s facilities were good, and it was a short walk down the hill to the beach. However, the steep walk back up led us to drive down most of the time.

Getting There

Reaching Boat Harbour involves a scenic drive down the highway, followed by a turn-off and a steep descent into the town. The road narrows significantly, so it’s important to take it easy and drive carefully.

Traveling to Boat Harbour as a family was an unforgettable experience, combining the serenity of a hidden beach paradise with various activities and adventures. Whether it’s snorkeling in calm waters, catching a wave, or exploring nearby attractions, Boat Harbour offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to create lasting memories in one of Tasmania’s most beautiful coastal towns.

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.