If you have children, planning a perfect vacation can be very challenging. If they are small, you need to find a place with many age-appropriate activities to keep them entertained. On the other hand, if they are teenagers, you need to look for something that will be appealing to them and a place they can explore while having fun.
Well, if you have always wanted to visit the coast of Australia, keep reading this article. We will introduce you to Airlie Beach and provide you with some suggestions on how to turn this vacation into an adventure for your entire family.
1. Whitsunday Island
If your main goal is to visit as many beautiful places as possible, this island should be at the top of your list. Go on a guided cruise with your entire family and enjoy the picturesque beauty of Whitehaven Beach. You can stroll down the white sands or take a swim in the majestic Coral Sea.
The entire cruise takes around 4 hours, and during this time, you can choose to relax and sunbathe on the open-air deck. On the other hand, you can just sit in silence and absorb the breathtaking scenery of Pentecost Island and Solway Passage. It is a perfect place for your kids to explore while you are taking a break, spinning a drink in the shade of a palm tree.
What’s more, you can take your journey a step further and visit the Whitsunday National Park. You can go on a hike or simply wait and enjoy the sight of humpback whales that visit the beach between May and September.
2. Great Barrier Reef
The fact that this place is the most extensive coral reef system in the entire world should be more than enough reason for you to put it on your to-visit list. In addition, it has the UNESCO World Heritage status. It has a rich marine life waiting for you, and we are confident that this colorful place will provide you with memories that you will cherish for the rest of your life.
When it comes to activates you can enjoy here, there are numerous options. You can go snorkeling or diving to explore this area firsthand. On the other hand, if this doesn’t sound too appealing to you, you can go on a semi-submersible tour. Naturally, sailing is always an option. Finally, there are also guided tours presented by marine biologists who will tell you all interesting facts about the reef and marine life. It can be a great educational tour for your kids because they will undoubtedly learn a lot.
Truth be told, it may not be possible to experience all of them, so you should think about staying in the Airlie Beach area during your vacation. If you want to learn more about accommodation details, visit here.
3. Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island is, without a doubt, the most famous island in the archipelago, but at the same time, it is also the most luxurious one. If the accommodation here is too pricey for you, remember that you can always stay in Airlie Beach and take a cruise to this place.
You can go on a single-day trip and have the time of your life. For example, if you need a bit of adventure, you can go jet-skiing or parasailing and explore the island from the air. If you are looking for a tranquil activity, you can go hiking to Passage Peak. Since this hike takes a little bit over an hour, you can leave it for the end of the day and enjoy the captivating scenery of the sunset from the top.
Finally, when going on a family vacation to Australia, you cannot miss the chance to see its wildlife. Naturally, we are talking about kangaroos and koalas. This may be your only opportunity to meet them in person and just think about the experience your kids will have. Yes, you can do this in the Hamilton Island Wildlife Park.
4. Bowen
This town may not be a popular tourist destination, but the locals all agree that it is a hidden gem of the area. The first thing that will pop up when you investigate this town online is that it is famous for its mangoes. It is actually the most popular variety of mango in Australia. There is also a gigantic mango sculpture, perfect for taking selfies.
There are several beaches you can visit in this area and go diving, snorkeling, or fishing. If you want to experience a spectacular 360-view over the town and the Coral Sea, go to Flagstaff Hill. Lastly, if you are interested in learning more about the town’s history, all you have to do is take a walk. The entire city is filled with street murals that depict various eras of history.
5. Cedar Creek Falls
Is there a better way to persuade your kids to explore nature than taking them to see waterfalls? No, we don’t think so either. Cedar Creek Falls is in the close vicinity of Airlie Beach, and even though it seems to be a remote, undisturbed area, it is easily accessible. This is especially important for young parents who travel with small children. On the other hand, if your teenagers want to take a walk, there is also a path around the falls. Its flora and fauna will transport you into a completely new, peaceful universe, which will enable you to relax and take a break from the adventure-filled holiday. If you are lucky enough, you might have this place entirely for yourself to enjoy.
6. Airlie Beach Markets
Lastly, you cannot go back home without experiencing the life of locals and buying a souvenir or two. The markets are usually open on Saturdays at 8 am. Here, you can explore the work of artists and purchase a piece of handmade jewelry or any kind of souvenirs. Take a stroll around the area, have lunch at one of the restaurants and try some fresh, local dishes. Breathing in the area’s everyday life is the perfect way to conclude your vacation.
