Beach fun is the best
Do you know what a limpet is? How about a turban snail or a velvet sea star? Exploring the tidal rock pools of the NSW Central Coast – and their varied inhabitants as a child filled me with wonder. I explored the rocky outcrops at the edge of the mighty Pacific Ocean hand in hand with my father. He explained the role of each creature in its unique habitat to me. These holiday walks were about relationships – my own – with nature and with my gentle father. They are sweet childhood memories that linger and that I have sought to recreate with my own children. For this over-tired, suburban mum there is nothing more joyous than seeing my children running on the beach crusted in sand like cinnamon donuts. Nothing more perfect than my son leaping in the waves with his gap-toothed smile. Family beach holidays are simply as good as life gets.
Melbourne’s Half Moon Bay
Looking down toward’s Half Moon Bay and the Cerberus shipwreck
This exquisite spot, within half an hour of Melbourne’s CBD in the city of Bayside is a gem for families. Half Moon Bay is an ideal place to sea kayak, paddle and swim. Other features are a kiosk selling some of the best fish and chips around, and a shipwreck.
Ettalong on the NSW Central Coast
Ettalong Beach
The sleepy seaside hamlet of Ettalong on the NSW Central Coast offers a wide expanse of sand at low tide that is perfect for crawling babies, toddlers and foraging for crabs. Only an hour north of Sydney by car the beach can also be reached via ferry from Palm Cove. There is a kiosk on site a playground and walking paths to explore the Brisbane Waters.
Lorne on the Great Ocean Road
Exploring the rock pools at Lorne
Given my love of exploring rock pools I had to include the beach at Lorne, 3 hours from Melbourne on the Great Ocean Road. This patrolled surf beach is a favourite summer destination for Melbourne families At the distal end of the beach are rocky shelves that are abundant with marine life which is easily viewed at low tide. Other features at the beach are a pier, trampoline centre, swimming pools and ample dining opportunities.
Fitzroy Island
Fitzroy Island
One of Australia’s lesser known tropical islands, Fitzroy Island can be reached by ferry from Cairns. The azure waters surrounding the island are generally calm and perfect for swimming with young children. There is resort on site that offers apartment accommodation suitable for families and the island can also be visited as a day trip. No cinnamon donut children on Fitroy Island though – the beach is covered with coral skeletons instead of sand. Added features are a beachside restaurant bar and a water trampoline.
Balmoral Beach
Beautiful Balmoral Beach
Most people know Bondi Beach and Coogee but what about Balmoral Beach? This Harbour beach has an enclosed shark netted area, gentle waves, plenty of soft sand and family friendly dining options waterside. Only a ten minute drive from the Sydney CBD it is gorgeous.
Far North Queensland’s Trinity Beach
Trinity Beach in Cairns
The calm waters of Trinity Beach a half hour north of Cairn’s CBD provide an inviting respite from the tropical heat of Far North Queensland. Trinity Beach is patrolled and has a stinger net for year round swimming. During weekends and school holidays in the dry season an inflatable water play ground is erected just off the beach. There are a number of family friendly dining options directly across from the beach as well as barbecue facilities.
Don’t forget to let me know your own favourite beaches to visit with kids.
You might also be interested in the post “Tips for visiting the beach with a baby”.
beautiful! I’ve never been to Australia but have heard all about the gorgeous beaches. They seem perfect for a family holiday.
To be honest Shobha it was difficult to limit the article to just a few beaches as there are so many stunning ones. Looking forward to exploring more over our Southern Hemisphere summer.