You’d think between trying to strike a balance between the kind of holiday both an adult and three kids, booking a family vacation could be more hassle than what it’s worth.
Well, this couldn’t be further from the truth because whether you’re looking for a sunny sabbatical loaded with spa treatments or just wanting to put your feet up for a week or two, these holiday ideas from Wotif.com will give you exactly what you want, all while keeping the kids entertained, no matter your budget.
Wallet-friendly destinations
Byron Bay, NSW: Discovery Parks
Enjoy a super-fun cabin stay or kick back and chillax in a luxe safari tent that turns camping up a notch with beds that can sleep up to six people, a couch, dining table and deck with a private BBQ.
Travelling with more than one child? This park has it all with a water park, bouncing pillow, pool, tennis court and even pedal car hire that’s free for the first half hour on Sundays for kids under the age of 15 years.
Celebrating true Aussie chill, Discovery Parks will keep everyone happy (and occupied).
New Zealand: Hanmer Springs Top 10 Holiday Park
If you’re a family who’s up for adventure, look no further than this just-across-the-pond alpine village, just less than a two hours’ drive from Christchurch.
This is the perfect place to explore the area’s needs-to-be-seen-to-be-believed thermal pools with open-air hot springs and water slides, while tossing up whether to spend your afternoons horse riding or kayaking.
The Hanmer Springs Top 10 Holiday Park offers cabins that sleep up to six people, while the playground with a trampoline and climbing wall are bound to be a winner with the kids.
The adventure-packed Hanmer Springs Top 10 Holiday Park is made for vacations with the kids.
Holidays that are a little more lush
Coffs Harbour, NSW: BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort
Fact: this is one resort that ticks all the boxes for both parents and their kids.
Just a 15-minute walk from the famed Big Banana, this resort is a top spot for families who love swimming and outdoor activities.
Watch the kids make a splash at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort’s rock pool and slide, then head to the day spa to book yourself a soothing treatment of your choice.
An added bonus of this resort is the family-friendly two- and three-bedroom villas available, which are great options for those looking to self-cater.
Beaches and the Big Banana? The BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort has everything the family needs.
Vanuatu: Warwick Le Lagon Vanuatu
Hands-up if you’re impartial to, you know, an overseas 4.5-star family vacation… Well, look no further than Port Vila’s 4.5-star resort, the Warwick Le Lagon Resort and Spa.
The relaxed French hospitality of this resort will transport you into ‘island time’ immediately, with private beach access, three resort style pools and a free Kids Club (you’re welcome).
Top tip: Treat yourself to a day-spa treatment right by the beach. Heaven.
Don’t let the 4.5-star rating fool you; Warwick Le Lagon Vanuatu is the kind of luxe child-friendly you’ll want to book ASAP.
Sabbaticals to splurge on
Dubai: Atlantis The Palm
Traditionally thought of as a stopover enroute to Europe, this resort is actually a child-friendly hotspot (and is great for those parents who love to shop!).
The Atlantis The Palm in Dubai is renowned for its water-themed experiences, kids can enjoy dolphin encounters, spend the day at Aquaventure Waterpark and even go on a shark safari underwater adventure.
Plus, when Mum and Dad need their own downtime time, the resort’s kids club (for ages three to 12) includes its own underwater theatre and play zone.
If you’re looking to jetset a little further, Dubai’s Atlantis The Palm will make for a not-to-be-forgotten family vacation.
Fiji: Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa
Fiji makes for a conveniently idyllic maternitymoon destination, especially considering it’s than a four-hour flight from Australia’s east coast.
Children are treated like royalty at this resort, with Sofitel’s kid-friendly facilities including an indoor and outdoor playground, a lagoon pool and the Turtle Club keeping kids aged three to 12 years entertained with face painting, hat-weaving and jewellery workshops.
We suggest opting for a family suite, which includes a separate children’s nook with a two-tier kids bunk bed, plus a playstation 3 and LCD TV to keep kids entertained as you rest.
Squeeze in a day-spa session by the beach as the kids learn how to weave hats at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa.
