AUSTRALIA
Australia is the only country that can be considered a continent as well.
BRISBANE
Closest Airport
Brisbane [BNE]
This place was amazing, fun for all ages. They have native animals who have found refuge in this space, most notably Koalas and kangaroos. While you used to be able to hold Koala’s, now you can pet them (small kids at the discretion of the parents as the koala’s shouldn’t be startled). These animals are so cute, though they do smell a bit. We got to see babies with their mamas in the koala nursery. You can also get into the pen with the kangaroos and feed them. These kangaroos were very calm however use your judgement if your kids will be scared by them.
Brisbane Riverwalk & Story Bridge:
Iconic in the city is the beautiful Story Bridge which you can access along the riverwalk, a leisurely stroll with grassy bits, parks and other attractions that follows the river through the heart of the city. Very walkable, stroller-friendly and great for littles who want to run an be independent, this is a fun area to spend time in while in the city.
The downtown area is beautiful and easy to navigate by foot. The river in the main area has ferry boats that give a great tour and also allow you to get to different areas. Bring what you need for baby on board.
Closest Airport
CAIRNS / THE GREAT BARRIER REEF
Closest Airport
Cairns [CNS]
Daintree Rainforest National Park:
The drive alone was amazing. Going up from Cairns you go through a windy, jungle road with cockatoos flying, kangaroo and emu caution signs and cool road-side pull offs. We had to board a small wooden fairy to cross a river that had “Beware of crocodile” signs all about, making it an exciting adventure moment. Once at the park, it was wildly windy (like, lose a hat windy!) so make sure your littles don’t have any loose items that could blow away. It was absolutely stunning and very remote, not much around and not many people. We were able to play on the beach (minus the wind) and wade into the water, but there were signs warning of undertow and wild animals (again, crocodiles) so we kept very alert, it wasn’t a place to lounge without paying attention. There were easy paths to follow as well. Stunning views, very incredible!
Scuba Diving the Great Barrier Reef:
Amazing diving options for those who are certified, but not for littles. The boat ride was choppy as well so planning to get a sitter or have someone stay behind with any small children is a must as the reef was incredible. We did 3 dives in a day with a shipwreck being our last. We saw sharks, turtles, so many fish and other wildlife. We booked through SilverSwift and had a good experience but both got sick from the food once we got home.
Closest Airport
Cairns [CNS]
SYDNEY
Closest Airport
Sydney [SYD]
Amazing for a scenic photo, we didn’t actually go in but it is located right on the water and is beautiful to view and the steps are fun for kids to climb. You also have a great view of the beach and parts of the city.
Bondi Beach:
The famous beach is packed nearly all the time, so if you have littles, keep them close and keep an eye as the waves can come up fast. There are restrooms and changing spaces at the top of the beach near the parking lot, about what you expect for public restrooms. They do have food vendors, but again, you may want to pack your own options until you’ve scouted it to be sure you have what you need. Limited shady spots (like, very limited) so a shade piece would be very helpful.
Closest Airport
Sydney [SYD]