The Waterfront: Geelong’s Beating Heart

Geelong’s Waterfront is the city’s crowning jewel, drawing locals and visitors alike to its lively boardwalks and breathtaking bay views. This bustling precinct is alive with trendy restaurants, charming cafes, and eye-catching public art installations. Take a stroll along the promenade, soak in the maritime vibes at Eastern Beach, or marvel at the restored art deco sea baths and the iconic Carousel. Whether you’re snapping photos or enjoying a sunset meal with ocean views, the Waterfront perfectly encapsulates Geelong’s coastal charm.

Geelong Botanic Gardens: A Serene Oasis

Located within the lush expanse of Eastern Park, the Geelong Botanic Gardens is a tranquil retreat from city life. These immaculately maintained gardens showcase an impressive variety of native and exotic plant species. Wander through themed garden beds, relax with a picnic under the shade of ancient trees, or admire rare flora while learning about their origins through informative displays. The gardens are an idyllic spot for nature lovers seeking peace and beauty.

Pakington Street: The Heart of Local Culture

Affectionately known as “Pako” by locals, Pakington Street is a thriving hub of culture, food, and shopping. This vibrant strip is a treasure trove of boutique stores, artisan shops, and international eateries. Sample everything from handcrafted Italian pasta to flavorful Asian fusion dishes, all while soaking in the lively, community-driven atmosphere. Whether you’re window shopping or indulging in culinary delights, Pako offers an authentic taste of Geelong’s local spirit.

Adventure Park: Family Fun at Its Best

If you’re visiting with family, Adventure Park is an absolute must. Just a short drive from Geelong’s center, this family-friendly theme park has something for everyone. Thrill-seekers can tackle water slides and adrenaline-pumping rides, while younger visitors will enjoy gentler attractions like paddle boats and mini-golf. With plenty of outdoor fun and a chance to cool off on a hot day, Adventure Park promises memories to last a lifetime.

National Wool Museum: Weaving Geelong’s History

Step back in time at the National Wool Museum, an engaging attraction that celebrates Geelong’s role as a hub of Australia’s wool industry. Housed in a historic bluestone building, the museum offers interactive exhibits that detail the journey of wool from fleece to fabric. Watch vintage machinery in action, explore the lives of those who shaped the industry, and learn about the impact wool production had on the city’s development. It’s an educational and surprisingly fascinating experience for all ages.

Geelong Gallery: A Feast for Art Lovers

Art enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Geelong Gallery, one of the finest regional galleries in Australia. Home to an impressive collection of Australian and international art, the gallery features iconic works by renowned artists such as Frederick McCubbin and Arthur Streeton. With rotating exhibitions and special events, there’s always something new to discover, making the gallery a cultural hotspot that leaves a lasting impression.

Serendip Sanctuary: A Wildlife Haven

Just a short drive from Geelong lies Serendip Sanctuary, a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. This tranquil sanctuary offers the chance to observe native Australian animals like kangaroos, emus, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitats. Walking trails and bird hides provide opportunities to get up close to these creatures, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone wanting to connect with Australia’s unique ecosystem.

Why Geelong Deserves a Spot on Your Travel List

Geelong effortlessly blends coastal beauty, cultural richness, and warm community vibes, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a little bit of everything. Whether you’re sipping coffee on Pakington Street, exploring the city’s maritime heritage along the Waterfront, or basking in the serenity of its gardens, Geelong offers a mix of relaxation and adventure that’s hard to beat.

So pack your bags, charge your camera, and head to this captivating city to uncover its hidden gems and beloved landmarks. Geelong isn’t just a stop along the way—it’s a destination that lingers in your heart long after you’ve left.

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Things to do in Geelong Australia appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Noah, Eden, and Jonah have been traveling with me their entire lives. So far the three of them have been to at least 22 countries, 4 continents, and almost every state in the United States. Needless to say, when I ask them what the best family vacations were, they had more than a few opinions! 

They quickly fired off an assortment of places we have been. It was interesting to hear what they picked, some of them I knew, but other ones were a complete surprise. After some serious conversation with them, we’ve narrowed it down to 17!

Top 17 Family Vacations You will Never Forget!

1. Singapore

Singapore is in all of our top ten picks. My oldest, Noah considers Singapore to be a utopia because of its cleanliness and orderliness. Oddly enough, we were only in Singapore for two days, making it one of the shortest stays we have done anywhere. It only took one day for us to fall in love with this city. We recommend walking around Marina Bay where the architecture is insane and definitely visit some parts of the Marina Bay Gardens. I can assure you that your kids have never seen anything else like this! The kid’s favorite hotel here is the Fairmont Singapore. For more ideas on what to do and where to find the best milkshake see my article: Singapore Travel Guide.

2. Cancun

Cancun has so much going on, and don’t worry, it’s safe. We spent a week there and basically had a non-stop adventure! The entire area is set up well to accommodate any kind of family and literally any type of budget. Families will appreciate luxurious, all-inclusive resorts with kid’s clubs and teen clubs. While the kids are off doing their own thing parents can head to a spa or the bar. There isn’t a bad beach anywhere in the area, so plan to spend at least two full days beach bumming.  While you are there, be sure to see Mayan Ruins, swim in a cenote, eat lots of Mexican food, and go ATVing. 

For a list fun family things to do in Cancun check out this post: 12 Adventurous Things to do in Cancun. I recommend staying at The Grand in Cancun or at another one of the  11 Best All-inclusive Resorts in Cancun for Families.

If at some point you head over to Cozumel (you totally should), check out my post: 13 Things to do in Cozumel. I recommend staying at Allegro Cozumel.

3. Thailand

Thailand is absolutely incredible and I wasn’t surprised it landed in my kids top three places. You can basically go anywhere in Thailand and have an interesting experience. I recommend visiting at least these three places when you go: Phuket, Bangkok, and Chiang Mai. Although they each have some similarities they are completely different experiences.

Phuket

Phuket is one of Thailand’s islands and it’s extremely kid friendly. My kids thought taking a Thai cooking class was cool and they loved going to the beaches and interacting with elephants and tigers. To find the elephants on the beach check out my post: Swimming with Elephants in Thailand. And for more help planning your trip to Phuket see my article: 5 Day Phuket Itinerary with Kids.

Bangkok

Bangkok is massive so there are loads and activities. The kids loved biking through the city despite the heavy traffic and they were thrilled when we stumbled across monstrous milkshakes. To read more about taking Bangkok to kids, check out my article: Two Days in Bangkok with Kids.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is an easy city to get around and it has tons to see and do. The city has an incredible night market where you and your kids could shop for hours. Here you will find interesting things to purchase like leather journals, bracelets, and tuk-tuks made out of soda cans. There is an elephant sanctuary where families can care for elephants and of course the food is outstanding! I recommend staying at the Shangri-la and taking a food and city tour by bike. Learn more about visiting Chiang Mai with kids in my article: 4 Things to do in Chiang Mai with kids.

4. New York City

New York City is currently Noah’s #1 and in Eden’s top 3 and in my top 15. The kids love the many dessert experiences here like Serendipity and  Black Tap. Both places have outrageous over-the-top desserts. They all enjoy hanging out in Central Park and Bryant Park, both parks have lots of free activities. At Bryant Park, kids can play kubb, while parents grab a drink at the little outdoor bar there. In Central Park, there are multiple playgrounds.

Visiting the 9/11 memorial is a must and if the kids are 10 or older tour the museum. Kids enjoy touring the Statue of Liberty, but not necessarily Ellis Island. If you do, go to Ellis Island to look for your family’s name on the wall. If you want to do a bus tour I recommend The Ride, especially if your kids are teens or tweens. I think going to a Broadway show is a must, but this is expensive and not worth it if your kids hate musicals or might possibly sleep through it. Good plays for kids are Wicked, Lion King, and Phantom of the Opera.

Remember the further out you can plan a trip to New York the cheaper the trip will be. Here are 15 Ways to save money in NYC.

We’ve been to NYC more times than we can remember. Check out our New York City Travel Guide to help you plan your own epic NYC getaway!

5. Oahu, Hawaii

Hawaii is another place that all three kids agree on and Oahu is their top island followed by Kauai. On Oahu, their favorite thing to do is sit at the pool or sit on the beach.

The kids recommend hanging out at the beach on North Shore to check out the waves and do some shopping. While you are up there have shrimp from Giovani’s Shrimp truck and get shaved ice at Matsumoto Shave Ice. If you feel like getting active rent a paddleboard at Sea N Surf and paddle up the Anahulu River and look for sea turtles. The last time we went we saw five huge sea turtles.

Also, fun in Oahu is parasailing in Waikiki and hiking to the top of Diamond Head. When you get done hiking Diamond Head, stop by Shimazu Shave Ice for massive shaved ice.

For more help planning your family’s Oahu vacation read our Oahu Travel Guide. 

I highly recommend staying at Disney’s Aulani if possible. 

6. Orlando

Orlando would probably make any kid’s list. With it being home to Disney World, Sea World, Discovery Cove, and Universal Studios a family could spend a month and do something different every single day. Universal Orlando is a must once each kid is tall enough to ride all the roller coasters and the new water park, Volcano Bay is fantastic. Besides the theme parks, there are all sorts of other fun things to do like swamp tours through alligator-infested waters, knight tournaments at Medieval Times, and within a short drive lots of beaches.

7. London

London also made it high on the list of the kid’s favorite places. We visited during Thanksgiving a few years ago and everything we did was awesome. There is so much to see and do that you can easily spend a week or two here and never run out of activities. Some of their favorite things were seeing the play Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, eating at Borough Market, and doing the Tower of London tour. Both boy’s least favorite thing to do is the bus tours. I personally appreciated how many free things there were to do in London. For more London ideas and tips, see my article: London with Kids.

8. Negril, Jamaica

Negril, Jamaica is Jonah’s #1 pick, and if I was his age, I think this would possibly be my #1 too. We recommend staying at Beaches Negril. This is an all-inclusive resort geared specifically for families. Highlights of staying here include:

• Sesame Street parade and BBQ party where families can dance with the characters, DJs lead dances, flame throwers perform, and more.
• Ice Cream Machine – The kids loved the ice cream machine which they visited a minimum of three times a day. (Don’t judge me, it’s vacation!)
• Snuba – Even kids can snuba at Beaches Negril and they do not have to have any experience to do this. The instructors are fabulous and it’s an activity the kids will never forget.
• Multiple pools, a lazy river, a water playground, and hot tubs.
• Miniature golf
• Video game lounge
• Kid’s club

9. Vail, Colorado

Vail, Colorado is another destination that is enjoyable year-round. During the summer the kids enjoy biking around town, riding horses around the mountain, and visiting the Epic Discovery adventure park set up on the mountain. In the winter the skiing is excellent. My kids have skied since they were little and appreciate the extensive skiing found in Vail. If you do not ski, this is a great place to learn.  For more info, check out our Vail Travel Guide. 

10. Silvies Valley Ranch

Visiting a dude ranch is a completely unique vacation. You can have an experience as a family that just can’t be had unless you are on a working ranch. Here you can shoot guns, interact with baby goats, hit the spa, experience gourmet dining, participate in a cattle round-up, and much more. They even have four golf courses on the ranch. Golf lovers will flip out over the reversible golf course that’s right I said reversible! With a little bit of everything, your family is sure to have an incredible time. To get a feel of the overall ranch read about our Silvies Valley Ranch Experience.

11. Greece

Greece is an epic experience because let’s face it, there’s no other place on earth like it. It basically doesn’t matter what part of the country you visit, you will never have a bad meal, you will experience history and culture like never before. I can state this as a fact because we’ve traveled all over Greece and it’s all been wonderful. 

Athens

Chances are high that one way or another a Greek vacation is going to take you through Athens at some point. Plan to spend at least a day here so you can visit the Acropolis before heading out to the islands. At night during the sunset dine at Savvas, their rooftop overlooks the Acropolis. Hotels can be difficult to get for a family, you may want to stay in an Airbnb.

Mykonos

A one of a kind city and gorgeous beaches await you in Mykonos. Teens and parents alike will love Mykonos City full of white-washed buildings. Also, if you can get a sitter or if your kids are old enough to stay at the hotel alone plan to go out. Mykonos has one of the best nightlife experiences in the world.

• For more advice, check out my post: Mykonos with Kids

Santorini 

Here you will have the opportunity to see things you’ve never see before like Red Beach. Perissa, the black beach is also worth visiting if you’ve never seen one before. There are two towns built into the sides of the island, both of which are worth spending time in, Fira and Oia. In Oia, you will see one of the greatest sunsets in the world. 

• For more things to do and where to stay check out my post: Santorini on a Budget. 

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is from biblical times and many of their historical sights have withstood the test of time. (Okay, I know what you are thinking. Yes, all of Greece is from biblical times.) They basically have ruins or a gorgeous church around every corner. The food scene is excellent here. For a list of things to see and do check out my post: Thessaloniki on a Budget. 

Kassandra

Can’t afford to splurge on the islands? Head here instead. Here you will be greeted with that famous aqua water and glorious beaches. Go shopping in Pefkochori and grab lunch at Agora Beach Bar. I highly recommend staying at Alexander the Great Beach Resort in this area. 

12. Australia

If you can get yourself to Australia, do it! Australia is just as fabulous as everyone says it is. There are so many varied experiences to be had throughout the country.  Try to plan a minimum of 9 days in the country. More than two weeks would be better. 

Whitsunday Islands

If swimming the Great Barrier Reef is on your bucket list, then this should be your first stop. Whitehaven Beach should also be on your bucket list. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. 

Melbourne

If you’ve got a family of foodies, Melbourne is sure to delight. They have the most over-the-top, whimsical food creations you’ve likely ever seen. In between beautiful meals stop by the Brighton Beach Bathing Boxes and the graffiti alleys. The alleys in Melbourne are really cool. 

• Where to eat in Melbourne

Great Ocean Road 

One of the top road trips in the world is driving the Great Ocean Road. Along the way, you can stop at dozens of scenic overlooks and take in the magnificent rock formations like Loch Ard Gorge and the 12 Apostles. You can enjoy one of the many nice beaches where kids can swim and play in the sand. Plus, there are animal encounters. Pull over to look for koalas in the trees and feed the birds at Kafe Koala. Be sure to stop at the Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park, where you can hand-feed kangaroos. 

13. Texas

We are originally from Texas so it was no surprise that Texas made the list. The kids have been all over Texas and they recommend eating lots of Tex-Mex food and visiting the following cities: Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi.

San Antonio

San Antonio has a ton of stuff for families to do. Here you will find a massive zoo, Fiesta Texas theme park, the famous San Antonio River Walk, and just outside of town is Schlitterbahn the #1 water park in the world. When visiting plan at least one full day at Schlitterbahn, half a day at the river walk, and float the Comal river. Our favorite restaurants in San Antonio currently are Ocho, Toro Kitchen + Bar, and Rita’s on the River. 

In San Antonio, I recommend staying at Hotel Emma.

Plan your entire trip with our San Antonio Travel Guide.

Dallas/Fort Worth

The Dallas, Fort Worth area is packed with stuff to do for families. Over in Fort Worth will love the rodeo at the stockyards. Be sure to go when they have bull riding. Also found in the stockyards is a fun maze and Texas-themed shopping. Plus, they do a daily cattle drive. Our favorite restaurants in Dallas include Meso Maya for dinner and El Jordan Cafe for breakfast. Just north of Dallas is Addison, TX which is jammed packed with great restaurants. 

14. Honduras

Honduras is easily one of our top vacations, according to me. Unfortunately, the kids remember very little of the trip. I recommend going to Roatan and Copan. These two places are no where near each other and two extremely different experiences. What they do have in common is affordability!

Roatan

Roatan is one of the Bay Islands and along the 2^nd best barrier reef in the world. The reef is near the shoreline making it extremely easy for kids to snorkel. Jonah was 4 when we visited and he was able to snorkel. Also fun here is zip lining and paddleboarding.

Copan

Copan is a Honduran city that borders Guatemala. Here you can go horseback riding up a mountain, go zip lining on one of the longest zip lines in the world, and visit an incredible hot spring.

15. Panama City Beach

Another family favorite in Florida is Panama City Beach. The beach has soft, powdery, white sand. It isn’t as big as many of the beach towns, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot to do. Go mini-golfing and go-carting, spend the day at the beach, or shop around at Pier Park. Spend one day bopping around Scenic 30A, where you will find tiny beach towns like Seaside or Rosemary. Renting some bicycles is a perfect way to explore this area. Another interesting spot worth venturing out to is Sandestin’s Baytowne Wharf. Here, families can indulge in boutique shopping, zip-lining, ropes courses, an arcade, and unique eateries.

Use our Panama City Beach travel guide to plan your entire vacation.

16. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is super cool country with a wide variety of things to do. The food was consistently good, the activities were exciting and the people were so nice. Whether rafting down a volcano’s raging rivers in a tube near La Fortuna to chilling at a beautiful beach on the Pacific or the Atlantic everyone is going to enjoy the country. Costa Rica Travel Guide

17. La Paz

La Paz features miles of white sand beaches and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure including paddle boarding, kite surfing, kayaking, SCUBA diving, whale watching, swimming with whale sharks, sportfishing, hiking, mountain biking, and much more. If you want your kids off their devices and outside doing stuff you will love it here. Plus, the food is unbelievably good. 

Plan your own trip with our La Paz Travel Guide for Families. Plus, Best Places to Stay in La Paz, Mexico and Best Beaches in La Paz.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it, the best of the best family travel locations. There are hundreds of other places that could have made the list but didn’t. These were ones that just barely missed making our list: Las Vegas, Bavarian Alps in Germany, Paris, and house boating on Lake Shuswap in British Columbia. Like Honduras, my kids do not even remember house boating up in Canada, but if they did (well not Jonah, he had yet to be born), I am sure it would have made it onto the list.

Where are your favorite places to take your kids on vacation? We are always taking recommendations and planning our next family vacations. Yes, plural. Why take just one vacation? I think you should take as many as possible, big trips, weekend getaways, family reunions, you name it. These are all opportunities to have fun, spend time together and make the most memories possible. And don’t delay. Noah’s a high school senior and he’s about to move on with his life. (Oregon State University #Bragging) And y’all, I straight up ran out of time with him. You will run out of time, so make today count.

Read Next:

16 Insanely Awesome Girl’s Trips

11 Best Places to Snorkel with Kids Around the World

The post 17 Incredible Family Vacations appeared first on Mommy Travels.

So do we! That’s why we try milkshakes everywhere we go.

Have you ever sat and wondered, “Where can I find the best milkshake in the world?”.

I am assuming everyone sits around wondering this. I know I do, I mean, who doesn’t love a good milkshake?

In our family, a good milkshake is a good enough reason to go out of the way to eat somewhere and I mean totally and completely out of the way! This might be part of the reason I just can’t drive past a Sonic without pulling over!

Here are 26 of the best milkshakes in the world and where to find them including shakes in NYC, Orlando, Las Vegas, Brazil, Australia, Madrid, and many more! Originally this list only had 7 milkshakes, but we are happy to report that we keep finding more worth adding to the list!

Where to Find the 26 Best Milkshakes in the World

Black Tap

1. Black Tap in NYC is a burger and beer place with multiple locations in NYC and now one in Anaheim at Disneyland, Las Vegas and even in Dallas. But I must say it’s not really the beers and burgers I think people are going there for. Granted, their burgers are wonderful. Skip the salad burger, it wasn’t as good as just having a burger. Nowadays there is usually not a wait to eat here anymore, but sometimes the wait times can get bad. The milkshakes are not cheap but just look at them. Worth it! The kids and I all had burgers and split two milkshakes and dinner cost about $110.

Naughty Boy Cafe

2. Naughty Boy Cafe in Melbourne, Australia is open for breakfast and lunch. Their food looks really good, but honestly, I would just be going for their milkshakes.

Update: I finally got to eat here after salivating over their photos and it was slightly disappointing, my milkshake looked like a child had made it. It was so bad I may have to remove them from this list.

Garage 51

3. Garage 51 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is a pork-free cafe with some wildly awesome milkshakes. Now, I do not know how many people are visiting Malaysia, but this definitely gives me another reason to try and make it over there!

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

4. Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at Universal City Walk in Orlando, Florida has incredible milkshakes. 3 – 4 people can split one of their milkshakes because they are so large and so rich. Their regular menu is full of good food too.

The Coffee Club

5. The Coffee Club in Bangkok, Thailand happens to be located in the lobby of the hotel we were staying in while we were in Bangkok. Imagine our surprise when we realized there little hotel cafe had these incredible shakes. We ended up eating here 3 times! (Yes, we are pigs. We don’t care.) Recently, during our trip to the Whitsunday Islands in Australia, I realized that they have other locations. There is one near the marina in Airlie Beach, Australia.

Mustang Sally’s Pub & Diner

6. Mustang Sally’s Pub & Diner in South Africa sets the standard for the great milkshakes. Known for their generous portions and imaginative flavors, each milkshake is a delightful blend of creamy, rich ice cream and top-tier ingredients. The diner’s nostalgic 1950s ambiance adds an extra layer of charm, making every sip a trip down memory lane. Mustang Sally’s combines traditional favorites with unique twists, ensuring a diverse menu that pleases every taste. With friendly service and a commitment to quality, their milkshakes are more than just a treat—they’re an experience that keeps you coming back for more. Located at 1319 Pretorius Street, Hatfield, South Africa, 0002.

Eis Cafe

7. Eis Cafe has multiple locations including Birmingham in the United Kingdom and in Dubai. All their shakes that look spectacular and massive. I recently looked at their Facebook page and see the milkshakes getting even bigger!

Creme Cakes and Shakes

8. Creme Cakes and Shakes in Southend-on-Sea (east of London) has your milkshake covered in cakes. I gotta say, great idea. Most people like cake too. Located at 1 Pier Arches ss91, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2EH England.

Cowfish a Burger Sushi Bar

9. Cowfish a Burger Sushi Bar in Orlando makes spectacular alcoholic milkshakes. They are not as over top as the others on this list, but they are just so good. I sucked my spiked milkshake down in a matter of minutes. All the food here is excellent. They also have locations in Charlotte and Raleigh.

Serendipity 3

10. Serendipity 3 is super famous already for their desserts and they should be. We couldn’t have a list without including their version of a milkshake: a frozen hot chocolate. You can find this at their NYC location or the Las Vegas location. If you could go to either go to both because they are completely different.

Legendairy Milkshake Bar

11. Legendairy Milkshake Bar in Nashville stands out as the ultimate destination for milkshake lovers worldwide. Renowned for their extravagant, over-the-top creations, each milkshake is a visual and culinary masterpiece. Their use of high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients ensures that every sip is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. With innovative flavors that push the boundaries of traditional milkshakes and toppings that range from decadent brownies to whole slices of cake, Legendairy Milkshake Bar transforms a simple treat into an unforgettable experience.

The Yard Milkshake Bar

12. The Yard Milkshake Bar in Panama City Beach have what my kids declared “The best milkshakes they have ever had!”. Considering the unreasonable amount of milkshakes we have all had I think they are experts and this cannot be ignored! I know that this place is expanding to other areas like the Alabama coast and Dallas, Texas.

Gulf Coast Burger Co.

13. Gulf Coast Burger Co., also in Panama City Beach has amazing shakes too, and they are slightly more affordable than most freakshakes we have had. They are gigantic. You will not have room for a burger and a shake here. I recommend ordering one burger and one shake per two people.

Cafe Hollywood

14. Cafe Hollywood located in Las Vegas inside of Planet Hollywood has some mighty tasty and good looking milkshakes!

12 Tastiest Milkshakes in Vegas

Ten One Ate

15. Ten One Ate is a little cafe in Melbourne, Australia and almost everything they serve is visually stunning.

JoJo’s Shake Bar

16. JoJo’s Shake Bar in Chicago has some might tasty creations including fun seasonal shakes. They also serve big hot chocolates with jumbo cookies. Located at 23 West Hubbard Street, Chicago, Illinois 60654.

Mt. Kisco Coach Diner

17. Mt. Kisco Coach Diner is dishing up comfort food including ridiculous shakes! Some of their shakes are topped with a slice of cake! Located at 252 Main St, Mt. Kisco, New York.

Kings Dining and Entertainment

18. Kings Dining and Entertainment has lots of locations including Orlando, Boston, Raleigh, and more. Go bowling and pound shakes!

The Battlefield Country Store

19. The Battlefield Country Store in Virginia redefines the milkshake experience, earning its reputation for having the best milkshakes. Each milkshake is a handcrafted delight, featuring locally-sourced, premium ingredients that create a rich, velvety texture and unforgettable flavor. Their creative menu boasts a variety of options, from classic favorites to innovative combinations that surprise and delight. The rustic charm of the store, combined with its warm and welcoming atmosphere, enhances the indulgence of savoring these delicious treats. At The Battlefield Country Store, milkshakes are not just a drink—they’re a memorable experience that captures the essence of homemade goodness and Southern hospitality. Located at 6150 Plank Road, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22407.

The Market Milkshake Bar

20. The Market Milkshake Bar is a food truck roaming the streets of Miami. The only thing they make are drool-worthy freak shakes. They even have vegan shakes. Find their Instagram page to find out where they are on any given day.

CREPESnSHAKES

21. CREPESnSHAKES has churro shakes. Need I say more? They are located in LA inside Tutti Frutti.

Gulla Burguer

22. Gulla Burguer down in Brazil has burgers, fries, and killer milkshakes. Located at R. Padre Pedro Pinto, 6300 – Paraúna (Venda Nova), Belo Horizonte – MG, 31615-310, Brazil.

Lara Grill

23. Lara Grill has burgers, nachos, tacos, and shakes which makes it one of the best places to eat in Madrid. Located in Barcelona and  Madrid, Spain with multiple locations.

Frostbite & Spiked Rich

24. Spiked Rich has alcohol infused, donut topped shakes in south Florida. You can get a shake without booze and without the donut. Located at 2125 S. University Dr., Davie, Florida 33324

Regrub

25. #Regrub has burgers and shakes. They’ve got all kinds of incredible milkshakes including vegan options. Harry Potter fans will love the POTTERHEAD a HOGSMEADE Shake infused with Butterscotch Topped with Sweet Spells

They have two locations in Alberta, Canada. 1) 625 11th Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0E1 and 2) 901 64th Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7P4.

Brainfreeze Sno-cones and Shakes

26. Brainfreeze Sno-cones and Shakes in Pasadena, California offers an unparalleled milkshake experience that earns it the title of having the best milkshakes in the world. Each milkshake is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, blending the finest ingredients to achieve a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Their innovative menu features a wide array of unique and creative concoctions, ensuring there’s something to tantalize every palate. With toppings that range from fresh fruits to indulgent candies, every milkshake is a delightful surprise. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly service at Brainfreeze make each visit an exciting treat, solidifying its reputation as the ultimate destination for milkshake enthusiasts. Located at 2716 Preston Ave, Pasadena, Texas 77503.

Brownstone Pancake Factory

27. Brownstone Pancake Factory in New Jersey not far from New York City has insane shakes and pancakes. Located at 860 River Road Edgewater NJ. They have locations in Freehold, Edgewater, and Brick as well.

Final Thoughts

Y’all, I’m not going to lie, it’s flat-out amazing to me that I don’t weigh more. But I guess you can tell from this post why I am constantly on a diet when not traveling. I don’t exactly make healthy choices when I am eating out. I have gotten to the point I don’t order my own shake and instead share with the kids.

Where’s the best milkshake you have ever had and where can we find it? Drop your recommendation in the comments below!  My kids and I are always looking for some milkshake tips.

The post 27 Best Milkshakes in the World appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Uluru

When anyone thinks of Australia Uluru, previously known as Ayers Rock springs to most people’s minds. A massive sandstone formation, the rock is no small affair, standing 348 meters high and 9.4 kilometers across. Uluru is well known for its ability to appear to change color throughout the day as the sun strikes it.

Regular tours are run by rangers and local aboriginal people. Visitors can no longer climb Uluru, due to its significant spiritual meaning to the aboriginal people.

The Great Barrier Reef

If sun, sand, and surf are more to your taste, then the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland might be just what you’re looking for. One of the seven wonders of the world, the reef is the largest marine protected area in the world, spanning 348,700 square kilometers and approximately 2,300 kilometers long, and comprises over 3,000 individual reefs.

There is a huge array of life to see at the reefs, with over 400 types of corals with many varieties of fish and other wildlife outside of the reef such as turtles, sea birds, whales, and dolphins.

There is plenty to do at the reef from day trips on boats with underwater viewing platforms, diving, and snorkeling, just to name a few. Whatever you do, make sure you make time to visit Whitehaven Beach. 

The Kimberleys

A spectacular sight, the Kimberleys of Western Australia, has a vast arrange of gorges, waterfalls, wildlife, and flora.

A rugged and ruff terrain, the Kimberleys is a place for those wanting to do it a little tough. Gibbs River Road a 4WD-only access road, is one of the best places for driving enthusiasts, with many waterfalls and gorges to explore on the way. If a little more luxury is more your style, there are plenty of opportunities to join a tour company.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a city with a lot of unique things to offer. It’s basically a foodie’s dream come true. It by far has the most beautiful food I’ve ever seen. Plus, there’s alleys full of graffiti, lovely beaches, great shopping, lots of rooftop bars, and so much more. 10 Things to do in Melbourne

Sydney

Known as the cultural hub of Australia, Sydney has all the shopping possibilities of any city, with many cultural experiences to enjoy. Architectural highlights include the Opera House which is open for various public tours, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge which is the best view of Sydney if you are game enough to climb it.

With Sydney, it doesn’t matter what you’re into, arts, culture, food, wine, fun or adventure, Sydney will satisfy whatever craving you have.

2 Day in Sydney, Australia

The 12 Apostles

Located within the Port Campbell National Park, Victoria, the Apostles are a collection of massive, yet elegant limestone rocks, protruding from the ocean. The tallest apostle is 45 meters with a dramatic 70-meter tall limestone cliff towering over the apostles as a backdrop.

There are plenty of opportunities to view the apostles along the Great Ocean Road, with viewing platforms and boardwalks to soak up the sights. Photos simply do them little justice.

The apostles are slowly eroding due to the constant beating of the ocean and other natural elements around the formations. Several collapses have occurred over the past few years so if you’re in the Melbourne area, a trip to visit the apostles before they disappear is well worth it.

No matter what type of holiday you are looking for Australia has it all. Full of possibilities with a range of experiences you will have to come back to enjoy them all.

Read Next:

16 Best Things to do in Cairns, Australia

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The post Top 6 Destinations to Explore in Australia appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Almost the entire northern coastline of the Mornington Peninsula that encircles Port Phillip Bay has its own pristine beach, a handful of local cafes, and great dining options to choose from. 

To narrow it down for you, we’ve created the best list of the Top 5 beach towns to visit on the Mornington Peninsula, from locals who call the Peninsula home. 

If you’re from out of town or visiting the country for the first time then a trip to the Mornington Peninsula is one of the best places to visit in Australia. 

Getting to the Mornington Peninsula

The route to the Peninsula from Melbourne CBD is straightforward and easy to find as it’s essentially one or two roads that take you the entire way down. 

You can take the inland route via Monash Freeway (M1) from the city center to join Eastlink which turns into Peninsula Link until you arrive in Frankston.

Or you could enjoy the scenery along the way by taking the coastal route along Beach Road that becomes Nepean Highway.

There are public bus routes and train lines that will take you into the Peninsula using the Myki system for around $10 AUD, but this is longer and generally takes just under two hours. 

Top 5 beach towns on the Mornington Peninsula

Go for a drive to Frankston

We know a lot about Frankston because we have called this ever-growing Peninsula metropolis home for 8 years so you’re in good hands. 

It’s the beginning of the Mornington Peninsula and the largest of all the towns here, which means it has a great coffee and food scene throughout the city. A day spent at Frankston foreshore is perfect because if you’re short on time it’s the prettiest and easiest beach to access from the main freeway. 

A long stretch of soft white sand nestled between a boat ramp at one end and a 307-metre-long pier at the other end where you could see a variety of fish life including puffer fish, crabs, and Stingrays. 

Go for a 30-minute walk up and down the wooden boardwalk that overlooks the ocean with all the locals walking their dogs and babies.

Where to get coffee

The best part about living in Frankston is that the absolute best coffee shop is on the beach, in a little caravan called Little Ollys Cafe. The team here serves a great selection of coffees for a loyal base of customers who make the early morning drive out here for a walk along the Frankston beach boardwalk. 

It’s even popular amongst the early swimmers who brave the cold frigid waters of the early morning for a cold plunge. 

Another coffee shop worth mentioning is Commonfolk on Main St., they have a larger sister store in Mornington further south complete with an outdoor dining area, coffee roastery, and co-working space.

Down the street deserves honorable mention for amazing coffee however they are a little further away from the beach (7-minute drive) but if you’re looking for a tucked-away, local go-to cafe this is it. 

Best place for food

Our go-to breakfast stop is only a 3-minute drive (12-minute walk) from the beach called Nutrition 6, serving a delicious breakfast including signature smoothie bowls, smashed avocado on toast, healthy smoothies, and of course, more great coffee. 

Another option for eating out in Frankston is literally across the street called Nature Cafe Bar, a vegetarian and vegan restaurant with a mix of takeaway and dine-in options. 

Stroll down the coast to Dromana

Almost as close as you will get to island paradise this side of the state, Dromana is one of the best beach towns on the Mornington Peninsula because it has so much to offer. 

The beach itself is incredibly clear and blue in the summertime, perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, kayakers, and families with children to play in the shallow waters with very little to no currents.

The boat jetty on the eastern side normally sees a group of dolphins and large Smooth Rays who visit each night for their feed of the fisherman’s leftover catch.

There are also incredibly fun things to do around Dromana, nearby in neighboring Arthurs Seat is the Eagle cable car that takes you high above the hills and offers unparalleled views over the entire eastern coast of the Peninsula

A number of bathing boxes line the shore and make Dromana a very popular tourist destination in the summer.

There are also lots of BBQ facilities on the foreshore grassed area, as well as picnic tables and car spots to park close to the beach. 

Where to get coffee

Laneways Espresso can be found right next to the TAB and serve amazing coffee from their quaint and cute coffee shop. They serve a very large selection of coffees and teas, everything from your standard espresso or latte, through to a Liquorice tea and or Lemon Quencher.

Hot tip: Ask for a Magic, its Melbournes take on a double ristretto with a three-quarter flat white – a ton of caffeine that will keep you going all day long to explore the rest of the Mornington Peninsula.

Best place for food

Two Buoys restaurant offers a chilled afternoon vibe, somewhere to sit and enjoy a beer over lunch or dinner with views of Dromana beach directly in front of you. 

Their Mediterranean menu consists of a large range of Tapas style servings, local Peninsula seafood platters and wines also from around the region like Red Hill and Main Ridge.

Live like a local in Sorrento

Probably one of the most popular, chic beach towns along the Mornington Peninsula is Sorrento, tucked away in the far southern tip of the bay is this quaint, Italian-esque town complete with a gelateria and cafe by the way. 

Sorrento is unique in that it has two beaches; the calm waters of Port Phillip Bay on one end, and the rough and rugged ocean beach to the south. There are so many things to see and do here in Sorrento it’s one of our favorite weekend escapes. 

Sorrento also services the Sorrento to Queenscliff ferry passenger/vehicle ferry that takes you from the Peninsula to the Bellarine Peninsula where you can start your journey along the Great Ocean Road. Others simply ride it for the fun, the views and to maybe catch a glimpse of Bottlenose dolphins riding the wake. 

As you drive into town you will no doubt want to stop at Sorrento front beach to cool off before you go and explore the main street, Ocean Beach Road. The main road here is the busiest stretch of town lined with boutique retail stores Tommy Bahama or Viktoria and Woods.

An early morning or late afternoon trip down to Sorrento Pier and you might see a local pod of Dolphins swimming just offshore. You can also join the crew at Polperro dolphin swim at the same pier for a paid tour of the bay to swim with Dolphins.

Insider tip: There is a hidden ocean beach within a short walk of the car park called Diamond Bay Beach, enclosed by a small inlet with a shallow reef and protected from the rough waters at low tide that is another local treat. 

Just make sure to visit on low tide otherwise there won’t be any beach left to walk on.

Where to get coffee in Sorrento

You could easily meander around town for an hour or two and tick off great cafes like Itali.Co Sorrento for an authentic experience, or try Baked In Sorrento, these guys also do amazing sandwiches, savouries and sweets. 

Best place for food

And this leads us into where to get a great bite to eat..also at Baked In Sorrento. Seriously they have daily baked, fresh goods that make your mouth water. Each morning they restock the shelves with an assortment of baguettes, homemade sandwiches, smoothies and eat in meals. 

They also have another store in Portsea not all that far from here called Baked in Portsea. 

Join the rest of Melbourne in Rye

No article talking about the best beach towns on the Mornington Peninsula could ever overlook Rye, it’s the most popular beach for Melbournians to flock to year-round, just make sure you get here bright and early to secure your spot on the beach or you will miss out!

That’s right, people from as far as 1 hour and 45 minutes away make the annual pilgrimage to Rye, hook up the caravan at their sites for two weeks, and stay put for most of the summer. The beach is incredibly blue, clear, and runs for kilometres in either direction that have just as nice beaches.

Rye Pier is very popular amongst tourists and fishermen for the abundant marine life that live here. 

The main street of Rye, Point Nepan Road has tons of awesome ice cream shops, cafes and bars, restaurants, and retail stores you could walk all day long. 

Our favorite part of Rye though is the Peninsula Hot Springs, technically in Fingal but most people associate the springs with Rye and it’s less than 7 minutes drive from the centre of town. The Peninsula Hot Springs are incredibly relaxing, with a mix of private bathing,  public bath houses and the spa dreaming center, a trip here won’t disappoint. 

Best place to get coffee in Rye

Freaky Tiki cafe is just on Ozone st and is our go to coffee shop in Rye, but honestly, with such an Italian influence in this part of town, you’re hard-pressed to find a cafe that doesn’t do good coffee.

Wild bean cafe and Captain of Rye are great alternatives both on main street Rye within a few minutes walk of each other and to the beach. 

Best place for food in Rye

SisCO on the corner of Weeroona st and Point Nepean road is a perfect local italian pizza house that pair well with beautiful Mornington Peninsula wines of Red Hill or Tuerong. 

We personally love finishing off the night with a sunset walk down Rye Pier and stopping at a few of our go to gelato stores. Mubble Ice cream and Vulcano gelato store are literally opposite each other adjacent to the Rye Pier car park so it’s a great place to venture out with the night time crowds of Rye. 

Retreat to Mount Martha

To cap off our list of the best beach towns on the Mornington Peninsula we couldn’t overlook the quiet and picture postcard Mount Martha. Take a stroll along the beautiful sandy foreshore with colorful beach boxes in the morning or watch the kite surfers take advantage of a windy day.

In comparison to the other beaches here, it is definitely not as busy as the rest even during school holidays but this is a well-kept secret we intend on keeping “secret”.

There’s lots of parking to the right of the life-saving club and yacht club which is technically Mount Martha North beach in parking lots, or further back in the suburban streets that generally don’t have time limits so you can spend all day here without the fear of a parking ticket. 

If you love walking then you can join the boardwalk along the Esplanade from Mount Martha to the Rock Pools to the west.

Best place to get coffee

Luckily Mount Martha is a small beachside town and the best coffee spots are all within a block of each other, but to begin with, we recommend heading to Higher Ground cafe behind the main strip of shops in the Bay Road car park. Super friendly staff with a delicious takeaway and dine-in menu open 7 am to 2: 30 pm. 

On the corner of Lochiel and Watsons Avenue that overlooks the main street are two great coffee shops called Volpino & Milk Bar and Co. which both have outdoor seating, the perfect way to watch the waves go by.

Best place for food in Mount Martha

Most of the best foodie places are all located in the strip of shops on the Esplanade between Bay Road and Watson Road but our go-to place on the entire Mornington Peninsula has to be Mr.Curtis. 

On the second floor of Volpino is access to Mr.Curtis has a beautiful balcony that overlooks Mount Martha beach and stunning views over the coast. They serve amazing lunches and dinner here and we go to ABC almost every month to snack on our favorite mushroom arancini and grilled saganaki. 

The owner Maria, is delightful and very accommodating for her guests, be sure to give Mr.Curtis a visit. 

Where to Stay on the Mornington Peninsula

Final thoughts on the Top 5 beach towns on the Mornington Peninsula

Whether you’re coming from Melbourne city or taking the ferry from Queenscliff and you’re wondering what to do on the Peninsula, you will be amazed at the hidden beaches and delicious coffee scene the Peninsula offers, it’s the perfect blend of a relaxing weekend getaway that still has so many things to see and do. 

Guest Bio: We’re Chris and Laura Travels, your adventure travel and photography blog from Australia. A Canadian and Australian living the digital lifestyle, capturing engaging visual storytelling experiences from around the world. 

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The post Top 5 Beach Towns to Visit on the Mornington Peninsula appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Located just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne and stretching from Torquay to Lorne, this area boasts stunning beaches, ocean views, and mighty rainforests.

The world-famous Great Ocean Road officially begins here in Torquay and it’s where you’ll find the home of Australian surfing, Bells Beach.

I’m lucky enough to be a Surf Coast local and below you’ll find my guide to the best things to do on the Surf Coast.

1) Stop By The Torquay Surf Museum

The Australian National Surfing Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Torquay. It offers a unique insight into the history and culture of surfing in this part of the world. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring iconic Australian surfboard makers, and classic photographs from some of Australia’s most renowned photographers, and learn about the history of surfboard design through interactive displays. The museum also hosts regular events and exhibitions, giving visitors the chance to hear first-hand how surfing has impacted the region over time and gain an appreciation for its cultural significance. 

2) Take A Dip At Torquay Front Beach

Conveniently located near the town and main shopping strip the Torquay Front Beach is perfect for taking a dip. The beach is protected from strong winds so you can enjoy calm waters with gentle swells. Along with its long stretch of golden sand, this beach also offers a spacious grass area with amenities and you’ll find shops and cafes across the road. It has everything you need so you could hang out here all day if you want to. Just don’t forget your sunscreen.

3) Pick Up A Bargain At The Factory Outlets

Torquay is known as the surf retail hub of Victoria and many people visit the outlets in search of great deals. Most out-of-towners are unaware that the legendary surf brands Rip Curl and Quicksilver were founded in Torquay in 1969. They still base themselves in the town along with Ghanda Clothing and many other surf shops. If you’re looking for a bargain on surf gear then head to Bains Court where you’ll find the factory outlets. You can often get amazing deals on wetsuits.

4) Watch World Class Surfers At Bells Beach

Bells Beach is one of the most well-known spots on the Surf Coast. The surprisingly small windswept beach with its wild surf and craggy cliffs is a magnet for surfers. Every Easter elite surfers from around the world descend on the Surf Coast to compete in the Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition. Part of the World Tour, The Pro, is considered to be the oldest surfing competition in the world. Even if you’re not a surfer it’s worth stopping by Bells to see the incredible views from the bluff and watch the top surfers in action as they carve up the waves.

5) Hike The Surf Coast Walk

A great way to see this part of Victoria’s coastline is on foot, and the scenic Surf Coast Walk makes it easy to do. The 44 kilometre trail starts at Point Impossible and winds it way along stunning cliffs and beaches until you reach Fairhaven. As you explore the trail, you’ll pass through cute coastal villages like Anglesea and Aireys Inlet, where you can stop off for a bite to eat, drink, and even doss down for the night. This is a moderately challenging route that is suitable for most fitness levels. It’s ideal if you’re short on time or can’t manage an extensive hike as the entire route is broken up into 12 distinctive stages. Each section has a designated start and end point, often located at convenient car parks.

6) Treat Your Tastebuds To A Chocolate Indulgence

Experience chocolate heaven at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie And Ice Creamery. Sitting on 15 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, this destination is a must-visit for chocolate lovers, sweet tooths, and anyone traveling with kids. Here you’ll be amazed by the enormous showroom filled with thousands of tempting chocolates. If you have trouble narrowing down your choice the staff are happy to give you a free taste test. Next to the retail area is a huge window where the kids can gaze in wonder as they watch the chocolates being made. There’s a 300-seat café onsite offering savory dishes and sweet treats. Try the hot chocolate you won’t be disappointed. If that’s not enough there’s also an outdoor ice cream bar serving enormous scoops of deliciously creamy ice cream. Once you’ve finished indulging your taste buds let the kids play on the lawns, explore the garden, and visit the pet guinea pigs. If you’d like to take your chocolate experience further there are a variety of chocolate-making classes suitable for both adults and children available.

7) See Wild Kangaroos – On A Golf Course!

You can’t visit Australia without meeting some of its unusual wildlife. One of the more unique (and fun!) ways to get up close to kangaroos is on a guided kangaroo tour at Anglesea Golf Course – home to over 300 Eastern Grey Kangaroos. Suitable for all ages, the tours are conducted in open-air electric vehicles which can comfortably seat 13 passengers. The local guides are volunteers who share interesting facts on kangaroo life cycles and habits, and how they come to be living on the golf course. You’ll also be taken to prime spots where you can “hop” out for that perfect photo opportunity. Who knows you might even snap a joey peeking out of its mother’s pouch. Tours are available at selected times throughout the week. If you’re a golfer you might even want to play a round. It’s a magnificent course. 

8) See The Views From Split Point Lighthouse

Built back in 1891, Split Point Lighthouse has been helping ships navigate the treacherous waters of Bass Strait for over 130 years. To this day, it’s still an important working lighthouse operating every night by an automated system.

The 34 meter high tower’s red helmet is a local landmark that’s easily spotted as you drive along the Great Ocean Road. Towering above the headland the lighthouse offers some of the best views along the Surf Coast – even if you don’t climb to the top.

The lighthouse is open every day for self-guided tours, and staff are available at the top and bottom of the stairs to answer any questions you may have. 

Take your time climbing the stairs and pause at the landings to admire the old photographs. There are interesting photos of the Great Ocean Road being built and some of the ships that ran aground here, as well as fascinating stories about the former lighthouse keepers.

If you’re feeling peckish a café has been set up in the old lighthouse stables where you can grab a coffee and takeaway or sit down for a more substantial meal.

9) Swing Through The Trees At Live Wire Park

Live Wire Park in Lorne is a fun place to stop for both adults and families with kids. Here you get to zoom around the bush on a high-speed zipline, climb high in the trees, and spend time jumping around on trampolines.

The eco-friendly park has a range of circuits to choose from. The most popular ones are the Super Circuit for adults and teenagers and the Short Circuit for children over 110 cm in height. The circuits are obstacle courses set high in the trees with swinging planks, ladders, zip lines, and more that are designed to challenge and build self-confidence. And of course, to have fun!  

The Spring Circuit is fun for all ages but is particularly good for younger kids. It’s made up of a series of elevated trampoline areas in nets, with balls and other toys to play with. There’s also a wooden walkway Canopy Circuit that rocks as you walk. A highlight of any trip to Live Wire Park is the Shockwave Zip Coaster, a 525 meter long zipline. Although it’s high the Coaster is not as scary as it seems, and kids can use it from the age of 10. 

10) Marvel At The Natural Beauty Of Erskine Falls

Considered by many to be the most beautiful waterfall in the Otways, Erskine Falls is just a short drive away from Lorne.

This gorgeous 30-meter-tall waterfall is surrounded by lush rainforest, moss-covered rocks, and giant green ferns. Accessing them couldn’t be easier – there’s a sealed road leading to the car park, followed by a quick and easy 5-minute stroll to the top viewing platform. 

For a more immersive experience, you can walk down to the bottom of the falls. While this walk only takes about 10 minutes be prepared for a bit of a challenge on the way back up as there are 240 steps to conquer.

If you feel up to it, you can hike all the way back to Lorne on a scenic 7.5-kilometre trail that starts at the bottom of the falls.

Final Word

I hope you found this guide to the best things to do on the Surf Coast useful. The Surf Coast’s great location makes it ideal for a weekend trip from Melbourne, as part of a longer exploration of the Great Ocean Road, or even as an interesting region to explore on a road trip between Melbourne and Adelaide. So head down to the Surf Coast in Victoria for an unforgettable holiday. We’re sure you won’t regret it.

Guest Author: Audrey is the principal blogger behind Victoria Uncovered. A site that helps people get the most out of their visit to Victoria Australia. 

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Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post 10 Unforgettable Things To Do On The Surf Coast appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Swim on the Great Barrier Reef

If you are in Cairns, you must go to the Great Barrier Reef. There are a couple of ways to do this. You can do a day trip to Fitzroy Island, Green Island or Frankland Island. From the islands, it is easy snorkelling from the beach, so they are a good option for families. There are lots of fish, you are a great chance of seeing a turtle and they offer other activities like glass bottom boat tours, guided snorkelling tours and kayak hire.

The other way to see the Great Barrier Reef is to do a snorkelling tour or dive trip to the outer reef. Here you will see the reef at its best with coral gardens and a huge variety of colourful tropical fish. Some operators have a pontoon moored on the outer reef. These are a great option if you want easy access to the water and extras like glass bottom boat tours.

Waterfall watching in the Atherton Tablelands

Exploring the Atherton Tablelands is a fun day trip from Cairns. The best way to see the area is to follow the Waterfall Circuit which has over a dozen spectacular falls. Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls are some of the best ones. You can also stop at Yungaburra to try and spot a platypus and Lake Eacham for a swim in the crystal clear water of the volcanic crater. The Mamu Tropical Skywalk takes you up into the canopy of the rainforest and you should stop and see the remarkable 500-year-old Curtain Fig. Day tours from Cairns will take you to many of these sights.

Relax at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

There is no beach in the middle of Cairns, but the Cairns Esplanade Pool is a fun and safe alternative. The pool is enormous. It looks out over the bay and is dotted with sculptures. There is plenty of shade around the lagoon and with toilets, lockers and BBQs you could spend a few hours here. Patrolled by lifeguards, it is a safe place to cool off and a convenient spot if you want to go for a walk along the Esplanade.

Spend a day Kuranda Rainforest Village

There are a lot of fun things to do in Kuranda and getting there is part of the experience. Both a heritage steam train and the Skyrail cable car go from Cairns to Kuranda. You get fantastic views of the rain forest and Baron Falls. Catching the Skyrail one way and the train the other is the way to go.

Once you get to Kuranda you can check out the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Bird World or the Kuranda Koala Gardens. Go for a cruise on the Baron River and see if you can spot a crocodile. Shoppers will enjoy browsing two markets full of art, craft and local produce. All the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Seeing Kuranda is a must-do day trip from Cairns.

Cool off at Crystal Cascades

Relaxing in a cool swimming hole surrounded by rainforest is a super relaxing thing to do in Cairns. Crystal Cascades is the closest of the river rock pools to Cairns, 25 minutes from the CBD. There are several different swimming spots and an easy walk to a set of falls. Along the walk, you might see the spectacular blue Ulysses butterfly. More adventurous walkers can try the short but slippery, rocky hike to nearby Fairy Falls. There are picnic shelters and BBQs near the carpark.

See more marine life at the Cairns Aquarium

If you can’t get enough of Cairns’ underwater world, go to the Cairns Aquarium. Young and old will enjoy this. There are huge tanks featuring sharks, rays and tropical fish. But you also see many of the freshwater fish, frogs, snakes and turtles that live in the region’s rivers and estuaries. There are talks across the day at several exhibits which really add to the experience, and you can pay extra to see the turtle hospital. There is a café and after hours dinner packages available. This is a perfect rainy day activity in Cairns.

Go bird watching at the Cattana Wetlands

There is a lot more to Cairns than reef and rainforest. The Jerrabomberra Wetlands are a beautiful place to explore about 15 minutes from the centre of Cairns. There are easy walks around Kingfisher Lake, Jabiru Lake and Kingfisher Pool where you can spot all sorts of birdlife, fish, turtles and flowering lily pads. The Feather Palm walk is a fun trail, the access-friendly boardwalk crisscrosses the creek beneath a canopy of beautiful palms (maybe put bug spray on for this walk). It is a lovely spot, there are picnic shelters and BBQs if you want to stay for lunch.

Playgrounds for travelling families

If you are travelling with children, there are some amazing playgrounds along the Cairns Esplanade. The Figtree Playground is near the cruise ship wharf. The playground is built around a giant strangler fig tree which creates a magic place for kids to climb and explore. But Muddies is the biggest and best playground in Cairns. It is a couple of blocks from the Esplanade Pool. There is a water park, flying fox and all sorts of things to climb, swing and slide on.

Relax in the Cairns Botanic Gardens

If you want a rest day in Cairns, check out the Cairns Botanic Gardens. The Gardens are beautiful, the colourful formal gardens and Rainforest Garden Boardwalk are relaxing to walk around. The highlight is The Conservatory – a huge glasshouse with an amazing variety of weird and wonderful-looking plants. There are butterflies flitting around through there too. There is a restaurant and café at the gardens, you couldn’t find a more tranquil place for lunch and a cool drink.

Swim at Cairns’ Northern Beaches

If you are in Cairns and want to feel some sand between your toes, go to the Northern Beaches towns of Trinity Beach and Palm Cove. Less than 30 minutes north of central Cairns, these are beautiful spots. The beach almond trees that line the esplanade at Trinity Beach and the Palms at Palm Cove create a great atmosphere. The are netted areas where it is safe to swim year round. There are also plenty of cafes and coffee shops where you can get something to eat and relax for the day.

Swim in rock pools at Behana Gorge

This is another beautiful swimming hole option, 35 minutes south of Cairns. The pools and falls at Behana Gorge are spectacular but you do a bit of work for them, there is a 3.5km undulating track to the swimming area. For your effort you can choose from several swimming spots at the base of small waterfalls. On the walk you you’ll see colourful butterflies, goannas and maybe a cassowary. It is a lovely spot if you don’t mind the walk. These swimming holes can be hazardous in Cairns rainy season.

See Australian wildlife at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure

This is a great way to safely see some gigantic saltwater crocodiles. Harleys Crocodile Adventure is 40 minutes north of Cairns. You can drive yourself or there are tours from Cairns. You can go for a cruise in the crocodile lagoon and see them being fed, the Crocodile Attack Show is fantastic. There are also nature walks where you can see cassowaries, kangaroos, koalas, emus, kookaburras and range of other Australian wildlife.

Visit the Australian Armour & Artillery Museum Cairns

If military history is your thing, you must get to this privately owned museum. It is the biggest of its type in the southern hemisphere with over 200 armoured vehicles including tanks, armoured personnel carrier, armoured cars and a range of specialist vehicles. There is also a big display of artillery. The guided tours are fascinating and there is a chance to ride in some of the vehicles too. It is an amazing collection that will appeal to travellers who like their history.

Try White Water Rafting

This is one of them most exciting things to do in Cairns. With so much rain, it is not surprising that Cairns is one of the best places in Australia to go whitewater rafting. Half and full day tours run from Cairns to the Barron River where you can take on the rapids.

Swim at Babinda Boulders

One hour south of Cairns, the Babinda Boulders is one of the safest freshwater swimming spots near Cairns. There is easy access in and out of the water, picnic grounds, BBQs and toilets. It is a beautiful spot where the clear water tumbles over enormous boulders before settling down in a shallow swimming area. A short walk takes you to Devils Pool, a spectacular area where the water makes its way between the rocks. With Mount Barle Frere, Queensland’s tallest mountain, is a dramatic backdrop.

Explore the Daintree Rainforest at Mossman Gorge

Mossman Gorge marks the southern end of the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest rainforest in the world and part of a Unesco Heritage site. Only 75 minutes from Cairns, you can follow an elevated boardwalk along the Mossman River to a swimming area. There are also several viewing areas where you can watch the river rush between boulders. You can do a longer rainforest walk here to take in the beauty of the forest. You can also book a tour with an indigenous guide to get an appreciation of their connection to the forest. There is a good café at the visitor centre from where you catch the shuttle bus to the gorge.

Guest Author: Natalie and Steve manage Curious Campers, a popular Australian travel website featuring experiences, wildlife encounters and road trips for people wanting information and inspiration while travelling in Australia. You can connect with Curious Campers on their Facebook group Experience Australia.

Read Next:

10+ Things to do in Brisbane, Queensland with kids

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Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post 16 Best Things to do in Cairns, Australia appeared first on Mommy Travels.

The Great Ocean Road is easily one of the top road trips in the world. 

Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park

One of the most unique experiences we’ve ever had as a family was hand-feeding kangaroos at the Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but trust me, this is a must-stop, especially if you have kids with you. They have other animals too, but it is the kangaroos that are the main feature here.

I think you can just look at my kid’s faces and see that this is a pretty special experience. 

Great Ocean Road Landmarks

As you travel down the Great Ocean Road you will see one place after another to pull over and I recommend stopping as much as you can and enjoying everything this area has to offer. Many go just to see 12 Apostles and visiting that alone is worth flying to Australia and driving 3 hours south from Melbourne just to see. Luckily though this is not the only thing worth seeing. The Lock Ard Gorge is amazing as well. Other stops I recommend making are the London Bridge, the Arch, and Gipson Steps.

London Bridge

This is the London Bridge a natural arch formed into the rock. It makes a really neat place for a photo op. You do have to take a few stairs to get down there, but if you cannot do stairs you will still be able to see it from above.

12 Apostles

The most famous stop is the 12 Apostles.

The 12 Apostles, a cluster of limestone stacks towering over the turquoise waters of the Southern Ocean, are a true wonder of the world and will take your breath away. As you stand on the edge of the cliffs and gaze out at this incredible sight, you can’t help but feel a sense of joy and wonder. There’s something about the natural beauty of the 12 Apostles that makes you feel deeply happy and grateful to be alive. Whether you’re visiting Australia for the first time or the hundredth, this stunning coastline is a must-see destination that will make you feel alive and happy to be alive.

Koalas

Along the route, you will encounter an area that is known for having koalas, the Koala Kafe. When I stopped here two years ago I saw quite a few koalas. This time when I had the kids with me we only saw a few, but they were the only koalas we saw while we were in Australia. I highly recommend stopping here. They can be extremely hard to spot, but so fun to look at once spotted.

Also here are tons of birds. They are extremely colorful and the little store here sells bird food. The kids had a blast feeding all the birds. As you can see there were a lot. This makes another excellent photo.

Other Things to Do Along the Great Ocean Road

Otway Adventures

Embark on an adventure that will take you up to the treetops! Explore the unique beauty of this rainforest region with a 600 metre-long, 25 – 30 metre high elevated walkway. Glimpse into nature’s wonders from bird’s eye view and be mesmerized by what lies below 47 metres down at Spiral Tower overlooking Young’s Creek – prepare for a thrilling ride as your gently sway in concert with the rainforest canopy and then zipline down. Book now!

See the Shipwreck Coast

The Shipwreck Coast is a stretch of coastline that is dotted with shipwrecks from centuries past. Many of these shipwrecks are now popular dive sites, and visitors can see them up close by taking a scuba diving or snorkeling tour. There are also several shipwreck museums along the coast that provide information about the shipwrecks and the people who perished in them.

Explore Cape Otway Lightstation

Cape Otway Lightstation is a working lighthouse that was built in 1848. The light station is open to the public, and visitors can tour the grounds, learn about the history of the lighthouse, and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. There is also a café on-site, as well as a gift shop selling local arts and crafts.

Visit Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve

Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is an extinct volcanic crater that is now home to a variety of native plants and animals. The reserve is a great place for birdwatching, as it is home to over 140 different species of birds. Visitors can also go hiking, camping, and picnicking in the reserve.

Go Surfing at Bells Beach

Bells Beach is one of Australia’s most famous surf beaches, and it is located just off the Great Ocean Road. The waves at Bells Beach are world-renowned, and they attract surfers from all over the world. Visitors can take surfing lessons, rent surfboards, or simply enjoy watching the surfers from the beach. (Each time I have been here, the waves are so insane no one is surfing.)

Where to Stay Along the Great Ocean Road

We stayed at The Port O Call in Port Campbell both times we visited. They’ve got lots of rooms to accommodate families.

Read Next:

10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Australia You Can’t Miss

Essential Australia Travel Tips

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Great Ocean Road Road Trip appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Noosa National Park Walk

Noosa is often referred to as the jewel in the crown of the Sunshine Coast.  One of the northernmost townships of the Sunshine Coast region, Noosa is a mecca for saltwater pursuits being surrounded by estuaries, rivers, beaches, and headlands.  Whether it be swimming, surfing, paddleboarding or fishing, you are sure to find plenty of spots around Noosa to keep you entertained on your holiday.

If you don’t feel like getting wet while admiring the blue hues of the Pacific Ocean surrounding Noosa’s bays and points, the National Park Walk is a feast for the senses.  Starting at the south end of the popular main strip, Hastings Street, the entrance of the coastal walk takes you straight onto the boardwalk lined with Eucalypts and coastal foliage. If you’re in luck, you’ll even spot a koala or two dozing in the tall trees above. Continuing the walk will take you to various lookouts, where you can admire picturesque natural landmarks including Boiling Pot, Tea Tree Bay, and Granite Bay. If the waves are pumping you’ll also be treated to another show, with surfers flocking to the region from far and wide to score their very own slice of the action at these world-famous surf breaks.

Learn To Surf

As the saying goes, ‘when in Rome, do as the Romans do’.…and on the Sunshine Coast the locals go surfing! Why not try this popular past-time for yourself, with the Sunshine Coast offering some of the most ideal conditions for those new to the sport. Some of the best spots for learners on the Coast include Noosa’s Main Beach with long-withstanding surf school ‘Go Ride A Wave’, or King’s Beach, Caloundra with the crew at Caloundra Surf School.  In fact, wherever you are on the Sunshine Coast you’ll find a local surf school who’ll be stoked to help you get up and shredding!

Craft Beer Tour

The craft beer scene has exploded globally, but when you’re on foreign turf it can be difficult to discover the best local brewers.  Thankfully the crew at Sunshine Coast Craft Beer Tours are well connected with the local beer producers and have, pardon the pun, crafted their very own Sunshine Coast brewery excursion.

Jump on the mini-bus and grab yourself a beer or two at some of the most highly regarded breweries on the coast including Your Mates Brewhouse and Moffat Beach Brewing Co.  Not only do you get the chance to sample some of Australia’s best brews, but as an added bonus you’ll travel through some of the coast’s hottest spots including Caloundra, Mooloolaba, and Maroochydore.  Think of it as beer tasting with a side of sightseeing!

Maleny Hinterland Village

For a change of pace from salty hair and sandy toes, take a trip inland and head to Maleny. This delightful Sunshine Coast town in the hinterland offers a picturesque mix of rainforests, interspersed with dairy farms and quaint little galleries and cafes. For the more adventurous, take a hiking trail to Gardners Falls and bathe in the freshwater swimming hole beneath the waterfall. Or for something a little more subdued, check out Botanic Gardens for a stroll and a picnic, and the adjoining Bird World where you can walk through their aviary of exotic birds – where one may even land on your shoulder!

Climb Mount Coolum

When thinking of mountain climbing, it can conjure up images of sheer cliff faces and treacherous heights. Thankfully the well-trodden path up Mount Coolum, 20 minutes south of Noosa, has none of that.  This walk is suitable for virtually all ages and fitness levels, with a return trip taking 1 to 2 hours, depending on how long you stop at the top to admire the Instagram-worthy views.

What makes the summit special, is being able to take in the entirety of the magnificent Sunshine Coast, from Noosa in the North all the way down to Caloundra in the South. The summit is just over 200m above sea level, offering a 360-degree view from the coast to the cane fields and beyond.  When you reach the bottom, head straight to Coolum Beach just 3.5 kms away for a dip to cool off. Tip: If early mornings are your cup of tea, take to the track early and catch the sun rising over the ocean for a truly memorable experience.

Sea Life Aquarium Mooloolaba

Formerly known as Underwater World, this all-ages attraction located at the Wharf at Mooloolaba is a Sunshine Coast icon. Home to thousands of marine animals including sharks, rays, tropical fish, jellyfish, seals, and penguins, you’ll be mesmerized as you make your way through the Ocean Tunnel spanning almost 100m in length, whilst the sea life frolics around you.

There’s also an interactive touch pool which includes a variety of starfish, a range of daily talks, and additional experiences to consider including the seal swim and the nerve-wracking shark dive. And after your Sea Life session, what better way to refuel than a fresh seafood feast! Head up Wharf Road and take your pick from some of the best ‘fish & chipperies’ on the Coast, offering produce straight hauled from the Mooloolaba fishing trawlers including calamari, barramundi, fresh oysters, whiting, hot chips, and salads.

Australia Zoo

If an Aussie wildlife experience is high on your priority list, you can’t go past the Australia Zoo. Founded by the late Steve Irwin, well known as The Crocodile Hunter, this attraction draws both local and international crowds in droves for its fabulous daily shows and exhibits. Not to be missed is the crocodile show, where some of the park’s biggest crocs are precariously hand-fed by the zookeepers and the hilarious bird show in which rare and native birds show off their unique traits, at times zooming above the audience within inches of their heads! Other rare animals to check out include kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, koalas, tigers, meerkats, and hundreds of other captivating creatures.

Visit the Glasshouse Mountains

The Glasshouse Mountains is a National Park in the Sunshine Coast hinterland scattered with 11 dramatic peaks and spanning across thousands of hectares. This area is actually listed on the Heritage Register as a landscape of national significance and offers countless hiking trails for an adventure in the wilderness. Many of these walking tracks start by meandering through open forests which gradually lead towards the various mountain peaks, such as Mount Tibrogargan, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains at their summits. Rock scrambling, rock climbing, and abseiling are all possible here for those with the right equipment and skillset. Check out the guides on the Queensland National Parks website for detailed information on the trails, including their gradings and equipment requirements.

Kings Beach Caloundra

Your visit to the Sunshine Coast wouldn’t be complete without a proper day out at the beach, and what better place to do it than Kings.  This is a beach suited to all walks of life, with gently rolling waves for surfers and swimmers, and a rocky headland that is perfect for snorkeling around on calmer days where you may even spot a sea turtle or wobbegong.

On the Kings Beach foreshore, you’ll find a kid’s playground which includes interactive water features that will keep the youngsters amused for hours. There are more cafes and restaurants within walking distance from the beach than you can count on two hands. With everything you could ever want at your fingertips, you may never want to leave this idyllic beach location!

Read Next:

10+ Things to do in Brisbane, Queensland with kids

10 Top Things to do in Newcastle

The post 8 Epic Things To Do on the Sunshine Coast, Australia appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and is located in the Southeast corner of the state. There is a population of over 2 million people and more than 15 square kilometres in size. Therefore, you have many options on where to stay in Brisbane and find something suitable for your situation. 

Overall, Brisbane is an outstanding city for a vacation or even a stopover somewhere else. It has a lot to offer in terms of entertainment, education, and enjoying an outdoor lifestyle. Here are some of our best-loved things to do in Brisbane with Kids.

Swim at Streets Beach

Streets Beach is located in Southbank, right across from the main central district of Brisbane. It’s a free, man-made beach, perfect for kids and the adults to sit back and relax. 

The beach comes with its own white sandy shores, different pools, bridges, and an interactive splash section for the little ones. You also have helpful conveniences like bathrooms, picnic tables, and Barbeques. With its close proximity to the city, Streets Beach is really easy to get to and a perfect way to stick to a budget.

Snorkelling at Moreton Island

Moreton Island is the third largest and one of four sand islands along the Queensland coast. It takes a short 1.5 hours to get from Brisbane to Tangalooma Resort on a privately owned catamaran. Therefore, making makes it a popular destination for those looking for the beachside and to escape the city. 

The island is well-known for its 15 shipwrecks, which you can snorkel around and explore. As a result, you can expect to run into an overabundance of underwater life, including fish, sting rays, and wobbygong sharks. 

Whether you’re looking to sit back on the beach or swim, Moreton Island & the Tangalooma Island Resort can keep you entertained for hours.

Learn Australian Culture at the Museums

The cultural precinct in Southbank, Brisbane, is home to some of the state’s more popular museums. GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art), the Queensland Museum, and the Art Gallery are all located within the precinct, making it the perfect place to learn about Australian culture and Art.

The museums offer a wide range of exhibits, from live animal displays, dinosaurs, to modern or contemporary Art. In addition to the museums, the precinct also includes several cafes and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring Brisbane’s rich culture.

Ride the Wheel of Brisbane

The best views of Brisbane can be seen from the highest point of the Wheel of Brisbane (A Giant Ferris Wheel). Standing 60 metres tall, the Wheel offers 360-degree views of the city centre and beyond. The ride takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes, and during that time, you’ll get to appreciate the best sights and a running commentary of the town’s history.

The cost is $19.95 for adults and $15.20 for children, but there are group discounts and savings for purchasing online. This makes it an affordable activity for families and something everyone can enjoy. 

Body Boarding at Stradbroke Island

Stradbroke Island, or “Straddie” as the locals call it, is a small island located just off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The island is best known for its beautiful beaches and surfing conditions. Point Lookout is the best spot on the island for shops/cafes, and where you’ll find the best surf beach.

To get to Stradbroke Island, you can take a car or passenger ferry leaving from the suburb of Cleveland. The journey takes about 45 minutes and departs several times a day. When you get there, you can choose to get around with your own vehicle, use public bus transport, or hire a scooter for the day.

Apart from Surfing or Body Boarding at Point Lookout Beach, you have the North Gorge walk or other swimming beaches within easy reach.

Storey Bridge Adventure Climb

The Story Bridge in Brisbane is an iconic landmark that was completed and opened in the 1940s. It stands 74 metres high and offers breathtaking views of the cityscape and the Brisbane River below. 

For those looking for unique things to do in Brisbane, the Story Bridge also offers the opportunity for an adventure climb. This involves suiting up and following a railing system to the top, for an unrivalled 360-degree view of the surrounding area.

You can rest assured that the climb is safe and suitable for all ages, with experienced staff on-hand to provide guidance and support. So whether you’re admiring the architecture or enjoying the panoramic views, the Story Bridge will surely be a memorable experience.

Go-Karting at Kingston Park Raceway

The Kingston Park Raceway is located on the south side of Brisbane, just 30 minutes from the city centre. Go-Karting is a fun and thrilling activity that is fun for anyone who loves to go fast (in a safe environment)! It’s also a superb way to spend time with family or friends and the perfect holiday activity. 

The age limit for riders is 10 years old, but if you are accompanied by an adult, you may be able to ride at a younger age. Also, the more rides you purchase, the cheaper it becomes overall! This makes go-karting an excellent activity for groups of all sizes, especially the ones that feel the ‘Need for Speed.’

Meet the animals at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

The Lone Pine Sanctuary opened in 1927 and is primarily a large Koala Sanctuary. It is home to over 100 koalas and other Australian wildlife, such as kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and Tasmania devils. 

Visitors can get their photo taken with a koala, feed the kangaroos, or learn about the different animals through one of the many ranger-led programs.

The sanctuary is located just outside Brisbane, making it an easy day trip for those visiting the city. So whether you’re looking to grasp more about Australian wildlife or want to cuddle a koala, the Lone Pine Sanctuary is definitely worth a visit.

Go for a round at Victoria Park’s Mini Golf.

Mini golf, also known as Putt-Putt, is a type of game played on a smaller scale than traditional golf. It is usually played on a course with 18 holes, and the objective is to record the lowest number of strokes. 

Mini golf is often seen as a casual game and a popular activity for birthday parties and family gatherings. Victoria Park is one of the few places you can play mini golf in Brisbane, and open every day for your convenience. The cost to play mini golf at Victoria Park is $20AUD per adult and $14AUD per child.

Challenge an Abseiling at Kangaroo Point

If you’re looking for an exciting way to take in the sights of Brisbane, abseiling at Kangaroo Point is a great option. The Kangaroo Point Cliffs are only 20 metres high, so it’s perfect for those who are after a bit of a thrill without overextending a fear of heights.

And don’t worry if you’ve never done this before! It’s perfect for beginners, and the staff will give you a safety briefing and all the equipment you need to make your descent safely. Trust me, it’s a lot of fun. 

Climb Mount Coot-Tha for the views

Mount Coot-tha is the highest mountain so close to Brisbane City and a popular place to watch the sunrise. You can choose to drive up the winding roads to the summit or take the challenge and hike the 40 mins to the top. 

From there, you can see the incredible views of Brisbane’s high-rise buildings, surrounding suburbs, and even the ocean on a clear day. It’s open 24 hours a day or during general business hours to grab a quick snack or a coffee from the local cafe. 

Sunset Kayak on the Brisbane River

The Brisbane River snakes around the city centre and eventually ends up in Moreton Bay. Another unique experience available here is sunset kayaking because it is fun for everyone and great exercise. 

You’ll be provided a life jacket and safety lights and taken on a specific section of a river in a group. This via’s you away from the general river traffic and, in turn, is safer. 

It’s best to stay warm with layers when kayaking at night and dress in something you don’t mind getting wet. Secondly, you’ll want to ensure you don’t bring any electronic devices. This includes phones, cameras, and even watches that aren’t waterproof.

Walk to King Island

King Island is a small island located near Wellington Point in Brisbane. You can walk to the island in about 30 minutes, but interestingly enough, this can only be done at low tide. Therefore, the water is too deep at high tide, and instead, you would need to swim out. 

The island is a great spot to take your dog for a walk, exercise, see the wildlife, and find plenty of places to explore. Overall, King Island is great for spending a leisurely afternoon exploring the Queensland coastline or watching the sunset.

Conclusion

With so many entertaining things to do in Brisbane with kids, you’ll never be bored on your next visit. Whether you want to explore an island, learn in a museum or get some exercise outdoors, there’s something for everyone. 

So what are you waiting for? Start crossing off items on your list the next time you visit Brisbane!

BIO

Chris Fry is the writer and photographer behind Aquarius Traveller, where she shares her journeys, provides valuable information and inspiration for your land and underwater travels. She lives in Australia, and has travelled to 36 countries and across Australia

Read Next:

10 Top Things to do in Newcastle

Things to do on the Gold Coast

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The post 10+ Things to do in Brisbane, Queensland with kids appeared first on Mommy Travels.