Torquay

Torquay

by | Jul 28, 2024 | Locations, Victoria

Exploring
Torquay

Victoria

Torquay, the first stop on your Great Ocean Road adventure, is a picturesque surf village about 20 minutes south of Geelong. With all the necessities available closer to Geelong and world-class beaches at your doorstep,  traveling to Torquay as a family is an excellent idea.

Staying at Breamlea Caravan Park

We chose to stay at Breamlea Caravan Park, located just five minutes east of Torquay. Our ten-day stay was perfect for its central location, allowing easy access to my work in Geelong and trips to Torquay, Anglesea, and Lorne. Additionally, the park was significantly cheaper than those in the nearby towns, making it an economical choice for families.

Surfing and Beach Fun

Torquay, Anglesea, and Lorne are renowned for their incredible surfing spots. We enjoyed hitting the waves at Point Impossible, Main Beach Torquay, and the iconic Bells Beach. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner, these beaches offer something for everyone.

Playground Adventures

Our kids had a blast at the playgrounds in both Torquay and Lorne. These massive free-play style parks provided endless entertainment, with new friends to meet and adventurous games to play. The playgrounds were a highlight of our trip, offering a perfect blend of fun and relaxation.

The Australia National Surfing Museum was an absolute treat and had lots of interactive opportunities for the kids to experience and learn through action.

Scenic Lookouts and Waterfalls

One of the most beautiful spots we visited was Point Addis, which boasts a raw and stunning lookout and beach to explore. Another highlight was Erskine Falls, located west of Lorne. The walk to the falls was enjoyable and gave us a chance to immerse ourselves in nature and explore with the kids.

The Great Ocean Road Drive

Driving along the Great Ocean Road is a marvel in itself. The route passes through multiple charming villages, with numerous lookouts and beaches to explore. The scenic beauty of this drive is unparalleled, making it a must-do for anyone visiting the area.

Nearby Towns Worth Exploring

Barwon Heads is another beautiful town close to Torquay that’s worth exploring with the family. We also spent an afternoon at Queenscliff Jetty, soaking in the rich history of this part of Victoria. These towns offer additional attractions and experiences that complement the Torquay adventure.

Traveling to Torquay as a family offers a perfect blend of surf, sand, and scenic beauty. With its world-class beaches, adventurous playgrounds, and breathtaking lookouts, Torquay and its surrounding towns provide plenty to see and do for those looking to experience some of Australia’s best coastal and natural attractions.

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.

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.

Geraldton

Geraldton

by | Jul 25, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Geraldton

Western Australia

Traveling to Geraldton as a family was a delightful experience, providing a perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. Geraldton, a port city in Mid West Western Australia, offers a range of activities and sights that cater to all ages. The city is large enough to offer all the necessary services for a comfortable stay but remains charmingly manageable compared to bustling port cities like Geelong and Newcastle.

Family Fun at the Foreshore

The Geraldton Foreshore is a fantastic spot for family activities. With two great playgrounds and easy beach access, it’s an ideal place for kids to play and for the family to relax by the water. The well-maintained facilities and beautiful scenery make it a must-visit during your stay.

Beach Adventures

Geraldton boasts several stunning beaches that are perfect for family outings.

Back Beach is fantastic for both families and surfing enthusiasts. The beach features a playground located on the backside of the sand dunes near the car park and surf club, ensuring that kids have plenty of options for fun both in and out of the water.

Drummond Cove offers the unique experience of driving on the beach. Finding a spot to surf and explore with the family here was a highlight of our trip. The sense of adventure and the beautiful surroundings made it an unforgettable experience.

Coronation Beach is renowned as the windsurfing capital of Australia. A few kilometers down the beach, there is a good longboard wave accessible via a fun 4WD track. This adventure was a hit with the entire family, combining the thrill of off-roading with the joy of discovering new surf spots.

Indoor Activities for Rainy Days

When the weather didn’t cooperate, we found some great indoor activities to keep the kids entertained. The Museum of Geraldton was a standout. Ella took the boys there on a rainy day, and they couldn’t stop talking about the interactive exhibits and engaging activities designed for children.

Another excellent wet-weather alternative was The House Café and Play Centre. This indoor playground was well-priced and kept the kids entertained for hours. The combination of good food and a fun play area made it a favorite spot for the family.

Accommodation

We stayed at Belair Gardens Caravan Park, conveniently located near Pages Beach playground. The park had its own playground and pool, which the kids loved. The staff were friendly and helpful, although the sites in the area we stayed were a bit tight. If you can, book a spot in the back section of the park, where the sites are much larger and more comfortable.

Easy Travel

Driving to Geraldton from Jurien Bay was a breeze. The 2-hour drive was easy and pleasant, thanks to Western Australia’s long, straight roads, which are a refreshing change from the often winding and busy roads of the east coast.

Traveling to Geraldton as a family was an enriching experience, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and fun for everyone. With its beautiful beaches, engaging indoor activities, and family-friendly facilities, Geraldton is a perfect destination for family travel.

Kalbarri

Kalbarri

by | Jul 23, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Kalbarri

Western Australia

Kalbarri, situated on the Mid West coast of Western Australia, is a charming surf and fishing town filled with beautiful shops, an amazing river, stunning beaches, a world-class surf break, and an incredible national park. Traveling to Kalbarri as a family was a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, offering a variety of activities that catered to everyone.

Exploring the Natural Wonders

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Skywalk and Nature’s Window. Located just a 30-minute drive into Kalbarri National Park, these attractions offer two very easy walks with breathtaking views. The family-friendly trails made it an enjoyable experience for all, allowing us to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Coastal Adventures

Kalbarri’s coastline is dotted with spectacular spots perfect for exploring and enjoying sunsets. Red Bluff, Pot Alley, and the Kalbarri Cliffs were our top three favorites. Each location offered unique and stunning scenery that left us in awe. These spots are ideal for a leisurely walk or simply soaking in the beauty of the rugged coast.

Snorkeling at Blue Pools

For a more interactive experience, we headed to Blue Pools. This fantastic snorkeling area is protected from fishing, making it a haven for abundant marine life. The kids loved exploring the underwater world, spotting colorful fish and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Blue Pools is a must-visit for families looking to experience the ocean up close.

River Adventures

Hiring a boat was another highlight of our trip. We rented a tinny and spent the day cruising down the river. No boat license is required, making it a hassle-free experience. The river’s calm waters provided a peaceful setting for our exploration, and the kids enjoyed the sense of adventure as we navigated the scenic riverbanks.

Surfing at Jakes Point

For the more adventurous, Jakes Point offers an incredible surfing experience. Known for its brilliant waves, this surf break is ideal for advanced surfers. The views are spectacular, adding to the thrill of riding the waves. While not all of us were up for the challenge, watching the surfers in action was a memorable part of our trip.

Scenic Drive from Geraldton

Traveling to Kalbarri as a family was a breeze from Geraldton. The scenic drive through beautiful landscapes set the tone for our adventure. The journey itself was a delightful part of our trip, adding to the overall experience of exploring this picturesque town.

Traveling to Kalbarri as a family offered us a perfect mix of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation. With its diverse range of activities and stunning scenery, Kalbarri is an ideal destination for families looking to create unforgettable memories.