While we are all holidaying at home this Christmas and summer it’s the perfect opportunity to try out local experiences and family friendly accommodation. I’ve found some fabulous family apartments and things to do in Melbourne, Sydney and the Gold Coast that parents and kids will love, and will make staying local feel like an adventure.
These apartments are affordable, well located and perfect for families, while the experiences will get you out and about and exploring a little more. Fancy kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking and swimming? Then take a look at the accommodation and things to do below – and take advantage of the 15% discount that Airbnb Experiences and MadeComfy properties are offering until the end of this year.
Visit Sydney and kayak around Sydney Harbour
Sydney is an incredible city, built around the stunning Sydney Harbour with world renowned museums, galleries, shopping, dining and exploring, all accessible by foot, bus and train. It’s such an easy city for families to explore, from the Botanic Gardens and Opera House to The Rocks and Darling Harbour.
If you’re looking for a different view of Sydney’s famous landmarks, this Harbour Bridge and Opera House kayaking tour is a fantastic way to explore Sydney’s most beloved sites from another angle – the water! Kayak from Rushcitters Bay to the Opera House, then paddle over to the Harbour Bridge before returning for breakfast via Farm Cove and Elizabeth Bay.
This gorgeous sunlit studio in Darlinghurst is the perfect base for exploring Sydney. Close to the cafes of Victoria St and a short walk to Surry Hills and the city – and a quick drive or bus to the beach – you’re right in the heart of Sydney. Take a picnic is Rushcutters Bay, swim at the Boy Charlton pool along Mrs Macquarie’s Point and wander around to the Opera House, Hype Park and Sydney’s famous museums and galleries. With a nightly rate from $94 this is also an affordable Sydney accommodation option.
Paddleboard wth family on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast has so much to offer families – fabulous beaches, restaurants and theme parks like Dreamworld, Sea World and Wet’n Wild. When you’ve had enough of the action and the bright lights it’s nice to just relax in nature and enjoy the beautiful creeks and waterways along the coast.
Paddleboarding is one of the best ways to get out on the water, and a paddleboard session on the stunning Tallebudgera Creek is a must-do when you’re visiting the Gold Coast. This waterway is one of the most popular on the coast – pristine, crystal clear, safe and calm, its perfect for a paddle for all the family. Join your host to learn how to paddleboard and spend an hour on the creek enjoying nature and working your core, before jumping in for a swim and a float. Bring a picnic and make a day of it. From only $68 per person this is an activity you don’t want to miss.
Families who want to be near everything the Gold Coast has to offer, but also want the privacy of a self contained apartment will love this two bedroom, two bathroom family apartment in Surfers Paradise.
The apartment is part of a lux complex and includes parking facilities, a fully equiped gym and a swimming pool and BBQ area. This apartment will feel like home with its open plan kitchen and dining room, Netflix and YouTube on the TV (perfect for children’s downtime!) and two good sized bedrooms – main with en suite.
Explore Melbourne and The Great Ocean Road
Melbourne is the place to be this summer with restrictions relaxed and a cit and surrounds eager to welcome guests back to enjoy its laneways, coffee, shopping and surrounding nature.
This small group road trip takes you to the 12 Apostles, Otways and the Great Ocean Road and avoids the crowds by keeping the group small and visiting lookouts and viewpoints only locals know. After visiting the Apostles and Gibson Steps, you’ll take an easy 3km hike through an ancient rainforest to the stunning Beauchamp Falls and the huge ‘Giants of the Forest’ trees. Grab a gelato at Apollo Bay and swim at Lorne before returning to Melbourne.
Enjoy a stay in this stunning two bedroom apartment in the heart of Melbourne and close to everything the city has to explore. The apartment is fully furnished, with high quality complimentary amenities, linen and towels, a balcony and floor to ceiling windows with fabulous views over the city. The complex also has a gym and indoor swimming pool. I’m not sure I’d want to leave this one!
Summer is almost here and our state borders are starting to open up. Now is the time to get our and explore our country, support local communities and discover more of Australia! Have a fabulous summer, and don’t forget your 15% discount for MadeComfy accommodation and Airbnb experiences.