There is heaps of family-friendly fun in Queensland. Whether you’re as laid back as a koala or as lively as a kangaroo, there is plenty of relaxation, adventure, culture, and entertainment to be had. With beaches, water activities, nature, wildlife encounters, and theme parks, Queensland is a playground for the whole family. Plus, don’t tell the kids, but there are educational opportunities disguised as fun around every corner! All of this makes Queensland a wonderful destination for making family memories in the Land Down Under.
Top 7 Queensland Activities for Families
Our current Top 7 family-friendly activities in Queensland, Australia are:
- Brisbane’s Streets Beach
- Australia Zoo
- Bluey’s World
- Tangalooma Wrecks
- Great Barrier Reef
- Daintree Rainforest
- The Outback
Brisbane
Streets Beach
It’s a beach right in the heart of the city! Located on the South Bank, Streets Beach is surrounded by 40 acres of recreational park, including playgrounds, picnic areas, walking paths, restaurants, and more. With a sandy beach, sparkling blue swimming lagoon, free entry, and lifeguards on duty, Streets Beach is a fantastic spot for families to spend a day in the sunshine.
Australia Zoo
Home of The Crocodile Hunter, Australia Zoo is a must-do day trip from Brisbane for the fam. The Platinum Zoo Adventure includes a golf cart tour with your own personal guide, exclusive behind-the-scenes and up-close animal and reptile encounters, VIP seating at shows, and meals. It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet and learn about a variety of wildlife.
The Zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation through habitat protection, research, and education. Now managed by Terri, Bindi, and Robert Irwin, the zoo continues Steve Irwin’s legacy by fostering a deep connection between people and wildlife. The zoo is the main sponsor of Wildlife Warriors Worldwide, a global organization protecting wildlife and wild places. In 2004, Wildlife Warriors opened the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, inspired by the wonderful work of Steve’s mother, Lyn Irwin, who was a pioneer in wildlife care.
In one year, between 9,000 and 10,000 animals are brought to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital for lifesaving treatment.
Bluey’s World
Calling all parents and grandparents who want to have top dog status with the kiddos… The world’s favorite Heeler, Bluey, has opened a theme park in Brisbane! A family getaway that includes an interactive adventure at the vibrant and playful Bluey’s World will have all ages smiling with delight. The experience encourages creativity, imagination, and family bonding right in Bluey’s backyard.
Tangalooma Wrecks
The Tangalooma Wrecks are a fascinating day trip across the bay from Brisbane. Between 1963 and 1984, 15 vessels were sunk for recreational purposes on the eastern side of Moreton Bay outside of Brisbane. Now the cluster of sunken ships is a vibrant marine sanctuary with colorful corals, more than 100 tropical fish species swimming about, and sometimes visiting dolphins. Snorkel or dive to see the wrecks up close or paddle over by kayak for a view from above.
Where to Stay in Brisbane
Every room at the Emporium Hotel South Bank is a luxuriously appointed suite with stunning views of the Brisbane skyline. Vibrant neon lights and bold animal prints gives the hotel a striking appearance that will captivate the whole family. A rooftop pool overlooks the city. And Streets Beach is just a 5-minute stroll away!
Reef & Rainforest
Great Barrier Reef
A visit to the Great Barrier Reef is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a must-have on everyone’s bucket list. There are endless adventures for families, from snorkeling in vibrant coral gardens to spotting turtles and tropical fish from a glass-bottom boat. With activities suited for all ages, kids and adults alike can enjoy exploring the underwater world or relaxing on stunning island beaches. Plus, the fun and educational experience fosters a love for nature and conservation, inspiring young and young-at-heart explorers to help protect the world’s underwater ecosystems.
PRO TIP
We highly recommend visiting the Low Isles on a family getaway with kids. Not only is the travel time from Brisbane shorter (no more, “are we there yet?!”), they are located on the interior of the reef where the seas are much calmer.
Daintree Rainforest
At around 180 million years old, the Daintree Rainforest is older than your grandparents’ grandparents—and it’s a pretty amazing destination for all generations to see. Kids, parents, and grandparents all will delight in spotting unique wildlife, like cassowaries, pademelons, and bandicoots. Families can enjoy activities like a rainforest safari to discover plants that pre-date the dinosaurs, a river cruise to see crocodiles, swimming in crystal-clear waterfalls, or drifting down the Daintree river. With a mix of education, adventure, and natural wonders, the Daintree provides a perfect escape for families looking to connect with nature and each other.
Experience the Daintree Rainforest like no other with world-renowned biologist Bill Crew, exclusively through Swain Destinations. Gain rare access to hidden areas away from the crowds as Bill shares his unmatched expertise on the region’s flora, fauna, and history.
Where to Stay for Reef & Rainforest
Where the reef meets the rainforest, Thala Beach Nature Reserve is a destination unto itself. Stay in your own treehouse bungalow built into the forest canopy, explore the Coconut Grove, and splash in the grotto-style pool. This family-owned eco-retreat is the ideal base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
The Outback
A journey to the Outback is a must for families with young explorers. Opportunities for fun and learning—like ATV adventures, fishing, kayaking, and swimming in waterfalls—are as vast as the wide-open spaces. Stunning sunrises in brilliant shades of orange and red start the day, and when it’s time to wind down, millions of stars paint the night sky. An Outback adventure is an ideal way to disconnect from everyday life and create unforgettable memories together.
Where to Stay in the Outback
With its Wild West-style setting and a range of exciting activities, a stay at Mount Mulligan Lodge will have young travelers feeling like true Aussie cowboys and cowgirls. The Outback Pavilion offers plenty of space for a family, plus a pool, all meals, an electric buggy to traverse the grounds, and a daily Mulligan experience make this an all-inclusive stay.
Getting to Queensland
United Airlines offers daily direct flights from San Francisco to Brisbane. Most direct flights from the US to Australia take off in the evening and, after crossing the International Date Line, arrive two days later in the morning. At approximately 14 hours, that’s time for dinner, a movie, a sleep and breakfast before the adventure begins in the Land Down Under. United’s US to Australia flights include a main meal, mid-flight sandwich, pre-arrival meal, and beverages, plus several upgrade options.
Ready to Plan a Family Trip to Queensland?
If you’re ready to plan a family-friendly adventure in Queensland, a Swain Destinations travel consultant can design the ideal itinerary to suit your family.
