Best destinations to visit in NSW with kids

When it comes to travelling with kids, there is no shortage of amazing locations to keep everyone entertained. No matter what time of the year it is, NSW is a fantastic place filled with exciting things to do that will keep kids, teen and parents engaged.

Not sure where to take your family on the next holiday? Here’s a list of unique destinations that will accommodate everyone in the family.

Murray River

The Murray River runs along the southern edge of NSW, stretching for more than 2,500km. Known as an aquatic playground, the Murray River is a great place to connect with nature, share new experiences and relax. This renowned location boasts activities on water and on land that will entertain parents and kids alike.

Hit the water on a kayak or canoe for some family bonding fun. If that’s not enough, you can also visit the region’s water parks. For kids and parents who want to stay dry, you can relax on a houseboat, hire bikes, and explore Monash Adventure Park or meet some wildlife at the Monarto Zoo.

Port Macquarie

When you visit Port Macquarie, we are certain your itinerary will be jam-packed with activities to do. Port Macquarie is only three hours from Newcastle and a popular holiday destination for youngsters.

If your kids enjoy being in the water, let them dive into one of the world’s largest aqua parks, Stoney Aqua Park. This water park is an adrenaline-pumping centre for children aged six and above. It is a huge hit for families with its aqua sports, including tube riding, water skiing and wakeboarding, and its safe ‘splash zone’ for the little ones.

If the kids want to see some native furry friends on this trip, Port Macquarie has the highest koala population on the east coast of Australia. You can join a tour of the famous Koala Hospital located in the historic Roto House and meet these cuddly Aussie animals at the Billabong Zoo Wildlife Park. But that’s not all; at this 10-acre park, you can also see and touch other exotic animals with over 80 species of mammals, reptiles, and birds.

Byron Bay 

Another location you can take the kids is Byron Bay. This natural wonderland has pristine scenery that your family will admire. Many outdoor elements in this region will get your kids’ motor skills going and their senses thriving.

Let the little ones run, jump and play at the all-natural Kid’s Adventure Playground at Elements of Brighton. The adventure playground is inspired by the excitement of a parkour course designed to challenge agility and spark imagination for the kids. If you’re looking for a location near the ocean, Apex Park on Main Beach also has a beachfront playground they will love.

For the older kids, Byron Bay has some of the most beautiful beaches for the teens to relax, swim or surf. There are also spectacular trails such as Cape Byron Lighthouse and Lennox Heads for the whole family to explore.

Port Stephens 

Located in Port Stephens is one of Australia’s greatest aquariums, Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters. This place is a unique interactive aquarium that allows visitors to experience ocean life.

Allow your kids to see sea animals in a hands-on and exciting way. This activity is educational and will be memorable for any animal lover. If you’re not quite ready to meet the creatures from the deep, you can stay dry by participating or just watching from the perimeter of the aquariums.

If you’re looking to have some fun in the sun, take the kids outdoors for dolphin watching or whale watching on the Moonshadow Cruise. The boat will take you on a leisurely cruise around the bay where everyone can see the animals in their natural habitat.

Blue Mountains 

For a simple and stress-free expedition with the family, Blue Mountains is a perfect destination. When you visit the Blue Mountains, your family will return home with love for flora and fauna simply by exploring the outdoors.

For a unique nature-based experience, ride the railway, skyway and cableway at Scenic World. This famous tourist centre allows you to access breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains and Jamison Valley from above.

If your kids are afraid of heights, a short bush walk around Mount Work will keep them active and entertained. Another recommended track suitable for families is the Gordon Falls Walk.