Family Road Trip Fun: Discover the Magic of a Christmas Adventure in Australia

Hello again, travel-loving families!

As we return from one of our biggest adventure yet—a 3-week Christmas road trip through the stunning landscapes of Australia—I couldn’t wait to share our itinerary and the planning that went into creating a family-friendly experience. 🌟

Whether you’re dreaming of an epic road trip or looking for tips to make traveling with kids smoother, this post has a little something for everyone.

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Why a Road Trip?

There’s something magical about the freedom of the open road. For our family, road trips allow us to set the pace, enjoy spontaneous moments, and explore places off the beaten path. Australia, with its breathtaking scenery, vibrant cities, and wildlife encounters, seemed like the perfect destination to celebrate the holidays in style.

Our Family’s Road Trip Adventure Through Eastern Australia

Day 1-2: Arrival in Melbourne
Our adventure began in Melbourne, where we arrived late at night after a long journey. The first order of business? Settling into a cozy Airbnb in the charming suburb of Yarraville. The next day was all about getting our bearings, stocking up on groceries, and preparing for the exciting road trip ahead.

We spent our first full day immersing ourselves in Melbourne’s incredible offerings. A visit to the Melbourne Zoo was a must for our animal-loving crew, and we rounded out the day exploring the vibrant Queen Victoria Market—a feast for the senses with its bustling stalls and delicious local eats.

Day 3: Museums and Markets
The Melbourne Museum was a perfect way to start the day, sparking curiosity for both kids and adults alike. In the afternoon, we hopped on public transport to explore the city’s iconic laneways, indulge in some local treats, and take in the eclectic vibe of Melbourne’s neighborhoods.

Day 4: Scienceworks and Coastal Escape
Our science enthusiasts were thrilled by the hands-on exhibits at Scienceworks Museum, where curiosity ruled the day. After a fun-filled morning, we hit the road and made our way to Mount Martha, a peaceful coastal town overlooking Port Phillip Bay. It was the perfect spot to unwind and take in the serene beauty of the coastline.

Day 5-6: Small Towns and Scenic Stops
From Mount Martha, we ventured further along the coast, stopping in picturesque towns like Yarram and Eden. Highlights included a visit to Raymond Island, where we spotted koalas in their natural habitat, and enjoying scenic beach walks that gave us a chance to stretch our legs and soak in the stunning views.

Day 7-8: Discovering Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay quickly became one of our favorite spots. We spent two days exploring the area’s pristine beaches, including the soft white sands of Cave Beach. The kids were thrilled by a dolphin-watching cruise, while we all marveled at the natural beauty of Jervis Bay Marine Park.

Day 9-10: The Grand Pacific Drive and Royal National Park
Driving along the Grand Pacific Drive was like something out of a postcard. We stopped at the Kiama Blowhole, which had the kids giggling with delight, and spent time exploring the Royal National Park. Hiking through lush trails and taking in the spectacular coastal views were unforgettable experiences.

Day 11-13: Relaxing in the Blue Mountains (Merry Christmas!!)
The Blue Mountains were a breath of fresh air—literally! We loved the crisp mountain air and the slower pace. Our days were spent exploring iconic sites, discovering quaint villages, and simply enjoying quality time together in a beautiful natural setting.

Day 14-16: Cider Tasting and Pioneer Fun
On our way to Wisemans Ferry, we stopped in Bilpin for cider tastings and even met some alpacas, much to the delight of the younger ones. At the Australiana Pioneer Village, we stepped back in time and learned about life in the 19th century—a unique and educational experience for all of us.

Day 17-18: Beaches and Sweet Treats
Belmont offered the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. We visited waterfalls, toured a chocolate factory, and explored hidden caves at the beach. Continuing up the coast, a friend’s insider tip lead us to the bowling club in Hat Head where we bought a crab for the local annual crab race (sadly our crab didn’t win!). This was followed by a late afternoon beach fishing experience. It was a wonderful way to soak up the coastal charm of New South Wales.

Day 19-20: From Coffs Harbour to Toowoomba
Continuing north, we stopped at Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve and enjoyed breathtaking views of the ocean. After a scenic drive through northern New South Wales, we arrived in Toowoomba for a couple of relaxing days to wrap up our road trip.

Day 21-22: Water Parks and Farewells
Before saying goodbye to Australia, we spent a thrilling day at Wet ‘n’ Wild on the Gold Coast. The kids couldn’t get enough of the water slides and wave pools! That evening, we made our way to Brisbane for our final night before catching our early morning flight home.

The trip was a whirlwind of discovery, laughter, and bonding as a family. Each stop offered its own unique charm, and we’re already reminiscing about the moments that made this adventure so special.

How We Made It Kid-Friendly

1. Breaks and Activities:
   • Long car rides can be tricky, so we’ve planned plenty of stops for playtime and snacks. The kids’ backpacks are packed with games, books, and a few surprises to keep them entertained.
     
2. Kid-Approved Stops:
   • We’ve included attractions tailored to their interests, like wildlife parks and family-friendly beaches.
     
3. Flexible Scheduling:
   • We’re leaving room for spontaneity because, let’s face it, not every day goes as planned when you’re traveling with kids!

Tips for Planning Your Own Road Trip

1. Map Your Route:
   • Use apps like Google Maps or Roadtrippers to plan stops and find attractions along the way.
     
2. Book Ahead:
   • We’ve pre-booked accommodations to ensure we have family-friendly options, especially during the busy holiday season.
     
3. Pack Smart:
   • Bring travel snacks, first-aid essentials, and entertainment for the kids.
     
4. Stay Flexible:
   • Build extra time into your itinerary for unexpected delays or detours.

Why We’re Excited

This trip isn’t just about the destinations—it’s about making memories together as a family. Whether it’s a picnic by the beach, seeing the kids’ faces light up at a wildlife park, or just singing along to Christmas carols in the car, these are the moments we’ll treasure forever.

What’s Next?

I can’t wait to share updates from our journey and all the lessons we’ll learn along the way. In my next post, I’ll dive into how we’ve planned our Christmas celebrations on the road, complete with creative ways to keep the holiday spirit alive. 🎄✨

Do you have a favorite road trip memory or tip? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories!

Until next time,
Fun Family Momma