The Best Kid-Friendly Places To Go On A Christmas Holiday In NSW

‘Cause why would you go overseas when the weather’s as beautiful as it is during a NSW summer, the beaches are world-class and there’s more coast to explore than you could possibly imagine? 

Within driveable distance of Sydney, there are ample opportunities to escape the city in favour of laid-back coastal charm and a break from everyday life. Here’s where you should head once the family have all dispersed and you’re armed with an abundance of Chrissy-day leftovers for car snacks.

Port Macquarie

Image Source: portmacquarieinfo.com.au

Enjoy a family getaway in the beautiful beachside location of Port Macquarie. From sandy stretches, crystal clear waters and dining to coastal walks and more, there’s something for everyone in the family to love. This thriving town is the perfect family-friendly getaway for Sydneysiders. 

Port Macquarie businesses understand what family vacationers want: a relaxed laid- back atmosphere and family-friendly hospitality. The general feel of the town is warm and welcoming, making it perfect for that much-needed, post-Christmas relaxation.

A must-do whilst in the area is the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. The 9km easy-grade walk will leave you with breathless views of the beaches, headlands and historic sites. The Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail celebrates the iconic Australian animal along with the spectacular work of the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital, the first facility in the world solely dedicated to care and conserve the koala. Dotted along the Trail are over 50 hand-painted, one- metre high koala sculptures, which kids will love to spot. 

Jervis Bay

Image Source: jervisbay.com.au

If you’ve ever headed south for a post-Christmas getaway, you’ll know how much calmer and quieter it feels than the beautiful but busy NSW north coast. The picturesque location of Jervis Bay feels like picture-perfect paradise, and if you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday with lots of outdoor time, this is the ideal seaside escape for Sydneysiders. 

You’ll love the crystal-blue waters, white sandy beaches and the plethora of water sports activities on offer. There are also two national parks that border the land; Jervis Bay Marine Park, home of bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, little penguins and more. Booderee National Park is great for fishing, birdwatching, diving and whale watching, and checking out the stunning vistas from Point Perpendicular Lighthouse and Cape St George Lighthouse are must-dos. 

Port Stephens

Image Source: sanddunesafaris.com.au

Boasting a harbour that’s twice the size of Sydney Harbour and the biggest sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, Port Stephens is an easy, family-friendly destination that promises to delight adults and kids alike. 

If you’re a family of bike-lovers, there are some excellent all-abilities tracks around Port Stephens that will prove the perfect activity to blow off some steam. Cycle from Nelson to Shoal Bay or Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay for some breathtaking sights. If animals are more your thing, you'll love the Tiligerry Sanctuary guided walk to find koalas and kangaroos, bottle-feeding baby farm animals at Oakvale Farm or enjoying an unmissable camel ride along Lighthouse Beach.

And, y’know what we said about sand dunes? Well, they’re not to be missed! Sand-boarding promises fun for the whole family, and there’s also ample opportunity for fishing, snorkelling and surf around the area.

Yamba

Image Source: annabarberphotographics.com.au

A throwback to when you were a kid, Yamba is still an award-winning beachside holiday destination with clout. As a town, it has a sense of enjoying the simple life, and a family trip here will deliver nothing short of that.

Beautiful beaches that are sheltered by rocks and break walls provide the perfect location for family fun, while coastal walks, a river for fishing and water sports like kayaking and pedal boating are easily accessible. The Yamba Lighthouse is well worth a visit and kids will enjoy marvelling at its sheer size and grandeur. 

Canberra

Although technically not in NSW, the Nation's capital is such an excellent family Christmas holiday destination we couldn't leave it off the list! With family-friendly accommodation in droves, festivals, stunning gardens to explore, dinosaur adventures, museums, the famous Pod Playground, and, of course, Questacon, Canberra should definitely be on your family holiday bucket list. 

Other Family Destinations In NSW

Stay In A Treehouse In NSW And Surrounds
Historic Houses You Can Stay In With Kids
Family Farm Stays Near Sydney

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