Hi Everyone,
I have two kids - 20 month old and a 3.5 year old and I would like to take them on a holiday over the Easter long weekend. Both have not been on a plane before Any recommendations for destinations? Preferably somewhere very kids friendly where we don't need to travel too far from the hotel. I am located in Sydney. I was thinking somewhere near Gold Coast. Very open to recommendations. Thank you so much.
Domestic Holiday Recommendations with 2 Young Kids

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Probably the spouse asking the same questions, obviously with very different expectations.
haha kids arent that old yet.
Domestic holiday recommendations with 2 young kids
Leave the kids at grandmas, enjoy your holiday!
haha thought about that but grandma not willing to look after both
One at each grandma?
You're going to struggle with bookings and pricing.
Anything pre April 30 is already at peak and full or near enough.
Consider something local/driving distance or postpone.
I would visit Uncle Ian in Newcastle. Every kid gets a free kiss.
@pegaxs - are you aware of his availability?
Unfortunately, I dont think Uncle Ian suffers kids much these days, unless they are packing a carton of piss and a pack of darts.
Although, it would be an educational experience and the kids may learn a few new choice words to share at show and tell on Monday morning.
My suggestion for a holiday would be to come up and stay in Newcastle, right across from the King st. Macca's, make sure you have a Macca's facing room, and just watch from afar… Friday and Saturday nights are the best… If you are the adventurous type, you may even pop down for an interactive visit.
Those milk crates are pretty unique and surely a tourist attraction. Perfect for that instagram shot.
at 3.5yo and 2yo .
there is very little things that they can actually experience and have fun..
SeaWorld is probably best in Queensland for them, dolphin, penguin and other animal shows.. splash park and slow and fun rides for that age,
other theme parks wont have that much catered for those ages.
need a place with a nice room. because when the kids sleep early at least you can enjoy the room, if you are not bringing other people to watch the kids when they go to bed at 7
Domestic holiday recommendations with 2 young kids
I was thinking somewhere near Gold Coast.Wow I just had a look at turtle beach and looks amazing with lots of kids activities. I will definitely put this on the list.
We spent a couple of weeks there many years ago when the kids were around 4 and 6. They loved it…
BBQ by the pool, restaurants were great, mini golf… Good place to relax in between the days with all the stress of the theme parks.(it was much much cheaper then…)
ohhh that looks fun… let me show the kids..
Paradise Resort on the Gold Coast has a heap of on-site activities for kids and parents - I'd highly recommend it!
This actually came up on my search and looks good! Do you know if there are airport transfers to the resort?
Be ready for a fun plane ride
haha yes that is what I am worried about. That's why I only wanted somewhere domestic and would only consider a short plane trip as much as I want to go overseas!!
Paradise Resort, Turtle Beach Resort, both mentioned above, excellent choices for kids. Otherwise Seaworld Resort, Treasure Island caravan park (cabin or villa), or a cabin at a Big4 park. But you should have booked 6 months ago.
Yes left it too last minute because kept umming and ahhing too much. Will definitely look into Paradise Resort and Turtle Beach.
Your account isn't accepting PMs. If this can be fixed I can send you some tips.
I just sent you a PM :)
I suggest with kids that little it's good to keep things as simple as possible, and drive somewhere within 1.5hrs of Sydney instead of flying. Then spend what you would have on flights on better accommodation instead. We found we enjoyed holidays more this way, with less travel and easier packing. The best thing was just getting away for a few days, it didn't really matter how far from home it was. Flying with little kids is challenging as it's a long trip for them and a lot of extra stuff you need to take.
But if you really want to fly, it can be done, and go for it. This is just what worked best for us.I love drive holidays where I can bring anything I like in the car, instead of playing the game "what 7kg of stuff do I need to survive for x days".
(No, I don't pay for checked luggage.)Haha I totally forgot about the 7kg limit. That's what kids have done to my memory haha!
At least if they have a seat, they have a 7kg allowance :)
Thanks for your advice. I definitely agree and leaning more towards a road trip now. Less stress and chaos.
Not for this time of year with the cyclone coming, but I do recommend taking kids to Bargara in Qld - just outside Bundaberg. We have stayed at Kelly's Beach Resort and loved it.
Not for a busy, rush around holiday - just to have a look at the turtles at Mon Repos.
https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/attractions/p-…
Bundaberg has some fun things - particularly the Hinkler Hall of Aviation. Might not appeal so much while they are that young.
Thanks for the tips. I am reconsidering going QLD with the cyclone coming. I will save that for later in the year.
Yesterday’s post: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/895805