Are you looking for a fun-filled place to visit with the family over the Easter holidays 2023 period?
Well, you’re in luck as we profile some of the best places to visit along the East Coast of Australia that the kids will love, and will ensure your upcoming Easter break trip is one to remember.
For Australians, the Easter period is one of the last opportunities to enjoy the warmer weather and soak up the rays before the winter season sets in.
With that said, here are our top places to visit with the family over the Easter holidays 2023 period.
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10 Best Places To Stay Over Easter Holidays 2023:
1. Coolangatta, Gold Coast
After a cool beach getaway for the family this Easter holidays? Then Coolangatta needs to be on your list.
It’s easily one of the best Queensland holiday destinations for families as there are plenty of things to do in Coolangatta. From beach lazing, surfing, fishing, playground play and arcade time, endless restaurants, this beach hotspot is a winner for families.
Where to stay in Coolangatta?
Another great thing about this beach hotspot is there are plenty of Coolangatta accommodation options for families to book, making it an affordable Queensland holiday destination, especially over Easter.
Some top Coolangatta accommodation properties found include these Coolangatta hotels near the beach: Nirvana by the Sea, Mantra Coolangatta Beach, Kirra Surf Apartments, Greenmount Beach Hotel, Iconic Kirra Beach Resort, Beach House Coolangatta and Beachcomber Resort Coolangatta.
Things to do over Easter in Coolangatta
Below are a few fun things to do over Easter holidays in Coolangatta with the kids:
- Get up close with the animals at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
- Explore the pristine and endless Coolangatta beaches
- Take a trip to the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre
- Test your bowling and arcade skills at TimeZone Coolangatta
For more ideas be sure to check out our cool things to do in Coolangatta guide.
How to get to Coolangatta?
Located on the southernmost end of the Gold Coast and borders New South Wales, Coolangatta is an easily accessible destination from all major Australian cities.
This is especially so when the distance from Gold Coast airport to Coolangatta is only a 4-minute drive. So, this turns out to be a quick Uber, taxi and airport shuttle ride for the family.
To find out the travel time and most convenient transport options to help get you and the family to Coolangatta be sure to check out our Coolangatta Travel Guide.
Once you arrive at this beach hotspot, you’ll understand why the Coolangatta is much loved by families all year round but especially over the Easter holidays.
2. Caloundra, Sunshine Coast
This beach destination is having its time in the spotlight at the moment as families and tourists eagerly book Caloundra for their next family QLD holiday stay.
What makes this Sunshine Coast beach hotspot a favourite with families is it offers plenty of things to do in Caloundra with kids and has a down-to-earth vibe.
Here you and the tribe can spend your days swimming, surfing, fishing, jet skiing, rollerblading, cycling, shopping, dining-out and more – the list is truly endless.
Where to stay in Caloundra?
Another great reason to visit is there are plenty of family friendly Caloundra accommodation options to choose from. From self serviced apartments, resorts, hotels, AirBnBs – you won’t have any trouble finding the perfect place to stay during your getaway.
Some of our top Caloundra accommodation options include:
SPECIALS: Be sure to check these latest Caloundra accommodation deals to help you get the most out of your stay.
Things to do over Easter in Caloundra?
Below are some fun things to do over Easter Holidays in Caloundra:
- Take a scenic walk along the Caloundra Coastal Walk
- Cruise along the Pumicestone Passage via jetski, boat or SUP
- Wander through the Caloundra Street Fair Markets
- Visit the Queensland Air Museum
- Get your old-school skates on at Rollerdrome
How to get to Caloundra?
Just under a 1.5 hours drive north of Brisbane, Caloundra is a highly accessible family holiday QLD destination to travel to for Brisbane locals and visitors flying into the state’s capital city.
It’s also only 28 kms (roughly a 25-minute drive) from the Sunshine Coast Airport, making it easy for interstate and international travellers to get there.
3. Noosa Heads, Sunshine Coast
Two hours north of Brisbane is the chic beachside town of Noosa Heads. This is a must-do destination at any time of the year and a perfect place to spend the QLD Easter holidays with the family.
It has a strong sense of community with locals and tourists enjoying the beach, national park walking tracks and Hasting Street’s cafes, restaurants and shops.
Where to stay in Noosa Heads?
As Noosa Heads is a highly sought-after destination it often books out quickly for Easter and other holiday breaks, so we advised you to plan and book where to stay in Noosa early.
There are a bunch of Noosa Heads accommodation options available along and nearby Hastings Street.
Some of our top Noosa apartments include RACV Noosa Heads Resort, Sofitel Pacific Noosa Resort and The Sebel Noosa.
Things to do over Easter in Noosa Heads?
What’s great about Noosa Heads, is it’s perfect for all types of travellers but especially families.
From hiking in a stunning oceanside national park, enjoying its iconic beach, trying your hand at such water sports as stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, surfing and snorkelling, shopping up a storm at Noosa’s chic boutiques and indulging at the many restaurants lining Hastings Street – you and the family will be spoilt for choice.
Below are some extra must-do things to do in Noosa Heads with kids to keep you busy:
- Learn to surf lessons with a local
- Take a trip to the popular Eumundi Markets
- Jump on a Dolphin Watching Tour
- Explore the Noosa Everglades on a day cruise
- Experience a self-paced water bike tour on Noosa river
How to get to Noosa Heads?
As Noosa Heads is only two hours north from Brisbane, and 30 kms from the Sunshine Coast Airport, this chic beachside hotspot is easily accessible by car, bus and flights.
Also as the Sunshine Coast Airport is a hub for domestic and international flights in this region, all major Australian cities can fly into/out from this airport.
Then from here it’s simple to get to Noosa from the airport as it’s only a 30-minute drive or Noosa airport shuttle transfer and a 50-minute bus journey (costing $4-6 per person) as well.
4. Agnes Water, Queensland
Now this is one holiday spot that will leave you wanting to return every Easter with the family.
Located on the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef near Gladstone is Agnes Water which is a charming coastal town that is fast becoming a hotspot with families eager for a relaxing, down-to-earth and affordable beach getaway in the Sunshine State.
What makes Agnes Water a popular destination for families is it serves up some seriously stunning natural offerings, fun outdoor activities and great sunny weather.
From trail hikes, surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing and wildlife spotting, you and the kids will be spoilt for choice.
Where to stay in Agnes Water?
Yes this coastal town offers your usual hotels/apartments, motels, guest beach houses, but there is one place we recommend you look to book for your family holiday in Agnes Water.
It’s the Agnes Water Beach Holidays property also known as Agnes Water Caravan Park or Agnes Water Holiday Park.
This place is a hidden gem offering beachfront Agnes Water accommodation options including caravan sites, cabins and our absolutely favourite, glamping tents.
Perched up high, these glamping tents are so close to the beach and will rival some of the best in Australia. And, best of all, these glamping tents are affordable to book for a family of four. The kids will love it!
Check out our Agnes Water Beach Holidays Glamping QLD Trip Guide for all the details on this incredible property.
Things to do over Easter in Agnes Water?
Now that we’ve got you covered for where to stay in Agnes Water, let’s give you some top things to do over Easter holidays in Agnes Water.
- Hire a board and surf the gentle waves at Agnes Water Main Beach
- Explore the whimsical Paperbark Forest Boardwalk
- Hike the breathtaking 1770 Headland and Lookout
- Soak up the spectacular sunset in Town of 1770
- Go fishing at Agnes Waters Chinamans Beach
Want more ideas? We’ve got you covered with this handy things to do in Agnes Water guide, which will keep the family entertained over the Easter holidays in Agnes Water.
How to get to Agnes Water?
Agnes Waters is a close drive from a variety of Queensland towns (eg. Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Sunshine Coast and Mackay) and is not too far from Queensland’s capital city of Brisbane.
As you can fly direct to most of these towns within Australia, getting to Agnes Water is pretty simple.
Driving from Bundaberg (takes 1.5hrs), Rockhampton (takes 2.5hrs), Sunshine Coast (takes 4hrs), Brisbane (takes 5.5hrs) and Mackay (takes 6hrs).
5. Hamilton Island, Queensland
Located in the vicinity of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island is the largest and most popular of all the Whitsunday Islands, and is a reason why families flock to this piece of island paradise.
What’s so incredible about Hamilton Island is its peaceful atmosphere, stunning scenery, tropical weather and an endless list of things to do in Hamilton Island with kids.
This stunning destination will leave you and the kids re-energised and wanting to return for your next family holiday. Of course, when you visit the island you need to explore its waters and explore the Great Barrier Reef.
Things to do over Easter in Hamilton Island?
So, here are some of the coolest things to do over Easter holidays in Hamilton Island:
- Swim in the numerous resort pools on the island
- Kayak, snorkel and sail from Catseye Beach
- Parasail, tube ride or jet ski around the island from the Marina Village
- Jump on a Reefworld boat trip
For more ideas of things to do in Hamilton Island with kids be sure to check out this guide.
Where to stay in Hamilton Island?
A positive about this island destination is there are a number of Hamilton Island family accommodation options to choose from.
One of the best family friendly options is the Whitsundays Apartments. Not only does it overlook Catseye Beach and has views of the Whitsunday horizon, but it offers all the amenities you want when holidaying with kids.
There are plenty of other amazing family-friendly Hamilton Island hotels, resorts and apartments to book for your Hamilton Island stays: Reef View Hotel, Beach Club Hotel Hamilton Island, Palm Bungalows, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, Pinnacle Apartments Hamilton Island and Yacht Club Villas.
SPECIALS: For more Hamilton Island hotels, resorts and apartment options be sure to check out this Hamilton Island accommodation deals page.
How To Get To Hamilton Island?
You may think getting to Hamilton Island would be a difficult and expensive activity as it’s located in the Great Barrier Reef, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
The island caters extremely well for domestic flights, ferry and boats. But hey if you can afford to travel by helicopter and private yacht they cater to that too.
You can get flights to Hamilton Island airport from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, otherwise you can catch a ferry from Airlie Beach at Port of Airlie Marina or Shute Harbour.
6. Byron Bay, New South Wales
Known as a popular getaway for families and celebrities, Byron Bay is the perfect down-to-earth coastal destination to indulge and relax over the Easter holidays.
With its beautiful natural surroundings, beaches, lush hinterland, relaxing spa retreats, chic boutiques and a flair for the arts and culture, Byron Bay will have the family lapping up the scenery and local Easter activities and events.
Things to do over Easter in Byron Bay
You won’t have any issue of thinking of what to do in Byron Bay as this destination serves up some wicked activities.
Below are some of our top things to in Byron Bay over the Easter break:
- Spot dolphins and other marine wildlife on a stunning cruise.
- Head to The Farm Bryon Bay and see the farm animals (eg. Highland cows), let the kids go wild at the playground and try some lunch at the Three Blue Ducks cafe.
- Ride the Byron Bay Train, a 1949-era two carriage heritage train that is also the world’s only solar powered train.
- Experience the Hinterland’s magical glow worm caves.
- Head to Clarkes Beach and join a learn to surf lesson.
In addition to the above, Byron Bay is a family friendly hotspot for festivals and one that tops the list is Bluesfest.
Held during the Easter holidays, this five-day festival of blues, folk and root music features various artists and attracts thousands of festival-goers each year including families.
It’s actually one of the most kid-friendly music festivals in Australia, as it features plenty of activities suitable for young ears and has its own kids festival program and tent.
Where to stay in Byron Bay?
So, if you’re keen to visit Byron Bay this Easter, here are some family-friendly Byron Bay rentals to consider when thinking of places to stay in Byron Bay.
SPECIALS: For more Byron Bay hotels, resorts and apartment options be sure to check out this Byron Bay accommodation deals page.
How To Get To Bryon Bay?
Located an hour’s drive south of the Gold Coast, Bryon Bay is another ideal beachside destination to travel to with the family.
One of the best ways to get to Byron Bay is to fly into Gold Coast airport and then hire a car for the 68km drive or book the express bus shuttle (costs $35 one way).
7. Port Macquarie, Northern NSW
This coastal town on the mid-north coast of NSW is a popular family holidays NSW spot for families as it has everything for all.
Located 4 hours drive from Sydney, this laid-back town is a perfect spot to recharge and build some fond family Easter holiday memories by the sea.
So, if you’re looking for an affordable family holidays NSW experience not too far from Sydney and Brisbane, then Port Macquarie is a great spot to consider this Easter break.
Things to do over Easter in Port Macquarie
What’s great about Port Macquarie is it offers endless beaches, perfect surf, warm temperatures, beautiful walking tracks and amazing wildlife experiences.
Below are some of the top things to do in Port Macquarie with kids especially over the Easter holidays:
- Try a camel rides Port Macquarie experience along Lighthouse Beach
- Explore a rainforest by the sea at Port Macquarie’s Sea Acres Rainforest Centre
- Visit a koala hospital and help protect these beloved furry creatures
- Run free and get lost at the Bago Maze and Winery
For more activity ideas why not check out our fun things to do in Port Macquarie with kids guide.
Where to stay in Port Macquarie?
With so much to see and do in Port Macquarie, you really need to spend at least a few days in this amazing coastal town to explore. And to help, here are some of the top holiday accommodation Port Macquarie perfect for families.
These include Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges, Mantra The Observatory, Mantra Quayside Apartments Port Macquarie and Sandcastle Apartments Port Macquarie.
How To Get To Port Macquarie?
Located on the mid-north Coast, Port Macquarie is closest to major cities Brisbane and Sydney making it a popular roadtrip getaway for families living in Sydney and Brisbane.
However, it is also easily accessible from all other major cities via a flight into Port Macquarie airport.
8. Bowral, Southern Highlands NSW
Situated in the Southern Highlands of NSW, Bowral should be on your family holiday to do list. Nestled at the base of Mount Gibraltar, it’s only 1.5 hours from Sydney to Bowral and is a cute town full of things to do for a family getaway over the Easter holidays.
As you explore Bowral you’ll notice how serene the place is especially during autumn when its country gardens/ tree foliage radiates beautifully.
Things to do over Easter in Bowral
From stunning gardens, mountain hikes, wonderful wineries, and a world-famous cricket museum, you and the family will be spoilt for choice on your next family holidays NSW trip over Easter.
Here’s a list of our top things to do in Bowral over the Easter holidays:
- Relax and enjoy a picnic in the Southern Highlights Botanical Gardens
- Visit the iconic Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame
- Explore Bowral’s stunning Cherry Tree Walk
- Catch a movie at the historic Empire Cinema
Where to stay in Bowral?
Below are some of the best hotels in Bowral for families to book:
- Gibraltar Hotel Bowral
- Peppers Resort Bowral (Peppers Craigieburn)
- The Sebel Bowral Heritage Park
- Milton Park Country House Hotel & Spa
SPECIALS: For more Bowral hotels and apartment options be sure to check out this Bowral accommodation deals page.
How To Get To Bowral?
Located in the NSW Southern Highlands, Bowral is closest to Sydney making it a popular roadtrip getaway for families living in Sydney. However, it’s also accessible from other major cities via a flight into Sydney airport and then a short 1.5 hour drive to Bowral.
9. Torquay, Victoria
Known as the birthplace of Australian surfing, Torquay is a seaside haven with a vibrant feel full of great beaches, shopping, food experiences, culture and of course surf action.
Located at the east end of the Great Ocean Road coastal drive, southwest of Melbourne, Torquay is a popular and must-do family holiday destination.
And, with the weather over the Easter holidays being your last chance (until later in the year) to soak up the warmer weather and ocean waters of Victoria, then you better book fast.
During this time, Torquay is also bustling and a popular choice as surfing’s elite flock to this seaside town to compete in the pumping Rip Curl Pro.
Things to do over Easter in Torquay
As mentioned above, this place is a must to visit over the Easter holidays as there are so many awesome things to do in Torquay with the family.
From spending your days at Torquay’s protected beaches, hitting up the boutique shops, exploring the natural surroundings and walking tracks and visiting a gnarly surf museum – you and the tribe will have a blast.
To help you out, here are our top things to do in Torquay over the Easter holidays:
- Check out the pro surfers carve up the waves at the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach from 4-14 April 2023
- Try a learn to surf session at the famous Torquay Beach
- Spend a day or few cruising along the Great Ocean Road and experience such sights/ attractions as the 12 Apostles, Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, Tower Hill, swim with seals and dolphins in Port Phillip Bay and stop by the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
- Stroll along the Surf Coast Walk trail starting at Point Impossible Beach
- Visit the Australian National Surfing Museum
- Let the kids run wild at Torquay Foreshore Play Park
- Grab some beer and burgers at Bells Beach Brewing
Where to stay in Torquay?
As there are so many cool things to do in Torquay, we recommend you book early and spend at least a few days there so you can really enjoy this special seaside town.
Some of our top family friendly Torquay accommodation picks are:
SPECIALS: For more Torquay accommodation options be sure to check out this where to stay in Torquay deals page
How To Get To Torquay?
Just over an hour’s drive south of Melbourne CBD, is where Torquay is located and this makes it an easy destination to get to with the family.
To get to Torquay you can simply fly into Melbourne’s Tullamarine airport, hire a car and self drive the hour’s journey to this seaside town.
We recommend hiring a car while visiting Torquay as there are so many beautiful sights and attractions to see along the way and along the Great Ocean Road.
10. Sydney, New South Wales
Naturally we’ve profiled a number of seaside destinations in our top places to holiday with family over the Easter holidays list. This is mainly because we know families in Australia love to head to the beach during this time of the year.
But, sometimes a city break for Easter is an ideal option as well. And, one city that we absolutely can’t go past visiting during Easter and all year round is of course, Sydney.
There’s a reason why both domestic and international families love to hit up Sydney. It’s because this stunning harbour city offers so much to experience and is a family friendly travel hotspot.
Things to do over Easter in Sydney
The only issue with the Harbour City is deciding on what to do as there are so many things to do in Sydney with the family, especially over the Easter holidays.
Luckily, we’ve done all the hard work for you and can recommend the following attractions the family will love.
Topping our list has to be making a trip to the Sydney Royal Easter Show, which runs from 6-17 April 2023. It’s one of Sydney’s biggest family events and sees the country visit the city.
The kids will have a blast getting up and close with the farm animals, strolling through the Showbag Pavilion buying goodie bags and jumping on the rides at the Kids Carnival area.
Other must-do Sydney activities with the kids include:
- Visiting the animals at Taronga Zoo and Sea Life Sydney Aquarium
- Going for a walk along the Coogee to Bronte Coastal walk
- Jumping on a ferry to Manly harbour cruise
- Exploring the Darling Quarter area with its awesome water park and playground
- Heading to The Grounds of Alexandria for some lunch and see this spectacular site and animals
- Taking a trip out to Cockatoo Island and step into Sydney’s past
For more fun things to do in Sydney activities be sure to check out this Sydney family activity guide.
Where to stay in Sydney?
Being one of Australia’s largest cities, the Harbour City serves up plenty of family friendly Sydney accommodation options to choose from.
As Sydney is a large metropolis city, there are different areas families can stay. So, we’ll break these down into the below areas and highlight what our top family accommodation Sydney options are in this areas:
- Circular Quay family accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, The Grace Hotel, InterContinental Sydney, Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour and Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney.
- Darling Harbour family accommodation: Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney, Hyatt Regency Sydney, Novotel Sydney Darling Harbour, PARKROYAL Darling Harbour and Oaks Goldsbrough Apartments.
- Central Sydney family accommodation: Mercure Sydney and The Grace Hotel
- The Rocks family accommodation: Rendezvous Hotel Sydney The Rocks, Rydges Sydney Harbour, Shangri-La Hotel, The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney and Park Hyatt Sydney.
SPECIALS: For more ideas on where to stay in Sydney you can check out this family accommodation in Sydney deals page.
How To Get To Sydney?
As one of the top cities and travel destinations in Australia, Sydney is extremely easy to visit. You can fly into Sydney from all major cities and many regional cities in Australia and internationally all flights land into Sydney.
To get into the CBD from Sydney airport, a good option is to travel by the AirportLink train. It costs ($16 per adult, $14 per child) and only takes 13 minutes to get into the city, stopping at Central, Museum, St James, Circular Quay, Wynyard and Town Hall stations.
So, there you have it. These are our 10 best places to stay over the Easter holidays 2023. If we missed any destinations you think should be on this list be sure to let us know in the comments below.
What are your top family trips to do over the Easter holidays in Australia?
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