The 10 Most Family-Friendly Hotels In Australia Where Kids Rule The Roost

It’s an institution of the Blue Mountains, and Fairmont’s offering for kids is equally as iconic. These guys have absolutely nailed it with their KidsZone area, where kids of all ages are welcome to explore the resort’s indoor and outdoor activities, including the merry-go-round, jungle gym, mirror maze, garden mirror, arcade games, giant slide, and the famous Fairmont Express Train. Complimentary movies in the cinema offer a relaxing break for parents, too. 

Meanwhile, the luxurious family suites boast spacious, interconnected rooms designed for comfort and convenience for the whole family. These suites are perfect for family stays, featuring two bedrooms, one with a king-sized bed for parents and an ensuite bathroom and the other with two single beds for kids. For the parents, book a pamper at the luxurious Ubika Day Spa, enjoy a game of golf, or head out for a family walk among the many scenic walking tracks. 

From $215 per night | 1 Sublime Point Road, Leura, NSW

A trip to Lord Howe Island, the tiny island in the Tasman Sea east of Port Macquarie, is a true bucket list experience. This slice of paradise, technically considered part of NSW, is like nowhere else in our sunburnt country. 

And, to experience the true magic of this spectacular destination, which is made up of stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, a subtropical forest, and its own unique flora and fauna, a stay at Pinetrees Lodge will not disappoint. Named TripAdvisor’s number-one hotel in Australia in 2023, Pinetrees offers a once-in-a-lifetime stay for families. 

The resort is so safe that kids can experience a whole new level of freedom. With no wifi or reception, you can genuinely unplug and enjoy endless activities like bike rides, beach adventures, and nature exploration. They also provide all the essential baby gear like strollers and cots, healthy and delicious kids’ meals, and purees for younger bubs. 

Accommodation includes elegant en-suite rooms, luxury Garden Cottages, a stunning three-bedroom Chef’s Cottage, and a spacious four-bedroom Banyan Cottage. The rooms are serviced daily and are close to the day spa, tennis courts, gardens, waterfront deck, restaurant, and bar.

Package dependant, ‘Complete Package’ rates start from $2,970 per person | 1 Lagoon Road, Lord Howe Island, NSW 

They had us at the on-site water park and kids’ club, to be honest. Rydges Resort Hunter Valley ticks every box for a family-friendly escape thanks to its unbeatable facilities. While the grown-ups enjoy a round of golf or some relaxation at the spa, little ones aged three-12 will be entertained at the Water Dragon Kids’ Club inside the resort. For $50 per child for three hours, they’ll play sports, explore outside, or enjoy a craft activity with the onsite babysitters.  

The resort is also home to the Hunter Valley’s only water park, which features slides, water cannons, and the Berry Bucket. It provides hours of splashy fun next to the main pool and Lovedale Bar + Grill. The kids’ Suites cater to young families, and they feature a luxurious king bedroom, a separate kids’ bunk room, and a fenced play area with a kitchenette and family dining space.

From $229 per night | 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale, NSW

Want the ultimate teddy bear’s picnic with a five-star touch with your little one? The Langham, Melbourne has partnered with the iconic Paddington Bear to create an unforgettable experience. The Playtime with Paddington package includes a luxurious one-night stay for two adults and one child in their well-appointed rooms, decked out in Paddington-themed teepees, bathrobes, and slippers. Upon arrival, you’ll also receive a special welcome gift and a family breakfast at the renowned Melba Restaurant.

While you’re there, hit up the beautiful 15-metre pool, take in the views of the Yarra River, or book a treatment at the Chuan Spa. Keep an eye out for their school holiday events, as there’s always something fun happening, like the Care Bears high tea over the winter holidays and the Hot Wheels high tea held in January. Its prime location on the bustling Southbank Promenade makes exploring the city a total breeze.

From $473 per night | 1 Southgate Avenue, Southgate, VIC

Maylands Lodge is a beautifully restored heritage building in the New Town area of Hobart. It offers families a taste of luxury without any of the hoity-toityness. Your family will receive full VIP treatment with impeccable service from start to finish. The charming property features hidden gems like cosy reading nooks, dazzling city views, and a large garden for kids to explore.

The rooms have an old-school feel, but they have all the modern touches, like Netflix, comfortable beds, and incredible bathrooms with walk-in showers and massive bathtubs for the kids. It makes for the ultimate retreat after a busy day out and about in Hobart.

From $199 per night | 40 Swanston Street, New Town, TAS

A contemporary and cool boutique hotel in the heart of Canberra, East Hotel fosters a warm and welcoming environment for families. The gorgeous, well-appointed rooms will cater to all sizes of families, but we especially love the Kids’ Cubby + Apartment Room, which sleeps up to five and is fitted out with a set of bunk beds, a kids’ play table, play rub, bean bags, board games, colouring in and an Xbox One. You can tell kids are at the heart of everything this venue does with sweet nods throughout the premises, including lolly jars in the lobby and egg hunts during Easter.

The onsite Italian family restaurant, Agostinis, is a must-visit. It serves authentic regional cuisine like pasta, pizza, and homemade gelato. You can order food for your room if you want to dial up the rancho relaxo vibes. Just make sure you save room for their famous tiramisu.

From $219 per night  | 69 Canberra Avenue, Kingston, ACT

Situated on the stunning shores of Cable Beach in Broome, stepping into this resort is like walking into a kids’ wonderland. There is so much to do here that you’d be hard-pressed to leave the resort. The family-friendly Kimberly Pool is surrounded by tropical gardens, a waterfall, and a spa and will ensure hours of endless fun. When pool time is over, kids can continue their adventures at the on-site playground with slides, swings, and climbing frames.

Thanks to its prime location, you can organise a sunset camel ride along Cable Beach for the whole family. During the school holidays throughout the year, the resort hosts a jam-packed schedule of children’s games and entertainment, including arts and crafts workshops, fire shows, and water play. If that’s not enough, they also have an onsite mini-golf course nestled in the lush greenery, four restaurants, an adults-only Ocean Pool, and a world-class day spa.

Plenty of accommodation options will ensure comfort for the whole family. The Bungalows are ideal for families and feature open-plan living, polished timber floorboards, a kitchen, lounge, and dining area. The Club Apartments are spacious, two-bedroom apartments with ensuite bathrooms, a large living space, a kitchenette, and a private balcony, providing a relaxed and comfortable retreat.

From $369 per night  | 28 Cable Beach Road W, Cable Beach, WA

There is much to love about the family-friendly haven Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort. Not only do they offer trips to the Great Barrier Reef, where you can explore the coral reefs, but the whole property is catered to families. With eco-friendly accommodation, tailored activities, a shaded playground, on-site babysitting services, and the biggest green flag of all – the Junior Reef Rangers Kids’ Club (ages 5-12) your kids will have the time of their life here.

The resort offers a variety of eco-friendly accommodations, including Eco Cabins, Garden Units, Reef Units, Glamping Tents, and Beachfront Units, all designed for family comfort. The resort features spacious rooms, direct beach access, and a range of activities like snorkelling and wildlife tours. It’s an excellent choice for families seeking an immersive, nature-based experience on the Great Barrier Reef.

Package dependant, Kids Stay Free’ 2-Night Family Escape package from $648 per adult in an Eco Cabin | Southern Great Barrier Reef, QLD

As Australia’s only theme park resort, there’ll never be a dull moment at Sea World Resort. Families can dive into a world of fun at the Water Park, which has a 50-metre lagoon pool and waterfall, suitable for all ages with varying depths. There are also character meet and greets, movie nights, nightly entertainment, and the SpongeBob Water Play Area. Your itinerary is sorted with the SeaWorld Marine Park right next door and all the best sights like Main Beach, theme parks, and Surfer’s Paradise on your doorstep.

For the parents, book a treatment at the resort’s spa or relax by the pool with a cocktail in hand as your kids play in front of you. The accommodation has interconnecting rooms for kids with modern facilities.

From $299 per night | Located within Sea World, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, QLD

Escape to your own private paradise with a stay at the InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, an immersive luxury experience in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. A world unto itself, this is the kind of place you don’t even need to leave.

The resort is on a private island with four key wings: the pool, lagoon, beach, and pavilion. These wings are all interconnected with fantastic swimming pools and lush rainforest gardens. For kids four to 12, the Planet Trekkers Kid’s Club means mum and dad can enjoy some downtime (hello, Hayman Spa!). At the same time, they’re treated to various fun and engaging activities that connect them to the island’s beautiful natural settings, like nature walks and fish feeding. On-island babysitters are also available if you fancy a child-free dinner date.

From $664 per night | Hayman Island Whitsunday Islands, Hayman Island, QLD